Pubdate: Wed, 22 Aug 2007 Source: San Diego City Beat (CA) Copyright: 2007 San Diego City Beat Contact: http://www.sdcitybeat.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2764 Author: Tony Jackson EMPOWERING STORY I was so excited to see that article on Oliver Hamilton and the Prop. 36 issue ["The Front Lines," Aug. 15] that I had to write. I have also been fortunate enough to meet Mr. Hamilton. He's been an inspiration for me as well, so much so that after meeting him in Sacramento at the last Prop. 36 rally, I started a MySpace group (groups.myspace.com/ prop36grads) hoping to attract other grads and to give back, providing some great forums, bulletin topics, and pictures that any member can freely post. I am a proud graduate, and it always touches my heart and soul when others are active in the pursuit of recovery. I have 426 days today, and my battle continues daily--but when I see people like Oliver Hamilton and the Drug Policy Alliance in my corner, getting some well-deserved recognition, it literally empowers and motivates me and, more so, it reminds me that, hey, I'm not alone in this struggle. When I see other Prop. 36 grads, I see myself--and I feel successful today. Tony Jackson, Laguna Hills - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom