BASH PREVAILS

Annual Event Finds Common Ground

The Hash Bash survived Saturday, as its organizers say it always will.

Pushed out of its traditional spot on the Diag by a University of
Michigan student group called FOKUS, a modified 30-minute Hash Bash
took place in what organizers of both parties said was in the spirit
of getting along.

A crowd filled the U-M Diag on a sunny day with temperatures in the
high 50s. The people crowded on steps, many expecting to hear
speakers for the Hash Bash, a pro-marijuana rally held on campus since 1972.

What those on campus for the Hash Bash didn't know was that the space
- - and public address system - had been reserved for FOKUS, which
wanted to hold its annual block party on the Diag.

Alma Davila-Toro, co-founder of FOKUS - or Fighting Obstacles Knowing
Ultimate Success, said she found a compromise.

She spoke with poet John Sinclair, the Hash Bash speaker, and FOKUS
concluded that allotting him time was consistent with the group's
goal of connecting U-M students with art and music.

A former Ann Arborite, Sinclair is best known for the marijuana
conviction that led to a 1971 "Free John Sinclair" rally at U-M's
Crisler Arena. That rally featured the late John Lennon.

About 15 minutes before the traditional noon kickoff for the Hash
Bash, many in the crowd were unsure of what was happening.

"Did they know the Hash Bash was this day?" asked Chris Taylor of Ann
Arbor. "They must have known about it? How could you not know? We
only need one hour."

Kelly Johnson of Ecorse was of the opinion that all those in the
crowd came to see the Hash Bash, not the FOKUS event.

Campus police estimated 1,200 to 1,500 on the Diag. The News
estimated the number at closer to 2,000.

"That's what these people are standing around here for," Johnson
said. "Everyone here is for the Hash Bash. No one wants to hear
anyone else talking."

They didn't have to.

Sinclair kicked off the impromptu Hash Bash at 12:20 p.m. and spoke
for about 15 minutes.

"I like to get high," Sinclair told the crowd. "I believe I have a
right to get high.

"People want drugs," he said to cheers. "They want to get high. ...
Because it's all good."

Adam Brook, the Hash Bash's emcee, got on stage after Sinclair's
speech and told the crowd it was time to leave.

He thanked FOKUS for allowing the Hash Bash its moment.

"But we will be back next year and forever," Brook said.

Campus police spokeswoman Diane Brown said no tickets were given
involving marijuana. One arrest was made for disorderly conduct.