MARCHING FOR MARY JANE

Local Marijuana Advocates and Supporters March to Dispel Rumours
Around Pot

On a sunny Saturday, without a trace of telltale smoke in the air, The
Holy Smoke Culture Shop and supporters held a community rally in
favour of changing marijuana laws. Featuring a handful of
pro-marijuana and critics of government, including Paddy Roberts, who
was involved in a bid to keep Marc Emery in Canada, the rally drew a
crowd of over 60 people of all ages and backgrounds. Organizers were
careful to not promote the event as a smoke-in, which they believed
would damage their cause.

"We would like the event to dispel fear and feel safe for all people
to attend," said rally organizer Alan Middlemiss.

In attendance was Holy Smoke co-owner, Paul DeFelice, who was arrested
and charged for trafficking and possession of cannabis on July 15,
2006. The local store has been proudly advocating and defending
cannabis culture for almost a decade.

"The proof that there is much tolerance, acceptance, and support for
cannabis in this community is that our shop has survived 10 years,"
said DeFelice. "I'm hoping the community will rally to show that
they're not afraid to stand up for their rights. I plan to fight my
charges all the way to the highest courts.

DeFelice said his arrest was proof of the Conservative government's
"crack-down" on marijuana, something the average citizen should be
cognizant of.

"Holy Smoke and supporters figured we'd rally to make the public aware
that the Conservatives aren't carrying through the Liberal's promise
of a decriminalization bill," he said. "The Conservatives are
actually going to double the penalties and we think people should know
that. We'd also like to see the police use the discretion they have
until the law is changed, and make cannabis crimes the lowest priority."

DeFelice will face his charges in Nelson court in the fall.