Up on YouTube and embedded here is an interview with Charles Lynch. It is worth the watch, and I would ask each you, "Is this the kind of man that deserves prison?" Judge Wu is on the cusp of DOING THE RIGHT THING, or doing as close to the right thing he can when his hands are tied. Let's push for freedom for Charles Lynch, and this continue to push Obama for two things...1) a full and complete pardon for Charles Lynch and all those who are in a similiar situation, and 2) much clearer and WRITTEN guidelines on his administration's Medical Marijuana policy.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Friday, April 24, 2009
Beginning of End of Marijuana as Class 1 Drug?
Dudes and dudettes, as well as all those very serious 420 folks in the Medical Marijuana community, we may have some very big news this evening. We think of Iowa as a midwest state heard from and focused on once every four years during the Presidential Primaries...that may be changing as the entire United States focuses in on the state, and their Pharmacy Board.
A Polk County judge has orderd the State Pharmacy Board to re-examine the classification of Marijuana as a Class One drug. In the small picture, such a review by the State Pharmacy Board, a ruling that Marijuana needs to be reclassified could clear the way for Iowa's elected lawmakers to make Medical Marijuana legal in the state.
However; in the bigger picture, this current court ruling, the potential ruling the Pharmacy Board could make creates what could be the FINAL SHOWDOWN in the Medical Marijuana fight...the DEA cannot let such a decision stand, would be left with no choice but to file suit to overturn the Pharmacy Boards reclassification, potentially creating a face off in the United States Supreme Court.
Court ruling orders pharmacy board to review marijuana classification Friday, April 24, 2009, 7:21 PMA ruling from a judge in Polk County could clear the way for Iowa lawmakers to potentially approve marijuana use for medical purposes. The ruling forces the Iowa Pharmacy Board to examine whether marijuana should continue to be classified as a Schedule I controlled substance under Iowa law. Attorney Randall Wilson argued the case for the American Civil Liberties Union of Iowa. "What it does is it reopens the official discussion about marijuana policy in Iowa," Wilson said of the ruling.
Four petitioners asked the Iowa Pharmacy Board to review the drug's classification last year. The board ruled that the petitioners had to prove that the drug lacked a high potential for abuse before it would be reclassified. The ACLU of Iowa appealed the decision. Wilson says the judge's ruling only "unfreezes" the debate and does not legalize medicinal marijuana use in the state. "Only the legislature can make that decision ultimately," Wilson said. "The (pharmacy) board can't move marijuana from Schedule One, but the legislature told the board...when a substance no longer meets the criteria for being in Schedule I, you will recommend to us that it will be placed somewhere else."
Currently, under Iowa law, narcotic drugs like opiates and cocaine can be prescribed for medical use. Wilson believes Iowa should join other states that have added marijuana to the list of drugs available for medical purposes. There are currently 13 states in the U.S. that allow the use of marijuana for medical purposes under a doctor's supervision. Wilson says the drug can help people that are battling such diseases as cancer and AIDS. "There are a lot of people out there who have very debilitating conditions that seem to be only served or helped by using marijuana," Wilson said. "In view of that fact, medical marijuana use is going to go on underground...it would be better to get it out in the open and have it supervised by doctors and established criteria for who really needs to be using marijuana and who shouldn't."
A ruling from a judge in Polk County could clear the way for Iowa lawmakers to potentially approve marijuana use for medical purposes. The ruling forces the Iowa Pharmacy Board to examine whether marijuana should continue to be classified as a Schedule I controlled substance under Iowa law. Attorney Randall Wilson argued the case for the American Civil Liberties Union of Iowa. "What it does is it reopens the official discussion about marijuana policy in Iowa," Wilson said of the ruling.
Four petitioners asked the Iowa Pharmacy Board to review the drug's classification last year. The board ruled that the petitioners had to prove that the drug lacked a high potential for abuse before it would be reclassified. The ACLU of Iowa appealed the decision. Wilson says the judge's ruling only "unfreezes" the debate and does not legalize medicinal marijuana use in the state. "Only the legislature can make that decision ultimately," Wilson said. "The (pharmacy) board can't move marijuana from Schedule One, but the legislature told the board...when a substance no longer meets the criteria for being in Schedule I, you will recommend to us that it will be placed somewhere else."
Currently, under Iowa law, narcotic drugs like opiates and cocaine can be prescribed for medical use. Wilson believes Iowa should join other states that have added marijuana to the list of drugs available for medical purposes. There are currently 13 states in the U.S. that allow the use of marijuana for medical purposes under a doctor's supervision. Wilson says the drug can help people that are battling such diseases as cancer and AIDS. "There are a lot of people out there who have very debilitating conditions that seem to be only served or helped by using marijuana," Wilson said. "In view of that fact, medical marijuana use is going to go on underground...it would be better to get it out in the open and have it supervised by doctors and established criteria for who really needs to be using marijuana and who shouldn't."
To Beat Your Opponent Know Your Opponent-Defeating The DEA
This article supports a few things. First, pleased to announce that we have launched a new page on Medical Marijuana Society that kicks off a new project. Operation Out DEA...the concept of this operation is simple. The DEA cannot continue busting our Medical Marijuana dispensaries without our help, albeit unintentionally. DEA agents scope out and do undercover investigations of these Medical Marijuana facilities, including sending their OWN PEOPLE into the store. This means store owners need to have doors to buzz customers into the main area...inconvenient, but an extra layer of security.My thinking...two doors. The first door brings you into a reception area (anyone can enter) where there is NOTHING TO SEE. There the customer must show PROPER ID, and sign a FULL DISCLOSURE FORM that says they are not working for Law Enforcement, or NOT LAW ENFORCEMENT, and are not undercover snitches. If they refuse to sign the paper, and your surveillance camera records that fact, you ask them to LEAVE the premises (make sure to tell them they are NOT ALLOWED BACK so that you can have them arrested if they try to return at a later time to do their surveillance...just call the cops, show them the video), they are NOT given access to the inner sanctum. If they sign paper and then bust you later, they used entrapment I would surmise.
Visit Operation Out the DEA web page.
Next, it is recommended that ALL Medical Marijuana facilities invest in outside surveillance cameras...in this fashion, you can A) Keep an eye out for suspicious behavior, B) notice perhaps that the DEA has you under surveillance. You could then have an activist team you call to immediately show up and surround said DEA agents vehicle asking for ID...also, have this team start taking photographs of the DEA...we will post these pictures on our Operation Out DEA page. I am talking peaceful CONFRONTATION HERE, talking about taking the DEA out of the shadows...no shadows, they loose their ability to conduct UNDERCOVER INVESTIGATIONS.
Lastly, educate yourselves about your opposition, know how they operate. To help you with that, here is the link to download the 2002 DEA Operations Manual...it has not changed that much in the past seven years. DOWNLOAD HERE.
Do you like this blog? Want to be one of our Budding Bloggers, a member of our Grassroots Cannabis React Team (GCRT)? Email me today and let me get your blog ready to roll and you can be a Budding Blogger bringing the 420 news from your end of the world...or just tell us about your getting stoned...this is all about community.
So Friday Medical Marijuana Buzz
Going to attempt camping up by Woostock this weekend, so wanted to get an article up on this blog while I had the opportunity...if I do not get back before Snday night, everyone have a GREAT last weekend in April.
There is a lot of BUZZ going around the Medical Marijuana community as our movement to legalize gains more and more momentum. Judge Wu postponed Charles Lynch's sentencing until June 11th so we are hoping there is good news being worked on there. We have FOURTEEN STATES now working on legislation or ballot initiatives to Legalize Medical Marijuana, or to simply decriminalize all Marijuana. Meanwhile, in big breaking news, seems we have a heavy hitter in Washington, DC putting Legalization on the table as a part of PRISON REFORM...we currently have over 500,000 Americans in prison on small marijuana violations.
In a FRIDAY GOOD NEWS story, it seems that there is at least one judge who gets it. Judge Darryl Ferguson ordered county sheriffs to return a Medical Marijuana patient's pot...ALL 12 pounds of it...sweet. Richard Daleman, who had all the appropriate doctor letters to grow and use medical marijuana was acquitted in March of this year, and the Sheriifs were hoping to KEEP some of this man's premium bud...the judge was having NO PART OF IT.
It was the last thing you'd expect to see outside the Tulare County Courthouse in Visalia: a man and his lawyer carting out glass jars filled with marijuana.
The marijuana belonged to Richard Daleman, who on March 27 was acquitted by a jury of growing and selling marijuana.
A judge ruled last week that the medical marijuana confiscated from him in December by Tulare County sheriff's detectives had to be returned.
Daleman, 61, and his county public defender, Andy Rubinger, retrieved the marijuana Wednesday from the courthouse evidence room. It came out to just more than 12 pounds, Daleman said.
"There were about 3 ounces missing," he said.
Earlier in the day, Daleman had collected growing lights and other equipment from a sheriff's facility north of Visalia.
Daleman, who had a doctor's recommendation to grow and use marijuana to treat severe pain from arthritis and old injuries, was all smiles as he rolled his marijuana from the courthouse to the parking lot — using carts provided by court personnel. He emptied it into plastic trash bags before weighing it.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Medical Marijuana News Updates.
The biggest case all of us in the Medical Marijuana community are watching it the Charles Lynch out in California...Judge Wu has again postponed his sentencing until June 11th...the not knowing has to be hell on Charlie, but if he is STILL FREE, we still have a chance to see REAL JUSTICE done, see his charges dismissed by the DEA and DOJ, or for the hand of Barack to grant him a full and complete pardon. Sure Charlie's attorneys have already looked into this, but I seem to recall someone can't be charged with breaking the law if one body of the government (even state government) granted him a license for the business he was running, basically sanctioned his activities unless you ALSO CHARGE the State of California chief executive, as well as the mayor of Morro Bay as accessories. Just thinking aloud here...late night brain storming.
Chronic City: The Sad Case of Charlie Lynch
By Steve Elliott in Breaking News, Business, Chronic City, Crime, Government, Health, Law & Order, Local News, Media, Politics
Thursday, Apr. 23 2009 @ 5:32PM
 |
| New Times |
| Charles Lynch |
Medical marijuana dispensary operator Charles Lynch, 47, is facing a government-recommended five years in federal prison -- even though he meticulously followed state and local laws. Under federal law, Lynch could receive up to 100 years. At a hearing late Thursday afternoon, the judge in the case indicated a decision on sentencing will be delayed until June 11.
When he opened Central Coast Compassionate Caregivers, in Morro Bay in 2006, Lynch was welcomed by the mayor and chamber of commerce in a ribbon-cutting ceremony. He paid his taxes and he carefully went by the rules.
Lynch's business license clearly stated "medical marijuana dispensary." He even called the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in 2005, months before opening, to inquire about the law. An agent told him "it's up to the cities and counties to decide how to handle that." So he opened the business.
Despite Lynch's meticulous adherence to city, county, and California law, the federal DEA raided his business and home on March 29, 2007, seized his medicine and money, and charged Lynch with unlawfully distributing marijuana under federal law. Draconian federal sentencing guidelines dictate a five-year mandatory minimum in Lynch's case.
Complicating Lynch's defense is the fact that he sold to a "minor" (person under 21) by federal definition, thus "enhancing" his sentencing guidelines. The person in question was a teen cancer patient with a legal, valid medical marijuana card, and who used medical pot with the permission and approval of his parents.
After a long legal struggle, during which the defense wasn't permitted to mention the fact that medical marijuana is legal in California, he was convicted on federal charges on Aug. 5, 2008. Both the mayor and city attorney of Morro Bay testified on Lynch's behalf as a law abiding citizen.
President Barack Obama's Department of Justice refused to budge on the case, even though both the President and Attorney General Eric Holder have reaffirmed that the DEA will no longer conduct raids on medical marijuana suppliers in states where it is legal.
In a distressing lack of backbone, Obama's DOJ is maintaining that Lynch's prosecution "falls within the guidelines" of cases they pursue. Never mind that it's complete bollocks -- Lynch has the paperwork to prove he was operating completely legally under California law. If Lynch didn't qualify as "following state law," it's difficult to see who would.
Lynch's lawyers said they would appeal immediately after sentencing.
Who's in charge here?
• California voters? They weighed in 13 years ago, legalizing marijuana for medical use.
• Local police? Local police had a good relationship with Lynch and his dispensary, and often had friendly visits to the location.
• Morro Bay Mayor Janice Peters? Mayor Peters had personally given her business card to all the businesses surrounding CCCC and asked them to call if they ever had an issue relating to the dispensary. She testified that she never received one complaint.
• San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Department? Sheriff Pat Hedges is no fan of marijuana, medical or otherwise. The sheriff reportedly watched Lynch, his employees, his patients, and his dispensary for 11 months, trying to catch Charlie doing something -- anything -- outside the law, and was unsuccessful (it was a frustrated Sheriff Hedges who ultimately called in the DEA to arrest Lynch on federal charges).
• State officials? No problem; Lynch was legally licensed.
• California Attorney General Jerry Brown? The AG's office has issued legal "acceptable practice" guidelines for dispensaries, and is not interested in prosecuting Lynch, who followed the rules.
• Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger? The Governator, a former toker himself, has been silent on the issue, refusing to stand up to the Feds for the laws and people of California.
• Federal Judge George H. Wu? Wu, a Bush-appointed judge hearing his very first federal case, sought guidance from the Department of Justice, since federal medical marijuana policy has changed since the case began. But the DOJ continues to insist Lynch was violating both state and federal law -- despite a complete lack of evidence of the former.
That leaves ultimate culpability to President Obama.
At least two dozen more defendants in California are in the same situation as Lynch. Will Obama and AG Holder be content to continue the failed marijuana policies of the Bush administration? If so, how many more law-abiding men like Charlie Lynch must go to prison?
For more information on the Charles Lynch case, visit the Friends of Charlie Lynch at: Friends of CCL
In news closer to the home front here in New York...the Medical Marijuana bill is looking good so far. The folks in Albany are giving it more than a 50/50 chance of passing in both the chambers this time around, and the Governor has indicated he would sign the bill if it comes to his desk.
So...anyone out there willing to fund my training as a Medical Marijuana Caregiver? We need $300 to take a course from Cannabis Career Institute (CCI) out of California. Also, would like to find a Pro-Bono attorney to help me set up a Not For Profit corporation for this purpose.
Joel Peacock, shown in 2007, says marijuana would be cheaper and more effective.
file photo
Updated: 04/22/09 07:37 AM
Approval predicted for medical marijuana
State legislators likely to act this session
NEWS ALBANY BUREAU
ALBANY — Long-stalled efforts to permit the medicinal use of marijuana in this state appear to have a good chance of passage before lawmakers end their session in June. It would make New York the 15th state to legalize the drug for medical reasons.
Advocates say they believe the Democratic- controlled Senate and Assembly have the votes to pass legislation permitting qualified patients to grow their own marijuana plants, or obtain the drug on the streets or through a state-sanctioned dispensary.Gov. David A. Paterson also is said to be supportive of the legalization.
“It’s looking pretty darn good,” Assemblyman Richard N. Gottfried, a Manhattan Democrat and Health Committee chairman, said of the bill’s chance to become law this session.
The lawmaker, who has sponsored the measure for years, renewed a public push Tuesday, using the cases of two New Yorkers who have turned to marijuana to relieve their chronic pain as evidence of the need for the bill.
“I’m looking for all the help we can get to get this passed,” said Joel Peacock, a Buffalo resident and self-described conservative, who turned to the drug in the past to help with severe pain he still feels from a 2001 car accident.
The effort was jump-started by the Obama administration’s decision in February to stop raids on marijuana-dispensing centers in California, where medical marijuana is legal. U. S. Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr. signaled that federal prosecution would cease in states that legalize medical marijuana, even though U. S. law bans the drug’s use.
The Assembly is considered certain to pass the measure. Advocates are working on the Senate Senate, where control switched in January to Democrats from Republicans.
In 2007, the measure had the backing of a half-dozen Republicans. Supporters say they fear as many as four Democrats, including Sen. William T. Stachowski, D-Lake View, might oppose it. That would require GOP help to get it passed in a chamber where Democrats hold a thin, 32-30 majority. Stachowski could not be reached to comment Tuesday.
Paterson’s office said the governor is not taking a stance on the bill, but sources described him as very supportive and said he even offered to introduce his own legislation legalizing medical marijuana.
Proponents say marijuana helps to relieve pain from such diseases as multiple sclerosis and to calm nausea, as well as to aid the appetite of cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. The measure has the backing of groups representing physicians, nurses and hospices.
The association representing the state’s district attorneys has not taken a formal position on the bill, said Daniel Donovan, the Staten Island district attorney and president of the group.
Speaking for himself and not his organization, Donovan, said a number of other drugs — from methadone to oxycondone — have been legalized to help with such things as relieving pain. “I’m not opposed to the idea. I’m open to the idea of seeing studies — and will trust the medical field,” he said.
The most vocal opposition comes from the state’s small but influential Conservative Party, which helped to kill the 2007 bill in the Republican-led Senate.
“If this passes, this is the beginning of a slippery slope that opens the door to legalize drugs,” said Michael R. Long, the party’s chairman.
Long said patients have plenty of alternatives to marijuana for pain relief. He claimed a lack of controls to prevent marijuana prescribed for a patient from getting into the hands of the patient’s children or from being sold on the streets.
“This is not helpful to our society,” Long said.
But Peacock, the subject of a 2007 profile in The Buffalo News, said his pain medications cost him and his insurer $39,000 a year. Pulling a package of painkillers from his pocket Tuesday — which cost $26 a dose — Peacock said marijuana would be both cheaper and more effective.
Peacock, who is enrolled in the Conservative Party, used marijuana during a construction job in Louisiana several years ago and then in Florida. He does not use it now because it is illegal in this state. “It took the pain away. I was absolutely amazed,” he said Tuesday at a news conference in Albany.
Joe Gamble, a Liverpool resident, a former Army paratrooper and commercial pilot, turns to marijuana now to relieve his pain from multiple sclerosis. He called for “a little compassion.”
“It’s not for everybody, but it certainly does work for me,” he said.
Backers say this is the first time the Assembly and Senate have had the same versions of medical marijuana bills. They note its Senate sponsor — Sen. Thomas K. Duane, a Manhattan Democrat — is chairman of the Health Committee, which has oversight of the matter.
Duane predicted the bill will pass with Democratic and Republican backing, saying: “This is about compassion. This is about medicine. This is not about politics.”
The bill would make marijuana legal for those sanctioned by a physician with a “serious condition,” defined as a “severe debilitating or life-threatening condition or a condition associated with or a complication of such a condition or its treatment, including but not limited to inability to tolerate food, nausea, vomiting, dysphoria or pain.”
It permits the possession of up to 12 marijuana plants or 2z ounces of marijuana. Those approved for the program can grow the plants from seeds purchased in the illicit drug market or through state-approved dispensing centers. The centers also could dispense marijuana.
The bill calls for the state Health Department to play a role in regulating entities that produce and sell marijuana to eligible patients. Patients that violate the terms of the bill would be subject to stricter penalties than someone now caught possessing marijuana.
Those eligible to legally smoke the drug for medical reasons would be given a card good for a year before requiring new approval by a physician or an approved caregiver. Doctors could not prescribe marijuana for themselves.
Patients deciding to grow their own marijuana must keep it in a locked, enclosed area, such as a greenhouse or closet accessible only to the patient or caregiver. Patients could not smoke the drug in a public place, and no caregiver could be responsible for more than five patients approved for medical marijuana.
The bill allows the state to charge dispensers a fee, and the entities could be anything from a pharmacy to a hospital clinic to a registered marijuana producer. It does not require insurers to cover the treatments.
Critics have said wording that lets eligible patients get the drug on the streets will only encourage the illegal drug trade.
A growing number of states, including Minnesota, Illinois and New Jersey, are considering medical marijuana laws, especially after the Obama administration’s policy change on the issue. In November, voters approved the drug’s use in Michigan and Massachusetts.
From North Dakato State University...these folks need $100K (one hundred thousand) to grow two arces of experimental Hemp...most of the cost is a direct result of the DEA absolutely INSANE security measures around the two acre plot.
NDSU still looking for funds for industrial hemp research site
Time is running out on North Dakota State University having time to plant and develop industrial hemp varieties this spring, but the university continues to work toward that goal.
D.C. Coston, vice-president for Agriculture and University Extension at NDSU, said they haven't found the funding yet to start a research plot.
“We're searching for a sponsor to get the structure built,” Coston said last week. “I don't know if we'll be able to find funding sources in time to get it up this spring.”
He estimates it would cost from $80,000 to $90,000 to put in a couple of acres of field plots surrounded by the type of security the Drug Enforcement Administration requires.
Some of those requirements include a high fence with barbed wire on top, and electronic monitoring equipment so that no one could gain entry without being detected.
“We need a large enough structure with at least 2 acres of actual planting area to do that kind of research,” Coston said.
The DEA notified NDSU in November 2007 it could begin research after a judge hearing oral arguments in an industrial hemp lawsuit brought my two North Dakota producers admonished the DEA for not acting on NDSU's request.
NDSU had sent the DEA an application in September 1999, after the North Dakota Legislature ordered NDSU to begin industrial hemp seed cultivation.
According to court documents, the DEA continued over the years to ask questions of Burton Johnson, NDSU associate professor of sunflower, minor, and new crop production, requesting such things as specifics on the security designs.
But Johnson never received any DEA approval after answering questions and submitting designs.
In 2003, NDSU submitted a request to the North Dakota Agricultural Products Utilization Commission (APUC) for fencing and security system funding and it was approved.
Court documents say DEA instructed Johnson to spend the funding, construct the fence and put the security measures in place. The DEA wanted to come out after all the security devices were in place to inspect it, but the agency refused to give NDSU the assurance that they would then allow the research.
The facility was never built, and the funds stayed with APUC for other projects.
Coston is now looking for research funding sources, and APUC may be among them.
But after a long winter and snow and water still standing in NDSU fields this April, it is doubtful there will be time to get the structure built and inspected in time for planting season.
Coston said when research begins, there will be several places he could obtain plant material from to begin breeding.
“I'm sure Manitoba will be one of those,” he said. “You would think if industrial hemp can grow well in Manitoba, it will grow well here.”
Meanwhile, the U.S. Congress began action on a federal industrial hemp bill last week.
According to VoteHemp, an organization that promotes hemp production, a bill was introduced in the House on April 2 that would remove restrictions on industrial hemp cultivation.
HR 1866, “The Industrial Hemp Farming Act of 2009” was introduced by U.S. Reps. Barney Frank, D-Mass., and Ron Paul, R-Texas, along with nine other Republicans and Democrats.
“It is unfortunate that the federal government has stood in the way of American farmers, including many who are struggling to make ends meet, from competing in the global industrial hemp market,” said Paul. “Indeed, the founders of our nation, some of whom grew hemp, would surely find that federal restrictions on farmers growing a safe and profitable crop on their own land are inconsistent with the constitutional guarantee of a limited, restrained federal government.”
Eric Steenstra, VoteHemp president, said he hopes under a new administration, the DEA will “prioritize hemp's benefits to farmers.”
He said in this economic downturn, jobs could be “created overnight,” because now several companies import hemp raw materials to make products that are “worth many millions of dollars per year.”
At the same time, North Dakota State Rep. David Monson, Osnabrock, and Wayne Hauge, Ray, N.D., are awaiting a decision from their appeal in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit.
They appealed dismissal of their 2007 lawsuit in November 2008, and are waiting for a decision sometime this year.
According to Adam Eidinger, of VoteHemp, they based their appeal on the assertion there was no possibility the hemp crop could be diverted into the market for drugs because it will be grown and the seed extracted right on the farm.
In addition, the North Dakota producers asserted that the Commerce Clause does not allow DEA to regulate industrial hemp farming in North Dakota.
According to court documents, the DEA again attempted to assert that the appeals court should not hear the case.
The appeals court disagreed.
The court again admonished the DEA for not acting on the North Dakota producers' application, just as a former court in Bismarck, N.D., did in 2007.
VoteHemp said the question before the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals is “whether or not federal authorities can prosecute state-licensed farmers who grow non-drug oilseed and fiber hemp pursuant to North Dakota state law.”
“If (the appeal) is successful, states across the nation will be free to implement their own hemp farming laws without fear of federal interference,” Eidinger said.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Cannabis Career Institute
OK folks, watch the You Tube video, as I am very serious here...how many of you would be willinig to sign up for training aimed at having a career in the budding Medical Marijuana Industry? (cost will be around $300) As we all know, California is the leader here in America in paving the way forward with the full legalization and distribution of Medical Marijuana, and they continue that trend with the Cannabis Career Institute. The institute is talking about bringing thier curriculum to other Major Cities, and I thought I would start posting their video in our 50 state blogs to gauge interest. Starting here in New York, and would like to find 25 or more people in each of the cities, Buffalo, Syracuse, Albany and New York City interested in this valuable training as I believe that number of participants would make it worthwhile to bring these seminars into a city. Please email me with your interest, and the city that you would want to attend classes in. With a Medical Marijuana law introduced April 21st, this is a good time TO PLAN FOR THE FUTURE.
Here are some of the other benefits of attending the Cannabis Career Institute:
- Train to be a state approved caregiver, grow the best medicinal marijuana for your patients, learn how to grow Aeroponics, Hydroponics and Organic marijuana.
- Find out how to form a Collective and a non-profit corporation so you can legally distribute medical marijuana to patients.
- Learn from highly skilled instructors how to make state compliant edibles such as cookies and cakes, Concentrates like hash, kief, oils and waxes and also Tinctures like ointments and derivatives.
- You will hear about all the laws and legal issues from attorneys who specialize in medical marijuana law, ask them any questions you may have.
- Interact with people in your field and make new contacts.
- And a lot more...
My Thoughts Go Out To Medical Marijuana Martyr Charlie Lynch This Evening
Sitting here this evening in a very blue mood as I ponder the fate of Charlie Lynch, wonder what he is doing with what might be his last night of freedom for the rest of his life. I am angry at a government and a court system that could even think of putting this man behind bars for his *supposed* crime. I am angry at a apathetic public that has allowed this drug war to go unimpeded now for over seventy years as 20 million of our citizens have been convicted of Marijuana related criminal charges. I am upset that Governor Arnold is letting this happen in a state that has declared Medical Marijuana Legal. My greatest wraith is reserved for the 90 Million Americans who have smoked pot including President Obama, President Bill Clinton, President George Bush, and every current cannabis smoker who is not doing anything to see this man set free...hello 420 Community, we have 25 Million pot smokers in America, and there is hardly a whisper about what is being done to Charlie Lynch. How hard would it be for each of you to write a PERSONAL LETTER TO, and MAIL President Obama demanding a full pardon for Charlie Lynch and every other Medical Marijuana storefront owner and caregiver currently facing DEA charges related to activities that are legal within the confines of state law.
If Charlie Lynch is out there this evening and reading this...if you are sentenced to prison and need a pen pal, I will gladly volunteer for the job. If you want the story of your life behind bars shared with the world, I'll start a blog and see that your story finds its way into the light of day. You sir are a brave and noble man, and I admire your bravery in this dark hour as you count down the minutes until tomorrow at 3:00Pm when Judge Wu hands down your sentence. Not sure that I could muster up the courage necessary to face what you have so far endured, and what you are about to endure.
Judge Wu...you have a duty to hand down justice...what justice is served in sending this man to prison? What justice was there in keeping him from mounting a adequate defense. Simply stated, I do not respect you, I have no problems here and now labeling you, the entire United States Department of Justice, and every law enforcement agent at the DEA scum...there is something terribly wrong with our Justice system, something terribly wrong with our law enforcement when men like Charlie Lynch are looking at life in prison, yet officers of the law look the other way when illegal aliens and those that hire them snub their noses at the so called "Rule of Law" in America.
Police officers want to know why we no longer respect them...just look at this case, look at the hundreds more just like it, look at the INNOCENT PEOPLE you so callously throw into a rat infested prison in the name of a War on Drugs, in the name of good relations with Mexico...FUCK YOU SIR. You want a clue...with every case like this, America's respect for law enforcement takes another hit, our willingness to be there for you lessens...do members of law enforcement really 25 percent of America's population HATING THEIR FUCKING GUTS, shrugging in a, "who gives a rats ass" manner when one of them is shot? That is where these kinds of wrongful prosecutions are taking us. At this point, at the age of 53 I would not walk out on my front porch to help out a police officer in desparate need...why should I?
To those much closer to ground zero...please take the time to be there for Charlie Lynch tomorrow afternoon. Give him the honor and dignity of knowing he is supported and loved for his ultimate sacrifice in this battle. Make sure that Judge Wu hears your voices...
God's speed Charlie, and my prayers are with you.
If Charlie Lynch is out there this evening and reading this...if you are sentenced to prison and need a pen pal, I will gladly volunteer for the job. If you want the story of your life behind bars shared with the world, I'll start a blog and see that your story finds its way into the light of day. You sir are a brave and noble man, and I admire your bravery in this dark hour as you count down the minutes until tomorrow at 3:00Pm when Judge Wu hands down your sentence. Not sure that I could muster up the courage necessary to face what you have so far endured, and what you are about to endure.
Judge Wu...you have a duty to hand down justice...what justice is served in sending this man to prison? What justice was there in keeping him from mounting a adequate defense. Simply stated, I do not respect you, I have no problems here and now labeling you, the entire United States Department of Justice, and every law enforcement agent at the DEA scum...there is something terribly wrong with our Justice system, something terribly wrong with our law enforcement when men like Charlie Lynch are looking at life in prison, yet officers of the law look the other way when illegal aliens and those that hire them snub their noses at the so called "Rule of Law" in America.
Police officers want to know why we no longer respect them...just look at this case, look at the hundreds more just like it, look at the INNOCENT PEOPLE you so callously throw into a rat infested prison in the name of a War on Drugs, in the name of good relations with Mexico...FUCK YOU SIR. You want a clue...with every case like this, America's respect for law enforcement takes another hit, our willingness to be there for you lessens...do members of law enforcement really 25 percent of America's population HATING THEIR FUCKING GUTS, shrugging in a, "who gives a rats ass" manner when one of them is shot? That is where these kinds of wrongful prosecutions are taking us. At this point, at the age of 53 I would not walk out on my front porch to help out a police officer in desparate need...why should I?
To those much closer to ground zero...please take the time to be there for Charlie Lynch tomorrow afternoon. Give him the honor and dignity of knowing he is supported and loved for his ultimate sacrifice in this battle. Make sure that Judge Wu hears your voices...
God's speed Charlie, and my prayers are with you.
Earth Day Thoughts
Happy Earth Day everyone...trying to be up, jovial and pleased that on this ONE DAY OF THE YEAR people are acting like they care about Mother Earth and the Environment. Sadly, people do not care enough to actually make SIGNIFICANT life changes to save our planet. Here is a little factoid folks...at our current rate of population growth and consumption of goods, by the year 2050 we will need two planets earths to meet our consumption and use of Natural Resources.Yet does anyone want to talk about world wide population control? Anyone want to talk about learning to live without massive quantities of material goods and services? By the way...we recently found a planet that MIGHT support human life. A) Why are we looking unless government knows something they are not sharing, and B) That planet is 20 light years away, so if you are counting on that to help us by 2050, FORGET ABOUT IT. We need Negative birth growth until we reach a world wide maintainable population of around 2.4 Billion.
Sorry, no latest and greatest cell phone, no TV for every kid in the family, and no you do not need to live in a 6800 square foot house (not counting the finished basement). Ladies...find a new hobby besides SHOPPING as it is not good for the environment. How many of you today on this Earth Day still had your Starbucks, or ate lunch at a fast food place? How many of you drove three blocks to get a few things from the grocery store, or to pick up a pack of cigarettes...CAN WE SAY WALK? How about banning cell phones, or limiting it to ONE PER FAMILY. Same with cars, televisions and family pets. One dog, or one cat, you do not get to have one of each. Here's a clue...think Globally, but BUY LOCALLY...shipping crap in from China contaminates the world environment, is not good for Global Warming.
Since this is a Cannabis/Medical Marijuana blog, curious here how many of you are fine with the Government war on Marijuana? Have you bothered to look at the ENVIRONMENTAL benefits of Hemp? Did you know that Hemcrete is stronger than Concrete? Did you know that Bath University has found a composite material made from Hemp and lime that has a negative (less than zero) carbon footprint...that's right, Hemp Siding is good for the environment. Did you know that Hemp can be used for bio fuel. is great for various textiles and plastics, and can help in cooling the planet. Hemp paper saves trees...trees and their canopy cover are Mother Natures world air conditioning system. But you are fine with Mother Nature's miracle plant being outlawed here in America, accept government propaganda without question...and you call yourself GREEN?
This Earth Day, if you want to really do something wonderful for the planet, how about taking a reality pill, how about realizing that Mother Earth is in crisis...buying your child cookies with Green icing does not count as a EARTH DAY ACTIVITY, try doing something REAL for a change, like changing your entire lifestyle to one that is EARTH FRIENDLY. One other thing...Michele Obama, you are a hypocrite and a liar....your White House garden has cost us taxpayers tens of thousands of dollars, and is not an ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY GARDEN. You calling your garden green is like Al Gore justifying his obscene energy use by saying, "but I buy carbon offsets"...fuck you Al Gore, you are an inconvenient truth, a perfect example of the over consumption that is killing this planet.
Next time you reach for that latest toy, or want to buy that fourth computer when there are only three people living in the house, ask yourself, "Do I really need that, or would the Earth be better off if I did without."
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Is Legalized Medical Marijuana Coming To New York, and Will DEA STAY THE FUCK OUT?
On the unofficial Cannabis day of 4/20 the final negotiations put the polish on a Medical Marijuana Bill that was introduced today in the New York State legislature. Have not seen the bill, but its my understanding that patients could grow up to twelve plants, and be in possession of 2.5 ounces of dried Medical Marijuana. Growers would have to keep the plants in a fenced in locked area...wondering here if the state would/will consider licensing Medical Marijuana growers?
Some people just cannot grow things, have a proverbial black thumb when it comes to plants of any kind. A qualified, licensed grower and dispensaries make a LOT OF SENSE from my perspective. But then, I also think that legalization and taxation of Cannabis makes sense, as does the decriminalization of Hemp for industrial purposes. From the business end of everything, I am annoucing right now that I would like to work with people from California in getting the JUMP in opening up the first Medical Marijuana CARE CENTERS here in the state of New York...please contact me if you are interested in developing something.
In the article, it is pointed out that State Senator George Maziarz opposed the bill. He needs a wake up call on Medical Marijuana...either VOTE to allow patients this valuable medication, or WE WILL DO ANYTHING IN OUR POWER TO SEE YOU DEFEATED when you run for re-election. Yes, I am suggesting WE TARGET every Senator that OPPOSES Medical Marijuana...if you want to call that a witch hunt, I am fine with that...after all, President Bush had a Pro-Life litmus test for his Supreme Court Picks.
The most worrisome thing about this development...will the DEA respect our state rights, our right to self determination when it comes to Medical Marijuana? If not, should the DEA be kept out through the use of CITIZEN MILITIA? When you consider Charlie Lynch's situation, the situation of hundreds of other law abiding citizens in California, it is a serious question. The DEA, Eric Holder and our President seem bent on IGNORING States Rights in their wrongful WAR ON MEDICAL MARIJUANA, so maybe the only way to protect dispensaries from DEA harrassment is with the use of STATE SANCTIONED citizen militia.
Some people just cannot grow things, have a proverbial black thumb when it comes to plants of any kind. A qualified, licensed grower and dispensaries make a LOT OF SENSE from my perspective. But then, I also think that legalization and taxation of Cannabis makes sense, as does the decriminalization of Hemp for industrial purposes. From the business end of everything, I am annoucing right now that I would like to work with people from California in getting the JUMP in opening up the first Medical Marijuana CARE CENTERS here in the state of New York...please contact me if you are interested in developing something.
In the article, it is pointed out that State Senator George Maziarz opposed the bill. He needs a wake up call on Medical Marijuana...either VOTE to allow patients this valuable medication, or WE WILL DO ANYTHING IN OUR POWER TO SEE YOU DEFEATED when you run for re-election. Yes, I am suggesting WE TARGET every Senator that OPPOSES Medical Marijuana...if you want to call that a witch hunt, I am fine with that...after all, President Bush had a Pro-Life litmus test for his Supreme Court Picks.
The most worrisome thing about this development...will the DEA respect our state rights, our right to self determination when it comes to Medical Marijuana? If not, should the DEA be kept out through the use of CITIZEN MILITIA? When you consider Charlie Lynch's situation, the situation of hundreds of other law abiding citizens in California, it is a serious question. The DEA, Eric Holder and our President seem bent on IGNORING States Rights in their wrongful WAR ON MEDICAL MARIJUANA, so maybe the only way to protect dispensaries from DEA harrassment is with the use of STATE SANCTIONED citizen militia.
Many private groups have created their own organized citizen militias. In the United States, some people think of these groups as extremist anti-government organizations, but some of them actually work extensively with their local governments and their activities are supported by the states in which they work. For a government, a well organized citizen militia is a useful tool, since it an be used to provide a pool of trained and dedicated individuals in the event of need.
Multimedia
"I think anyone who is in chronic pain, who has terminal problems, could benefit greatly from this," said Peacock.
He is going to Albany to advocate for medical marijuana, on the day when several lawmakers introduce a bill to legalize growing and using medical marijuana under certain circumstances. Some medical professionals maintain it is an effective treatment for pain and nausea, and is used by some cancer patients. Other medical professionals seeing it differently, saying there are other medications that can achieve the same results. Ellie Martinez, the campus director at the Renaissance campus, a treatment campus for chemically dependent teenagers, thinks legalizing medical marijuana is a bad idea.
"If you have people who are going to be growing it for medical purposes, how are we going to enforce or monitor that they are in fact growing it for themselves and not the whole neighborhood," said Martinez.
The bill calls for plants to be in a fenced in area with a security device, available only to the caregiver or patient. But there are still many questions about this bill and enforcement. Legislation in favor of legalizing medical marijuana has passed in the assembly in the past, but not the senate. Joel Peacock hoping it is a different story this time around.
"It could lower health care costs. As I said earlier my prescription drugs are 32 thousand dollars a year. That is more money that some people make, just to keep me functioning," added Peacock.
Assemblyman Sam Hoyt is a multi-sponsor of the bill. State Senator George Maziarz, who is against it, does not know if it has the votes to pass in the senate. Governor Paterson's office released this statement toady, which said, "If the bill successfully passes both houses and reaches the Governor's desk, the administration will seek input from interested parties before the Governor acts."
At 53, Tired of Living In Shadows
Just posted the below article in my National blog...by the way, we are still looking for Budding Bloggers if any of you Hempsters are wanting to volunteer to write on a state or a city level, please email me. Perhaps the whole border/drug war thing with Mexico is refocusing certain things for me, but am I the only one that finds it odd that President Obama calls for compassion when it comes to Illegal Aliens, says it is time for them to be allowe to come out from the shadows, but he has no similiar feelings of compassion for 25 million American Citizens who are forced to live in the shadows, forced to hide the fact they occassionly enjoy smoking a bit of bud?
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
4/20 Day After Reflections
First thing I found interesting about 4/20 was the almost exclusive blackout of NEWS COVERAGE of the day and events. When you think about it, think about how much marijuana and the drug war have been in the news lately, and all of a sudden yesterday, there was NOTHING about 4/20 day. You hate to say planned media black out, but it does seems as if that was the case. I will qualify that by admitting I do not watch local news. To all my fellow smokers, those who do it recreationally, and those that do it for medical reasons...how can we ever win this fight, get Cannabis legalized when so much APATHY exists? Illegal Aliens are on the brink of getting AMNESTY because they MARCHED. Gays are starting to get their civil rights, Gay Marriage almost a reality...can we say Gay Pride Day parades? Equal Rights would NOT HAVE HAPPENED without MARCHES AND PROTESTS. Ending the Vietnam War...same thing, protests and marches. Peaceful protests, exercising our civil rights and having large enough events that the MEDIA HAS NO CHOICE BUT TO COVER THEM is what we need.Was fun being on Twitter with other smokers...made the day less isolating, as I do not live in a community where I can walk down the street to my friend's house and get my BUZZ on. At 53, I am tired of having TO HIDE who I am, tried of having to hide the fact that I smoke from my neighbor's and many of our friends, and tired of having to feel ashamed because I like to get high every once in awhile. It is funny, but how can President Obama talk about illegal aliens being given Amnesty, being allowed to come out from the shadows, but he is fine with making 25 million pot smokers live in the shadows. Why should be have to feel like criminals, why should we have too hide our behaviors...seriously, how many of you have your little STASH hiding place at home, freak out now and again when you forget to put STUFF AWAY and suddenly a neighbor stops by and you are rushing to stuff your pipe in the coffee table drawer?
I am working on a BIG painting job here in my house, so need to finish this article up, swig down my last gulp of coffee and get to work. Hope every one has a nice 420 day, and hope everyone does something in the coming year to move us close to the day when we can come out of the shadows.
Monday, April 20, 2009
420 Community CALL TO ACTION
Monday, April 20, 2009
Obama White House, Eric Holder's Department of Justice Targeting a Holocaust Against Medical Marijuana Caregivers, Growers, Suppliers and Users.
The Department of justice has made it official that they intend on cracking down on anyone involved in the Medical Marijuana industry, regardless of the states laws on Medical Marijuana. Needless to say, this is seriously bad news...question is, can the Medical Marijuana Movement do anything if we continue to sit on our hands...letter writing is NOT WORKING, while media coverage WILL WORK. We wrote letters, contacted our elected officials, prayed, and that DID NOT END THE VIETNAM WAR...taking to the streets, being in the NEWS EVERY FREAKING NIGHT ended that war. It will take that same effort to end the wrongful WAR ON DRUGS, and the sooner we come to this realization, the better off we will all be.
We have 25 million cannabis smokers across America...it is my belief, my contention that we are not going to get any POSITIVE forward movement on Medical Marijuana or on cannabis legalization any time soon unless we organize and MARCH, and I am talking in LARGE NUMBERS. You put half a million people on the streets in say five major cities...New York, Washington, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Chicago would work...and you will see movement and action. You have smaller groups of us picking up our protest signs and taking to the streets, and we will get action. You call a million person Woodstock like SMOKE IN down on Washington, DC, and YOU WILL PUSH THE ISSUE.
How many more people need sent to prison before we all wake up to the reality that drastic actions are required here? The war on drugs has lasted SEVENTY YEARS because WE HAVE ALLOWED IT TO LAST. If states have voted to have LEGAL Medical Marijuana, then they have a duty to PROTECT those citizens in their states that did everything by the books according to state law, and that includes using local, state police, and if necessary the State National Guard to evict the DEA from their cities, to chain shut Federal Court Houses. Arnold has the ability in California to DRAW THE LINE IN THE SAND, but he does not have the balls to do it. That leaves it up to the 420 Community to demand real change, to MARCH FOR OUR CIVIL RIGHTS.
Showing up for sentencing on the 23rd of Charles Lynch...that is all nice and well, but it is NOT GOING TO DO ANY GOOD, he is still going to be handcuffed, dragged up to prison for up to ONE HUNDRED YEARS...chain shut the court house, encircle it in PEACEFUL PROTEST with so many people that the courthouse has no choice but to SHUT DOWN, that will get attention on this issue, give these victims of the goosestepping agents of the DEA a fighting chance for justice. Face it people...in WAR YOU FIGHT, OR YOU LOSE.
Obama is not scaling back the war on drugs, HE IS TURNING UP THE HEAT, the DEA and Eric Holder's Department of Justice are looking for the easy to pluck low hanging fruit, and that low hanging fruit makes every Medical Marijuana user, grower, supplier and caregiver A TARGET in all 13 states that have laws allowing Medical Marijuana use. Charles, Tom Kikuchi, Stephanie Landa, Dustin Costa...how many more of your friends, your compatriots are going to be scooped up by the BLACK HAND of the DEA before you realize this is a HOLOCAUST aimed at and against ten percent of Americans Citizens?
We have how many Pot Smokers on TWITTER? Where are my Budding Bloggers, at least one in every state so that we can network and have INSTANT communications to get stories out? Where is every smoker on Twitter joining up and participating in the Medical Marijuana Society Network? We need to GET SERIOUS PEOPLE, and I hope this Blog Message is the start of a NATIONAL CALL TO ACTION.
Sign up, volunteer, get involved...we need ACTIVIST, and being an ACTIVISTS MEANS DOING SOMETHING BESIDES LIGHTING UP A BLUNT.
Places You Can PLUG IN TOO...we can build the tools, but if 420 Folk do not join and use them, what good are they?
Medical Marijuana Society
Medical Marijuana Society Network
Medical Marijuana Message Board
Budding Bloggers
NORML
ASA (Americans for Safe Access)
Track Marijuana News...follow us on Twitter!
Link to this message, cut and paste it to your blogs!
Before you say you are too busy to get involved...what if you are next on the DEA's list as they TARGET OUR COMMUNITY? Short on time...then GIVE MONEY, as it takes money to organize and advertise! Think about it...if every Pot Smoker in America DONATED TEN DOLLARS A MONTH TO THE CAUSE, we would have $250 Million EACH MONTH to wage war against our oppressors...that buys a lot of advertising, hires a lot of lobbyists, and could FUND OUR MARCHES! Yes, I am ANGRY...this war has lasted seventy years, and it is time WE END IT.
Before you say you are too busy to get involved...what if you are next on the DEA's list as they TARGET OUR COMMUNITY? Short on time...then GIVE MONEY, as it takes money to organize and advertise! Think about it...if every Pot Smoker in America DONATED TEN DOLLARS A MONTH TO THE CAUSE, we would have $250 Million EACH MONTH to wage war against our oppressors...that buys a lot of advertising, hires a lot of lobbyists, and could FUND OUR MARCHES! Yes, I am ANGRY...this war has lasted seventy years, and it is time WE END IT.
Friday, April 17, 2009
President Obama, Eric Holder Sell Out Medical Marijuana Distributor Charles Lynch In California, HAVE LIED TO AMERICA
On April 11th I asked people in the Bloggosphere and on Twitter to write letters of support for Charles Lynch, a Medical Marijuana Shop owner who has wrongfully been STALKED by the DEA, even though he was in full compliance WITH ALL CALIFORNIA LAWS. It was the hope of many within the Medical Marijuana community that the Obama Administration's public statement on Medical Marijuana would see victims of criminal persecution by the DEA would see their cases dismissed. In a letter just released, the DOJ basically tells subordinates that Eric Holder is fine seeing this man hung up by his balls as an example to every other Medical Marijuana Care facility in America...the 13 states that have LEGALIZED Medical Marijuana are encouraged to take a stand, encouraged to ORDER DEA out of your states even if it requires ordering out your State Highway Patrol and State National Guard troops to accomplish the eviction, order all Federal Courts chained shut until such time as this important State's Rights issue is resolved in favor of the states. (DEA Propaganda...you people are cocksuckers, plain and simple.) (Judge for yourselves...newspaper article.)In this breaking news just out we have learned that President Barack Obama, Eric Holder and the entire United States Department of Justice are back stabbing two faced, snake tongued sleaze bags who are promising to leave states who have made Medical Marijuana legal alone, while in reality turning up the heat and attempting to visit a Holocaust upon the Medical Marijuana Caregivers in the hopes of killing this budding industry,leaving millions of patients suffering in the wake of this Federal Persecution of Business people and Medical Marijuana Caregivers who have gone to GREAT EXTREMES to operate within the FULL EXTENT of their local and state laws, including paying their taxes.
For the 420 Community, this is a Ruby Ridge level crisis...Charles Lynch, a law abiding citizen of the state of California (which has legalized Medical Marijuana) and hundreds of other citizens just like him are facing up too 100 years in Prison because of an unfair and unjust DEA Witch hunt. If there was ever a time where citizens should exercise their First Amendment Rights, that time is April 29th in the Courtroom of Judge Wu, on the steps of his Federal Courthouse, and in the front of EVERY DEA OFFICE IN CALIFORNIA...take your digital cameras, and get photographs, put the faces of the DEA agents online, identify them, know them, keep them OUT OF YOUR SHOPS, OUT OF YOUR NEIGHBORHOODS. Once you identify them, protest in front of their homes until this DEA, Department of Justice sanctified WITCH HUNT IS PERMANENTLY STOPPED through the full nationwide legalisation of Medical Marijuana.
Seeking 420 Community Advice on Forward Direction
Thanks to Twitter, had a very interesting Email exchange with a major player in the movement to Legalize Medical Marijuana. Got some really great technical advice on tracking my posts, measuring the success of my message which I am looking forward to implementing as I learn these new found tricks of the trade. (Will start my homework later this evening.) Also received were suggestions on Medical Marijuana Society and the presentation of the site. The advice suggests I need too get rid of some of the Joe Toker, social marijuana smoker feel and information on my site, and instead zoom in on and specifically address ONLY MEDICAL MARIJUANA if I expect the major players (such as NORML and ASA) to take me seriously. (420 Hemp Energy Drink)Not discounting the advice, though will admit to being a bit saddened by it. It would be my hope that the casual smokers, the Cannabis DUDES and DUDETTES, 420 hempsters if you will and the more serious folks who are concerned only about, or primarily with Legalization of Medical Marijuana all realize working for one goal helps accomplish the other, and to reach our long range hopes and targets, we must work together, two halves of a whole? Am I wrong in that assumption?
Part of the reason for my own little Medical Marijuana Society, for the Budding Blogger Network was to create a means to A) activate the grassroots, and make them feel more hands on actively involved in the movement for legalization, and B) create a active, vibrant ground force of Cannabis Activists capable of not just pushing news stories out onto the world wide web, but by joining them into a group being capable of making the news, shaping local, state and federal politics with our ability to be on top of a story, having the capabilities to push a story or Cannabis Political news into being mainstream news on the nightly Network and Cable channels.
Obama laughed off the feat that our Cannabis Community accomplished when we laid siege to the White House web site, and pushed the Legalization of Marijuana question to the top of the boards. Publicly, he and FOX News might have laughed that feat off, attempted to label us as Internet Trolls, but secretly behind closed doors they are both impressed, and more than a little scared that the Cannabis Community is finding its collective voice...or at least I like to think we are finding our collective voice. This event in some ways drove my decision to launch a group of Cannabis Blogs all linked together, thus the Budding Bloggers Network.
With today's advice, find myself hesitating, trying to gather my thoughts before moving forward...it is as if I have come to a fork in the road much sooner than I had imagined was possible. Can I blend together some of the fun that is the Social Smokers reality, incorporate some of their approaches to Legalization with the much more conservative Medical Marijuana agenda and its very conservative approach and create a Medical Marijuana Society that sees Legalization of Medical Marijuana as one of the train stops along the way, but not the ultimate destination, and in doing so marry together the two camps? Is it possible to find 500 or even 1000 Budding Bloggers to join up and Blog for Legalization as part of a TEAM? Would love to see a discussion on this, as I could really use some direction this evening.
One voice crying in the wilderness will not be heard, but if all those singular voices join together in song, we can move moountains.
Just a Couple of Friday Hemp Factoids
The Cannabis Community is all abuzz as we approach April 20th (4/20) and the various and assorted planned activities around that day. Myself...I am leery as I watch the American News media beating a rather ugly sounding anti Marijuana Drum since Barack Obama took office...I see it as a "Custer's Last Stand" on the part of the DEA who does not want to lose what has been a very profitable enforcement run for them...as example, legalization of Medical Marijuana would see enforcement issues and inspection handed over to the FDA, and Industrialized Hemp oversight would probably go to the USDA. The just say no message is being tweaked and amped up, and we have some heavy hitters (Hillary Clinton, Janet Napolitano, Eric Holder) in the Obama administration blaming the Mexican Drug War on American Pot Smokers.
Some Factoids (Hemptoids)
1. At least 2/3's of American Marijuana Consumption (both legal and illegal) is grown right here in America, and we could easily grow 100 percent of our consumption if Cannabis and Hemp were legalized.
2. The Drug Cartel's and their war is not really about Marijuana, but instead is about Heroin and Cocaine and the routes needed to get their products into America.
On 420, have fun, CELEBRATE OUR DAY, but I would ask each and every one of my fellow Budsters out there in 420 land to remember the goal of Legalization, and consider signing up to do some volunteer work for the cause. We need state and city bloggers ourselves. ASA (Americans for Safe Access) and NORML probably have lots of volunteer work waiting for a set of hands that wants to pitch in.
We cannot realize our dream without every Cannabis Friendly American doing their part for the cause, and while we are on the subject, lets not forget that our friends in Canada are dealing with many of the same issues and harrassments we ourselves face.
Some Factoids (Hemptoids)
1. At least 2/3's of American Marijuana Consumption (both legal and illegal) is grown right here in America, and we could easily grow 100 percent of our consumption if Cannabis and Hemp were legalized.
2. The Drug Cartel's and their war is not really about Marijuana, but instead is about Heroin and Cocaine and the routes needed to get their products into America.
On 420, have fun, CELEBRATE OUR DAY, but I would ask each and every one of my fellow Budsters out there in 420 land to remember the goal of Legalization, and consider signing up to do some volunteer work for the cause. We need state and city bloggers ourselves. ASA (Americans for Safe Access) and NORML probably have lots of volunteer work waiting for a set of hands that wants to pitch in.
We cannot realize our dream without every Cannabis Friendly American doing their part for the cause, and while we are on the subject, lets not forget that our friends in Canada are dealing with many of the same issues and harrassments we ourselves face.
Tags: 420, cannabis, dea, friendly, hemp, legalization, marijuana, medical, obama,
Hemptoids-small, sometimes rarely known facts about Hemp and Cannabis.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Our Federal Government Should Use Sound Science In Putting Forth Public Policy and Information on Medical Marijuana
But what happens when they do not? What and where is the accountability when politics is allowed to extinguish the flame of truth, when propaganda rather than sound science is allowed to rule the day, dictate policy and shape public perception? Propaganda is a strong word, and therefore one I wish to define...from my perspective, for the purpose of this article, Propaganda is selectively omitting or employing facts to persuade members of the general public to hold a specific view point. All this may not make sense if you are unaware of ASA's (Americans for Safe Access) court case in the Ninth Circuit Court that was heard yesterday. At question...the Federal Government's wrongful position in public discourse that there are no Medical Benefits to be found in Cannabis (marijuana).In the immediate case, the ASA's challenge of Marijuana being called a Class 1 drug (which means it has no medical value) is relying upon a little known law (Data Quality Act (DQA)) that requires governmental agencies to rely upon Sound Science in effecting/shaping the governments public views/statements on any given topic. You would think this case is a closed book...we all know (even those who oppose legalization) that there is Medical Value to Marijuana. Here's the catch...it is the contention of our government (Eric Holder, Department of Justice, and most specifically, the DEA) that this law does not give citizens the right to CHALLENGE GOVERNMENT INFORMATION they believe to be inaccurate, based on faulty or unreliable data, or simply false as in the case of the DEA routinely putting out Public Service Announcements wrongfully portraying Marijuana as a drug with no social medical value to it.
The ASA's immediate lawsuit does not seek to change law, nor does it challenge the legal classification of Marijuana. What it seeks, is correction of false or misleading information that effects their clients who include seriously ill persons who have been dissuaded and/or discouraged from using Medical Marijuana by the US Department of Health and Human Services long held position that Marijuana/Cannabis the drug has no Medical Value. Interestingly, Health and Human Services declined to respond to the suit under the guise that the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) was/is still considering the advocacy group's (ASA) 2002 request to reconsider the status of Marijuana...if the DEA has not been capable of making a decision on a simple request in seven years, they (for political reasons) are not going to make a decision on the request. Further, there is supposed to be a certain autonomy within the various agencies of the Federal Government. A request pending with one Agency should not necessarily negate the duties and responsibilities of another agency to put forth to the public honest, sound medical information that is based upon sound science. More importantly, a request seeking to have the status/classification of a drug changed is UNRELATED to a formal request made to an agency to correct false or incorrect information.
Further, does President Obama's Executive Memo on Scientific Integrity now require the Department of Health and Human Services to correct false material facts about the Medical uses of Marijuana, and if so should ASA be allowed to move for Summary Judgement in the immediate case?
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of
the Press Secretary
_________________________________________
For
Immediate Release March 9, 2009MEMORANDUM FOR THE HEADS OF EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENTS AND
AGENCIESSUBJECT: Scientific Integrity
Science and the scientific process must inform and guide decisions of my Administration on a wide range of issues, including improvement of public health, protection of the environment, increased efficiency in the use of energy and other resources, mitigation of the threat of climate change (Think Hemp Biofuels and Composite Hemp building materials such as Hemcrete), and protection of national security.
The public must be able to trust the science and scientific process informing public policy decisions. Political officials should not suppress or alter scientific or technological findings and conclusions. If scientific and technological information is developed and used by the Federal Government, it should ordinarily be made available to the public. To the extent permitted by law, there should be transparency in the preparation, identification, and use of scientific and technological information in policymaking. The selection of scientists and technology professionals for positions in the executive branch should be based on their scientific and technological knowledge, credentials, experience, and integrity.
A Justice Department lawyer on Tuesday put forth the position that the law relied upon in the case does not allow citizens to seek correction of government misinformation through the judicial process, but instead lays down a perception that administrative remedies were the intended means of seeking redress and correction of misleading or fraudulent information put out by an agency of our Federal Government. It is the position of Alisa Klein, and by PROXY President Barack Obama that the Information Policy Act passed in 2000 requires only that a Federal Agency review such requests from the public. That is not exactly true...if you look at the act, it spells out certain duties and responsibilities:
- (B) establish administrative mechanisms allowing affected persons to seek and obtain correction of information maintained and disseminated by the agency that does not comply with the guidelines issued under subsection (a); and
- (C) report periodically to the Director –
- (i) the number and nature of complaints received by the agency regarding the accuracy of information disseminated by the agency; and
- (ii) how such complaints were handled by the agency. (Simply reviewing and dismissing them is inadequate.)
The language as written shows it was and is the intent of the law/statute to give citizens a means to have incorrect information CORRECTED...in essence, without specifically stating so, it envisions citizens being able to SEEK AND OBTAIN correction of information by whatever steps necessary, and if citizens are unsuccessful in getting an agency to voluntarily correct misinformation, then they are or should be free to take whatever steps necessary to obtain correction, including Legal Action. If you look at the Department of Health and Human Services actions, their own decision to SIMPLY IGNORE a request to have information corrected, the affected clients that ASA represents were left with no recourse but to take further legal action in preserving their rights as outlined in the words, "allowing affected persons to seek and obtain correction of information" memorialized above. If President Barack Obama were an honorable man, he could easily resolve this issue, make the legal case mute by ordering the Department of Health and Human Services to correct the information. He so far has not done so, leaving no choice but to assume he is a dishonorable man.
The case, from my perspective turns on this...The DOJ wrongfully claims their client's duties and responsibility under the law in question end with a REVIEW OF SUCH REQUESTS (emphasis added), while the above passage makes it abundantly clear that our Congress expected Agencies to take whatever steps were necessary in correcting incorrect information.
The attorney, Alan Morrison, for ASA rightfully argued that the governments contention would defacto make the law meaningless, a red herring with no teeth...I would argue the teeth are clearly there, would state it is the intention of Congress and the law to allow citizens LEGAL RECOURSE if necessary in having false or inaccurate information corrected. It is noted here, that the Department of Health and Human Services did not conduct a review of the information in question, nor make any effort to correct any misleading, inaccurate or untruthful information, thus putting them in violation of the law/statute.
President Obama in his memo spells out certain duties and responsibilities for Federal Agencies, and has gone further in public statements in defining his expectations as America's Chief Executive Officer.
We expect the National Institutes of Health to keep America at the forefront of medical research, and work toward a cure for cancer in our time. And for as long as I am President, these agencies will be led by exceptional individuals who stand on the side of the American people; who push politics aside in favor of proven science; who eschew stale ideology for sound ideas and a focus on what works.
This and other comments by the President have supposedly changed the playing field, seem to put a duty and responsibility on Federal Agencies to come clean, to bring forth and shed light on truth, even when it comes to Medical Marijuana. In this world, at this important time in history, the lies about Marijuana and Industrial Hemp cannot stand. We need to pull back the curtain, need to put Medical Marijuana on the table as we seek to cure cancer, need to look at what Hemp has to offer in solving Global Warming and in creating a sustainable world. The President has called his agencies to action, dictated that they restore public faith by being forthright and honest in their public discourse, in the information they put out to the masses. The Data Quality Act provides a valuable took in seeking out truth, for only with truth can we have Justice and Liberty for all.
Win or lose in the Ninth Circuit Court, one thing is certain...the law requires, in fact MANDATES that false information be corrected. Let us hope that the case in question is reinstated, but if it is not, the Medical Marijuana Community (420) needs to drown various agencies of the Federal Government in citizen requests until such time as this wrong is righted. 25-50 million Americans smoke marijuana at least once a month. If each and every one of us wrote a letter demanding correction of false statements, we have the power to bring the entire Federal Government to a grinding halt until they CORRECT THE RECORD. We talk about a revolution...here is the truth...with our pens, we can START THE REVOLUTION. Even one million certified letters a month coming into Federal Agencies WOULD CRIPPLE THEM!
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