Dear professor

What seemed like a circus now becomes serious campaign

Dear Professor Emeritus Julian Heicklen,

You have certainly proven to the University community that one man can make a difference.

When you first sat outside the University Gates about seven weeks ago smoking what you claimed was a marijuana cigarette, you came across as an eccentric man and the community was unsure of your mission.

"By coming back and making a nuisance of yourself, you have started to make waves."

Now your point is clear: You are fighting for our right -- our right to take do as we please as long as it does not infringe upon the rights of others. Marijuana is merely your means of getting our attention about a government that you say is too powerful.

Although University Police Services confiscated your means to success (the cigarette itself) and claimed that it was not real, you were persistent until you reached your goal at your fourth smokeout -- citation.

By coming back and making a nuisance of yourself, you have started to make waves. By informing students and the community about what you believe are injustices in today's society, you have attracted crowds by the hundreds.

Due to your tenacity, you have brought to the students' attention that anything worth having is worth fighting for.

By striking home on an issue that traditionally apathetic students finally care about, you are a man on your way.

But you haven't just reached the students. At the weekly marijuana smokeout last Thursday, you attracted Libertarian candidate for governor of Pennsylvania Ken Krawchuk. By gaining this candidate's attention, you increase the chances of getting your message out -- one that speaks of the government infringing upon the fundamental rights of the people.

Sure, there are many obstacles that still loom on the horizon, but we must admit that we admire your spirit, courage and perseverance.

Indeed, it may be difficult to have a jury nullify the current drug laws, yet you remain determined and optimistic that it will do so.

Thus, as an example of civil disobedience, we commend you on your achievements and wish you the best of luck on your journey.

Sincerely,

The Daily Collegian Board of Opinions