2002 NORML Conference Update

Dear Friends of NORML :


I. Hotel Rooms at the Crowne Plaza Union Square Hotel

I am writing to remind those of you who are interested in attending the
2002 NORML Conference in San Francisco on April 18-20 that the deadline
for making reservations at the Crowne Plaza Hotel is Wednesday, March 27.
Until that time, so long as the hotel has any vacant rooms left, (and they
currently do have some rooms left) those attending the NORML conference
are entitled to reserve their rooms at a greatly reduced rate of $139 per
night, single or double occupancy. The regular rate is $190 per night.

The toll-free reservations telephone number is 888-218-0808; for local
calls the number is 415-398-8900.

Those seeking alternative, less expensive housing should check the NORML
web site (http://www.norml.org) or call the NORML office (202-483-5500).


II. Politically Incorrect's Bill Maher to Speak

We are pleased to announce that the host of ABC-TV's Politically
Incorrect, Bill Maher, has agreed to speak at this year's NORML
Conference. Maher is a long-time outspoken opponent of the war on drugs,
and has been a good friend and supporter of medical marijuana prisoner
Todd McCormick, currently serving a five-year federal prison sentence.

Maher will address the NORML Conference on Saturday, April 20 at 2:00 pm.
We will start the panels scheduled on Saturday afternoon to begin
approximately 30 minutes later than originally scheduled.


III. Woody Harrelson's Appearance Remains Tentative

Actor and hemp activist Woody Harrelson is tentatively scheduled to be one
of Saturday's two featured 4/20 luncheon speakers. Harrelson hopes to be
able to attend and address the conference, but he may be shooting a movie
in Australia on those dates. He is still awaiting the final scheduling for
work on the movie. With some luck, Woody will be able to join us to
celebrate 4/20.


IV: Special 4/20 Midnight Showing of the Movie <Grass> to Benefit NORML
Find out how a nice person like yourself became a dangerous criminal.

Ron Mann, the award winning director and producer of the movie <Grass>, has
arranged for his film to be shown at a special midnight showing on
Saturday, April 20 at the Roxie Cinema in San Francisco. Both Mann, and
the movie's art director Paul Mavrides, will introduce the film, and the
proceeds from this showing will benefit NORML.

Ron Mann will also be attending the NORML Conference, where he will be
receiving a special award from NORML.


V. Special 4/20 Party Sponsored by NORML, High Times Magazine, and CAN

NORML, High Times Magazine, and the Cannabis Action Network are
co-sponsoring a special 4/20 benefit party on Saturday night at Studio Z
in San Francisco. Those who purchase their tickets from CAN will benefit
CAN, and those who purchase their tickets from NORML will benefit NORML.

Zigaboo Modeliste and The New Aahkesstra will headline the extravaganja,
along with Extra Action Marching Band and 10 other bands and DJs on four
stages.

NORML tickets are $50 per person, and may be purchased online
(http://www.norml.org) or at the conference registration desk.


VI. Join Us To Celebrate Personal Freedom

Finally, let me urge those of you who have not yet made your reservations
to come on out to San Francisco and join us for what should certainly be
an exciting celebration of freedom. We intend to sent a strong message to
Asa Hutchison and the DEA that we will not stand by quietly and allow them
to continue to harass patients and caregivers in California. It's time to
stop arresting marijuana smokers, both recreational and medical users.

Call the NORML office (888-67-NORML) if you have questions or wish to
register for the conference over the phone. To register online, go to
http://www.norml.org.

Regards,

Keith Stroup
Executive Director
NORML