Marijuana: Is It Time to Legalize It?

NOT JUST STONERS ENJOY THE HERB

Kudos to Vivian McPeak, current director, and the other organizers of
Hempfest for encouraging diversity and bringing more representation to
the event. It is time our politicians see firsthand who marijuana
legalization supporters include.

Pot is used by ailing cancer patients, senior citizens and others
looking for help with pain and illness. It is smoked recreationally by
thousands -- business people, career types, athletes, politicians and
just about everyone. And yes, stoners, too, but they are not the
majority, just the most visible.

Hempfest should do more to encourage those people outside the
dope culture to be seen supporting legalization. Maybe then
policy will change, and we can move forward to address the real issues
facing our country -- health-care reform, the economy and two ongoing
wars.

I am very impressed with Seattle City Councilman Nick Licata and
Representative Roger Goodman for their leadership in speaking at the
event. It is about time our government started supporting the will of
the people.

Tom Baker, Woodinville