JUST YOUR NORML KIND OF RALLY

The National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) on
Sunday took its case for reforming the nation's drug laws first the
courthouse and then to the patio.

The group hosted a noon rally in front of the Boulder County
Courthouse Sunday, followed by an afternoon party.

The rally was an opportunity for the year-old NORML Boulder chapter
to educate individuals on the benefits of marijuana and its current
legal suppression.

"All we need to do is spark the youth and we can take over the
world," said Jeff Christen-Mitchell, NORML Boulder Chapter President,
on the benefits of marijuana.

NORML, which has been active nationally since 1972, advocates for the
legalization of marijuana in addition to ending the U.S. war on drugs.

"Marijuana should not be a concern; it's the prohibition that causes
drug problems," said Bo Shaffer, a former candidate for Boulder
County Sheriff and a member of NORML and Law Enforcement Against
Prohibition (LEAP).

Currently, NORML is advocating replacing petroleum with the use of
"Hempenol" - a fuel made from the oil of hemp fibers.

Hemp is a coarse fiber of the cannabis plant.

"It's (hemp) for our future, we can reverse so many problems," said
Christen-Mitchell.

The rally attracted a few "street cadre" as Christen-Mitchell called
them, but most foot traffic near his demonstration outside the
courthouse Sunday was the result of the Downtown Boulder ArtFair.

The peaceful rally was followed by a fundraising benefit where
200-300 people were expected to attend.

For a donation of three dollars, attendees of age could enjoy
alcoholic beverages, live music, speakers and a raffle.

"I'm here for the party," said resident Ryan Mason of Maryland.

Seven out-of-state students occupy the house where the benefit was
held, but residents said no one was expecting the police due to the
party's worthy cause and timeframe - from three to 10 p.m., in order
to respect neighbors.

A visit to the party site late Sunday afternoon revealed 40 or so
partiers at the house drinking beer and smoking cigarettes and marijuana.

Shaffer said the party culture, as applied to pot, didn't trouble him
in the least where college students are concerned.

"I would rather see my children take a hit of weed, instead of
abusing alcohol," said Shaffer. "They have a right to use it
(alcohol), but not abuse it, which in the end S is what it's all about."