I would like to thank you and the HIA for your cooperation in the recent Kenex confrontation with the DEA and U.S. Customs. Your patience in not acting too quickly and allowing Kenex the time to orchestrate a systematic and effective strategy to deal with the DEA was greatly appreciated.

This industry is still very small but has the support of many aggressive and influential individuals, some of which are on the HIA Board and certainly in its membership. It is very difficult for us to thank all of your members individually because we are not even fully aware of all the individuals that assisted directly or indirectly to accomplish our objective. I would ask you to please relay our thanks to them somehow.

The HIA has been very supportive and helpful throughout this challenging situation. The ideas and suggestions that arose at the annual convention were very timely and effective. That convention could not have been more strategically timed. The Hempembargo.com website which set up as a result of the HIA member participation was very impressive and informative. It was an asset in the education process for many people whether they are in the industry or simply have an interest on what is happening out there. I believe that the HIA has always been a strong promoter of educating the public on hemp related issues and I compliment you for that.

As you know, I felt very strongly from the start that this case was important for the North American Hemp Industry and not only for Kenex. My expectations were that we would possibly have only one chance to fight the DEA on their ridiculous zero tolerance policy. It was extremely important that we get all of our documentation and numerous assets lined up prior to launching an attack on such a formidable opponent as the DEA. It was not enough to recognize our strengths, we needed to capitalize on their weaknesses. Our assets included the HIA, the NAIHC, allies from both Canada and the U.S. in the form of farmers, business individuals, politicians and government officials. The Canadian Embassy, the Press and a strong legal team were the final links to effectively deliver the message to the DEA. It was a team effort and I believe that we can claim a victory.

In summary, I believe that collectively, we have won a significant battle against the DEA's dictatorship on this issue. It is our hope that this will provide an opportunity for the indutrial hemp industry to develop and prosper as it should, both in Canada as well as in the United States.

Again, I would like to thank you for your cooperation and support.

Sincerely,

Jean M. Laprise