Barack Obama...Protesters stalk President in San Francisco! Medical Marijuana demands!

 



One protester waved a placard with a cartoon-like image of Uncle Sam with "Liar" crudely scrawled on its face, the San Francisco Police Department scrambled to put up barriers between a mob that had gathered and a Presidential motorcade, and a Government helicopter circled overhead signalling that Barack Obama was on his way.

As protestors chanted slogans ("Safe Acess Now" & "DEA Go Away! ") frenzied newsmen from the major Networks jockeyed for position at the curb in a bold-faced effort to capture the rally as it unfolded on the street about fifty feet away from the entrance of the St. Regis Hotel where the President was expected any minute.

Motorists honked their horns in support as the rag-tag gang of citizens shouted out their slogans and angrily denounced President Obama for failing to honor a promise.

Shortly after Obama took office, he promised to end the persistent DEA para-military-style raids on pot dispensaries in California.

Readers at the Tattler may recall I posted a feature on the issue shortly after I received a press release from the White House.

Post: 10/19/10

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2009/10/medical-marijuanafederal-government.html

However, for some inexplicable reason, the President failed to follow through on his promise.

In spite of the fact the "Compassionate use of Medical Marijuana" was voted into law a few years ago, the DEA has continued to raid California pot dispensaries, at whim.

I previously attended protests at DEA headquarters and reported on the issues.

Post:  12/02/2010

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2010/02/marijuana-ballot-measure-to-legalize.html

Today, the President was undoubtedly aware of the greeting that awaited him at the St. Regis, judging by the show of force at the entrance of the Hotel, in the streets outside, and all-around a full city block.

In fact, when first strolled down the 3rd Street before the protest was underway, I stumbled on a couple of undercover cops whispering into walkie-talkies.

In one funny moment, a meter maid sped up to a parked car to issue a ticket - at which point - a gentleman darted out and informed her it was his vehicle and that he was with the Secret Service!
When the motorcade arrived, it was replete with a San Francisco Police Depatment escort, consisting of at least ten armed officers on motorcyles (with sirens sounding and lights flashing) and at least a dozen-or-so high-security vehicles (including a bomb squad!).

One reporter quizzed one of the protesters in jest.

"Do you think the President knows that you're here?  Do you think he cares?"

The spirited activist responded in the negative naturally.

It would have been a beautiful moment for the President - if he had only stopped by at the curb - and uttered up a few assurances.

Or, would the political mumble-jumble have amounted to more hollow promises? 

The same old same old!

For the protesters, it was a challenging day, to say the least.

A fierce wind blew down Market Street and icy temperatures chilled to the bone.

The Medical Marijuana activists drifted into a pre-arranged location at 3rd & Market Streets - where they worked out the details of their game plan - so the rally would be more impacting when it went down.

I thought it ironic that the starting point for the protest was in front of the  the AT & T building.

After all, the dedicated ativists wanted to reach out and touch at least one special person!

Needless to say, the brave upstarts got the cold shoulder from the President, and were kept at arm's length.

At one point, security spied a blue knapsack that appeared to be left unattended on the street.

Before pouncing on the mysterious bag, officers went through the crowds to determine if it belonged to any of the protesters, or a member of the press.

A few minutes later - when they were unable to determine who it belonged to - one officer (who had been quite respectful maintaining control of the protesters earlier) rifled through it to determine its contents.

The San Francisco Police Department should be commended for doing an exemplary job.

When I started towards an area where the protesters were forming, one officer quizzed me about my intentions, before letting me pass.

I pointed out that I was there to cover the protest, at which point, he noted that arrangements had been made to coral the activists at one location where they would be able to exercise their right to free speech.

Meanwhile, the blockade all around the hotel was causing a few headaches for commuters heading off to work.

Unfortunately, many were forced to detour around the Hotel to reach their destinations.

When they arrived late at the office, would their bosses believe their flimsy excuses?

A few tourists were literally confused!

But, all in all, it was a peaceful rally with good spirits all around.

Too bad the star of the event was a "no show" - in the street with the voting public - at least.

How will this impact his image - and his ratings in the polls - I wonder.

News at 11!

http://www.thetattler.biz/

 



Americans for Safe Access...DEA raids prompt training course for advocates of Medical Marijuana!

 

My contacts at - Americans For Safe Access (ASA) - excitedly informed me today that the non-profit organization (fighting for the rights of Medical Marijuana users sanctioned by California voters) are launching bringing a unique training program to the Los Angeles.

This classes are essential basic training for anyone serious about working professionally with patients in the medical cannabis field.

After taking the course successful candidates will attain:

• Increased competency in working with medical cannabis patients
• Intro to patients’ needs & bio-psycho-social health model
• Ability to identify behavioral & social side effects of illness
• Overviews of patient rights & responsibilities under applicable laws
• Practical skills to handle law enforcement encounters
• Excellent overviews of medical cannabis patient history

In view of the recent DEA Raids in Hollywood the past year or two, staff at ASA argue that the legal training being offered up now, is more important than ever.

I reported on the para-military-style raids at the Tattler.

Post: 02/01/2010

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2010/02/marijuana-ballot-measure-to-legalize.html

Post: 03/07/2009

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2009/03/medical-marijuanafocus-on-doctors-not.html

Post: 10/19/2009

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2009/10/medical-marijuanafederal-government.html

This ASA certified training is highly participatory, fast moving, and a lot of fun, according to the teachers.

A new section on "Treating the Whole Patient" also builds competency and awareness for students so they may better understand the unique challenges that patients face in daily living through a greater understanding of how physical, psychological, and emotional health conditions affect patient functioning.

SPEAKERS

Dr. Amanda Reiman
Working with Patient Population

Don Duncan
History Of Medical MJ

Lauren Payne, JD
Legal Training, Know Your Rights

DATE

April 9th (2011)
(Saturday)
9:30am - 4:30pm

Medical Cannabis Caregivers Directory
50 North Mentor Avenue
Pasadena, CA

CONTACT

Raudel Wilson
Community Liaison Director
Americans For Safe Access

raudel@safeaccessnow.org

See 'ya there!
 
http://www.thetattler.biz
 


Natural Medicine?

Steve Cooley...ASA fights politician on Facebook! Call for Action on Medical Marijuana!

High on Busting ass!

Americans for Safe Access are asking voters to help in their bold-faced efforts to prevent Steven Cooley from becoming Lieutenant Governor in the next election November 2 (2010).

According to ASA, once Stephen Cooley takes office, he will start up para-military-style raids on pot dispensaries once again - and use his political savvy and persuasive contacts in Law Enforcement circles and the Government - to ensure that the possession and use of medical marijuana (and pot for leisure activities) remains a criminal offense.

I reported on the raids and the subsequent protests in front of the downtown Headquarters for the DEA at the Tattler in past published posts.

Post:  02/12/08

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/search?q=dea+raids

"If elected California’s next Attorney General, Steve Cooley has vowed to “eradicate medical marijuana from CA”.  Cooley will overturn all of our hard work, and turn patients back into criminals."

"Defend yourself and your medicine on Tuesday, November 2 (2010) by voting against Cooley," advocates in support of the decriminalization of marijuana at ASA are urging.

Americans for Safe Access are also making a plea for the citizens to take action.

Learn How:

http://www.notcooley.com/

Post YouTube Videos on your Wall: 

1.  Not cooley on Medical Marijuana
2.  Not Cooley on Same Sex Marriage
3.  Not Cooley on Environment
4.  Friends don't let friends vote for Cooley

"Like" the Not Cooley Campaign videos:

1. Not Cooley on Medical Marijuana
2. Not Cooley on Same Sex Marriage
3. Not Cooley on Environment
4. Friend's don't let Friends Vote for Cooley

INFORMATION:

http://www.safeaccessnow.org/

!http://www.thetattler.biz



DMV...medical marijuana patients exempt from license revocation!

When a California driver's license was revoked because she used marijuana for medicinal purposes, Americans for Safe Access sprang into action to rectify the wrong by filing a lawsuit against the DMV.

After all, pursuant to Proposition 215, the compassionate use of medical marijuana was approved by voters in the State of California.

Shortly after the litigation commenced, the DMV restored the woman's license, but dug in their heels when it came to admitting wrongdoing.

In fact, the DMV went one step further.

In a training manual, agency employees instructed to treat medical marijuana like any other prescription drug.

In view of the pending lawsuit, perhaps?

When queried about that stickling point, a spokesman for the DMV brushed off any suggestion of deceitful conduct, and sworn up and down that the licensing bureau never had a policy to remove driving privileges from medical marijuana patients.

The changes in the manual were part of a planned update, they asserted.

Gotcha!

Joe Alford, Chief Counsel of Americans for Safe Access, was pleased with the outcome.

"Drivers will no longer have their licenses suspended or revoked simply because of their status as medical marijuana patients."

http://www.julianayrs.com

Medical Marijuana...U.S. Supreme Court refuses to hear case! Victory for patients...

I have reported on the ongoing battle in the courts in the matter of a medical marijuana case - Garden Grove vs. Superior Court - which eventually weedled (no pun intended) its way to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Yesterday, the high court of the land refused to review a landmark decision, wherein California State Courts found that the medical marijuana law was not preempted by Federal Law as previously argued.

Initially, the lower court Justices in the Appellate court issued an "Opinion" on November 28, 2007, that specifically underscored the grounds for their historic ruling.

"It is not the job of the local police to enforce the federal drug laws."

The case arose from an incident in June of 2005 when police charged resident Felix Kha with possession of marijuana (in spite of the fact papers in his possession verified he was a medical marijuana patient entitled to legally use the controlled substance) and proceeded to confiscate Kha's medicine in what was later to be determined as a wrongful seizure.

Medical marijuana advocates who have been vigorously fighting this case in the courts for the past three years, praised the Supreme Court for rendering what they deemed a just decision.

In sum, legal scholars have hailed the ruling as significant because it has underscored law enforcement's obligation to uphold state law.

On the heels of the conclusion of the exhaustive legal wrangling, advocates have theorized that there will now be stricter adherence to state medical marijuana laws by local police - the end result being - that there won't be as many arrests or illegal seizures.

"It's now settled that state law enforcement officers cannot arrest medical marijuana patients or seize their medicine simply because they prefer the contrary federal law," said Joe Elford, Chief Counsel with Americans for Safe Access (ASA), the medical marijuana advocacy organization that represented defendant Felix Kha.

"Perhaps, in the future local government will think twice about expending significant time and resources to defy a law that is overwhelmingly supported by the people of our state."

Don't Bogart that joint, Arnold!

(Free) Charles Lynch...protest rally at Federal Courthouse. October 6th. 11 A.M.

A posse of protesters are planning a rally down at the Federal Courthouse on Monday, October 6th, to protest the recent conviction of medical marijuana distributor, Charles Lynch.

On August 4, 2008, the jury in the Charles C. Lynch Federal Court case began their deliberations after arduous closing arguments, numerous jury instructions and a taxing two-week trial

Mr. Lynch was found guilty of conspiracy to possess and distribute marijuana, two counts of providing cannabis to adults under the age of 21 years old, possession with intent to distribute and maintaining a drug premises

To some, Mr. Lynch has being unjustly charged with crimes that fly in the face of current State Law.

In his defense, a few have argued that Mr. Lynch followed all his business license requirements, city regulations, county restrictions, and state law.

Notwithstanding, Mr. Lynch's counsel asserted in court that his client contacted the DEA before setting up shop, to determine if his plans fell within the confines of Federal law.

Mr. Lynch alleged that the DEA representative he spoke to waved him off.

"It’s up to cities and counties to handle that [medical marijuana dispensary] matter."

I personally recall reading an article in the morning daily - after-the-fact - that reported the DEA official in question adamantly denied the comments were ever uttered to the defendant, Mr. Lynch.

In fact, if I recall correctly, the DEA Agent insisted that no one at that office would ever make such a wild statement, in view of their vigorous attempts to shut down pot dispensaries in recent months.

It should be noted that in another case this week, a Federal Judge refused to impose prison time on a man who had produced and distributed edible medical cannabis products throughout the state of California.

Despite sentencing guidelines calling for at least two-and-a-half years in jail, U.S. District Court Judge Claudia Wilkin exercised her discretion to sentence Michael Martin, 34, to five years probation, with one year to be served in a halfway house and one year to be served in home confinement.


The dramatic sentence caused the courtroom full of patients and activists to erupt in applause.

However, it should be noted that Mr. Martin did agree to a plea bargain, in view of the fact a stiff sentence appeared to be on the horizon, otherwise.

Faced with the threat of more serious charges and the specter of a Federal Trial in which no information about State Law or medical use could be introduced, Martin pled guilty in Federal Court to manufacturing marijuana edibles and did not contest the government finding of more than four hundred plants seized in a DEA raid in September (2007).

In a speech to the court that had observers in tears, Martin spoke eloquently about why he had acted on behalf of patients, describing the cancer patients he was proud to have helped, the support of his loving family, and how he had only acted on behalf of others, never for profit.

That speech, the enormous volume of letters of support for Martin the judge received, and the lack of any evidence that any edible produced by Mickey was diverted to recreational use, all helped the judge declare that this was a unique case that did not call for a normal sentence, and certainly not the more than three years of federal prison that the law mandates.

Comments from the bench about the tensions between State and Federal laws also made clear that the Judge understood medical cannabis cases to be different from other federal drug cases, and she joined several other members of the federal judiciary in departing from the government's sentencing guidelines.

"The prosecution of good people like Michael Martin, who are trying to give patients the choice of an edible, non-smoked medicine, is a travesty," said Rebecca Saltzman, ASA Chief of Staff.

"The government says smoking is a bad delivery method then prosecutes those who provide an alternative - ridiculous."

The Lynch case differed in some respects.

Although it was argued in court by the defense counsel that Mr. Lynch obtained his license for the dispensary like any law-abiding citizen would - and thereafter acted within the full dictates of the law - the prosecutor and the DEA Agents accused that Mr. Lynch exploited his role as a legal dispensary, sold medical marijuana willy-nilly to underage youths - and quite flagrantly - played up his role as a supplier in a manner that was careless, in question, and not in keeping with State Laws.

Of course, that is a quick sketch of arguments I gleaned in the local press.

I have not researched the issues thoroughly, so I can not take a position one way or the other, in this instant case.

Supporters familiar with the case, on the other hand, have been quite vocal.

Although allegations of wrongdoing were made, the Lynch camp is quite adamant that no evidence was presented in federal court that substantiated the bald-faced allegations.

A representative at Americans for Safe Access - Don Duncan - was inclined to protest the outcome, too.

"Terrible justice. We must protest his sentencing."

Hence, the rally, which is being scheduled for October 6th at the Federal Court House, at 312 N. Spring Street (at Temple) in downtown Los Angeles at 11:00 A.M.

See 'ya there!

Arnold, who's your supplier?

Medical Marijuana...Appellate Court rules in favor of State "compassionate use" Law!

The Fourth District Court of Appeal for the State of California issued a published opinion on the heels of a ruling this past week stating that federal law does not preempt the state's medical marijuana law.

The County of San Diego filed a suit against the State of California in February (2006) which challenged the validity of the State identification card program as well as the foundation of California's medical marijuana laws.

In the final scenario, both lower and appellate courts found that the ID card program and State Law remained valid and do not violate the State Constitution.

"This is a huge win for medical marijuana patients, not only in California, but across the country," said Joe Elford (Chief Counsel for ASA) who argued before the appellate court on behalf of medical marijuana patients.

"This ruling makes clear the ability of states to pass medical marijuana laws with an expectation that those laws will be upheld by local and state, if not federal, officials."

Justice Alex McDonald wrote the "Opinion" - which was supported unanimously - by all the Jurists on the bench.

The court ruled that the Federal Controlled Substances Act (CSA) "signifies Congress's intent to maintain the power of states to elect - 'to serve as a laboratory in the trial of novel social and economic experiments without risk to the rest of the country' - by preserving all State laws that do not positively conflict with the CSA.

Americans for Safe Access (ASA) defended the interests of patients in the appeal and filed briefs along with the ACLU Drug Law Reform Project. Both organizations successfully intervened as defendants in the lawsuit in August (2006) while the case was still being litigated in the Superior Court.

ASA intends to launch an educational campaign soon that will apprise elected officials across the state of their obligation to implement state law, in particular the state ID card program, which both assists law enforcement and bestows greater protection for patients.

San Diego County was originally joined by San Bernardino and Merced Counties - but later Merced chose not to appeal - opting instead to implement the state ID card program and a Sheriff's policy on medical marijuana patient encounters.

Against the wishes of the San Diego City Council, the County of San Diego filed an appeal in February (2007) along with San Bernardino County.

The City of San Diego voiced its disapproval of the legal action by filing an amicus - "friend of the court brief" - siding with the Attorney General and medical marijuana patient advocates.

"More than eleven years after the passage of Proposition 215, it's about time that we all got on the same page with regard to medical marijuana and the protections afforded by California law," Elford lamented.

"With two Appellate Court decisions clearly stating that Federal Law should not be an excuse to avoid enforcing State Law, it is now time for full implementation in California."

Obviously, the courts are getting the message loud and clear, too.

In the recent past, the California Supreme Court denied a review of another appeal - "City of Garden Grove v. Superior Court" - in a case where the lower court found the State's medical marijuana law was not preempted by federal law.

Malibu...rejects ordinance ban on pot dispensaries!

Yesterday, I reported that the Malibu Planning Commission was slated to hear arguments for a strict ban on outlets for "Medical Marijuana" dispensaries within the city limits.

On the heels of the announcement, a number of activists in support of medical marijuana and its compassionate use in the State of California, organized a rally and appeared before the Commission to plea for leniency.

I was unable to attend the meeting yesterday afternoon, but a representative for "Americans for Safe Access" - Don Duncan - did appear and was thrilled to inform me bright and early this morning that the planners roundly rejected the proposed ordinance to ban pot dispensaries in the region.

At that hearing, Mr. Duncan - and others - urged council to reject the bid for a ban - and in the alternative - follow the lead of other cities and counties around the state (including Los Angeles County) - by adopting sensible regulations for the provision of medical cannabis distribution.

By doing so, the well-organized activists noted that the Commission would be fulfilling an explicit mandate of the voters (by virtue of Proposition 215) to provide a mechanism for safe and affordable access to medicine for all who need it.

Medical cannabis dispensing collectives are a community-based solution that satisfy the need for safe access to medicine. Most of California’s legal medical cannabis patients rely on the dispensaries for safe access to doctor-approved marijuana which treats the symptoms of AIDS, cancer, multiple sclerosis, chronic pain, and other serious life-threatening illnesses.

After considerable discussion, the Malibu Planning Commission rejected the recommendation by city staff to ban medical cannabis collectives outright, and asked staff to return with a proposal to regulate facilities in the city at a later date.

At the hearing on Tuesday - the Commissioners heard from patients, a doctor, and attorneys for PCH Collective (one of two collectives operating in Malibu under the terms of the city's two-year-old moratorium).

In support of his arguments, the attorney for PCH Collective submitted a petition with almost four hundred signatures calling for regulations instead of a ban, which obviously mustered up some sympathy.

But, the Commission also thoroughly reviewed the issues.

Mr. Duncan informed me that several of the commissioners questioned him about regulations in other cities, conflicts with federal law, sales tax, and other pertinent details.

In spite of the fact the dispensary issue has been hotly debated in California in recent weeks in the wake of DEA raids, no one in attendance from the public, according to Duncan, was in favor of the ban.

Unfortunately, one of Commissioners suffered a negative experience in recent days which was openly discussed at the hearing.

In her testimony, she alleged that she and her family were shopping in an establishment in Malibu one day when they became overcome by cannabis smoke leaking through the walls from a dispensary adjacent.

In support of her claims, staff from the establishment she was patronizing, noted for the record that the "pot dispensary" (which only accepted cash) was frequented by young people.

Although they complained to the Sheriff's department about the problem, allegedly no action was taken.

Unfortunately, owners of the collective did not appear at the hearing to defend themselves against any of the allegations.

The Commissioners debated the issues at length and then settled on a motion calling for strict regulations based on an ordinance recently adopted in another city which appeared to be reasonable under the circumstances.

After debating the need to prevent a proliferation of collectives while preserving competition to keep prices in check, the Commissioners agreed to allow three collectives to operate in Malibu.

It is unclear how quickly staff will return a recommendation for an appropriate ordinance, but the city's moratorium expires on June 25.

The Commissioners, the members of PCH Collective and its owner, Mr. Duncan, and all the supporters who showed up to fight the good cause are to be commended for making a strong professional showing at the hearing which garnered positive results.

Community activism can make a difference!

"A person's true wealth is the good he or she does in the world"
Muhammad

Los Angeles City Council...votes yes on Joint Resolution SJR 20; Signals compassion for Medical Marijuana users!

Last week, I reported that the LA City Council was slated to vote on SJR 20, in the wake of raids on local pot dispensaries and allegations of abusive conduct by the DEA.

Post: 03/31/08

On Wednesday, April 2nd, 2008, City Council voted 9-1 to approve state Senator Carole Migden's Senate Joint Resolution SJR 20 which was introduced by Council members Dennis Zine, Janice Hahn, and Bill Rosendahl.

Councilman Greig Smith was a lone dissenter, who I understand from informed sources, is under fire for his reluctance to "get on board".

In a nutshell, SJR 20 establishes a call for the President and Congress of the United States to enact legislation requiring federal law enforcement to respect state medical marijuana laws, to cease raids of medical marijuana dispensaries that are operating legally under California and local law, and to return any assets seized from medical marijuana dispensaries and collectives to the states in which they are located.

And, SJR 20 urges that Congress and the President take notice that Californians are best equipped to deal with the implementation of their state medical marijuana law.

By taking the action they have, the Los Angeles City Council is now standing up for patients’ right to legal access to medical marijuana.

The LA City Council's vote follows recent actions from Mayors from Oakland, Santa Cruz and West who Hollywood have sent letters to House Judiciary Chair John Conyers (D-MI) calling for Congressional hearings on the matter. Several other local governments have joined Los Angeles in condemning federal interference, including San Francisco, Oakland, and Berkeley.

Approval of SJR 20 signals a growing statewide trend to oppose federal intimidation and DEA interference with California State Legislative Laws.

According to last reports, there are 183 registered dispensaries in the city of Los Angeles and an estimated 250,000 Californians use medical marijuana to relieve aliments associated with AIDS, cancer, multiple sclerosis and other chronic conditions.

"This is not about getting high. This is not about drug dealing on the street corners. This is about the Compassionate Use Act," said Zine, who has spent almost 40 years with the Los Angeles Police Department.

California voters approved Proposition 215 in 1996, which legalized the use of marijuana by patients with a doctor's prescription. The federal government bars cannabis use of any kind.

Virgil Grant - who suffered abuse by DEA agents when his dispensary was recently raided - noted for the record,

"I'm a holistic person who likes to take non-drugs. I don't like taking synthetic drugs. I live the all-natural life, so medical marijuana provides that for me without the side effects (of) Vicodin, other things," Grant said.

When the DEA was asked to state their position regarding City Council's precedent-setting action on SJR 20, a spokeswoman for the DEA noted the federal agency does not comment on policy issues.

Los Angeles City Council...SJR 20 intro by Councilman Zine, April 2nd, 2008! Vote on Medical Marijuana resolution!

On April 2, 2008, The Los Angeles City Council will vote on a resolution introduced by Council Member Dennis Zine supporting CA Senator Carole Migden’s Senate Joint Resolution 20 (SJR 20), which calls on the President and US Congress to stop raiding medical cannabis facilities.

SJR 20 asks that the President and Congress of the United States enact legislation requiring federal law enforcement to respect state medical marijuana laws, to cease raids of medical marijuana dispensaries that are operating legally under California and local law, and to return any assets seized from medical marijuana dispensaries and collectives to the states in which they are located.

And, in sum, urges Congress and the President to take notice that Californians are best equipped to deal with the implementation of their state medical marijuana law.

Essentially, by taking this action, The LA City Council is standing up for patients’ access in the wake of six simultaneous raids at facilities last week which resulted in cries of foul from concerned Medical Marijuana activists who protested last week in downtown Los Angeles.

I reported on the lively demonstrations which took place on the street in front of the DEA Headquarters at 255 East Temple Street.

Post:
March 24, 2008
DEA protest...Americans for Safe Access to picket the Federal Building! Pot Busts must end!

Post:
March 25th, 2008
DEA Protest...House Judiciary Committee to hold hearings!
Supreme Court cracks open door; LA City Council drags feet...

This is an important part of a growing statewide trend to oppose federal intimidation and DEA interference with California State Law.

Hence, Americans for Safe Access urge all concerned California residents to attend the hearings and lend their support:

Date: April 2, 2008 (10:00 A.M.)
Location: Room 340, 200 N. Spring St., downtown LA
Map & Public Transit Info: http://www.ASAaction.org

See ya there!

DEA protest...Americans for Safe Access to picket the Federal Building! Pot Busts must end!

Don Duncan, a rep for Americans For Safe Access, contacted me today to advise me that medical cannabis advocates will be meeting in front of the DEA offices at the Federal Building tomorrow to protest last week’s raids at six medical cannabis collectives and one private residence in the Los Angeles area.

Volunteers are downloading a flyer available online at the ASA website to distribute at the rally on  March 25th, 2008.

To make the protest effective, ASA notes that they need a strong showing to be sure that the DEA and media hear the message:

“Stop taking our medicine!”

Last fall, I attended one of their rallies in front of the Governor's downtown headquarters and reported on the DEA's abusive retaliatory conduct in the wake of the protest, and their ongoing concerted efforts to deny Medical Marijuana to patients in need of their medicine.

 In spite of the fact California voters approved a measure to allow compassionate use of cannabis for medicinal purposes (California Proposition 215) the DEA has been cracking down on the local suppliers, alleging that their outlets are engaging in conduct which amounts to,

"The illegal sale of an illicit drug outlawed by the Federal Government."

Although local officials (West Hollywood City Council and the Los Angeles Board of Supervisors) held emergency meetings with local law enforcement in the past to try to stave off future arrests until the conflicts in State and Federal Statutes could be resolved - bottom line - the FEDS noted their intention to pursue the matter to the full extent of the Law. And, they have been.

Now, Americans for Safe Access, intend to protest directly to DEA Officials.

According to ASA:

"Over the past several years, President Bush's Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has victimized patients and providers throughout California, undermining State Law, and stooping to new levels to shut down access for sick and dying patients in California."

In view of this, Americans for Safe Access have launched a pressure campaign, with the aim of putting the spotlight on the DEA and Schwarzenegger, so that appropriate action will follow to preserve patients' rights.

According to ASA, Governor Schwarzenegger can accomplish a lot by taking constructive action on the part of medical cannabis patients and caregivers now, and by giving a nod to the will of the voters in California at the same time, by standing up to the Bush Administration and the DEA.

In sum, ASA is urging the Governor to take a stand against Federal medical cannabis Law Enforcement efforts, and in the process, work at harmonizing Federal law with the compassionate laws of California and eleven other states that allow medical cannabis use.

In addition to previous campaign activities - which consisted of statewide call-in days, legislative visits from constituents and lobbyists, and sign-on letters from key public officials and organizations - the ASA now plans to stand defiantly against the DEA in the front lines on their home turf.

The campaign, building momentum in recent days (and after the recent raids on dispensaries in the San Francisco Bay area when I was up there a few weeks ago) will be successful if concerned citizens take action now - by drafting letters voicing their concerns, sending e-mails stressing the urgency of the situation, or by appearing on the rally day in person to let their voices be heard in uproarious union!

The bold-faced effort is expected to climax at a mass mobilization effort tomorrow - Tuesday, March 25th (11 am) - in front of the DEA offices:

Federal Building, 255 E. Temple Street, Los Angeles.

Map:

http://www.ASAaction.org

Additional info:

Sonnet@AmericansforSafeAccess.org

 Citizens unable to attend the protest are urged to initiate protests to the DEA directly, and also call Governor Schwarzenegger's office and demand that he take a stand on behalf of California citizens, with the aim of protecting their rights and putting an end to the DEA raids sanctioned against patients and providers.

The Governor may be reached in Sacramento at: 916-445-2841

In addition, an e-mail campaign designed to pressure the Governor, has also been underway in recent weeks which Californians can take an active part in.

Concerned citizens are urged to send e-mails to the Governor to demand that he ask George W. Bush to recognize California Laws as they pertain to the compassionate use of marijuana, and subsequently, end the "war on patients".

Citizens may use the ASA online action center to e-mail a form letter.

http://www.safeaccessnow.org

See you at the rally, tomorrow!

http://www.thetattler.biz



Medical Marijuana rally...Governor Schwarzenegger, no cigar!

Today, a rag-tag group of protesters met in front of the Governor's Los Angeles Headquarters to throw a spotlight on DEA raids focused on the suppliers of medical marijuana and Schwarzenegger's failure to take a stand on the issues.

In a post yesterday, California residents were urged to attend and show their support.

A curious mix turned up for the rally...patients in wheelchairs protesting Schwarzenegger's failure to stand behind Bill 215, a vocal faction moved by the cause, a handful of reps on behalf of the cannabis providers, and activists from a myriad of splinter groups joining hands with the specific aim of calling attention to the critical problems that have arisen in recent weeks.

The event was well-planned.

Organizers from "Americans for Safe Access" provided placards for the vigilant to wave to passers-by, bottled water to quench the thirst of the enthusiastic crowd (protestin' is sweaty work, ya know?), and snazzy, eye-catching postcards ready to sign and slip into the mail to the Governor's office in Sacramento urging immediate action against the FEDS.

When I was offered a stub for a raffle, I thought - whoa, nellie - samples of you-know-what; turns out, the coveted prize was for a curious piece of paraphernalia known as a "volcano".

Yeah, I confess, not one to partake in the sweet, pungent-smelling stuff, I am somewhat naive about the rituals of such curious things. Apparently, a "volcano" is used to heighten the potency of the medicinal effect of marijuana. Pardon my innocence!

For an impromptu sidewalk rally, the event was well-equipped with a nifty podium, a quality microphone, and crackle-free loudspeakers. In sum, the impressive array of electronic equipment was at-the-ready for speakers to reach out. And, they did.

A couple of brief, to-the-point speeches, from representatives with "Americans for Safe Access", got the crowed revved up.

Next up, a politician from the Orange County Board of Supervisors, Chairman Chris Norby (who could not attend the rally in person) expressed his solidarity with the protesters via e-mail.

Ah, with a whole spectrum of multi-media gizmos at our fingertips today, it's so easy to reach out and "touch" someone, eh?

In his timely communication, Norby urged Schwarzenegger to implement Proposition 215, the ballot initiative California voters approved in 1996, that legalized the sale and use marijuana for medicinal purposes.

Indeed, that was the main thrust of the demonstration today.

In essence, protesters were calling for an end to the illegal and intrusive raids conducted by federal drug agents on Los Angeles marijuana dispensaries that sell the drug to anyone with a doctor's prescription.

"An attack on safe access is an attack on patients," said Don Duncan, a man whose Hollywood dispensary, California Patients Group, was shut down by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration on July 25, 2007.

And, at one climatic point, the protesters began to vigorously chant "set Stephanie free", "set Stephanie free", when a young woman, Stephanie Landa, who is serving three years for running a medical marijuana clinic, called in from a State Prison.

Los Angeles City Councilman, Dennis Zine (unable to appear in person), released a statement in support of the dispensaries.

"This year has seen a dramatic increase in federal law enforcement activity surrounding medical cannabis, including raids, confiscation of medicine and plants, and indictments," he stated.

His statements appeared to resonate more sharply when one angry man stood up at the mic, and emotionally recalled the day his front door was bashed in, DEA Agents trashed his home, and then proceeded to haul him away after reading him his rights.

His voice trembled at the memory of the horrifying, humiliating experience.

All the protesters were moved to rally behind him when he cried out passionately,

"Did this man who broke down my door, and arrested me, have a medical license?"

The answer from the crowd was a resounding, "no".

And, what of the children, he wondered aloud?

In this nasty scenario, would the offspring of busted medicinal marijuana users, be placed in foster homes? And, if so, at what cost?

Experts, in their respective areas of specialization, proceeded to briefly discuss the issues from their unique perspectives.

Bottom line, it was apparent to everyone at the rally...if a patient has a prescription for compassionate use of marijuana in California, shouldn't the FEDS look the other way?

Steph Sherer, Executive Director of "Americans for Safe Access", urged Schwarzenegger to coordinate with the 12 other governors whose states have legalized medical marijuana, and send recommendations to Washington.

One has to wonder, after all, who issued the order to step up the gutsy raids?

If it was the Bush Administration's directive, then clearly, Schwarzenegger has to approach the President, and his legal advisers, and come up with an equitable solution to the problem.

At this juncture, with the important business at hand squared away at the podium, the protesters were ready to vent their angst and shout from the rooftops, if necessary.

It was unclear whether the Governor was upstairs in his office, out-to-lunch, or conveniently elsewhere - so, everyone began a chant designed to echo up through the canyons of the city streets to the 14th floor - with the express intent of raising the Governor from his slumber.

No one, not even a representative from his office, dared show their face afterwards.

In my estimation, the Governor owed the protesters the courtesy of a "thank you for coming", or an "I'm glad you brought this to my attention" - a written statement, something!

Yeah, no cigar!

But, the ubiquitous crowd attracted a lot of hoopla down on Spring Street and the surrounding environs, nonetheless...drivers slowed, honked their horns, and gave the big "thumbs up".

And, quite a few members of the press turned up, genuinely interested.

If it has escaped the Governor's attention, he'd be wise to recognize this is a hot-button topic, which is not going away.

Someone shouted out, "Arnold, maybe you're a girlie man."

The crowd roared!

One cop with a bit of a stick up his butt, persisted with a little whining and pettiness from the sidelines (street traffic, curb duty, that sort-of-thing), but the crowd graciously followed his suggestions, then went on their merry way.

A small contingent of officers from the Sheriff's Department stepped out of the State Building to take a lookie-loo; but - were more curious, than concerned - and left the crowd alone.

Otherwise, the rally was peaceful and went off without a hitch.

All in all, the gathering was positive, and upbeat - an important event.

However, Schwarzenegger's failure to take a stand infers a lot.

In the final analysis, ignoring the issue has shown not only how wishy-washy he is, but underscores his tendency to flip-flop.

If you recall, in spite of the fact sufficient signatures were obtained to pave the way for "Gay Marriage" earlier this year, Schwarzenegger vetoed it on the grounds that California voters already voiced their objection in a ballot initiative.

In this instant case, California voters not only approved Bill 215 for the compassionate use of Medical Marijuana, but the Governor signed it as well.

Based on his previous statements and actions...he is morally and legally obligated to stand by the "will" of the people, now.

So, Arnold, when do you intend to honor the wishes of California voters?

Medical Marijuana...rally, October 11th; Los Angeles

Recently, I reported about the raids by FEDS on local Medical Marijuana suppliers. (Boys Town Pot Busts)

In spite of the fact California voters approved a measure to allow compassionate use of cannabis for medicinal purposes, the DEA has been cracking down on the local suppliers, alleging that their outlets are engaging in conduct which amounts to the "...illegal sale of an illicit drug which is outlawed by the Federal Government."

Although local officials (West Hollywood City Council & Los Angeles Board of Supervisors) held emergency meetings with local law enforcement to try to stave off future arrests until the conflicts in State & Federal Statutes could be resolved - bottom line - the FEDS noted their intention to pursue the matter to the full extent of the Law.

Now, Americans for Safe Access, are calling on Governor Schwarzenegger to step into the fray and resolve the issue...

According to ASA,

"Over the past several years, President Bush's Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has victimized patients and providers throughout California, undermining State Law and stooping to new levels to shut down access for sick and dying patients in California."

In view of this, Americans for Safe Access have launched a pressure campaign, with the aim of putting the spotlight on Governor Schwarzenegger, so that he will take a stand in respect to patients' rights.

According to ASA, Governor Schwarzenegger can accomplish the goal by taking constructive action now on the part of medical cannabis patients and caregivers, and give a nod to the will of the voters in California at the same time, by standing up to the Bush Administration.

In sum, ASA is urging the Governor to take a stand against Federal medical cannabis Law Enforcement efforts, and in the process, work at harmonizing Federal law with the compassionate laws of California and eleven other states that allow medical cannabis use.

ASA's new campaign consists of statewide call-in days, legislative visits from constituents and lobbyists, and sign-on letters from key public officials and organizations.

The campaign, building momentum in recent days, will be successful if concerned citizens take action now - by drafting letters voicing their concerns, sending e-mails stressing the urgency of the situation, or by appearing on the rally day in person to let their voices be heard in uproarious union!

The bold-faced effort is expected to climax at a mass mobilization effort on Thursday, October 11th, at 12:00 p.m., in front of Schwarzenegger's local office in Los Angeles:

Governor Schwarzenegger's Los Angeles District Office
300 South Spring Street
Los Angeles, CA 90013

Additional info: Sonnet@AmericansforSafeAccess.org

Citizens unable to attend the protest are urged to call Governor Schwarzenegger's office and demand that he take a stand on behalf of California citizens with the aim of protecting their rights and putting an end to the DEA raids sanctioned against patients and providers.

The Governor may be reached in Sacramento at: 916-445-2841

In addition, an e-mail campaign designed to pressure the Governor is also underway.

Citizens are urged to send e-mails to the Governor to demand that he ask George W. Bush to recognize California Laws as they pertain to the compassionate use of marijuana, and subsequently, end the "war on patients".

*Citizens may use ASA's online action center to e-mail a form letter.

http://www.safeaccessnow.org

See you at the rally, Thursday, October 11th!!!