Pubdate: Tue, 01 Nov 2016
Source: Detroit News (MI)
Copyright: 2016 The Detroit News
Contact:  http://www.detroitnews.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/126
Author: Stephanie Steinberg

FOX 2 ANCHOR WITH MS TO RETIRE, FIGHT TO LEGALIZE POT

Former Fox 2 Detroit anchor Anqunette Jamison Sarfoh is throwing her
support behind a movement to legalize all forms of marijuana for
adults over 21 in Michigan.

Sarfoh was previously on a leave of absence from Fox due to medical
issues related to her multiple sclerosis condition and announced her
decision to retire on Tuesday. Sarfoh will be introduced as a leading
member of the grassroots organization MILegalize at a fundraiser
Wednesday at Weber's Inn in Ann Arbor.

"I loved my job, but multiple sclerosis was making it harder and
harder to do it," she said in a video post on social media Tuesday
morning.

Sarfoh spent 22 years in broadcasting. She worked at stations in Las
Vegas, Boston and Indiana before joining Fox 2 Detroit, where she
anchored the morning news.

In a written statement, she explained why she's planning to spend her
time advocating for the legal use of marijuana.

"As someone who has experienced the positive effects of using cannabis
I feel it is hypocritical to remain quiet and benefit while others
suffer in prison for nonviolent drug offenses," Sarfoh said. "I want
people to know they have a nonpharmaceutical option. I believe
responsible adults have the right to enjoy this plant in the same
manner as alcohol: with no shame and no fear of prosecution."

MILegalize collected over 350,000 signatures on petitions to get the
legalization of adult use of marijuana on the 2016 general election
ballot, according to a press release. The group says several court
challenges prevented the proposal from appearing on the ballot.

In a statement, MILegalize executive director Jeffrey Hank said he's
"very happy" to welcome Sarfoh to the team.

"Her skills and passion are a real asset, and we look forward to
others joining the cause as we work together to craft a plan to
legalize the right way for Michigan," he said.

The state's 2008 voter-approved medical marijuana laws have created
confusion the past few years due to conflicting legal interpretations.
New legislation was recently proposed to overhaul the laws and create
a regulatory system and tax dispensaries.
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MAP posted-by: Matt