Fresh pot leaf etchings border a window of Molly’s Mini Mart, art inspired by a heated public debate sparked over the convenience store’s dope-related inventory.
Rather than shielding or removing pipes and bongs from her bodega, owner Molly Willis is brazenly defying protesters by emblazoning bud to passers-by.
“I’m not going to be bullied like a kid on a playground,” she said yesterday.
Though the sale of pipes and bongs in the Sherwood Park shop isn’t illegal, residents and one county councillor have voiced moral objections loud and clear over the past week.
“Some convenience stores are supporting the drug trade instead of supporting the community. That’s fine, but be a stand-alone store, and acknowledge what you’re trying to do,” said Strathcona County Ward 8 Coun. Jason Gariepy, who recently blacklisted the store, which is in close proximity to two schools.
Gariepy said policy changes in the community are a possibility.
A toke-gear merchant said he recently refused a proposed partnership with Molly’s.
“I don’t think your kid should walk in to buy a chocolate bar and be bombarded with a bong right in front of him,” said Shell Shock owner Colin Rogucki, who claim Willis’ staff urged him to push his products in the convenience store.
Willis claims Shell Shock staff proposed the merger. She added that more than 500 customers have expressed support in the past week.
