[420 Girl]

Advocates of the medical marijuana industry spent Saturday promoting job opportunities and products that they say could provide the state a much-needed economic boost.

Dozens of companies participated in the first Michigan Medical Marijuana Expo in Detroit on Saturday, providing everything from legal advice to supplies and job tips. The event continues today.

On Nov. 4, Michigan voters approved legalizing medical marijuana. Patients need a doctor's recommendation to get a registry card from the Michigan Department of Community Health. A registered caregiver can cultivate a limited amount for up to five patients.

It's an industry that could help offset the state's 15.2% unemployment rate, some say.

"This is a recession-free industry," Andre Mason, spokesman for Nile Valley Group told a class at the expo. "We're providing a service -- a legal, compassionate service."

The company provides patients and caregivers with referrals and product information and offers professionals tips on how to get jobs within the industry. A cook, for example, might be needed to make marijuana butter for a patient who can't inhale the drug.

Sponsored in part by the Michigan Medical Marijuana Association, the expo includes speakers ranging from Rep. George Cushingberry, D-Detroit, to doctors and patients. More than 1,000 people attended Saturday, said Hilary Dulany, expo spokeswoman.

Cultivation supplies will be available, but no marijuana. Patients with a state-approved registration card can use the drug in a guarded tent.

"This is not a pot-fest. ... It's about jobs," Dulany said.

A glassblower from Monroe County who goes by and labels his work as Puff Danny said making pipes paid the bills when he was laid off from an auto supplier for seven weeks earlier this year. "It's a good fall-back in this economy."

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