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ASA CA Weekly Alert 7-18-08
never quite too late, right?
ASA California Weekly Alert: July 18, 2008
------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Weekly Round Up*
1a. DEA Raids Los Angeles Dispensary
b. Local Medical Marijuana Regulation Updates: Arcata & Fortuna
*Legal Tip of the Month*
2. Medical Marijuana & Prop 36: Don't Do It
*Chapter and Affiliate Meetings*
3. Saturday, July 19, West Hollywood: Special Los Angeles ASA Meeting &
Know Your Rights Training
4. Tuesday, July 22, San Francisco: San Francisco ASA Meeting
5. Wednesday, July 23, Oakland: East Bay ASA Meeting
6. Wednesday, July 23, Newport Beach: Orange County ASA Meeting
*City and County Hearings*
7. Monday, July 28, Malibu: City Council to Discuss Dispensary Regulations
*Court Support*
8. Tuesday, July 22, Los Angeles: Trial for Charles Lynch Begins
9. Tuesday, July 22, Sacramento: Sentencing Hearing for Richard Marino
10. Tuesday, July 22, Sacramento: Status Hearing for Mike Lombardo
*Special Events*
11. Friday, July 25, Santa Rosa: Meet & Greet with ASA California
Director Don Duncan
------------------------------------------------------------------------
California Icon Weekly Round Up
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1a. DEA Raids Los Angeles Dispensary
On Tuesday, the DEA raided Total Relief Center in Los Angeles. Employees
were detained for a long period of time, but no arrests have been
reported. This raid followed a DEA raid last week in Long Beach, at Long
Beach Organics. Neither of these raids could be confirmed soon enough to
activate ASA's emergency response system.
To help keep ASA informed and to activate the response system, please
call the ASA office at 510-251-1856 if you hear about a raid occurring.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
b. Local Medical Marijuana Regulation Updates: Arcata & Fortuna
/*Arcata Moves forward with Regulation of Medical Cannabis Dispensaries*/
This month, dispensary operators and city staff in Arcata began meeting
to draft land use codes for medical cannabis dispensaries. City staff
plan to use information gained from these meetings to draft an ordinance
that could be ready for the the City Council to approve as early as next
month. The city's community development director, Larry Oetker, feels
positive about the process and said, "I don't run a medical marijuana
dispensary. The goal is to bring in the people that run that industry
and try to develop some standards that reflect the day to day operation
of that industry."
For more information, please read the article
http://www.times-standard.com/localnews/ci_9879662 in The Times Standard.
/*Fortuna Bans Medical Cannabis Dispensaries*/
This week, the Fortuna City Council finalized its ban on medical
cannabis dispensaries. Several residents spoke out against the the
ordinance and others spoke in favor of it, but ultimately, the council
decided to permanently ban dispensaries in the city.
For more information, please read the article
http://www.humboldtbeacon.com/local/ci_9920566 in The Humboldt Beacon.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Take Action Icon Legal Tip of the Month
------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. Medical Marijuana & Prop 36: Don't Do It
/By Noah Mamber, ASA Legal Services Coordinator/
Sadly, ASA frequently receives calls from patients enrolled in Prop 36
programs seeking to be able to medicate while in the program. The
answer, unfortunately, is that the patient is probably out of luck.
Because Prop 36, approved by voter-initiative in 2000, is a program that
provides drug treatment instead of incarceration to 1st & 2nd time
non-violent adult drug offenders who are charged with use, possession,
or transportation of illegal drugs for personal use. Like house arrest,
a defendant enrolls in a Prop 36 program in lieu of his jail sentence.
Although a qualified medical marijuana patient may appeal to the program
supervisor to use her discretion to allow the patient to medicate,
success is not likely, since drug treatment is the primary mission of
Prop 36 and the administrators may have anti-marijuana biases.
A patient in Prop 36 may also appeal to a judge to allow medical
marijuana use while in the program. However, because the Prop 36
statute (CA Penal Code § 1210.1(a)) authorizes judges to impose any
other type of appropriate probation condition, in addition to drug
testing, judges are unlikely to allow for medical marijuana use.
A patient who is considering pleading guilty and accepting a Prop 36 (or
any other diversion) program in lieu of a jail sentence should consider
whether he can go without his medicine for the duration of the program
before taking any deal.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Take Action Icon Chapter and Affiliate Meetings
------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. Saturday, July 19, West Hollywood: Special Los Angeles ASA
Meeting & Know Your Rights Training
On Saturday, July 19, we will have a free "Know Your Rights" training
for patients and hear from ASA Executive Director Steph Sherer. ASA
pioneered legal training for patients, teaching thousands their rights
and responsibilities under California medical cannabis law. Don't miss
this great free training -- and a very special opportunity to meet ASA
founder and Executive Director Steph Sherer. Steph will talk about ASA's
work to defend and expand patients' rights in California and in
Washington, DC. Come ready to listen, ask questions, and get active in
the grassroots campaign for safe access.
What: "Know Your Rights" Training & Executive Director Steph Sherer
When: 2 PM * Saturday, July 19
Where: West Hollywood Gateway Mall Community Room, lower level, 7100
Santa Monica Blvd. (at La Brea Ave.) in West Hollywood. (Target shopping
center)
More Info:
http://www.AmericansForSafeAccess.org/punbb/viewtopic.php?id=1420
Please feel free to forward this message and invite your friends!
------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. Tuesday, July 22, San Francisco: San Francisco ASA Meeting
Join us for our ASA SF patient activist meeting at our usual meeting
space, Bowzers Pizza on 11th at Harrison. We will discuss the latest in
medical cannabis politics, laws, science, and activism.
When: Tuesday, July 22 at 7:30pm
Where: Bowzer's Pizza, 371 11th St in San Francisco
For more info, contact Alex: aaafranco [at] yahoo.com
------------------------------------------------------------------------
5. Wednesday, July 23, Oakland: East Bay ASA Meeting
Please come and join the East Bay ASA crew as we discuss important
local, state, and national medical cannabis issues. We will focus on the
recent Alameda County decision on edibles and create a plan of action to
protect edibles for the long term. We will also discuss the Berkeley
medical cannabis dispensary ballot initiative that will be on the ballot
this November.
Don't miss this important meeting!
When: Wednesday, the 23 at 7:00pm (Please arrive promptly, as the doors
will be locked after 7:10pm)
Where: ASA Headquarters Office
1322 Webster Street, Suite 402, Downtown Oakland (2 blocks
from 12th St. BART station!)
For more information, contact Rebecca [at] AmericansforSafeAccess.org
------------------------------------------------------------------------
6. Wednesday, July 23, Newport Beach: Orange County ASA Meeting
Safe access has been under attack in Orange County and we need your help
us fight the war on patients. Please come out and get involved at our
monthly meeting!
When: 7:00pm
Where: Law Offices of WENTWORTH, PAOLI & PURDY, LLP
4631 Teller Avenue, Suite 100
Newport Beach, CA 92660
For more information contact: OCLawyer [at] aol.com.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Government Icon City and County Hearings
------------------------------------------------------------------------
7. Monday, July 28, Malibu: City Council to Discuss Dispensary
Regulations
Last month, after hearing extensive testimony from patients and
advocates in support of medical cannabis, the Malibu Planning Commission
voted to recommend regulating dispensaries instead of banning them. On
Monday, July 28, the full City Council will hold a hearing on this
proposal. Please come out and attend the City Council Meeting and let
your voice be heard!
Download ASA's talking points about dispensary regulations.
http://www.safeaccessnow.org/article.php?id=2717
When: Monday, July 28 at 6:30pm
Where: Council Chambers at City Hall
23815 Stuart Ranch Road, Malibu, CA
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Patients Rights Icon Court Support
------------------------------------------------------------------------
8. Tuesday, July 22, Los Angeles: Trial for Charles Lynch Begins
Trial at 8am before Judge George Wu in U.S. District Court (C.D., CA)
http://www.safeaccessnow.org/%20, Courtroom 10 at 312 North Spring
Street in Los Angeles, 90012. San Luis Obispo County dispensing
collective operator Charles Lynch was raided by the DEA and the San Luis
Obispo County Sheriffs on July 17,2007 at Central Coast Compassionate
Caregivers in Morro Bay, CA.
According to a testimonial, "/Central Coast Compassionate Caregivers
took precautions to inform its patients regarding the restrictions that
applied to them by attaching a copy of the rules and regulations
governing medical cannabis to their package upon receipt. Picture IDs
were issued to prevent fraud. Not only were the letters of
recommendation verified, they also looked up the doctors on the
California Medical Board's web site to make sure that the doctors were
in good standing. The Morro Bay dispensary added video surveillance and
a metal detector to further the safety of its patients and to discourage
misuse. For the year that the CCCC was open, there were no problems or
complaints reported to the dispensary. In fact, employees of neighboring
businesses were dismayed to see them raided by law enforcement./"
Lynch was indicted for conspiracy to possess and possession with intent
to distribute marijuana and concentrated cannabis, manufacturing
(cultivating) more than 100 plants, knowingly maintaining a drug
premises, and sales of marijuana to a person under the age of 21.
Additionally, criminal forfeiture proceedings have begun on his assets.
For more information, please check out this Drew Carey documentary from
Reason tv http://safeaccessnow.org/blog/?p=110. Lynch remains out on
bail. For more information see Charles' website
http://www.friendsofccl.com. *Supporters are encouraged to attend!*
------------------------------------------------------------------------
9. Tuesday, July 22, Sacramento: Sentencing Hearing for Richard Marino
Sentencing Hearing at 9:30am before Judge Lawrence K. Karlton in U.S.
District Court (E.D., CA)
http://maps.yahoo.com/py/maps.py?BFCat=&Pyt=Tmap&newFL=Use+Address+Below&addr=501+I+Street%2C+&csz=sacramento%2C+ca&country=us&Get%A0Map=Get+Map,
Courtroom 4 at 501 "I" Street in Sacramento. Sacramento County
dispensary operator Richard Marino was raided on September 3, 2004 at
Capitol Compassionate Care Center and at his home in Newcastle, CA. DEA
agents allegedly seized 250 plants, 20 pounds of processed medical
marijuana, and more than $100,000. Criminal charges were not filed for
more than a year and a half, but on January 13, 2006, Marino was
indicted for conspiracy to distribute marijuana, possession with the
intent to distribute marijuana, manufacturing marijuana, and money
laundering. The federal government also began forfeiture proceedings on
Marino's home and the facility in which Marino ran his business. On May
6, 2008, Marino pled guilty to the federal conspiracy and money
laundering charges after reaching a plea deal that gave him a possible
sentencing range of 3.5-5 years of prison time. If he had taken the case
to trial, Marino would not have been allowed to raise an affirmative
medical marijuana defense. Marino remains out on bail. You can confirm
the time of the hearing at Judge Karlton's Court Calendar
http://www.caed.uscourts.gov/wconnect/wc.dll?caedprocess%7ECourtRoomCalendar%7E.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
10. Tuesday, July 22, Sacramento: Status Hearing for Mike Lombardo
Status Hearing at 9:30am before Judge Lawrence K. Karlton in U.S.
District Court (E.D., CA), 15th Floor at 501 "I" Street
http://maps.yahoo.com/py/maps.py?BFCat=&Pyt=Tmap&newFL=Use+Address+Below&addr=501+I+Street%2C+&csz=sacramento%2C+ca&country=us&Get%A0Map=Get+Map
in Sacramento. On September 13, 2007, the Nevada County Sheriffs called
in the DEA and they jointly raided the residence of 50-year old chronic
pain sufferer Lombardo in Big Oak Valley, confiscating a mere 65 plants,
and charging him with cultivation w/ intent to sell. The federal
government is also proceeding with asset forfeiture. You can confirm the
time of the hearing at Judge Karlton's Court Calendar
http://www.caed.uscourts.gov/wconnect/wc.dll?caedprocess%7ECourtRoomCalendar%7E.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Marijuana Icon Special Events
------------------------------------------------------------------------
11. Friday, July 25, Santa Rosa: Meet & Greet with ASA California
Director Don Duncan
Come Meet ASA's California Director for updates on statewide successes,
goals, and local strategies for Emergency Response.
Who: Every medical cannabis patient, advocate, or provider in the Sonoma
County and surrounding areas
What: Special Sonoma County Chapter American's for Safe Access Meeting
with California Director Don Duncan
When: 5-7pm, Friday, July 25th 2008
Where: Department of Public Health, North & South City View Rooms
625 5th Street in Santa Rosa
Between Humboldt & Mendocino Ave.
Please note: Parking meters require payment until 6pm. Department of
public health is closed after 5pm. Please knock loud or enter the glass
door to the right of main entrance.
For more info, call 510-251-1856 or email sarah [at] safeaccessnow.org
At the meeting, Don will discuss ASA's California campaign, including:
* ASA's landmark victory in the California Appeals Court, which help
that wrongfully confiscated medicine must be returned -- despite
federal law!
* The California Assembly approved ASA sponsored legislation to
protect legal patients from employment discrimination (AB 2279).
How ASA plans to accomplish the next steps, passing the Senate,
and getting signed by the Governor this year.
* Together we will work on local strategy for grassroots opposition
to DEA interference. Find out about ASA's efforts already underway
in Sacramento and Washington, DC, to stop the raids once and for all.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Weekly Round Up*
1a. DEA Raids Los Angeles Dispensary
b. Local Medical Marijuana Regulation Updates: Arcata & Fortuna
*Legal Tip of the Month*
2. Medical Marijuana & Prop 36: Don't Do It
*Chapter and Affiliate Meetings*
3. Saturday, July 19, West Hollywood: Special Los Angeles ASA Meeting &
Know Your Rights Training
4. Tuesday, July 22, San Francisco: San Francisco ASA Meeting
5. Wednesday, July 23, Oakland: East Bay ASA Meeting
6. Wednesday, July 23, Newport Beach: Orange County ASA Meeting
*City and County Hearings*
7. Monday, July 28, Malibu: City Council to Discuss Dispensary Regulations
*Court Support*
8. Tuesday, July 22, Los Angeles: Trial for Charles Lynch Begins
9. Tuesday, July 22, Sacramento: Sentencing Hearing for Richard Marino
10. Tuesday, July 22, Sacramento: Status Hearing for Mike Lombardo
*Special Events*
11. Friday, July 25, Santa Rosa: Meet & Greet with ASA California
Director Don Duncan
------------------------------------------------------------------------
California Icon Weekly Round Up
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1a. DEA Raids Los Angeles Dispensary
On Tuesday, the DEA raided Total Relief Center in Los Angeles. Employees
were detained for a long period of time, but no arrests have been
reported. This raid followed a DEA raid last week in Long Beach, at Long
Beach Organics. Neither of these raids could be confirmed soon enough to
activate ASA's emergency response system.
To help keep ASA informed and to activate the response system, please
call the ASA office at 510-251-1856 if you hear about a raid occurring.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
b. Local Medical Marijuana Regulation Updates: Arcata & Fortuna
/*Arcata Moves forward with Regulation of Medical Cannabis Dispensaries*/
This month, dispensary operators and city staff in Arcata began meeting
to draft land use codes for medical cannabis dispensaries. City staff
plan to use information gained from these meetings to draft an ordinance
that could be ready for the the City Council to approve as early as next
month. The city's community development director, Larry Oetker, feels
positive about the process and said, "I don't run a medical marijuana
dispensary. The goal is to bring in the people that run that industry
and try to develop some standards that reflect the day to day operation
of that industry."
For more information, please read the article
http://www.times-standard.com/localnews/ci_9879662 in The Times Standard.
/*Fortuna Bans Medical Cannabis Dispensaries*/
This week, the Fortuna City Council finalized its ban on medical
cannabis dispensaries. Several residents spoke out against the the
ordinance and others spoke in favor of it, but ultimately, the council
decided to permanently ban dispensaries in the city.
For more information, please read the article
http://www.humboldtbeacon.com/local/ci_9920566 in The Humboldt Beacon.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Take Action Icon Legal Tip of the Month
------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. Medical Marijuana & Prop 36: Don't Do It
/By Noah Mamber, ASA Legal Services Coordinator/
Sadly, ASA frequently receives calls from patients enrolled in Prop 36
programs seeking to be able to medicate while in the program. The
answer, unfortunately, is that the patient is probably out of luck.
Because Prop 36, approved by voter-initiative in 2000, is a program that
provides drug treatment instead of incarceration to 1st & 2nd time
non-violent adult drug offenders who are charged with use, possession,
or transportation of illegal drugs for personal use. Like house arrest,
a defendant enrolls in a Prop 36 program in lieu of his jail sentence.
Although a qualified medical marijuana patient may appeal to the program
supervisor to use her discretion to allow the patient to medicate,
success is not likely, since drug treatment is the primary mission of
Prop 36 and the administrators may have anti-marijuana biases.
A patient in Prop 36 may also appeal to a judge to allow medical
marijuana use while in the program. However, because the Prop 36
statute (CA Penal Code § 1210.1(a)) authorizes judges to impose any
other type of appropriate probation condition, in addition to drug
testing, judges are unlikely to allow for medical marijuana use.
A patient who is considering pleading guilty and accepting a Prop 36 (or
any other diversion) program in lieu of a jail sentence should consider
whether he can go without his medicine for the duration of the program
before taking any deal.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Take Action Icon Chapter and Affiliate Meetings
------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. Saturday, July 19, West Hollywood: Special Los Angeles ASA
Meeting & Know Your Rights Training
On Saturday, July 19, we will have a free "Know Your Rights" training
for patients and hear from ASA Executive Director Steph Sherer. ASA
pioneered legal training for patients, teaching thousands their rights
and responsibilities under California medical cannabis law. Don't miss
this great free training -- and a very special opportunity to meet ASA
founder and Executive Director Steph Sherer. Steph will talk about ASA's
work to defend and expand patients' rights in California and in
Washington, DC. Come ready to listen, ask questions, and get active in
the grassroots campaign for safe access.
What: "Know Your Rights" Training & Executive Director Steph Sherer
When: 2 PM * Saturday, July 19
Where: West Hollywood Gateway Mall Community Room, lower level, 7100
Santa Monica Blvd. (at La Brea Ave.) in West Hollywood. (Target shopping
center)
More Info:
http://www.AmericansForSafeAccess.org/punbb/viewtopic.php?id=1420
Please feel free to forward this message and invite your friends!
------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. Tuesday, July 22, San Francisco: San Francisco ASA Meeting
Join us for our ASA SF patient activist meeting at our usual meeting
space, Bowzers Pizza on 11th at Harrison. We will discuss the latest in
medical cannabis politics, laws, science, and activism.
When: Tuesday, July 22 at 7:30pm
Where: Bowzer's Pizza, 371 11th St in San Francisco
For more info, contact Alex: aaafranco [at] yahoo.com
------------------------------------------------------------------------
5. Wednesday, July 23, Oakland: East Bay ASA Meeting
Please come and join the East Bay ASA crew as we discuss important
local, state, and national medical cannabis issues. We will focus on the
recent Alameda County decision on edibles and create a plan of action to
protect edibles for the long term. We will also discuss the Berkeley
medical cannabis dispensary ballot initiative that will be on the ballot
this November.
Don't miss this important meeting!
When: Wednesday, the 23 at 7:00pm (Please arrive promptly, as the doors
will be locked after 7:10pm)
Where: ASA Headquarters Office
1322 Webster Street, Suite 402, Downtown Oakland (2 blocks
from 12th St. BART station!)
For more information, contact Rebecca [at] AmericansforSafeAccess.org
------------------------------------------------------------------------
6. Wednesday, July 23, Newport Beach: Orange County ASA Meeting
Safe access has been under attack in Orange County and we need your help
us fight the war on patients. Please come out and get involved at our
monthly meeting!
When: 7:00pm
Where: Law Offices of WENTWORTH, PAOLI & PURDY, LLP
4631 Teller Avenue, Suite 100
Newport Beach, CA 92660
For more information contact: OCLawyer [at] aol.com.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Government Icon City and County Hearings
------------------------------------------------------------------------
7. Monday, July 28, Malibu: City Council to Discuss Dispensary
Regulations
Last month, after hearing extensive testimony from patients and
advocates in support of medical cannabis, the Malibu Planning Commission
voted to recommend regulating dispensaries instead of banning them. On
Monday, July 28, the full City Council will hold a hearing on this
proposal. Please come out and attend the City Council Meeting and let
your voice be heard!
Download ASA's talking points about dispensary regulations.
http://www.safeaccessnow.org/article.php?id=2717
When: Monday, July 28 at 6:30pm
Where: Council Chambers at City Hall
23815 Stuart Ranch Road, Malibu, CA
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Patients Rights Icon Court Support
------------------------------------------------------------------------
8. Tuesday, July 22, Los Angeles: Trial for Charles Lynch Begins
Trial at 8am before Judge George Wu in U.S. District Court (C.D., CA)
http://www.safeaccessnow.org/%20, Courtroom 10 at 312 North Spring
Street in Los Angeles, 90012. San Luis Obispo County dispensing
collective operator Charles Lynch was raided by the DEA and the San Luis
Obispo County Sheriffs on July 17,2007 at Central Coast Compassionate
Caregivers in Morro Bay, CA.
According to a testimonial, "/Central Coast Compassionate Caregivers
took precautions to inform its patients regarding the restrictions that
applied to them by attaching a copy of the rules and regulations
governing medical cannabis to their package upon receipt. Picture IDs
were issued to prevent fraud. Not only were the letters of
recommendation verified, they also looked up the doctors on the
California Medical Board's web site to make sure that the doctors were
in good standing. The Morro Bay dispensary added video surveillance and
a metal detector to further the safety of its patients and to discourage
misuse. For the year that the CCCC was open, there were no problems or
complaints reported to the dispensary. In fact, employees of neighboring
businesses were dismayed to see them raided by law enforcement./"
Lynch was indicted for conspiracy to possess and possession with intent
to distribute marijuana and concentrated cannabis, manufacturing
(cultivating) more than 100 plants, knowingly maintaining a drug
premises, and sales of marijuana to a person under the age of 21.
Additionally, criminal forfeiture proceedings have begun on his assets.
For more information, please check out this Drew Carey documentary from
Reason tv http://safeaccessnow.org/blog/?p=110. Lynch remains out on
bail. For more information see Charles' website
http://www.friendsofccl.com. *Supporters are encouraged to attend!*
------------------------------------------------------------------------
9. Tuesday, July 22, Sacramento: Sentencing Hearing for Richard Marino
Sentencing Hearing at 9:30am before Judge Lawrence K. Karlton in U.S.
District Court (E.D., CA)
http://maps.yahoo.com/py/maps.py?BFCat=&Pyt=Tmap&newFL=Use+Address+Below&addr=501+I+Street%2C+&csz=sacramento%2C+ca&country=us&Get%A0Map=Get+Map,
Courtroom 4 at 501 "I" Street in Sacramento. Sacramento County
dispensary operator Richard Marino was raided on September 3, 2004 at
Capitol Compassionate Care Center and at his home in Newcastle, CA. DEA
agents allegedly seized 250 plants, 20 pounds of processed medical
marijuana, and more than $100,000. Criminal charges were not filed for
more than a year and a half, but on January 13, 2006, Marino was
indicted for conspiracy to distribute marijuana, possession with the
intent to distribute marijuana, manufacturing marijuana, and money
laundering. The federal government also began forfeiture proceedings on
Marino's home and the facility in which Marino ran his business. On May
6, 2008, Marino pled guilty to the federal conspiracy and money
laundering charges after reaching a plea deal that gave him a possible
sentencing range of 3.5-5 years of prison time. If he had taken the case
to trial, Marino would not have been allowed to raise an affirmative
medical marijuana defense. Marino remains out on bail. You can confirm
the time of the hearing at Judge Karlton's Court Calendar
http://www.caed.uscourts.gov/wconnect/wc.dll?caedprocess%7ECourtRoomCalendar%7E.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
10. Tuesday, July 22, Sacramento: Status Hearing for Mike Lombardo
Status Hearing at 9:30am before Judge Lawrence K. Karlton in U.S.
District Court (E.D., CA), 15th Floor at 501 "I" Street
http://maps.yahoo.com/py/maps.py?BFCat=&Pyt=Tmap&newFL=Use+Address+Below&addr=501+I+Street%2C+&csz=sacramento%2C+ca&country=us&Get%A0Map=Get+Map
in Sacramento. On September 13, 2007, the Nevada County Sheriffs called
in the DEA and they jointly raided the residence of 50-year old chronic
pain sufferer Lombardo in Big Oak Valley, confiscating a mere 65 plants,
and charging him with cultivation w/ intent to sell. The federal
government is also proceeding with asset forfeiture. You can confirm the
time of the hearing at Judge Karlton's Court Calendar
http://www.caed.uscourts.gov/wconnect/wc.dll?caedprocess%7ECourtRoomCalendar%7E.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Marijuana Icon Special Events
------------------------------------------------------------------------
11. Friday, July 25, Santa Rosa: Meet & Greet with ASA California
Director Don Duncan
Come Meet ASA's California Director for updates on statewide successes,
goals, and local strategies for Emergency Response.
Who: Every medical cannabis patient, advocate, or provider in the Sonoma
County and surrounding areas
What: Special Sonoma County Chapter American's for Safe Access Meeting
with California Director Don Duncan
When: 5-7pm, Friday, July 25th 2008
Where: Department of Public Health, North & South City View Rooms
625 5th Street in Santa Rosa
Between Humboldt & Mendocino Ave.
Please note: Parking meters require payment until 6pm. Department of
public health is closed after 5pm. Please knock loud or enter the glass
door to the right of main entrance.
For more info, call 510-251-1856 or email sarah [at] safeaccessnow.org
At the meeting, Don will discuss ASA's California campaign, including:
* ASA's landmark victory in the California Appeals Court, which help
that wrongfully confiscated medicine must be returned -- despite
federal law!
* The California Assembly approved ASA sponsored legislation to
protect legal patients from employment discrimination (AB 2279).
How ASA plans to accomplish the next steps, passing the Senate,
and getting signed by the Governor this year.
* Together we will work on local strategy for grassroots opposition
to DEA interference. Find out about ASA's efforts already underway
in Sacramento and Washington, DC, to stop the raids once and for all.
Add Your Comments
Comments
(Hide Comments)
ASA California Weekly Alert: July 11, 2008
------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Weekly Round Up*
1a. Berkeley Medical Marijuana Initiative Placed on the November Ballot
b. Local Medical Marijuana Regulation Updates: Alameda, Fresno, & Del Norte
*Take Action*
2. Act Now to Protect Patients' Employment Rights in California!
http://www.AmericansforSafeAccess.org/AB2279Action
*Chapter and Affiliate Meetings*
3. Saturday, July 12, Willits: Mendocino ASA Meeting
4. Tuesday, July 15, Sacramento: ASA Affiliate Compassionate Coalition Meeting
5. Thursday, July 17, Arcata: Humboldt ASA Meeting
6. Saturday, July 19, West Hollywood: Special Los Angeles ASA Meeting & Know Your Rights
Training
7. Tuesday, July 22, San Francisco: San Francisco ASA Meeting
8. Wednesday, July 23, Oakland: East Bay ASA Meeting
9. Wednesday, July 23, Newport Beach: Orange County ASA Meeting
*City and County Hearings*
10. Monday, July 28, Malibu: City Council to Discuss Dispensary Regulations /*(Please
note date change from July 14)*/
*Court Support*
11. Monday, July 14, Fresno: Sentencing Hearing for Antonio Malagon, Jose Malagon & Lucky
Boissiere
12. Tuesday, July 22, Los Angeles: Trial for Charles Lynch Begins
*Special Events*
13. Saturday, July 12, Landers: Fundraiser Event for Senior Medical Marijuana Defendants
14. Wednesday, July 16, Oakland: Special Reception for ASA Donors with Executive Director
Steph Sherer
15. Friday, July 25, Santa Rosa: Meet & Greet with ASA California Director Don Duncan
------------------------------------------------------------------------
California Icon Weekly Round Up
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1a. Berkeley Medical Marijuana Initiative Placed on the November
Ballot
On Tuesday, the Patients Access to Medical Cannabis Act of 2008 was officially placed on
the ballot. According to the Oakland Tribune http://www.insidebayarea.com/ci_9831295,
It would eliminate limits on the amount of medical marijuana that
could be legally possessed by patients or caregivers, establish peer
review for medical marijuana collectives to police themselves and
allow medical marijuana dispensaries to locate where permitted
without a public hearing. The initiative originally called Measure R
in 2004, failed by 191 votes, or less than half a percent of the
ballots cast.
An Alameda County Superior Court judge nullified the results due to
mishandling of a recount by Alameda County election officials, and
ordered the citizen-sponsored medical marijuana initiative back on
the ballot for a re-vote in 2008.
Advocates have formed a campaign committee and they will need help to pass this
initiative. Look out for alerts in our weekly update to find out how you can get involved
in this campaign to expand safe access in Berkeley.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
b. Local Medical Marijuana Regulation Updates: Alameda, Fresno, &
Del Norte
*Alameda County Board of Supervisors Votes to Allow Edibles, Temporarily*
On Tuesday, the Alameda County Board of Supervisors considered various amendments to its
medical marijuana dispensary ordinance, which regulates dispensaries in the
unincorporated areas of the county. On a 4-1 vote, the supervisors voted to allow the
Board to permit a third dispensary in the future, since the one of the three permitted
dispensaries in the county was shut down by the DEA last year. Advocates also won a huge
victory when the supervisors voted to allow medical cannabis edibles to be sold at
dispensaries for the next 120 days while a task force studies the issue. Thanks to all
the patients and advocates who spoke out at this hearing - your voices made an impact on
safe access in Alameda
*Fresno County Board of Supervisors Votes to Delay Implementation of Medical Marijuana ID
Card Program*
On Tuesday, the Fresno County Board of Supervisors voted to delay implementation of the
state ID card program until after the appellate ruling is issued in /San Diego v. NORML/,
which is expected in September. Advocates who spoke out at the meeting did not turn away
completely empty handed though - the supervisors instructed county staff to begin
research and preliminary planning for the program. If the appellate ruling is positive,
they will likely vote in September to implement the program. Thanks to Fresno ASA and
Aaron Smith from MPP for all your hard work in the county!
*Del Norte County Board of Supervisors Votes to Remove County Limits on Plants and
Medicine*
On Tuesday, the Del Norte County Board of Supervisors voted to remove county limits on
how many plants and how much dried medicine a patient can possess. The current county
guidelines, which will stay in effect until August 8, allow patients to grow up to 99
plants in a 100 square foot area and to possess up to a pound of marijuana. The decision
to scrap the county guidelines came in response to the ruling in /People v. Kelly/, which
ruled state limits were unconstitutional. This ruling is being appealed by the California
Attorney General. Both law enforcement and patient advocates have expressed concern about
the new law, as it leaves a wide amount of discretion to individual law enforcement
officers.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Take Action Icon Take Action
------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. Act Now to Protect Patients' Employment Rights in California!
http://www.AmericansforSafeAccess.org/AB2279Action
The California State Senate is expected to vote on AB 2279 next Monday, July 14th so now
is the time to make your voice heard! AB 2279, authored by Assemblymember Mark Leno and
sponsored by ASA, would ensure a medical cannabis patient's right to work and end
employment discrimination against patients.
*Please visit http://www.AmericansforSafeAccess.org/AB2279Action to urge your senator to vote
yes on AB 2279. The only way this bill will pass is if the legislators hear from their
constituents (you!)*
Thank you for supporting ASA and our efforts to secure the rights of California medical
marijuana patients. For more information about this bill, please visit
http://www.AmericansForSafeAccess.org/AB2279
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Take Action Icon Chapter and Affiliate Meetings
------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. Saturday, July 12, Willits: Mendocino ASA Meeting
Join Mendocino ASA as we discuss important local, state, and national medical cannabis
issues.
When: 2:00pm
Where: The Ping Pong Club at 475 E. Valley Rd. in Willits
For more information, contact Bruce: Mendobruce [at] yahoo.com
------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. Tuesday, July 15, Sacramento: ASA Affiliate Compassionate
Coalition Meeting
There are several medical marijuana activities over the next month. Please come and find
out how you can get involved.
When: 7:00pm
Where: Crusaders Hall
320 Harris Ave. Suite H in Sacramento
For more information, contact Nathan [at] CompassionateCoalition.org
------------------------------------------------------------------------
5. Thursday, July 17, Arcata: Humboldt ASA Meeting
Please come out and join Humboldt County ASA as we fight to protect safe access in our
community and beyond.
When: 6 p.m.
Where: In the community recreation room of the Bayview Courtyard Senior Housing Complex
at 550 Union Street, Arcata.
For more info, contact: asa-humboldt [at] sbcglobal.net
------------------------------------------------------------------------
6. Saturday, July 19, West Hollywood: Special Los Angeles ASA
Meeting & Know Your Rights Training
On Saturday, July 19, we will have a free "Know Your Rights" training for patients and
hear from ASA Executive Director Steph Sherer. ASA pioneered legal training for patients,
teaching thousands their rights and responsibilities under California medical cannabis
law. Don't miss this great free training -- and a very special opportunity to meet ASA
founder and Executive Director Steph Sherer. Steph will talk about ASA's work to defend
and expand patients' rights in California and in Washington, DC. Come ready to listen,
ask questions, and get active in the grassroots campaign for safe access.
What: "Know Your Rights" Training & Executive Director Steph Sherer
When: 2 PM * Saturday, July 19
Where: West Hollywood Gateway Mall Community Room, lower level, 7100 Santa Monica Blvd.
(at La Brea Ave.) in West Hollywood. (Target shopping center)
More Info: http://www.AmericansForSafeAccess.org/punbb/viewtopic.php?id=1420
Please feel free to forward this message and invite your friends!
------------------------------------------------------------------------
7. Tuesday, July 22, San Francisco: San Francisco ASA Meeting
Join us for our ASA SF patient activist meeting at our usual meeting space, Bowzers Pizza
on 11th at Harrison. We will discuss the latest in medical cannabis politics, laws,
science, and activism.
When: Tuesday, July 22 at 7:30pm
Where: Bowzer's Pizza, 371 11th St in San Francisco
For more info, contact Alex: aaafranco [at] yahoo.com
------------------------------------------------------------------------
8. Wednesday, July 23, Oakland: East Bay ASA Meeting
Please come and join the East Bay ASA crew as we discuss important local, state, and
national medical cannabis issues. We will focus on the recent Alameda County decision on
edibles and create a plan of action to protect edibles for the long term. We will also
discuss the Berkeley medical cannabis dispensary ballot initiative that will be on the
ballot this November.
Don't miss this important meeting!
When: Wednesday, the 23 at 7:00pm (Please arrive promptly, as the doors will be locked
after 7:10pm)
Where: ASA Headquarters Office
1322 Webster Street, Suite 402, Downtown Oakland (2 blocks from 12th St. BART
station!)
For more information, contact Rebecca [at] AmericansforSafeAccess.org
------------------------------------------------------------------------
9. Wednesday, July 23, Newport Beach: Orange County ASA Meeting
Safe access has been under attack in Orange County and we need your help us fight the war
on patients. Please come out and get involved at our monthly meeting! When: 7:00pm
Where: Law Offices of WENTWORTH, PAOLI & PURDY, LLP
4631 Teller Avenue, Suite 100
Newport Beach, CA 92660
For more information contact: OCLawyer [at] aol.com.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Government Icon City and County Hearings
------------------------------------------------------------------------
10. Monday, July 28, Malibu: City Council to Discuss Dispensary
Regulations /(Please note date change from July 14)/
Last month, after hearing extensive testimony from patients and advocates in support of
medical cannabis, the Malibu Planning Commission voted to recommend regulating
dispensaries instead of banning them. On Monday, July 28, the full City Council will hold
a hearing on this proposal. Please come out and attend the City Council Meeting and let
your voice be heard!
Download ASA's talking points about dispensary regulations.
http://www.safeaccessnow.org/article.php?id=2717
When: Monday, July 28 at 6:30pm
Where: Council Chambers at City Hall
23815 Stuart Ranch Road, Malibu, CA
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Patients Rights Icon Court Support
------------------------------------------------------------------------
11. Monday, July 14, Fresno: Sentencing Hearing for Antonio
Malagon, Jose Malagon & Lucky Boissiere
Sentencing Hearings at 9am (Lucky) and 1:30pm (the Malagon Bros.) before Judge Oliver
Wanger in U.S. District Court (E.D., CA)
http://maps.yahoo.com/py/maps.py?BFCat=&Pyt=Tmap&newFL=Use+Address+Below&addr=2500+Tulare+Street&csz=fresno%2C+CA+95814-7300&country=us&Get%A0Map=Get+Map, 2500 Tulare Street, Fresno, CA. After the City of Modesto failed to shut down the California Healthcare Collective by banning dispensaries, it called in the DEA. On September 27, 2006, the DEA raided the collective and arrested four people (owner-operators Luke Scarmazzo and Ricardo Montes and two staff members) on charges of distribution of marijuana and conspiracy to distribute. Scarmazzo and Montes were also charged with possession of firearms and money laundering. Later, an additional five people were indicted, bringing the total to nine people being prosecuted by the federal government. In the raid, the DEA allegedly seized more than 100 pounds of marijuana, one thousand plants, multiple firearms, and more than $200,000 in cash. The raids were the result of a 15-month investigation between the DEA and the Modesto Police Department. For more information, please see the consistently excellent Vanessa Nelson
http://www.medicalmarijuanaofamerica.com/content/category/9/60/111/.
Please attend this hearing to show your support for safe access!
------------------------------------------------------------------------
12. Tuesday, July 22, Los Angeles: Trial for Charles Lynch Begins
Trial at 8am before Judge George Wu in U.S. District Court (C.D., CA)
http://www.safeaccessnow.org/%20, Courtroom 10 at 312 North Spring Street in Los
Angeles, 90012. San Luis Obispo County dispensing collective operator Charles Lynch was
raided by the DEA and the San Luis Obispo County Sheriffs on July 17,2007 at Central
Coast Compassionate Caregivers in Morro Bay, CA.
According to a testimonial, "/Central Coast Compassionate Caregivers took precautions to
inform its patients regarding the restrictions that applied to them by attaching a copy
of the rules and regulations governing medical cannabis to their package upon receipt.
Picture IDs were issued to prevent fraud. Not only were the letters of recommendation
verified, they also looked up the doctors on the California Medical Board's web site to
make sure that the doctors were in good standing. The Morro Bay dispensary added video
surveillance and a metal detector to further the safety of its patients and to discourage
misuse. For the year that the CCCC was open, there were no problems or complaints
reported to the dispensary. In fact, employees of neighboring businesses were dismayed to
see them raided by law enforcement./"
Lynch was indicted for conspiracy to possess and possession with intent to distribute
marijuana and concentrated cannabis, manufacturing (cultivating) more than 100 plants,
knowingly maintaining a drug premises, and sales of marijuana to a person under the age
of 21. Additionally, criminal forfeiture proceedings have begun on his assets. For more
information, please check out this Drew Carey documentary from Reason tv
http://safeaccessnow.org/blog/?p=110. Lynch remains out on bail. For more information
see Charles' website http://www.friendsofccl.com. *Supporters are encouraged to
attend!*
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Marijuana Icon Special Events
------------------------------------------------------------------------
13. Saturday, July 12, Landers: Fundraiser Event for Senior
Medical Marijuana Defendants
Like many high desert senior citizens, JoAnn and Rich McCabe find that marijuana provides
safe, effective symptomatic relief for the ailments of advancing years and use it
specifically to manage their arthritis, insomnia and chronic back and joint pain. For
following state law and doing what the voters of California said they could do, they are
now paying a terrible price -- a price they cannot afford.
Local advocates have already raised a little over $7,000 on the way to the needed total
of $15,000. Please come out and help JoAnn and Rich McCabe and have a great time as well!
What: Benefit Event for JoAnn and Rich McCabe
When: Saturday, July 12 from 5-9pm
Where: Castle Inn, 1388 N. Golden Slipper, Landers
Cost: $15 - all proceeds go to the McCabe defense fund
Tickets can be purchased at the door, but it would really help planning the food portion
if JoAnn and Rich knew how many people are coming, so you can purchase your tickets right
now if you just CLICK HERE
https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_donations&business=lanny%40marijuananews%2eorg&item_name=Marijuana%20Anti%2dProhibition%20Project&no_shipping=0&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8. Give JoAnn and Rich a call at 760-364-4327 and they will tell you all about this great event and let them know you support them -- even if you can't attend the
fundraiser.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
14. Wednesday, July 16, Oakland: Special Reception for ASA Donors
with Executive Director Steph Sherer
*Join Steph Sherer & ASA in Oakland on July 16th*
*for a Special Reception for ASA Donors*
Please join ASA Executive Director, Steph Sherer, California Director, Don Duncan and
other ASA staff members for a special reception for ASA donors on Wednesday, July 16th.
ASA's been busy lately and we have a lot to share with you. From our efforts in
Washington, DC to our successes in California, Steph Sherer and Don Duncan will update
you on ASA's current exciting projects. You'll also have the chance to meet ASA staff
members and other ASA supporters.
This is a party to thank ASA donors for their continued support. If you are a current ASA
member, you are invited to join us at this event at no cost.
If you are not a current member, please sign up as a member online before the reception
at http://www.AmericansForSafeAccess.org/Join or bring a $35+ donation to the reception to sign
up as an ASA member.
When: Wednesday, July 16th from 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Where: ASA Headquarters
1322 Webster Street, Suite 402
Oakland, CA 94602
(2 Blocks from the 12th Street BART station.)
Who: Steph Sherer, Don Duncan, ASA staff members, ASA donors, and you!
What: A free reception with light food and beverages.
Why: To update you on ASA's current exciting projects and to thank
you for your support of ASA.
For more information or to RSVP, please contact Rebecca: Rebecca [at] SafeAccessNow.org
------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Weekly Round Up*
1a. Berkeley Medical Marijuana Initiative Placed on the November Ballot
b. Local Medical Marijuana Regulation Updates: Alameda, Fresno, & Del Norte
*Take Action*
2. Act Now to Protect Patients' Employment Rights in California!
http://www.AmericansforSafeAccess.org/AB2279Action
*Chapter and Affiliate Meetings*
3. Saturday, July 12, Willits: Mendocino ASA Meeting
4. Tuesday, July 15, Sacramento: ASA Affiliate Compassionate Coalition Meeting
5. Thursday, July 17, Arcata: Humboldt ASA Meeting
6. Saturday, July 19, West Hollywood: Special Los Angeles ASA Meeting & Know Your Rights
Training
7. Tuesday, July 22, San Francisco: San Francisco ASA Meeting
8. Wednesday, July 23, Oakland: East Bay ASA Meeting
9. Wednesday, July 23, Newport Beach: Orange County ASA Meeting
*City and County Hearings*
10. Monday, July 28, Malibu: City Council to Discuss Dispensary Regulations /*(Please
note date change from July 14)*/
*Court Support*
11. Monday, July 14, Fresno: Sentencing Hearing for Antonio Malagon, Jose Malagon & Lucky
Boissiere
12. Tuesday, July 22, Los Angeles: Trial for Charles Lynch Begins
*Special Events*
13. Saturday, July 12, Landers: Fundraiser Event for Senior Medical Marijuana Defendants
14. Wednesday, July 16, Oakland: Special Reception for ASA Donors with Executive Director
Steph Sherer
15. Friday, July 25, Santa Rosa: Meet & Greet with ASA California Director Don Duncan
------------------------------------------------------------------------
California Icon Weekly Round Up
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1a. Berkeley Medical Marijuana Initiative Placed on the November
Ballot
On Tuesday, the Patients Access to Medical Cannabis Act of 2008 was officially placed on
the ballot. According to the Oakland Tribune http://www.insidebayarea.com/ci_9831295,
It would eliminate limits on the amount of medical marijuana that
could be legally possessed by patients or caregivers, establish peer
review for medical marijuana collectives to police themselves and
allow medical marijuana dispensaries to locate where permitted
without a public hearing. The initiative originally called Measure R
in 2004, failed by 191 votes, or less than half a percent of the
ballots cast.
An Alameda County Superior Court judge nullified the results due to
mishandling of a recount by Alameda County election officials, and
ordered the citizen-sponsored medical marijuana initiative back on
the ballot for a re-vote in 2008.
Advocates have formed a campaign committee and they will need help to pass this
initiative. Look out for alerts in our weekly update to find out how you can get involved
in this campaign to expand safe access in Berkeley.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
b. Local Medical Marijuana Regulation Updates: Alameda, Fresno, &
Del Norte
*Alameda County Board of Supervisors Votes to Allow Edibles, Temporarily*
On Tuesday, the Alameda County Board of Supervisors considered various amendments to its
medical marijuana dispensary ordinance, which regulates dispensaries in the
unincorporated areas of the county. On a 4-1 vote, the supervisors voted to allow the
Board to permit a third dispensary in the future, since the one of the three permitted
dispensaries in the county was shut down by the DEA last year. Advocates also won a huge
victory when the supervisors voted to allow medical cannabis edibles to be sold at
dispensaries for the next 120 days while a task force studies the issue. Thanks to all
the patients and advocates who spoke out at this hearing - your voices made an impact on
safe access in Alameda
*Fresno County Board of Supervisors Votes to Delay Implementation of Medical Marijuana ID
Card Program*
On Tuesday, the Fresno County Board of Supervisors voted to delay implementation of the
state ID card program until after the appellate ruling is issued in /San Diego v. NORML/,
which is expected in September. Advocates who spoke out at the meeting did not turn away
completely empty handed though - the supervisors instructed county staff to begin
research and preliminary planning for the program. If the appellate ruling is positive,
they will likely vote in September to implement the program. Thanks to Fresno ASA and
Aaron Smith from MPP for all your hard work in the county!
*Del Norte County Board of Supervisors Votes to Remove County Limits on Plants and
Medicine*
On Tuesday, the Del Norte County Board of Supervisors voted to remove county limits on
how many plants and how much dried medicine a patient can possess. The current county
guidelines, which will stay in effect until August 8, allow patients to grow up to 99
plants in a 100 square foot area and to possess up to a pound of marijuana. The decision
to scrap the county guidelines came in response to the ruling in /People v. Kelly/, which
ruled state limits were unconstitutional. This ruling is being appealed by the California
Attorney General. Both law enforcement and patient advocates have expressed concern about
the new law, as it leaves a wide amount of discretion to individual law enforcement
officers.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Take Action Icon Take Action
------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. Act Now to Protect Patients' Employment Rights in California!
http://www.AmericansforSafeAccess.org/AB2279Action
The California State Senate is expected to vote on AB 2279 next Monday, July 14th so now
is the time to make your voice heard! AB 2279, authored by Assemblymember Mark Leno and
sponsored by ASA, would ensure a medical cannabis patient's right to work and end
employment discrimination against patients.
*Please visit http://www.AmericansforSafeAccess.org/AB2279Action to urge your senator to vote
yes on AB 2279. The only way this bill will pass is if the legislators hear from their
constituents (you!)*
Thank you for supporting ASA and our efforts to secure the rights of California medical
marijuana patients. For more information about this bill, please visit
http://www.AmericansForSafeAccess.org/AB2279
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Take Action Icon Chapter and Affiliate Meetings
------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. Saturday, July 12, Willits: Mendocino ASA Meeting
Join Mendocino ASA as we discuss important local, state, and national medical cannabis
issues.
When: 2:00pm
Where: The Ping Pong Club at 475 E. Valley Rd. in Willits
For more information, contact Bruce: Mendobruce [at] yahoo.com
------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. Tuesday, July 15, Sacramento: ASA Affiliate Compassionate
Coalition Meeting
There are several medical marijuana activities over the next month. Please come and find
out how you can get involved.
When: 7:00pm
Where: Crusaders Hall
320 Harris Ave. Suite H in Sacramento
For more information, contact Nathan [at] CompassionateCoalition.org
------------------------------------------------------------------------
5. Thursday, July 17, Arcata: Humboldt ASA Meeting
Please come out and join Humboldt County ASA as we fight to protect safe access in our
community and beyond.
When: 6 p.m.
Where: In the community recreation room of the Bayview Courtyard Senior Housing Complex
at 550 Union Street, Arcata.
For more info, contact: asa-humboldt [at] sbcglobal.net
------------------------------------------------------------------------
6. Saturday, July 19, West Hollywood: Special Los Angeles ASA
Meeting & Know Your Rights Training
On Saturday, July 19, we will have a free "Know Your Rights" training for patients and
hear from ASA Executive Director Steph Sherer. ASA pioneered legal training for patients,
teaching thousands their rights and responsibilities under California medical cannabis
law. Don't miss this great free training -- and a very special opportunity to meet ASA
founder and Executive Director Steph Sherer. Steph will talk about ASA's work to defend
and expand patients' rights in California and in Washington, DC. Come ready to listen,
ask questions, and get active in the grassroots campaign for safe access.
What: "Know Your Rights" Training & Executive Director Steph Sherer
When: 2 PM * Saturday, July 19
Where: West Hollywood Gateway Mall Community Room, lower level, 7100 Santa Monica Blvd.
(at La Brea Ave.) in West Hollywood. (Target shopping center)
More Info: http://www.AmericansForSafeAccess.org/punbb/viewtopic.php?id=1420
Please feel free to forward this message and invite your friends!
------------------------------------------------------------------------
7. Tuesday, July 22, San Francisco: San Francisco ASA Meeting
Join us for our ASA SF patient activist meeting at our usual meeting space, Bowzers Pizza
on 11th at Harrison. We will discuss the latest in medical cannabis politics, laws,
science, and activism.
When: Tuesday, July 22 at 7:30pm
Where: Bowzer's Pizza, 371 11th St in San Francisco
For more info, contact Alex: aaafranco [at] yahoo.com
------------------------------------------------------------------------
8. Wednesday, July 23, Oakland: East Bay ASA Meeting
Please come and join the East Bay ASA crew as we discuss important local, state, and
national medical cannabis issues. We will focus on the recent Alameda County decision on
edibles and create a plan of action to protect edibles for the long term. We will also
discuss the Berkeley medical cannabis dispensary ballot initiative that will be on the
ballot this November.
Don't miss this important meeting!
When: Wednesday, the 23 at 7:00pm (Please arrive promptly, as the doors will be locked
after 7:10pm)
Where: ASA Headquarters Office
1322 Webster Street, Suite 402, Downtown Oakland (2 blocks from 12th St. BART
station!)
For more information, contact Rebecca [at] AmericansforSafeAccess.org
------------------------------------------------------------------------
9. Wednesday, July 23, Newport Beach: Orange County ASA Meeting
Safe access has been under attack in Orange County and we need your help us fight the war
on patients. Please come out and get involved at our monthly meeting! When: 7:00pm
Where: Law Offices of WENTWORTH, PAOLI & PURDY, LLP
4631 Teller Avenue, Suite 100
Newport Beach, CA 92660
For more information contact: OCLawyer [at] aol.com.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Government Icon City and County Hearings
------------------------------------------------------------------------
10. Monday, July 28, Malibu: City Council to Discuss Dispensary
Regulations /(Please note date change from July 14)/
Last month, after hearing extensive testimony from patients and advocates in support of
medical cannabis, the Malibu Planning Commission voted to recommend regulating
dispensaries instead of banning them. On Monday, July 28, the full City Council will hold
a hearing on this proposal. Please come out and attend the City Council Meeting and let
your voice be heard!
Download ASA's talking points about dispensary regulations.
http://www.safeaccessnow.org/article.php?id=2717
When: Monday, July 28 at 6:30pm
Where: Council Chambers at City Hall
23815 Stuart Ranch Road, Malibu, CA
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Patients Rights Icon Court Support
------------------------------------------------------------------------
11. Monday, July 14, Fresno: Sentencing Hearing for Antonio
Malagon, Jose Malagon & Lucky Boissiere
Sentencing Hearings at 9am (Lucky) and 1:30pm (the Malagon Bros.) before Judge Oliver
Wanger in U.S. District Court (E.D., CA)
http://maps.yahoo.com/py/maps.py?BFCat=&Pyt=Tmap&newFL=Use+Address+Below&addr=2500+Tulare+Street&csz=fresno%2C+CA+95814-7300&country=us&Get%A0Map=Get+Map, 2500 Tulare Street, Fresno, CA. After the City of Modesto failed to shut down the California Healthcare Collective by banning dispensaries, it called in the DEA. On September 27, 2006, the DEA raided the collective and arrested four people (owner-operators Luke Scarmazzo and Ricardo Montes and two staff members) on charges of distribution of marijuana and conspiracy to distribute. Scarmazzo and Montes were also charged with possession of firearms and money laundering. Later, an additional five people were indicted, bringing the total to nine people being prosecuted by the federal government. In the raid, the DEA allegedly seized more than 100 pounds of marijuana, one thousand plants, multiple firearms, and more than $200,000 in cash. The raids were the result of a 15-month investigation between the DEA and the Modesto Police Department. For more information, please see the consistently excellent Vanessa Nelson
http://www.medicalmarijuanaofamerica.com/content/category/9/60/111/.
Please attend this hearing to show your support for safe access!
------------------------------------------------------------------------
12. Tuesday, July 22, Los Angeles: Trial for Charles Lynch Begins
Trial at 8am before Judge George Wu in U.S. District Court (C.D., CA)
http://www.safeaccessnow.org/%20, Courtroom 10 at 312 North Spring Street in Los
Angeles, 90012. San Luis Obispo County dispensing collective operator Charles Lynch was
raided by the DEA and the San Luis Obispo County Sheriffs on July 17,2007 at Central
Coast Compassionate Caregivers in Morro Bay, CA.
According to a testimonial, "/Central Coast Compassionate Caregivers took precautions to
inform its patients regarding the restrictions that applied to them by attaching a copy
of the rules and regulations governing medical cannabis to their package upon receipt.
Picture IDs were issued to prevent fraud. Not only were the letters of recommendation
verified, they also looked up the doctors on the California Medical Board's web site to
make sure that the doctors were in good standing. The Morro Bay dispensary added video
surveillance and a metal detector to further the safety of its patients and to discourage
misuse. For the year that the CCCC was open, there were no problems or complaints
reported to the dispensary. In fact, employees of neighboring businesses were dismayed to
see them raided by law enforcement./"
Lynch was indicted for conspiracy to possess and possession with intent to distribute
marijuana and concentrated cannabis, manufacturing (cultivating) more than 100 plants,
knowingly maintaining a drug premises, and sales of marijuana to a person under the age
of 21. Additionally, criminal forfeiture proceedings have begun on his assets. For more
information, please check out this Drew Carey documentary from Reason tv
http://safeaccessnow.org/blog/?p=110. Lynch remains out on bail. For more information
see Charles' website http://www.friendsofccl.com. *Supporters are encouraged to
attend!*
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Marijuana Icon Special Events
------------------------------------------------------------------------
13. Saturday, July 12, Landers: Fundraiser Event for Senior
Medical Marijuana Defendants
Like many high desert senior citizens, JoAnn and Rich McCabe find that marijuana provides
safe, effective symptomatic relief for the ailments of advancing years and use it
specifically to manage their arthritis, insomnia and chronic back and joint pain. For
following state law and doing what the voters of California said they could do, they are
now paying a terrible price -- a price they cannot afford.
Local advocates have already raised a little over $7,000 on the way to the needed total
of $15,000. Please come out and help JoAnn and Rich McCabe and have a great time as well!
What: Benefit Event for JoAnn and Rich McCabe
When: Saturday, July 12 from 5-9pm
Where: Castle Inn, 1388 N. Golden Slipper, Landers
Cost: $15 - all proceeds go to the McCabe defense fund
Tickets can be purchased at the door, but it would really help planning the food portion
if JoAnn and Rich knew how many people are coming, so you can purchase your tickets right
now if you just CLICK HERE
https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_donations&business=lanny%40marijuananews%2eorg&item_name=Marijuana%20Anti%2dProhibition%20Project&no_shipping=0&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8. Give JoAnn and Rich a call at 760-364-4327 and they will tell you all about this great event and let them know you support them -- even if you can't attend the
fundraiser.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
14. Wednesday, July 16, Oakland: Special Reception for ASA Donors
with Executive Director Steph Sherer
*Join Steph Sherer & ASA in Oakland on July 16th*
*for a Special Reception for ASA Donors*
Please join ASA Executive Director, Steph Sherer, California Director, Don Duncan and
other ASA staff members for a special reception for ASA donors on Wednesday, July 16th.
ASA's been busy lately and we have a lot to share with you. From our efforts in
Washington, DC to our successes in California, Steph Sherer and Don Duncan will update
you on ASA's current exciting projects. You'll also have the chance to meet ASA staff
members and other ASA supporters.
This is a party to thank ASA donors for their continued support. If you are a current ASA
member, you are invited to join us at this event at no cost.
If you are not a current member, please sign up as a member online before the reception
at http://www.AmericansForSafeAccess.org/Join or bring a $35+ donation to the reception to sign
up as an ASA member.
When: Wednesday, July 16th from 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Where: ASA Headquarters
1322 Webster Street, Suite 402
Oakland, CA 94602
(2 Blocks from the 12th Street BART station.)
Who: Steph Sherer, Don Duncan, ASA staff members, ASA donors, and you!
What: A free reception with light food and beverages.
Why: To update you on ASA's current exciting projects and to thank
you for your support of ASA.
For more information or to RSVP, please contact Rebecca: Rebecca [at] SafeAccessNow.org
We are 100% volunteer and depend on your participation to sustain our efforts!
Donate
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