MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE

Brian Carlisle, Chilliwack's champion of medical marijuana, says he's ready
to fight social injustice on a new level and will be running in the
upcoming city council by-election.

"I'm not a one-issue person," Mr. Carlisle emphasizes. "I never have been.
I don't fight for medical marijuana anymore, I don't need to."

Mr. Carlisle says he feels passionately about many issues including animal
rights, disabled causes and AIDS.

"I wear a lot of hats. I help a lot of people. That's what I do, I help
people wholeheartedly," he explains.

Mr. Carlisle has experience as a licensed bailiff and has been a key player
in the fight to legalize marijuana for medical purposes. He is currently a
student, but says he can't help but get involved in issues he feels
strongly about.

"I think the city needs a drug and alcohol strategy," he says carefully. "I
know council is working on cleaning up the downtown, and I say 'let's do
it.' But I have some ideas that I would like to bring to the team."

In doing so, Mr. Carlisle says he feels he has the blessing of former city
councillor Bernie Cross, who passed away earlier this year.

"I would honestly not be running for this seat if Bernie were still here,"
he admits. "But I can't let him down. Someone has to try to follow in his
footsteps. It's impossible to fill his shoes, but someone has to try."

Mr. Carlisle says Chilliwack's gentle giant was like a surrogate father to
him and that he is eager to begin working toward the same goals.

"Like Bernie, I have a proven track record of fighting for the underdog,"
Mr. Carlisle finishes. "He was just needed for angel-duty a little too early."