Pubdate: Mon, 16 Apr 2001
Source: Parksville Qualicum Beach News (CN BC)
Copyright: 2001 Parksville Qualicum Beach News
Contact:  http://www.mapinc.org/media/1361
Website: http://www.pqbnews.com/
Author: Adrienne Mercer

MELMAN JUMPS FROM ALLIANCE TO POT PARTY

The president of the Canadian Alliance's local constituency association is 
headed for greener pastures.

Leonard Melman, president of the Canadian Alliance's Nanaimo-Alberni 
constituency association is running for theMarijuana Party in the next 
provincial election.

Melman will run in the North Nanaimo-Parksville riding, and plans to resign 
his position with the Alliance - which he has held since June, 2000 - at 
the Nanaimo-Alberni constituency association's annual general meeting Saturday.

While his decision has startled many, Melman explains there is a natural 
link between his provincial and federal parties of choice.

"The Canadian Alliance perhaps stresses economics more ... but both are for 
diminished government," he said, adding he is set to combat stereotypes 
about his new party.

"I do not now, nor have I ever used marijuana ... the B.C. Marijuana Party 
is no longer a one-issue party.

"It's not just a bunch of wild-eyed party kids - many of the candidates 
don't smoke."
- ---
MAP posted-by: Jo-D