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SANTA CRUZ PASSES OUT POT AT CITY HALL

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. -- Calling Santa Cruz a sanctuary from federal
authorities, medical marijuana advocates, joined by city leaders, passed
out pot to about a dozen sick people at City Hall.

"Santa Cruz is a special place, and today we're letting the world know how
compassionate we can be," Mayor Christopher Krohn said. "We're taking a stand."

More than 1,000 community members jammed into the gardenlike courtyard for
a supportive demonstration during the giveaway. Some held signs reading,
"DEA Go Away" and "U.S. Out Of Santa Cruz."

Marijuana is illegal as a medicine or as a recreational drug under federal
law. But state law, and county and city ordinances, say it's legal if
recommended by a doctor.

Drug Enforcement Administration spokesman Richard Meyer said he was
appalled by Tuesday's event, and feared the community is sending a
dangerous message to its children.