Tommy Chong, Bernero expected at pro-marijuana rally

ANN ARBOR – Comedian Tommy Chong and Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero are among those expected to address the crowd at an annual pro-marijuana rally at the University of Michigan.

“Hash Bash” organizers say Chong, famous as half of the duo “Cheech and Chong,” is headlining the 44th annual event on April 4.

Bernero’s office on Friday confirmed the mayor’s planned appearance. Organizers say a county sheriff, cancer survivors, veterans and advocates from across the state also are expected to speak at the Diag, the main pedestrian walkway through Central Campus in Ann Arbor.

A statewide marijuana legalization ballot initiative is planned for 2016 that aims to allow residents to cultivate their own plants and allow other uses of the drug. Representatives of the Michigan Comprehensive Cannabis Law Reform Initiative Committee are to speak.