Pubdate: Sat, 20 Apr 2013
Source: Flint Journal (MI)
Copyright: 2013 Flint Journal
Contact: http://www.mlive.com/mailforms/fljournal/letters/
Website: http://www.mlive.com/flint/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/836
Author: Chris Aldridge

PROTESTORS GATHER IN DOWNTOWN FLINT TO END MARIJUANA PROHIBITION

FLINT, MI - Masked protestors gathered outside various locations in
downtown Flint Saturday, April 20, to show support for legalizing marijuana.

A group of about 20 people raised American flags and Operation
Cannabis flags outside the City of Flint Municipal building Saturday
afternoon in a trek across downtown Flint.

Adam Gerics, 39, of Flint called it an "Overall end cannabis
prohibition day."

"The fact is, they have actively and intentionally created a public
that's ignorant to this plant," said Gerics, founder and co-director
of New Market Fire Station Compassion Center of Greater Flint. "It's
all hogwash they've been trying to feed us for 80 years."

The protests aimed to bring awareness to the benefits of medical
marijuana use.

Gerics cited studies examining marijuana's neurological effects on the
brain, which he said includes the growth of brain cells.

"The truth needs to be told about it - all you need to do is Google
it," said Gerics, adding that many young people do not know their
rights regarding marijuana possession and usage.

The protestors and public planned to meet at the Compassion Center's
location at 119 N. Grand Traverse St. for festivities including live
bands, a club for marijuana card-holding members and a raffle of three
medical marijuana certifications.

Those interested can also learn more on the uses of hemp seed, medical
marijuana use, how to acquire a medical marijuana certification and
growing techniques.

Gerics, who plans to run for city council to promote marijuana
legalization, called marijuana the "silver bullet that's going to save
everything - including the environment." He currently has 400
signatures. 
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MAP posted-by: Jo-D