cannabisnews.com: Herbkersman Wants To Study Legalizing Hemp










  Herbkersman Wants To Study Legalizing Hemp

Posted by CN Staff on January 20, 2007 at 09:00:03 PT
By Kirsten Singleton 
Source: Savannah Morning News 

Columbia, S.C. - Rep. Bill Herbkersman believes he has found a way to replenish South Carolina's farming industry, re-establish textile mills and do the environment some good in the process. It's just not quite legal yet.Herbkersman, R-Bluffton, is proposing a committee to study whether South Carolina should pursue "authorization of the cultivation and production of industrial hemp."
The challenge, he said, will be to convince lawmakers there's a significant difference between industrial hemp and its cannabis cousin, marijuana - and that the potential benefits are worth a deeper look.Sen. Bill Mescher, R-Pinopolis, has filed a bill to legalize medical use of marijuana, citing the painful death of his first wife 20 years ago from cancer.Hemp is a type of cannabis that is cultivated to maximize the quality of the plant's seeds and fiber and to limit the amount of THC, the ingredient that gets marijuana users "high."Marijuana generally is produced from leafier variations of cannabis cultivated to maximize their THC content.The federal Controlled Substances Act, however, doesn't distinguish between hemp and marijuana: Growing cannabis of any kind requires a special permit from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.So if the industrial hemp study committee were to decide that farmers across the state should be able to cultivate the crop, South Carolina would need to get the DEA's permission.Other states either are studying the issue or already have acted. Oregon, for instance, allows hemp farming with a state license.Herbkersman's resolution is modeled after North Carolina legislation, approved in August, that established a study committee there.Herbkersman sees plenty of potential for the industrial hemp crop:Bolstering the farm-based economy by providing a new crop to offset tobacco declines.Reinvigorating the textile industry in the state, creating jobs and building the economy when South Carolina hemp is used to produce textiles, paper, rope, building materials, food, medicine, soaps and more.Improving the environment and reducing dependence on foreign-based fossil fuels by capitalizing on hemp's potential as a renewable fuel source. Steven Mardell has been making a living off of hemp for 10 years, selling apparel and other hemp-based items at his Hilton Head Island store, The Hemp See and High Tide Beads.It's time for people to re-educate themselves about the United States' - and South Carolina's - extensive hemp history, Mardell said. "Just the fact that South Carolina is trying to make a move toward nature again is huge."Herbkersman has the support of Rep. Bill Witherspoon, R-Conway, chair of the Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs committee.But they have a lot of convincing to do."It's not on the radar right now," said David Branham, director of commodity relations at the South Carolina Farm Bureau.Among the questions Branham said farmers would have: how South Carolina would create a storage and distribution system for the new crop when the state's farming industry is designed now for wheat, corn and soybeans.But, if hemp is shown to be a profitable, viable crop, he said, farmers will be interested.Herbkersman said the committee also would need to address law enforcement concerns regarding marijuana smokers using legalized hemp to cover up or support their illegal drug habit.But, he said, "that's what study committees do."Source: Savannah Morning News (GA)Author: Kirsten SingletonPublished: Saturday, January 20, 2007Copyright: 2007 Savannah Morning NewsContact: letted savannahnow.comWebsite: http://www.savannahnow.com/CannabisNews Hemp Archiveshttp://cannabisnews.com/news/list/hemp.shtml

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Comment #56 posted by museman on January 22, 2007 at 12:05:37 PT
George Baily #48
FREEDOM BUYERS, LIBERTY'S CHAINSwritten 1988,Here I am past my time, What I believe has become a crime. I did not ask to be this way, it’s what I am , what can I say? Freedom buyers, liberty’s chains, Won’t you leave alone what still remains?  I am a man born in strife, Struggle and pain most all my life. I did not choose for this to be, Those lawyers made a war on me. Freedom buyers, liberty’s chains, Do the buffalo still roam the plains?  Fighting for rights defined on Wall Street, Swords for the Lords of the American Empire, Wealth and power hold the meaning of justice.. Is this not the way it has ever been?  Breathing in this Earth, this air, It’s a wonder that so few would care. It’s a lesson in love just being here, Fishing for faith in a sea of fear.  Did you listen to ‘em talking about a “New World Order” like a beast risin’ up we thought was dead. Fighting for rights defined on Wall Street, Swords for the Lords of the American Empire, Wealth and power hold the meaning of justice.. Is this not the way it has ever been?There’s political clown acts, liars for hire. Who really did start the Waco(L.A.,9/11,Iraq) fire. Did you listen to ‘em talking About a “New World Order” Like a beast rising up we thought was dead. Fighting for rights defined on Wall Street, Swords for the Lords of the American Empire, Wealth and power hold the meaning of justice.. Is this not the way it has ever been? 
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Comment #55 posted by museman on January 22, 2007 at 11:58:51 PT
Hope
The idea is not new. The first politician I ever met was supposedly on that course of action -to 'infiltrate the club.' Undercover? I don't see how one can get elected -by todays hollywood standards - without high visability. How do you hide honesty while -like all other politicians- pretending to be honest?My mom used to say to me, over and over again; "you can't fight city hall." But when it got down to the nitty gritty, she was the first one there tellin 'em where it was at. After that she stopped telling me what couldn't be done.Having to continually accept the lesser of two evils because "That's just the way it is." Is nothing more than giving up in my mind, letting the monsters run the show because 'they are there and we aren't' is just about the lamest excuse for apathy I've ever known.Are monsters exhonerated of their monstrosities, just because they get their name on ballots that may or may not be real? Is the 'profession' of liars and obfuscators such an untouchable institution that we have to lie and obfuscate to them and ourselves in order to gain control of an out of control, and illegal government? Kind of a catch 22 situation I'd say.A story;I am not a dog person, which is why this story ever happened at all;One time my family and some friends were camped on the California coast -before it became illegal. One of my friends had a dog by the name of Diablo. He was a fairly disciplined dog, mild mannered, and usually obeyed his master. His master had gone to town and acquired huge sirloin steak which was to feed us all that evening.While the steak was cooking on the grill, we all got involved in a RISK game. I was the last one to leave the steak, and instead of covering it, or blocking access, I looked at Diablo and in clear english that a dog can understand, said "Diablo, watch the steak." I then went into play the game.Just for those who haven't figured out the rest, Diablo watched that steak real good. He watched it until he could stand it no more, and finally gave into his natural dogness, and ate the whole thing.In my mind, expecting anyone to get into and change the 'club' is kind of like asking Diablo to watch the steak.If we want real change, the entire system must be changed, not just rely a few unlikely individuals to get in there against impossible odds and do it for us. And as history shows, they are much more likely to end up with the steak in their bellies than not.
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Comment #54 posted by FoM on January 21, 2007 at 14:51:16 PT
The GCW
Yes I know but it's good. I do a few LTEs. I just don't mark them in anyway.
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Comment #53 posted by The GCW on January 21, 2007 at 14:19:28 PT
FoM,
Thanks, but do You realize it is a letter to the editor?US CO: PUB LTE:  -AP story proves value of hemp farming
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Comment #52 posted by FoM on January 21, 2007 at 14:13:47 PT
The GCW 
Thank Stan White. The article is on the front page.
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Comment #51 posted by The GCW on January 21, 2007 at 13:29:03 PT
Study hemp?
US CO: PUB LTE: AP story proves value of hemp farmingViewed at: http://www.summitdaily.com/article/20070121/LETTER/101210043Pubdate: 21 Jan 2007 Source: Summit Daily News (CO)
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Comment #50 posted by Hope on January 21, 2007 at 12:46:27 PT
My hope, Museman and George Baily...
is that some really decent people will somehow manage to "infiltrate", albeit "undercover",...the "Club".
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Comment #49 posted by Hope on January 21, 2007 at 12:43:57 PT
George Baily
Yes, it's always been. History proves that. It's just worse, somehow though, isn't it, actually living in it instead of just reading about it with horror and disgust in history.It's groups of people like us (and in my mind, Grace) that bring these injustices to an end. It must have been.
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Comment #48 posted by George Baily on January 21, 2007 at 11:47:40 PT
re: what one lives by comment 24
has it not always been?
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Comment #47 posted by FoM on January 21, 2007 at 11:14:41 PT
MBC
That is really cool. Thanks for sharing.
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Comment #46 posted by mai_bong_city on January 21, 2007 at 11:08:16 PT
my mother's family name
was Hempstead. they were hemp farmers.....well, no wonder i am the way i yam, hehe. then there were those other relatives that worked for johnson&johnson and squibb. talk about genetically pre-disposed.
:)
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Comment #45 posted by Hope on January 21, 2007 at 08:58:53 PT
Comment 41
Howard Wooldridge...you are a mighty man. More power to you. Thank you so much for all you are doing.
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Comment #44 posted by potpal on January 21, 2007 at 04:53:54 PT
Heritage
Give it back...Hempwallace, AR 
Hemp Swamp Brook, CT 
Hempstead Brook, CT 
Hemp Key, FL 
Hemp, GA 
Hemp Factory Branch, IL 
Hemp Ridge, KY
Hemphill, KY
Hemphill, LA 
Hempfield Lake, MI 
Hemphill Lake, MN 
Hemple, MO 
Hemp Hill, NH 
Hempstead, NY, Nassau
Hempstead, NY, Rockland 
Hempstead Gardens, NY
Hemp Patch Branch, NC 
Hemphill Bald, NC
Hemphill Creek, NC 
Hemphill Knob, NC 
Hempfield, PA     
     Hemp Branch, SC      Hemphill Lake, SC Hemp Fork, VA
Hemphill, TX 
Hempstead, TX 
Hemp Mill Branch, VA
Hemppatch Branch, VA 
Hemppatch Mountain, VA 
Hemp Hill Creek, WA
Hempel Creek, WA
Hempel Lake, WA 
Hemphill, WV 
Hempton Lake, WI 
Weed, CA 
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Comment #43 posted by potpal on January 21, 2007 at 04:50:25 PT
#41 
I live in Maryland. This may be a blue state but the cops are all redon the war on americans that choose to use cannabis. Much the way the story goes, I suppose. OC slogan, 'come on vacation, leave on probation'. We need more Andys' and less Barneys'. They like to do the road block thing, speed traps, got dogs sniffin' ya, got 'em on bikes, segways, horse back. Great news from Switzerland. Any news from Spain or Portugal as to how there legal small quantities of cannabis policy is going? Anyone? Has their society crumbled? Crime tripled? Or is everything pretty much the same but maybe better. Just wondering...no news is good news.
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Comment #42 posted by Toker00 on January 21, 2007 at 02:25:25 PT
Let's get 'em all!
Mayan, 9-11 provided an enemy that will never go away and a reason for permanent war Profiteering. Add to that the destruction of the Constitution and they'll never have to stop warring. The ONLY key to our way out of hell is to expose 9-11 for the crime of the century that it surely is. END THE WAR ON TERROR! 9-11 WAS AN INSIDE JOB!
 IMPEACH ALBERTO GONZALES!Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, the nation's top law enforcement official, has authorized war crimes, dismissed the Geneva Conventions, redefined torture to allow most types of torture, helped establish military commissions that deny defendants the right to a fair trial, claimed the U.S. Constitution does not provide the right to habeas corpus, and defended violations of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act.This week, leading bloggers inspired by John Dean proposed impeaching Gonzales as the first step towards impeaching Bush and Cheney. Urge your Representatives to Impeach Alberto Gonzales: 
http://www.democrats.com/peoplesemailnetwork/94________________NEW MEXICO CAN HELP IMPEACH BUSH AND CHENEYA state legislature can compel the U.S. House to begin impeachment proceedings with the help of just one Representative:
http://www.afterdowningstreet.org/resolutionsNew Mexico State Senators Gerald Ortiz y Pino and John Grubesic will introduce a resolution to do just that on January 23rd, the same day Bush delivers the "State of the Union."To support and stay informed about this and similar efforts around the country, sign this petition:
http://www.afterdowningstreet.org/petitionPlease thank:Sen. Gerald Ortiz y Pino: jortizyp aol.com
Sen. John Grubesic, Rules Committee Vice Chair: john.grubesic nmlegis.govPlease ask these Rules Committee Members to cosponsor:Sen. Linda Lopez, Rules Committee Chair: linda.lopez nmlegis.gov
Sen. Cisco McSorley: cisco.mcsorley nmlegis.gov
Sen. Dede Feldman: dede.feldman nmlegis.govSend them a message something like this (change and expand as you like):
Please cosponsor, along with Senators Ortiz y Pino and Grubesic, the resolution to petition the U.S. House of Representatives to impeach President Bush and Vice President Cheney. If we go into the next presidency having established that a president can lie us into war, spy on us in violation of the law, detain without charge, and torture, we will be throwing away the democracy we've struggled to keep and expand for over 200 years. We all have a solemn duty to work for the impeachment of men who have made our executive branch of government into a monarchy. You are in a position to play a key role in making this happen. Please do the right thing. Make the choice you would want your great-grandchildren to be proud of.More information: http://www.afterdowningstreet.org/nm__________________YouTube Impeachment CampaignGet a video camera or a cell phone that records and make your own, personal appeal to YOUR Representative for Impeachment of President Bush and Vice President Cheney.Please title it like this so that it gets the most play:
End War - Impeach Bush & Cheney 4 Peace, (your name and state postal code here)
Example: End War - Impeach Bush & Cheney 4 Peace, Mikael in MNYouTube allows you to watch, share, and post videos to your site. You don't need a YouTube account (called a "channel") to view videos, but you do need one to post your own videos. To set up your own video "channel" visit http://www.youtube.com/signupTo watch videos posted by AfterDowningStreet, visit: http://www.youtube.com/afterdowningstreetTo watch videos posted by others or to post your own, go to the AfterDowningStreet YouTube group: http://www.youtube.com/group/afterdowningstreetTo find videos not posted to group, search for the tags: impeach, impeachment________________"60-Minutes" Taped Soldier Making Appeal for Redress, Now Refuses to Air the Story"60 Minutes" interviewed Ronn Cantu and other active-duty soldiers challenging this war with an appeal for redress. Please call CBS and ask them to air the 60 Minutes Appeal for Redress segment. They have it ready to go but it's been pushed back twice now. Call 202-457-4321 opt. 3 opt. 4 opt. 1 or 2 or 3 (there are three different producers and you can leave a message for each of them). The main number for CBS News in New York is 212-975-4321. You can Email 60 Minutes here: http://www.cbs.com/info/user_services/fb_global_form.shtml________________Tom Hayden Creates First in Series of PodCasts from Progressive Democrats of AmericaThis Inaugural Podcast from PDA sets a tone and an opportunity for the Grassroots as PDA Board Member Tom Hayden shares his views on our collective participation in the ongoing battle to hold Congress and the President accountable. A welcome message from PDA Executive Director Tim Carpenter and his hope for this series are part of what we all believe will be another tool you can use to help strengthen this country and to also help grow PDA. This is the first in an ongoing series with topics and guests that will help empower, educated, and illuminate. Please feel free to send feedback to tony pdamerica.org . Enjoy and share!
http://tinyurl.com/y6bppg________________March and Lobby in Washington on January 27th, 28th, and 29thCome to Washington, D.C., on January 27. Join in the march for peace being organized by United for Peace and Justice ,and impeachment events on January 28th being planned by Progressive Democrats of America .Make appointments now to meet with your Congress Member on January 29th to demand impeachment and peace. Get organized with others in your Congressional District .TIP: Buy a dozen or more Impeachment Shirts , bring them to D.C., sell them at a profit, and pay for your trip._________Sign Up for Lobby Day NowRegister now for the UFPJ Congressional Advocacy Day (lobby day) January 29, 2007March to the Capitol on J27 -- march into your Rep. and Senators' offices on J29!
Register Here:
http://www.unitedforpeace.org/modinput4.php?modin=121Plan to spend three days in D.C. On Saturday, march. On Sunday, take part in workshops and training sessions on peace and impeachment. Meet with fellow activists from your state and congressional district and prepare for Monday. On Monday, lobby your Congress Member and Senators for two things:
1. No more funding for this war.
2. Investigations of the justification for and conduct of this war. Toke.
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Comment #41 posted by ekim on January 20, 2007 at 21:12:30 PT
Please Dutch get intouch with Howard on medweed
Howard Wooldridge Leap Speaker in D.C.
www.leap.cc/ NEWSLETTER: January 19, 2007Sad Story of the Week: Last week I attended a reception in Annapolis hosted by one of the larger lobbying firms. Along with many members of the Maryland legislature who showed up (one man had the task of announcing the arrival of all elected politicians), even the Lt. Governor showed up. I had a chance to chat with the commander of the Maryland State Police. I asked him if anyone in our profession was going to lobby the legislature to allow street cops to cite & release for simple possession of marijuana. No, he replied and he would actively oppose any such bill. A minute later he stated that arresting a Willie Nelson for simple possession was equal to arresting a drunk driver as far as public safety was concerned.  I shook my head and walked away. Fun Story of the Week: As you know, I love to wear my t-shirt but must appear professional on The Hill. I do have a wind breaker for the cold days which on the back says: THIS COP SAYS STOP THE DRUG WAR. Today en route to the House buildings, the guy behind me engaged me in conversation. John was a former Assistant US Attorney General and agreed with the LEAP position. LEAP just gained a new member. Good Story of the Week: Yesterday, in response to a letter of inquiry I sent to the Swiss embassy, I received a positive letter regarding my proposal to have an official of the Swiss Health Ministry put on a seminar about the Heroin Maintenance Program on Capitol Hill. As you may know, their 12 year running program for heroin addicts has been highly successful in reducing crime, death, disease and has lowered the number of persons who start using heroin. More details as they develop. The quarterly meeting of the Justice Roundtable was held this week and an overflow crowd was on hand. We anticipated learning a top staffer from a House Judiciary Committee what would be the agenda for drug reform in 2007/2008. Sadly, we learned there would be no agenda of bills A, B, C, or D.  The rumor mill in DC reports that the Dems will not pass any legislation that will cost them the 2008 election. Time will tell.  
http://blog.leap.cc/
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Comment #40 posted by FoM on January 20, 2007 at 20:43:08 PT
The GCW
That's a good article. Thanks.
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Comment #39 posted by mayan on January 20, 2007 at 19:54:35 PT
Museman
I realize this downward spiral we are in was crafted long ago but 9/11 is the defining issue that changed everything and almost all Americans remember it. Sure, most Americans subscribe to the LIHOP (let it happen on purpose) theory but if they knew that the MIHOP (made it happen on purpose) theory was indeed correct I believe we would all be marching on D.C. I'm afraid that only global war,a military draft, and economic collapse will motivate comfortable,complacent Americans to take to the streets. By then it will be too late.Tick-Tock...Iran masses troops along borders with Iraq -- source: 
http://www.kuna.net.kw/home/Story.aspx?Language=en&DSNO=944040How Congress Can Stop the Iran Attack or be Complicit in Nuclear War Crimes: 
http://www.globalresearch.ca/index.php?context=viewArticle&code=20070120&articleId=4525Impeach Bush - Stop Attack On Iran:
http://rense.com/general75/impc.htmCommentary: 2 Investigations that could change everything:
http://www.911citizenswatch.org/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=990Follow The Money To The 911 Players:
http://rense.com/general75/folow.htm
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Comment #38 posted by The GCW on January 20, 2007 at 19:43:24 PT
Colorado
Champagne and bio-diesel meet in Vailhttp://www.summitdaily.com/article/20070120/NEWS/101200059
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Comment #37 posted by HempWorld on January 20, 2007 at 18:03:04 PT
"We need to study hemp..." Duh!
Yeah, we need more study on hemp (as on Iraq...) forget the fact that hemp has been grown legally in Canada (euuuuww scary...) since 1998 and that hemp is a regular (subsidized) crop that has been grown without any problems in the entire European Union. Even New Zealand has recently legalized industrial hemp. There has NEVER been a case where marijuana was planted inside a hemp crop, but in the US ignorant politicians still think this is what is the greatest DANGER surrounding hemp production. Never mind that MARI JU ANA is already the BIGGEST cash crop in the US. Coincidence? Mmmmm...What we really need to do is a study on how to get the DEA out of the government. The DEA is a fascist organization that will block any progress towards hemp or medicinal marijuana and it was designed to be this way by Nixon and the powers that be. This one is going to prove harder than getting US troops out of Iraq, go figure!
Nobody Can Stop This!
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Comment #36 posted by FoM on January 20, 2007 at 17:52:16 PT
 runderwo
That is so funny. Keith Olbermann mentioned it on his show. Toker, thank you. We need to know.
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Comment #35 posted by runderwo on January 20, 2007 at 17:45:54 PT
names
Rep. "Herb"kersman? Following a story about Rep. Weed's bill?That's too funny.
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Comment #34 posted by Toker00 on January 20, 2007 at 17:42:52 PT
For what it's worth. Petition.
 		
https://secure.aclu.org/site/SPageServer?pagename=Move_Freedom_Forward&JServSessionIdr012=r2dumbjn91.app20a	
Bush Blinks on Spy Program
 
The Bush administration has conceded that the judicial branch has a role in overseeing surveillance by the NSA. But our work isn’t finished and we must keep the pressure on to make sure these abuses of power stop, and are never repeated again.
 
Sign the petition now.
 
Ask your friends and family to sign on as well.
	Dear Friend,By now you’ve no doubt heard the news that the Bush administration has conceded that the judicial branch has a role in overseeing surveillance by the NSA.Yesterday's extraordinary reversal by the administration, which we greet with skepticism — came just two weeks before our ACLU v. NSA hearing in a federal court of appeals and one day before the Attorney General was to testify before Congress. This shift is a sure sign that the determination of the ACLU and supporters like you is starting to pay off.It has been your support, your phone calls and your voice that have helped the ACLU stand resolute against an out-of-control executive branch for the past five years.But our work isn't finished. With the president's State of the Union message to Congress just days away, we must keep the pressure on to make sure these abuses of power stop, and are never repeated again. Please sign our petition to Move Freedom Forward today.Many questions remain before we can take this move as a real change in policy. And the last thing we should do is let an ambiguous concession exempt the Bush administration from the intense congressional scrutiny that our democracy demands.Make no mistake: this is an important step in our efforts to restore our lost liberties. To make sure this is just one of many victories throughout 2007, it’s absolutely essential that you add your voice to our Move Freedom Forward petition today.Our work must continue, and your help is urgently needed to send Congress the message that we will not retreat. Today’s hearing with Attorney General Alberto Gonzales is the first real test to see if the new Congress will conduct meaningful oversight — a test it must not fail.Let's make it clear that we won't rest until we've restored respect for the Constitution and won back the freedoms that define our nation. Please continue to stand with us and in 2007 together we will:1. Restore habeas corpus and due process
2. End torture in secret prisons
3. Stop rampant spying on innocent Americans
4. Fix the Patriot Act and bring it in line with the ConstitutionRight now is our best chance in years to end this lawless activity and bring this sad chapter in civil liberties to a speedy close. Please add your name to our Move Freedom Forward petition and add your voice to this demand today. We'll be sending this message to Congress next week to demand action on these critical issues.On January 23, President Bush will deliver the State of the Union address and Congress will be wrapping up its first hundred hours of business. Before the president steps to the podium, we want to make sure that tens of thousands of people have signed our petition and resolved to Move Freedom Forward in 2007. So, once you’ve signed, please take a moment to ask your friends and family to sign on as well.Thank you for standing with us.Sincerely,Anthony D. Romero
Executive Director
ACLUToke.
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Comment #33 posted by museman on January 20, 2007 at 17:01:40 PT
Hope
Thank you for being gentle.OK, so I was harsh on the man. I dare say that if he gets anywhere near an actual power base, my insinuations will look quite benign to the accusations and dirt that will be flung at him.Like FoM I have 0% faith, or belief, in politics. Having never actually witnessed the so-called 'representative' process - not the senatorial and congressional ho-hum and boo-hoo, blah-blah, but the phenomenon of having the government having any concern at all -in real actual human terms- for mine, or anyone elses welfare or benefit. The actual representation of the people. If I can look in a man's (or woman's) eyes - and I have tried a number of politicians - and see something other than the open-spirited mind and being I would find in any friendly aquaintance met in an appropriate setting -honesty, with nothing to hide. No furtive side glances avoiding direct contact with my own. I know the type. The system is the big error, but some persons uphold that error like a medieval religion. Invariably those persons are of a high percentage of the same "professions" same economic class, same systemic philosphy.We would all welcome a change. We welcomed it when Carter came in, but all he did, along with a lot of Kennedy's positive works, was pretty much obliterated when the Bush's came to power, first with Reagan.When Clinton came to power, they played generational (albeit yuppie) music as a victory theme. Change that didn't come until the very end in a last minute pouring out of presidential mandates -with little exception- has been unwritten by BushII.People are not politicians, FoM more or less stated that. If this is supposed ot be a government "of the people, and by the people" what the hell do politicians have to do with it?
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Comment #32 posted by FoM on January 20, 2007 at 16:52:11 PT
museman
I see your extreme attitude is showing but that's not a bad thing. I am a middle of the roader. I am liberal but I am not extreme by any standard. We only have so many days on this earth and I want to try really hard to remain hopeful. I'm always looking for that miracle. 
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Comment #31 posted by museman on January 20, 2007 at 16:37:23 PT
FoM #29
Why indeed? Ok. I accept the fact that due to our current state of being lost in left field, because errors have been deliberately created and ignored by the very same group of persons, there is a need (at least we are all laboring under the belief that there is a need) for someone, or someones to get in there and clean up the mess. I just don't see how re-installing the same spirit, the same value system upholders, that is already in place,-and they're sure doing a bang up job of it I must say- is going to accomplish anything other than the perpetuation of the same old crap.We all do what we can, when we can, and that is all any one can do, including the trumped up, over-rated surely-without-a-doubt overpaid 'professional' politicians. Once again my extreme attitude is showing,- and it's a dirty job sometimes, but you know how the saying goes. I mean it about the voting though.
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Comment #30 posted by FoM on January 20, 2007 at 15:20:09 PT

Hope
I have only seen Ron Paul one time that I can remember. He was standing with Dennis Kucinich and it was against the war I believe and he seemed very nice. He seemed to have a good spirit.
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Comment #29 posted by FoM on January 20, 2007 at 15:15:46 PT

museman
Tell me why would a person with a low income want to be a politician? I mean that. People who do the work ( helping flood victims, helping at a homeless shelter, visiting nursing homes etc.) are generally poorer. Caring and politics just aren't very compatible.
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Comment #28 posted by Hope on January 20, 2007 at 14:54:52 PT

Museman
Ron Paul, I don't believe, is a very wealthy man. He isn't about public opinion either...and never has been. He is reknown for his respect of the Constitution. He fights for it. He is known as Dr. No because he votes "No" so much on things that he knows are unconstitutional. He's been an outsider in Washington more than an insider. He's mocked and mildly ridiculed because of his Dr. No votes and his stubborn stand on protecting the Constitution. I think he'd make a good president...but I doubt he will get the Republican nomination. It's a shame...because he seems to be an exceptional stalwart as far as the Constitution is concerned. It's his "claim to fame" and he is all too often ridiculed by the "Satus Quo" for it.Also, I fear that he is too plain and ordinary in his appearance and lifestyle to be attractive to the vast majority of voters we seem to have today who base way too much of their vote, apparently, on how physically attractive or unattractive a candidate is. And, of course, he's not a Neo-Con by any stretch of the imagination.
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Comment #27 posted by The GCW on January 20, 2007 at 14:42:17 PT

Stop the DEA.
Urge Congress to refuse funding the DEA’s enforcement actions against law-abiding, state-licensed industrial hemp growers as these bills may arise this summer. 
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Comment #26 posted by museman on January 20, 2007 at 14:31:44 PT

FoM
"It's basic human nature in times of serious strife to look to someone for help and in the end responsibility I believe."Well yes, but does that mean that only an exclusive class, a very narrow class of people can do it? In my experience true leadership is manifested in times of need by ordinary people, who act without manifests, bills, taxes, tons of paper waste, and overpaid do-nothings who just literally get in the way. True leaders come when real humans stand up and do what needs to be done, without the 99% BS of a fascist, elitist government creating more problems than they are worth.Just ask the people of New Orleans who helped and who didn't.
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Comment #25 posted by FoM on January 20, 2007 at 13:43:08 PT

museman
I don't put much faith in politicians but I know we must have a leader because when a crisis comes we want someone in charge. It's basic human nature in times of serious strife to look to someone for help and in the end responsibility I believe.
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Comment #24 posted by museman on January 20, 2007 at 13:14:00 PT

what one lives by
I know that it seems that my assumptions about ALL politicians (though actually true) seem harsh and unforgiving. Consider this;In the Klu Klux Klan, no one would ever think of giving any power at all to racial minorities- it is the nature of their organization, their creed. The creed of the politician precludes any involvement without the endorsement of the economic and political powers that be. One must be in the club to function. Though the American Political Club appears to be more benevolent than the KKK, it ought to be getting more clear about just how 'benevolent' it really isn't.One cannot function in politics without first selling, or giving over their soul to the status quo. Find me one who hasn't , and I'll stop everything I am doing and throw it all into backing them. I'll go out and canvas, get voters registered, play free concerts, whatever I can. In the meantime I'm not too worried about that possibility actually happening, because "You can't make a silk purse out of a sows ear."
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Comment #23 posted by museman on January 20, 2007 at 12:59:48 PT

ron paul Correction
Excuse me;
"Just another fat-cat DOCTOR who is kissing the ass of popular opinion."

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Comment #22 posted by George Baily on January 20, 2007 at 12:56:27 PT

Ronald Paul
Is a doctor, not a lawyer,

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Comment #21 posted by museman on January 20, 2007 at 12:51:52 PT

Ron Paul
I am not impressed. Same limos, same over-paid job description, same illicit class of people. Like getting the cops to police themselves. Just another fat-cat lawyer who is kissing the ass of popular opinion.
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Comment #20 posted by FoM on January 20, 2007 at 12:50:52 PT

Ron Paul
I don't really know much about him. The little I know he seems like a good man. I haven't heard his name mentioned on any news yet so far.
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Comment #19 posted by ekim on January 20, 2007 at 12:49:30 PT

Wichita State University 01-23
January 2007 
Jan 22 07 Wichita Speaking Tour N/A Jack Cole Wichita Kansas USA 
 To book Jack for an interview or to talk to your group, contact Mike Smithson at speakers leap.cc Jan 23 07 Should Drugs be Legalized? Two law enforcers square off on America’s biggest pub 12:00 PM Jack Cole Wichita Kansas USA 
 Wichita State University, sponsored by Prof. Melvin Kahn of the Political Science Dept. Jan 23 07 KFH 1240AM and 98.7FM - Talk - " Talk Radio for Guys " 07:00 AM Jack Cole Wichita Kansas USA 
 KFH 1240AM and 98.7FM - Talk - http://www.kfhradio.com/ Jan 24 07 Wichita Downtown Lions Club 11:45 AM Jack Cole Wichita Kansas USA 
 Members of the Wichita Downtown Lions Club welcome Executive Director Jack Cole. Jan 24 07 Businessman's Club 07:00 AM Jack Cole Wichita Kansas USA 
 Private event open to members and guests only 

http://www.leap.cc/events
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Comment #18 posted by George Baily on January 20, 2007 at 12:44:59 PT

don't forget about Ron Paul
there is hope
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Comment #17 posted by FoM on January 20, 2007 at 12:42:06 PT

museman
I understand. I only voted two times for president and this past November. I won't vote a third party because now we have Lieberman. That was always my fear of throwing it to someone and it happened. 
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Comment #16 posted by museman on January 20, 2007 at 12:38:02 PT

voting
I just decided to stop voting for the lesser of two evils. At this point the dems couldn't come up with reality if God came down and wrote it for them. The repugs of course have my absolute abhorrence. If a third party candidate shows up that isn't a lawyer, isn't rich, and isn't a career politician, I might vote for them, otherwise I won't contribute my useless vote to a totally corrupt system- that is going to do what it wants, because the whole thing is sewn up. Pessimistic, but alas, true.
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Comment #15 posted by FoM on January 20, 2007 at 12:37:16 PT

museman
 I don't know that Obama is arrogant but he is self confident. When he finally is out on the campaign trail we will have plenty of time to judge what he believes. Right now he is a breath of fresh air that we need. He might not win but he will make it interesting.
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Comment #14 posted by museman on January 20, 2007 at 12:31:35 PT

FoM
I guess I wasn't clear that I was referring mostly to the one who wrote the article, though obama impresses me as an arrogant upper-class politician, just like all the rest.In fact, -to me- his arrogance just oozes out of his pores, alomst like mr bush, but with intelligence.
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Comment #13 posted by museman on January 20, 2007 at 12:27:53 PT

mayan #6
Do you think it just started with 9/11? If we are going to get to the core of the causes, I think we have to go back a little further in time. 9/11 is just the signifier that it is too late, as FoM put it. Revealing the truth behind 9/11-which by the way I know is about the most insidious thing our government has ever done- can not be achieved. All the power is contained within a select and seperate group of people, who do not answer to anything or anyone but their own.That power was dug in and fortified long ago. That power is beyond the people's access. While most of Americans struggle every day to make ends meet, those special cliques of social and economic elite ride in limos, eat at the fanciest restaurants, live in the most luxurious of homes and hotels, and the only work they ever do is token acts like; ribbon cutting ceremonies-they lift scissors and cut the ribbon- or ground breaking ceremonies - they sink a shovel a couple of inches into the ground.Millions of dollars are spent to fund these legal miscreants, yet their inefficiency is a matter of record.
Their beaurocracy is like a huge ballon filled with the hot air of their psuedo intellectua, and the flaunting of their welath and 'stature'. What is it that they do that makes their decisions or 'wisdom' any better than the mechanic down the street, or the homeless bum? Why are they so special that they make over a hundred thou a month? NOTHING I TELL YOU! THEY ARE PRETENDERS! Their only substance is in the form of wealth and property, and they continue to rip is all off to maintain it. And Americans in general are so duped into thinking that they have some kind of chance to 'get in the club' they continue to support the whole rotten bunch every day, nine-to-five. Catch 22. Work or starve. How they laugh over their thousand dollar a plate luncheons.
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Comment #12 posted by FoM on January 20, 2007 at 12:17:14 PT

museman
I know why you are upset but I really believe he is on our side not the side that fought us. The reason why is because he knows what it's all about. He said he inhaled because that is what you are suppose to do. If anything I think it means those who have called us hippie, pinko, commies need to change more then we need to change. I had no idea that the right hated what we stood for like they do until the last few years. 
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Comment #11 posted by museman on January 20, 2007 at 12:03:14 PT

#2 Shush me
What an arrogant, assuming, narrow-minded example of the real problem in America; The upper class Americans assuming they are the only ones who do, or say anything of importance."after the campus culture wars between freaks and straights" What wars are they talking about? All those 'campus cultures' ended up behind the wheels of the same mercedes and SUVs. They all cut their hair (if it was long) and dove into the status quo.I suggest that mr. obama try stepping down off the curb of his bright illusion, and walk the streets of America - but then of course that would take him away from his many upper-class yes men and women, and put his shallow perspective in contrast with some real people. No politician can afford to get his hands too dirty, because the real power behind the thrones frowns on fraternization with the slave population."“Thank you, here’s your gold watch, it’s time for the personal style and political framework of the 1960’s to get out of the way,”" What big difference between then and now? Nothing. In fact, any inroads made poitically by the 'booners' have been systematically wiped out by you-know-who. As a boomer who watched the whole BS play out, I'd say that we're still waiting for some of that good stuff we experienced and fought for to make it into the laws and government. The truth is, it is within the boomers that any real leadership can happen, if this upstart obama is any indicator. Talk about playing on people; as far as I can see mr. obama's total claim to fame is because he is half black, and wrote a book about it. Big deal, so what, go back to school and learn some respect.

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Comment #10 posted by Toker00 on January 20, 2007 at 11:26:09 PT

Sacrifice and Social Uprising
Boycotting, Protesting, Riots, Media Takeovers, Campus Protests, Civil Disobedience, Walk-Outs, Set-Ins, Protests Through Art, Weekend DVD Screenings and Teachings, ACTIVISIM, ACTIVISM, ACTIVISM might make a difference. Making people realize they have the power to change their world and that they don't have to fear their governments if they unify and form action groups. The government has bluffed us long enough. It's time to recruit patriots who want to end the TYRANNY. Prepare to avenge our Nations Veterans.Toke. 
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Comment #9 posted by FoM on January 20, 2007 at 10:56:59 PT

mayan
When I saw the beginning of the bombing in Iraq and what looked like a mushroom cloud in the skyline I thought it's too late now. We can never go back and no country will ever trust us again.
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Comment #8 posted by mayan on January 20, 2007 at 10:52:20 PT

China,Russia,India,Venezuela,etc.
Both China and Russia have heavily invested in Iran's energy resources and infrastructure. We're talking billions and billions of dollars. I doubt if they'll sit idly by as we bomb the sh*t out of it. If folks don't think the fighting could carry over to this hemisphere they should think again. A sudden disruption in oil supplies could very easily mean global economic collapse and chaos in the streets of North,Central and South America. If Iran's oil doesn't come quick and easy then we will be forced to take Venezuela's oil and that won't go over to well with any of our neighbors to the south. 
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Comment #7 posted by FoM on January 20, 2007 at 10:37:01 PT

mayan
I know that we are headed in the most dangerous direction for us ever. Countries will take sides if we bomb Iran and I believe some big countries will side with Iran against us. Like China and maybe Russia.
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Comment #6 posted by mayan on January 20, 2007 at 10:34:10 PT

History
The only problem is that we don't have the luxury of waiting for history to determine how it happened. I don't know if you realize the magnitude of what is about to happen. Iran is in the cross-hairs and it all started on 9/11. If we are to stop this potential global conflict we must expose what started it all. 9/11. There is no other way. There is no more time left. 
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Comment #5 posted by FoM on January 20, 2007 at 10:20:43 PT

mayan
For me 9/11 isn't a priority even though it is important. This is how I look at it. History will determine how everything happened. It might be by finding out a current connection to something monumental in Iraq with many different people and maybe even different countries. It would then backtrack. The only way to make history accurate is to connect it all. 
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Comment #4 posted by mayan on January 20, 2007 at 10:14:42 PT

2008
From the article FoM linked to in comment #2..."But 2008 will represent a hinge moment in generational politics, not just because of the prominence of a post-boomer candidate but because this will be the first cycle when a whole new range of issues as big, if not bigger, than the big issues that defined the boomers will be front and center: Iraq, the war on terror, global warming, energy, technology and globalization."He forgot 9/11. We still don't know what happened that day and until we do we will continue to be ruled by scum. We must make that the defining issue of the next election because the energy paradigm will not change unless we do. Make no mistake, our very survival depends upon it.
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Comment #3 posted by mayan on January 20, 2007 at 09:59:16 PT

Hemp Or Die
New Warnings on Climate Change:
http://tinyurl.com/2wjnaq

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Comment #2 posted by FoM on January 20, 2007 at 09:37:05 PT

OT: Shushing The Baby Boomers 
I thought this was a very interesting article and thought others might like to check it out.http://www.nytimes.com/2007/01/21/weekinreview/21broder.htm
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Comment #1 posted by mayan on January 20, 2007 at 09:27:51 PT

Our Only Option
Which industrialized nation pollutes the most? Which industrialized nation doesn't grow hemp? Coincidence? The powers that be decided long ago that cannabis would not be a part of America's economy, at least legally. Controlling the non-renewable,finite resources would be the key to controlling the masses. If it isn't clear that yet that they will never give in to our whims then it never will be. Our only option is to remove the fascists and we are running out of time.SHADOW OF THE SWASTIKA: The Real Reason the Government Won't Debate Medical Cannabis and Industrial Hemp Re-legalization:
http://www.hempfarm.org/Papers/Shadow_of_the_Swastika.html9/11 WAS AN INSIDE JOB - OUR NATION IS IN PERIL:
http://www.911sharethetruth.com/ 

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