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/

 



Barack Obama...Medical Marijuana protesters to confront President tomorrow! St. Regis! San Francisco!

 

When President Obama slips out of a limo purring curbside to attend a "Breakfast with the President" soiree bright-and-early tomorrow in downtown San Francisco there will be a rag-tag gang of protesters from Americans For Safe Access (ASA) on hand to demand that the President fulfill a promise to guarantee all "Patient Rights" in respect to the compassionate use of Medical Marijuana.

In spite of Obama's insistence - that the DEA Military-style raids on pot dispensaries would cease - they have persisted in recent days!

Tattler readers may recall that I attended and reported on street protests in the past:

Post:  02/08/2010

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

At this point, the mantra should be:

We're mad as hell, and we're not going to take it anymore!

"It's time we held the President accountable for his broken promise," a spokesperson informed me earlier this afternoon in a hasty press notice that was fired off by e-mail from ASA Headquarters.

The vocal activists are going to turn-out tomorrow - in full force - in front of the St. Regis Hotel.

"This is the time to pull our community together, express our displeasure with Obama's lack of regard for our community, and demand that he live up to his promises."

RALLY FOR PATIENT RIGHTS

St. Regist Hotel
125 3rd Street
San Francisco, CA

TIME

7:30 a.m.

FLYERS

Supporters attening the rally are instructed to print and distribute fliers which may be downloaded from the Americans for Safe Access web site.

http://safeacceesnow.org

SAMPLE FLYERS

"We are Sick and Tired!"

"Protect Cannabis Patients' Rights!"

"Reschedule Cannabis Now!"

"Federal Protection Not Federal Prosecution!"

CARPOOLS

Protestors may contact ASA to arrange for car pools so that interested parties without transportation may attend the event in downtown San Francisco.

 action@safeaccessnow.org.

http://www.thetattler.biz

Scandals of the Privileged Few! A novel by Julian Ayrs! Chapter 2!

According to the rumors, the owner of the grand old Victorian mansion with the intricate antique gingerbread trim, fell victim to hard times and was forced to unload the three-acre property at No. 8 Stone Canyon Trail for a song.

On the heels of the distressed sale, a posse of slow-poke contractors and well-heeled snooty decorators turned up on the secluded estate one fog-laden morning to work their magic.

The sudden flurry of activity out-of-the-blue raised an eyebrow or two when the loud dusty construction first started up - but – it wasn’t until a squat Mexican gardener puttering around in the garden revealed the extent and nature of the renovations underway that the shit really hit the fan.

Blueprints – lifted by a neighbor with connections at City Hall – revealed that the historical landmark was rezoned to make way for rental units on the site.

The mere thought of an apartment complex standing ramrod straight in their midst, was enough to trigger a knee-jerk reaction among the staid old guard, who sprang into the fray bent on halting the intrusion on Cypress Ridge about to transform the terrain before their very eyes.

“There goes the neighborhood,” one disgruntled resident muttered under his breath, one fine day when he was out walking the dog.

When the word leaked out that the lone buyer was a reclusive European Countess, the rumor-mill shifted into high gear, and the tongues began to wag.

The scuttlebutt ran the gamut.

"The mysterious dragon-lady is sole heir to a fabulous fortune," one gushed.

“Old money,” another asserted in a hushed reverential tone of voice.

"Money doesn't talk, it screams," another lamented.

"Obviously, the bitch is highly connected", one angry long-time resident sneered, when a petition to halt the project was mysteriously stalled in its tracks.

Speculation about the Countess's personal affairs behind closed doors reached a fever pitch.

Without an ounce of proof one scurrilous character took it upon himself to spread a nasty rumor.

The chi chi Countess was allegedly a lipstick lesbian who once-shared her exquisite four-poster bed - replete with hand-crafted Queen-size pillows and pricey designer sheets - with legendary screen Goddess Greta Garbo.

That juicy bit of gossip stuck - go figure - shortly after a lawyer representing the interests of the aggrieved parties confided to a couple of his partners that a stern letter to the Countess failed to engender any meaningful settlement talks.

“I want to be left alone. That was her one-line response,” he hissed to all within earshot, as he threw up his hands in the air in disgust.

A scant few months later three qualifying tenants settled into their tony suites, as a handful of disgruntled neighbors gazed on with their noses totally out-of-whack.

_____________________________________________________


Reginald Bartholomew scrutinized the documents once again carefully.

Sure that he crossed his “t’s” and dotted his “i’s” - he was inclined to flip off the gold cap on his elegant fountain pen - and affix his John Henry to the historical document he was about to sign into law with a flourish.

It was a remarkable accomplishment for preservationists.

Henceforth, influential developers intent on tearing down Historical landmarks within San Francisco proper, would find it virtually impossible to achieve their self-serving greedy ends in the future at the expense of the will of the people, the community-at-large, and the environment most of all.

“A toast is in order,” Bartholomew chuckled to himself, as he strode out the door to celebrate with his partners, who were grinning from ear-to-ear at the prestigious Royal Oak Club on Nob Hill.


____________________________________________________


Union Square was teaming with excited tourists as Brad strode across the plaza in the direction of the exotic archway splashed in red and gold that marked the entrance to festive Chinatown on Grant Street a-hop-and-a-skip-away.

First up?

A stop into a quaint little shop to pluck up a package of incense, an ornately-decorated box of loose Jasmine tea, and a chocolate-covered fortune cookie at the local bakery.

On the way out the door, he gave a nod to a photo of former President Bill Clinton, which graced the wall over a counter stocked with a dozen-or-so delicious bakerd treats.

A few strains of the old rock 'n roll hit - "I Ain't Superstitious" - rumbled around inside his head for a second or two as he proceeded to crack open the cookie.

Uh-huh!

Like it or not, no matter what the message surreptitiously tucked inside said, he'd take it to heart.

Therefore, here were rules to follow, for good reason.

For example, if he rustled up an upbeat message, Brad would carefully fold up the forecast and insert it neatly into his wallet next to his billfold for good luck.

In contrast, an ominous warning - hinting that he may encounter "interesting times ahead" - was summarily tossed into the trash.

In the latter case, the appropriate ritual ensured that any negative influences predicted, were sure to fizzle out.

Silly?

Uh-huh!

But, nonetheless, he never tempted fate.

"Step on the crack! Break your mother's back!"

He laughed to himself.

Thank Buddha for the healing power of meditation!

Admittedly, it was tough spiritual assignment, alright.

Being "empty" and existing in the "now" - free of the tendency to grapple with surreal notions about reality and illusion - was a tough row to hoe.

An old Chinese proverb sprang into mind!

Before enlightenment
Chopping Wood and Drawing Water
After enlightenment
Chopping Wood and Drawing Water

The incense, on the other hand, helped set the mood.

But, more importantly, the sweet-smelling stuff hid the pungent tell-tale aroma of marijuana from his landlord's super-sensitive snoz!

A big fat doobie relaxed him.

Nope, Brad wasn't hooked on the high, in spite of constant teasing from his buddies that (on the contrary) he was pot-head all the way.

The attitudes of society had changed considerably over the years, anyway!

In the 60's, a dude was liable to be sentenced to seven years behind bars for mere possession in Canada, for instance.

Today, cops strode by tourists toking up at trendy sidewalk cafes, and snickered at each other knowingly as they looked the other way amused.
An overzealous pig might write 'ya up a ticket, on the other hand, when least anticipated.

Heck, last night Craig Ferguson teased one of his guests about the pleasures (and merits) of dropping acid and munching on magic mushrooms!

"What kind of high do you experience," he quizzed the surprised actress, who played along nonetheless.

Surely, he was pulling her pretty leg?

Brad just might pay his doctor a little moolah under the table to rustle up a prescription to purchase medical marijuana so that he wouldn't run the risk of getting busted.

A couple of his former room-mates - who were suffering from complications of A.I.D.S. swore by it - in spite of spirited arguments from Government attorneys that the leafy green stuff had no medicinal benefits whatsoever.

Needless to say, when his spare time permitted, Brad often joined in with activists at the non-profit organization - Americans For Safe Access - when they marched in the streets in support of the cause and denounced the DEA para-military-style raids on pot dispensaries in West Hollywood and elsewhere in the Golden state in recent months.

Once, Brad actually posted a feature-length article on the issues, on an Internet web site which was highly-trafficked.

Alongside a publicity still of former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger taking a toke on a joint at Gold's Gym at Venice Beach in his early body-building days, Brad scrawled the following cheeky caption:

"Don't Bogart that joint, Arnold!"

The hunky terminator must have a sense of humor - because he didn't react angrily - or demand that the incriminating publicity still be taken down from the "Tattler" blog site.

At this point, Brad's thoughts drifted to a life-long friend who recently passed to spirit in Canada.

Whenever he spied Tiffany pour a stiff shot of whiskey, a guilty look spread across her face.

Then, she'd let out her signature giggle, and utter up lame excuses.

"For medicinal purposes," she'd cackle.

"Pour me a jigger, please," he'd respond, quick on the uptake.

Misery loves company, after all!

Then, just like clockwork, the winsome twosome would drift off into a stupor as the sound of the waves caressing Sunset Beach just outside the bay window, ushered 'em both into a deep soothing sleep.

Gosh, how he missed her!

(to be continued)

http://www.thetattler.biz

 

 

 

 

DEA Raids in Los Angeles!

 

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?

President Obama...get out of town by High Noon! ICE's softler gentler approach!



Last week, President Obama announced that there would be a White House policy change in respect to the way in which ICE (Immigration Police) handled raids on establishments caught hiring illegals.

Instead of storming the walls of the work place - and smashing down the doors to signal their arrival in the course of a raid on the premises - the President noted that in the future ICE and Immigration Officials would politely waltz into the employment office and issue a warning that if the undocumented workers were not "let go" (fired) that appropriate charges would be brought against the employer in the Federal Courts.

President Obama was obviously responding to pleas from members of the community (myself included) who took to the streets over the past two years in highly-visible protests in front of Government buildings (such as the Federal Building on Temple Street) to voice disapproval over the para-military-style tactics which have been used iin the Los Angeles area which were downright shocking.

I reported on the disturbing Government "show of force" which has also  been used by the DEA to bust licensed Marijuana dispensaries in California which has been the subject of a lot of controversy as well.

Post:  05/06/08

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2008/05/deaabuse-house-judiciary-committee-to.html

Post:  10/09/09

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

Although I applaud the President's attempt to civilize what has been a barbaric assault until now on the part of the Government and Law Enforcement agencies working on its behalf - the announcement reminded me of a plot twist lifted from Hollywood's Westerns of yesteryear.

For example, in the classic film - "High Noon" - the outlaws were issued a warning to get out of town by Noon.

Or else!

Bottom line, it will be interesting to see if the softer gentler approach works, with the Obama administration.

http://www.thetattler.biz/

Steve Cooley...Americans for Safe Access to fight City Attorney's bid for office!

It looks like the folks at Americans for Safe Access are out to stick it to Steve Cooley.

In an e-mail addressed to - patients, activists, and friends - ASA staff have put out the call for concerned citizens (who oppose Steve Cooley's upcoming election bid) to contribute some of their valuable spare time to assist in their ongoing crusade against Mr. Cooley.

Regular readers of  the Tattler may recall that I attended protests in front of FBI Headquarters in downtown Los Angeles last year - when Federal agents engaged in para-military-style raids on pot dispensaries - which Mr. Cooley condoned.

Post: 03/24/08

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2008/03/drug-enforcement-agency.html

Post: 02/01/2010

Governor Schwarzenegger tokes:

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

As you are no doubt aware, Steve Cooley is running for the post of Attorney General.

Because of his staunch stance against the medical use of marijuana, ASA members are campaigning to thwart his political aspirations by fervently distributing - NotCooley- flyers throughout the State of California.

Ultimately, it is ASA's objective to run interference in Cooley's bid for highest-ranking Law Enforcemen official.

ASA is urging  interested parties to get involved now - with the ultimate aim - of spreading the word about Steve Cooley.

In sum, ASA is suggesting that volunteers visit one or more dispensaries in their  area (or other public places) and fervently distribute a raft of - NotCooley - materials.

CONTACT:
http://www.safeaccessnow.org/

Lauren@safeaccessnow.org

Turf out the bastard, eh?

Steve Cooley hated by Medical Marijuana advocates!

http://www.thetattler.biz

Medical Marijuana...Pot dispensaries go for the standard Neon storefront look! Government issue?

Medicinal Marijuna legal in California

Do you find it curious that a police car cruised by while I was shooting this?

http://www.julianayrs.com

Medical Marijuana...Charles Lynch sentencing held over til June!

Over the past year, I have been reporting on medical marijuana issues that have been bouncing around the State from the staid chambers of a half-a-dozen City Council Town Halls to the front steps of DEA headquarters in downtown Los Angeles.

On occasion, courts with jurisdiction over criminal proceedings arising from drug busts, have also been forced to grapple with the controversial subject of citizen-owned "pot dispensaries" and the subsequent distribution of medical marijuana pursuant to an initiative passed by California voters a scant few years ago.

Even President Barack Obama got into the fray recently when supporters of Medical Marijuana petitioned the oval office to recognize California State laws (and the will of the people) - and likewise - put an end to para-military-style raids on pot dispensaries by the DEA.

In the interim, Charles Lynch - an outspoken advocate of Medical Marijuana who ran a pot dispensary in Morro Bay - was busted by the DEA and charged with the crime of selling and distributing an illegal controlled substance pursuant to Federal law.

At the trial, which I covered, Lynch's counsel argued rigorously in his defense, to no avail.

The court was more inclined to rule in favor of the prosecutor who painted Mr. Lynch as a loose cannon who exalted his role as a supplier of medical marijuana, was prone to flash wads of cash to impress girls and impressionable locals - and likewise - allegedly acted irresponsibly by selling the "illegal controlled substance" to underage teens at whim.

Charles Lynch trial

Post: 10/02/08

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2008/10/free-charles-lynchprotest-rally-at.html


On the heels of his conviction, there was a public outcry from friends, supporters, and medical marijuana advocates who lamented to anyone within earshot that justice had not prevailed.

Subsequently, at the sentencing hearing yesterday afternoon, there was a big show of support.

It was noted for the record only one complaint had been filed against Lynch in the past.

When it was revealed that the disgruntled resident lodged it on the grounds that the product Lynch was selling was of poor quality, observers in the gallery were inclined to laugh out loud.

Bad business ethic, but surely not a crime in a State that voted in the legalization of medical marijuana, eh?

An "Americans for Safe Access" spokesperson, Don Duncan, described the hearing this way:

"The courtroom was filled to capacity for the proceedings - including extra federal marshals on hand to monitor the unusually large crowd. Observers listened to more than two hours of testimony from key players in the case. Owen Beck, the eighteen-year-old amputee and legal patient to whom Lynch provided cannabis, asked the judge for leniency in a heartfelt statement. The judge also heard from Lynch's brother and the Mayor and City Attorney from Morro Bay where Lynch operated Central Coast Compassionate Caregivers with the city's blessing until march of 2007."

The issue of whether or not Lynch believed his conduct was legal under state law will influence the decision of the Jurist presiding over the case (Judge Wu) when the matter concludes next month on June 11th (2009).

In court yesterday, Wu appeared to be leaning towards a lighter sentence rather than the applicable 5-year mandatory sentence prescribed by Federal law.

The Judge promised to review the precedent cited by a Joe Elford case and the guidelines for medical cannabis he helped to craft with the California Attorney General last year.

Stay tuned as this landmark case winds to a close in the near future.

http://www.julianayrs.com

Medical Marijuana...DEA should focus on Doctors not pot dispensaries!

In the spite of the fact the California Supreme Court issued a ruling that Proposition 215 (a voter-approved "compassionate use of Medical Marijuana" measure) stand, the DEA continued with para-military-style raids on local pot dispensaries.

The overzealous agents argued that marijuana was an illegal substance according to Federal law and that - consequently - the DEA could not look the other way.

In sum, the passing of Prop 215 in California, placed Federal and State Laws at odds with each other.

Notwithstanding, there was an outcry from Californians who felt that the "will of the people" was being ignored by self-serving law enforcement agencies.

Meanwhile, others lamented to all within earshot, that Barack Obama was not fulfilling his campaign promise regarding the issues.

So, Americans for Safe Access - a non-profit organization that has been fighting the medical marijuana dilemma in the State Courts (and winning hands-down) - organized a highly-vocal protest which was launched on the White House.

Shortly after Barack Obama and his administrators were bombarded with a barrage of telephone calls and angry e-mails - Eric Holder (Attorney General) - issued a terse statement to the press in which he noted that DEA raids on pot dispensaries (legally licensed in the State of California) were no longer condoned by the U.S. Government.

I penned a post on the turn of events.

Post: 03/02/09

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2009/03/medical-marijuanapara-military-style_02.html

A cheer went up around the state!

On the heels of that public announcement, inside sources alleged that a confidential memo was sent out to prosecutors advising them to "drop" charges against pot dispensaries and medical marijuana patients who were caught in the middle of the turf wars going down between the Federal Government and the State of California.

Suddenly, without warning, the bold action by the U.S. Attorney's office earlier in the week was reversed two days later amid a shroud of mystery.

Consequently, the whole prosecutorial issue regarding the matter was left twisting in the wind.

Some theorize that staff in the Obama inner circle advised the President that he may have jumped the gun in view of the fact the administration had not lined up all their ducks in a row, yet.

White House spokesperson , Nick Shapiro, may have hit the nail on the head when he recently confided to the press.

"The President believes that federal resources should not be used to circumvent state laws, and as he continues to appoint senior leadership to fill out the ranks of the federal government, he expects them to review their policies with that in mind."

Curiously, a Professor of Law & Medicine focused on an issue that has been foremost in my own mind in recent days.

Alex Capron (USC) speculated that the debate about medical marijuana centers on whether it is something that is part of the doctor-patient relationship or something where the authorities have an obligation to protect the community from a dangerous drug.

I hate to be a stick in the mud, but I started to reflect on that aspect of the problem recently, after a stroll or two in the neighborhood in recent weeks.

On several occasions when I have passed by a couple of the pot dispensaries in West Hollywood (two on Santa Monica Boulevard in WeHo proper) I have spied cars careen to a halt outside the guarded front door - at which point - three or four young adults stumbled out into the busy street and headed into the facility to pick up their "medicine".

I know that I shouldn't prejudge - and that just glancing at a person's physical body is not a surefire way to verify if they have a medical problem that requires the potent powers of the leafy substance - but for the most part it appeared on each occasion I witnessed said events that the "patients" were energetic youths whose only need appeared to be to devour the drug.

Initially, if you recall, the whole idea of the compassionate use of medical marijuana sprang forth as an alternative to off-the-shelf prescription drugs when it was determined that A.I.D.S. patients in advanced stages of the disease benefited from the medicinal qualities of the banned substance.

Understandably, in view of the foregoing, I am concerned that because of a selfish few (who may be abusing the privilege to just get "high") medical marijuana and the distribution of the "medicine" at government-licensed dispensaries may be placed in jeopardy.

And, that would be a shame, since hard-working staff at Americans for Safe Access - in particular the lawyers - fought monumental battles in the courts on behalf of the worthy cause to ensure medical marijuana was available to needy patients.

Others, like myself, have not only written posts to rally support for the compassionate use of medical marijuana, but also attended protests in front of DEA Headquarters to demand an end to the para-military-style raids, drug and money seizures, and dehumanizing arrest procedures.

In the final analysis, it appears that the problems may have arisen because of unethical doctors who may be approving medical marijuana prescriptions willy-nilly to appease their patients (or for quick cash under the table).

Personally, I believe that at this juncture of the "game", the government (and the DEA) should focus their attention on the doctors.

If an investigation determines there has been wrongdoing by individuals in the medical profession, then perhaps the State needs an oversight Board to properly review requests for medical marijuana prescriptions before rubber-stamping approval.

Sorry, Dudes!

http://www.julianayrs.com

Barack Obama...DEA Raids 4 pot dispensaries! Locals hopping mad at Prez & Eric Holder...

Good stuff, dude!

The locals are in an uproar.

Yup, they are mad as hell, and they're not going to take it anymore.

So, what's all the fuss about in LA-LA Land?

Yesterday, the DEA raided 4 pot dispensaries in Los Angeles County, in spite of spirited campaign pledges last fall - by then presidential hopeful, Barack Obama - that there would be an end to the use of Federal funds (and resources) to undermine State Medical Cannabis laws.

Now that the political upstart is firmly ensconced on Capitol Hill for four years - God willing - has a painful reality sunken in?

Is it wholly possible Obama realizes now - that in order to effect honest-to-goodness change in Washington - he and his political cronies may have to grease a few palms and utter up a promise or two to rivals if they want to cut a dignified (and successful) swath through the corridors of power?

Top guns at Americans for Safe Access, who have been in-and-out of the courts on the West Coast over the past year securing court orders to ensure law enforcement upholds the "will of the people" in respect to the compassionate use of medical marijuana in California, are angered about the pot busts for a couple of reasons.

For starters, the U.S. Senate just confirmed and gave the nod to Eric Holder to head up the Department of Justice under the Obama administration umbrella this past week.

Therefore, the leadership at ASA (Americans for Safe Access) have publicly noted for the record that the four raids on Tuesday (February 3rd) should be the "first" and "last" of the DEA raids under Holder’s leadership.

In addition - ASA and medical marijuana advocates have stridently lamented to the press and to anyone within ear shot that will listen - that because Obama said he would stop the raids they intend to hold the "wishy-washy" White House honcho to his word!

In jest, irate advocates have wondered aloud (alongside Los Angeles Times editors) if the powers-that-be at the DEA are unaware that the old cowpoke - George W-ah-Yah Bush - is no longer sitting in the hot seat where slick Willy kicked back for one of his first ruby-red lipstick-laden Lewinski's a scant decade or so ago.

Well, no matter, 'cause they don't intend to dial 'em up to rustle up an answer.

ASA, grass roots supporters - and others - have sprung into action!

In fliers, e-mails, and at rallies, ASA has been urging Californians to make a couple of highly-motivated phone calls to Obama's office at the White House to inform the PREZ that they are sick and tired of DEA interference and their ongoing intimidation tactics in states where the compassionate use of Marijuana for Medicinal purposes is legal.

"Tell your federal government that you will not tolerate wasteful spending by having DEA harass innocent civilians with smash and grab tactics," urged one ASA employee this morning.

Obama may be reached at (202)456.1111.
(Office hours Monday-Friday)

Likewise, you can toss a few choice words at Attorney General Holder by dialing his office directly on the "hill" at (202)353.1555.

For those of you unfamiliar with the DEA raids, the laws pertaining to the compassionate use of Marijuana for medicinal purposes in California, and the ongoing controversies that have split the community over the past year or so, I have posted a handful of links to news reports I penned and published to this site in respect to the raucous raids, angry protests, and complex court proceedings that went down in Los Angeles this past year.

Post: 05/16/08
Reefer Madness

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2008/05/insomniac-cinemareefer-madness-screens.html


Post: 05/06/08
House Judiciary Committee to probe DEA Raids

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2008/05/deaabuse-house-judiciary-committee-to.html

Post: 04/07/08
City Council votes yes on SRJ 20 (Funds for DEA Raids)

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2008/04/los-angeles-city-councilvotes-yes-on.html


Post: 03/24/08
ASA protest @ Federal Building (DEA Raids)

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2008/03/drug-enforcement-agency.html


Post: 11/29/07
Court Victory re: Medical Marijuana

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2007/11/medical-marijuanacourt-victory.html

The DEA must be smokin' the stuff 'cause they're keen on the munchies, too!

http://www.julianayrs.com

DEA raids. House Judiciary Committee to probe paramilitary-style abuses, rights violations!

Through my sources I managed to secure a copy of a damning letter John Conyers - Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee - has sent on to the Acting Administrator of the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) requesting information on widespread raids which have gone down in the Los Angeles area since last fall.

The DEA has been targeting "pot" dispensaries that have been providing medicinal marijuana to California residents legally entitled to use the leafy product under current law in the State.

At issue, are shocking enforcement raids in which DEA Agents were prone to defiantly engage in abusive conduct - and on many occasions - act in direct Violation of individual rights.

In spite of the fact California voters approved a measure to allow the compassionate use of cannabis for medicinal purposes several years ago by ballot, the DEA responded by accusing the suppliers of being engaged in an "...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 ignored the good-faith attentions of the many to actively pursue the matter in a cavalier abusive manner.

Over the past few months, I not only reported on the outrageous DEA tactics, but also attended a handful of the spirited rallies in front of Governor Schwarzenegger's downtown office in Los Angeles and the DEA headquarters on Temple Street, respectively.

The protests fell on deaf ears.

Posts:
Pot Post (9/13/07)
Rally (10/10/07)
DEA Raids (10/12/07)
DEA Protest (3/24/07)

Consequently, thousands of complaints from U.S. Citizens - and grass-roots organizers and attorneys at Americans for Safe Access - have resulted in the launching of an investigation by Chairman John Conyers at the House Judiciary Committee in Washington, D.C.

In his letter to Acting DEA Administrator Michele Leonhart, Mr. Conyers starts off by stating as follows,

"I am writing to you because I have received a number of letters from Californians, including mayors and city councils, expressing concern about DEA enforcement tactics which urge me to hold oversight hearings in the Judiciary Committee."

Mr. Conyers goes on to characterize the actions of the DEA as follows,

"According to the letters, the DEA has dramatically intensified the frequency of paramilitary-style enforcement raids against individuals qualified to use medical cannabis under state law, their caregivers, and the dispensing collectives established to provide a safe place to access medical cannabis."

He goes on to note that he is aware that the DEA sent out "hundreds of letters to property owners who lease property to medical cannabis dispensaries, threatening them with arrest, and forfeiture of property."

At this juncture, Mr. Conyers made a surprising overture to the Acting DEA head, with the specific aim of determining the facts from the horse's mouth - so-to-speak - prior to the commencement of the formal investigation.

In his communication, Conyers has asked that Michele Leonhart answer the following queries:

Question No. 1:

Is the use of civil asset forfeiture, which has been typically reserved for the worst drug traffickers and kingpins, an appropriate tactic to employ against individuals who suffer from severe or chronic illness and are authorized to use medical marijuana under California Law?

Has the DEA conducted any analysis of the potential economic consequences of using civil asset forfeiture in an area that is experiencing some of the Nation's sharpest declines in property values?

Lastly, has the DEA considered the consequences of shutting down legally-operated public dispensaries and whether that might drive the cannabis sales activity underground?

Question No. 2

Given the increased level of trafficking and violence associated with international drug cartels across Mexico, South America, and elsewhere, do you think the DEA's limited resources are best utilized conducting enforcement raids on individuals and their caregivers who are conducting themselves legally under California Law?

Question No. 3

Have you considered that DEA activities against qualified individuals is negatively impacting the ability of state and local officials across California to collect tax revenue which they are entitled to under California Law?

Question No. 4

Every month new science supporting the therapeutic value of cannabis is published. As a result, medical and scientific organizations, like the American College of Physicians and the American Psychiatric Association, are arguing reform of the laws that place in legal jeopardy physicians or their individual patients who may benefit from the use of cannabis.

As the Administrator, you have the discretion to decide whether to continue heightened enforcement activities in California and in other states that have authorized use of medical cannabis by qualified individuals.

Please explain what role, if any, emerging scientific data plays in your decision-making process to conduct enforcement raids on individuals authorized to use or provide medical cannabis under state law.

Question No. 5

Would you support the creation of an inter-governmental commission comprised of law enforcement, law makers and people affected by the laws, to review policy and provide recommendations that aim to bring harmony to federal and state laws?

In closing, Mr. Conyers included a list of approximately sixty raids that the DEA conducted between June 2005 and November 2007.

In reference to those raids, Mr. Conyers has asked that the DEA provide an accounting of costs, in dollars and resources, used to conduct the law enforcement raids on said individuals.

Included in the package of information, Mr. Conyers has asked: whether arrests were made in the course of the raids, and if so, how many people were arrested; under what circumstances the warrants were issued; and for what content, whether criminal or other charges have been brought by the DOJ; what, if any, content was seized or destroyed; and finally, the current status of each case.

A response has been requested prior to a deadline date set for July 1, 2008.

As usual, the DEA has "no comment", pursuant to their ongoing policy not to speak with the media regarding such matters.

http://www.julianayrs.com

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



Feds raid downtown L.A. medical marijuana dispensary...

Last evening as I was attempting to wind down after a high-energy rally in front of the Governor's Headquarters in downtown Los Angeles (protesting DEA raids and the failure of Governor Schwarzenegger to take a stand on the compassionate use of Medical Marijuana) reports filtered in about a raid at the Healing Arts Center.

The information was sketchy, but sources and eye-witnesses alike, confirmed that a full scale search was underway.

In today's LA TIMES, Stuart Silverstein reported that Federal agents seized marijuana and cash Thursday night (October 11th, 2007) from the high-profile center in the loft district.

There were allegedly twenty agents in tow who proceeded to search the two-story building for about three-and-a-half hours.

Although a number of items were seized, there were apparently no arrests.

However, the action appears to have been a retaliatory act by the FEDS.

Earlier in the day, protestors at the rally lamented to the press - and anyone within earshot - about the abusive conduct of DEA Officers in recent weeks.

Although there was no "visible" evidence of DEA presence at the protest, it is apparent from what transpired later in the evening, that agents must have been among the crowd undercover.

After a woman distributed hand fliers inviting protestors to an after-party at the Healing Arts Center to celebrate the success of the rally - in a matter of hours - the DEA organized a posse, then sprang into action.

Can't U.S. Citizens protest in the streets of America about relevant social, legal, and political issues, without the threat of retaliation?

It appears there is a turf war between the FEDS and the State of California.

Unfortunately, patients in dire need of medicinal marijuana are caught in the middle.

In spite of the fact California voters approved Bill 215, and the Governor signed the measure into "Law", Schwarzenegger has been derelict in his duties.

To date, he has not offered up any assurances, or even publicly spoken out on the behalf of patients, medical marijuana providers, doctors in the middle of the fray - you name it!

Citizens who were unable to attend the protest on Thursday, 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, California voters should get actively involved in the e-mail campaign designed to pressure the Governor, as well.

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".

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

http://www.safeaccessnow.org