FELGER: NOT GREEN, BUT MARIJUANA

He won't be seen as a Green, but Tim Felger wll still run for federal
office in 2006.

Felger, who represented the Marijuana Party in Abbotsford during the
2004 federal election, failed to make the switch to the Green Party as
officials instead selected Peter Hoefgen to represent the local riding.

However, Felger, who said he was told he was "too controversial" for
the Green Party, still wants his voice to be heard and so will again
represent the Marijuana Party.

Felger's announcement brings the number of Abbotsford candidates who
will stand federally on Jan. 23 to five.

Conservative Party candidate Ed Fast was the first to declare in the
summer, and he has since been joined by Jeffrey Hansen-Carlson (NDP),
Hoefgen and David Oliver (Liberal Party).

By standing again, it means Felger has run in the past five elections
- - federal, provincial and municipal - that have been held in
Abbotsford. His most recent political effort saw jim finish 24th of 28
candidates during the Nov. 19 municipal election.

"This is the first election I have had any signs left, and I do not
have to take them down because the next election is just around the
corner," Felger said.

"I look forward to the fact this is going to be a long campaign.
Anything can happen now . . . I am very tired but this is something
that needs to be done."

Felger said he plans to hold Fast "accountable" for the city's record
on homelessness, its "climb up Sumas Mountain" and public
transportation.

Felger also dismisses accusations that he is representing a one-issue
party, pointing out it is pro-choice when it comes to abortion,
pro-euthanasia, and in favour of legalizing or regulating
prostitution.

Felger received 404 votes when he ran for the federal Marijuana Party
last year. However, he said he is "totally serious" when he predicts
he will receive 4,000 votes this January.

"I think people are starting to listen to my message," he said.

"At the end of the day, people are not opposed to people smoking
marijuana. They are opposed to the fire hazard, violence and
trafficking. All of those things can be regulated. My ideas may seem
radical, but they are actually very reasonable."