[ASA Field]

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ASA California Weekly Alert: 10-3-2008

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*Weekly Round Up*
1.Governor Schwarzenegger Vetoes Anti-Employment Discrimination Bill
2. Palm Springs and Arcata Move Forward on Dispensary Regulations
3. Tragedy Strikes Los Angeles Dispensary, Security Guard Shot

*Take Action*
4. Call Foul on Schwarzenegger for Vetoing ASA's Job Security Bill

*Chapter and Affiliate Meetings
*5. Saturday, October 4 - Palm Springs: ASA Affiliate Coachella Valley MAPP Meeting
6. Tuesday, October 7th - Sacramento: Sacramento ASA Meeting
7. Wednesday, October 8 - San Rafael: Emerging Chapter - Marin Co. ASA Meeting
8. Monday, October 13th - Fresno: Fresno ASA Meeting
9. Tuesday, October 14th - San Francisco: SF ASA Meeting
10. Tuesday, October 14th - San Diego: SD ASA Meeting
11. Wednesday, October 15th - Chico: Emerging Chapter - Butte Co. ASA Meeting
12. Wednesday, October 15th - Fullerton: Orange County ASA
13. Thursday, October 16th - Arcata: Humboldt County ASA Meeting

*Court Support*
14. Monday, October 6 - Fresno: Scarmazzo and Montes Sentencing and Request for New Trial

*Special Events*
15. Monday, October 6 - LA: Charles Lynch Protest
16. Monday, October 13th - Santa Rosa: ASA Sponsored Forum with Board of Supervisor Candidates

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California Icon Weekly Round Up

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1. Governor Schwarzenegger Vetoes Anti-Employment Discrimination Bill

Governor Schwarzenegger jeopardized the financial security for California's most seriously ill by vetoing ASA's anti-employment discrimination bill (AB 2279 <http://www.safeaccessnow.org/article.php?id=5474>), which would have protected the jobs of legal medical cannabis patients statewide. As it stands, thanks to the 2007 California Supreme Court ruling in /Ross v. Ragingwire/ <http://www.safeaccessnow.org/article.php?id=4407>, those who are legally qualified to use cannabis as a treatment option under California law may be fired from their jobs because of it.

The incredible effort <http://safeaccessnow.org/blog/?p=171> put forth by ASA staff and activists in lobbying, building powerful coalitions with health care groups and labor unions, and working with the bill's sponsor, Assemblymember Mark Leno (D) had led to positive momentum for this important step toward equality for medical cannabis patients. The bill passed through both the California Assembly and Senate, and reached the Governor's desk in the midst of an unprecedented display of sweeping vetoes by Governor Schwarzenegger. The message that the Governor attached to the veto implied that he felt California voters passed Proposition 215 <http://www.safeaccessnow.org/article.php?list=type&type=186> without intending to protect patients from employment discrimination and the right to financially support themselves and their families.
Most everyone outside of the Governor's mansion believes that people who live with illness should be encouraged to work rather than rely on services from the state, further straining our tight budget. We saw a greater mobilization of our members than almost ever before, with AB 2279 receiving more pressure from constituents than almost any other bill the Governor considered. This kind of action demonstrates what our community can do when we bind together across the state . Medical cannabis is making powerful progress in dispensary regulations <http://www.safeaccessnow.org/article.php?list=type&type=154> and ID cards <http://www.safeaccessnow.org/article.php?list=type&type=214>, and we're making new legal in-roads all the time. ASA has vowed to bring this fight for job security even more aggressively next year, and we know you'll be right there with us!

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2. Palm Springs and Arcata Move Forward on Dispensary Regulations

In two different parts of the state, local governments continue to take important steps to expand California's medical cannabis program. Officials for the cities of Arcata and Palm Springs moved toward new regulations <http://www.safeaccessnow.org/article.php?list=type&type=154>this week to address dispensary operation and maintenance, bringing their jurisdictions up to code and in compliance with both California law (SB 420 <http://www.safeaccessnow.org/article.php?list=type&type=186>) and with the recently issued guidelines <http://www.safeaccessnow.org/article.php?id=5562>by Attorney General Jerry Brown.

The Arcata City Council <http://www.cityofarcata.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=72&Itemi d=148> <http://www.cityofarcata.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=72&Itemi d=148>reviewed and approved dispensary regulations as part of its land use zoning deliberations. The city's marijuana task force had brought the proposed regulations to the city in August, which chose to wait to thoroughly review the then-newly released AG guidelines before issuing its own recommendations. The decision by the council has been months coming, and is a welcome step by community members who rely on medical cannabis dispensary services.

Officials in Palm Springs also moved forward with civil codes allowing and regulating dispensaries. The proposed draft ordinance, which has the support of the Mayor and most council members <http://www.ci.palm-springs.ca.us/council.html>, would bring zoning and operation requirements to an area which, only months prior, had been considering banning public medical cannabis services outright. The draft ordinance was referred to the city's planning commission for review, and will be returned to the city council.

Carlo Sarmiento, a volunteer at Community Caregivers, said of the proposed guidelines, which may rezone the dispensing collective, "Our original goal is to get this medicine to the patient... If it requires us to move, we would still have to follow (that) goal." The turnaround for Palm Springs was the result of education and pressure from members of the community on city regulators; it did not happen on its own. Its absolutely critical that community members who live in areas where access to medical cannabis is restricted or denied outright take control of their local governments, working individually to call officials and cooperatively with ASA chapters <http://www.safeaccessnow.org/article.php?list=type&type=50> or other community groups to inform apprehensive local lawmakers of their duty to comply with state law and to those living with illness in their neighborhoods.
Read more about Arcata <http://eurekareporter.com/article/081002-council-takes-on-medical-marijuana-growing-issues>and Palm Springs <http://www.mydesert.com/article/20081003/NEWS01/810020383/1143/RSS27> on medical cannabis.

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*3. Tragedy Strikes Los Angeles Dispensary, Security Guard Shot

*In a horrible example of the need for greater protection from local law enforcement, a security guard at an Los Angeles dispensary was shot and killed while on duty this week. ASA's sincere thoughts and prayers go out to the friends and family of Noe Campos Gonzalez, 25, who was fatally shot about 3:30 p.m.Wednesday at the La Brea Collective in Los Angeles. The unarmed Gonzalez was shot in an apparent robbery attempt, and law enforcement have identified two suspects in the shooting.

The tragedy struck as the LA medical cannabis community is coming together to support dispensary owner Charles Lynch at the LA federal courthouse on Monday. Lynch will be sentenced on federal charges for his role in running a medical cannabis dispensary. Local law enforcement have been exceptional in working to bring the violent perpetrators to justice, which underscores the need for positive relationships between collectives and police in every community. At this time, La Brea Collective and the Gonzalez family need the support of the community. Thanks to everyone who's been present through this difficult time.
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Take Action Icon Take Action

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4. Call Foul on Schwarzenegger for Vetoing ASA's Job Security Bill

In one of the most contentious economic periods in the last hundred years, while mortgage crises and Wall Street collapses are plaguing recent headlines, and while the people of California are truly worried about their financial future, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed a critical workers' rights bill which would have protected the jobs of over 300,000 of our most vulnerable citizens; those living with illness.
Because of Schwazenegger's veto, every single person in California who uses medical cannabis legally under state law can be fired at any time, just because of the medication they take to treat serious and chronic illnesses. That effects many of you, and many of your friends and families who are already struggling to build financial security.
ASA is very concerned that the Governor would gamble away the lives and livelihoods of over 300,000 Californians just to play a political card, and you should be too. Call the Governor and get everyone you know to do the same. Call 916-445-2841 and say:

/"Hi, my name is [YOUR NAME], and I am very disappointed with Governor's veto of AB 2279, the medical cannabis workers' rights bill. Because of the Governor, hundreds of thousands of Californians can be fired from their jobs just because of the treatment they use to control an illness. These are frightening economic times, and it is distressing that the Governor would put so many jobs at risk. / /I hope he is willing to change his position next year./ "

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Take Action Icon Chapter and Affiliate Meetings

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*5. Saturday, October 4 - Palm Springs: ASA Affiliate Coachella Valley MAPP Meeting*

When: Saturday, October 4 at 3 p.m.
Where: Copykatz Showroom at 210 S. Palm Canyon at the corner of Arenas and S. Palm Canyon in downtown Palm Springs.

Coachella Valley MAPP meeting. An examination and overview of the expected Palm Springs Medical Marijuana Dispensary Ordinance. We'll be discussing how to ensure passage, how it may be implemented, and how patients will be able to access medicine through them.

Contact Lanny - lannyswerdlow@earthlink.net
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*6. Tuesday, October 7th - Sacramento: Sacramento ASA Meeting*

Medical cannabis in the state's capitol is exciting and rewarding. Find out how to lobby legislators and how the local ASA affiliate is helping to pressure and impact state law. Sacramento ASA played an instrumental role in the efforts to support AB 2279, and all are encouraged to attend!

When: Tuesday, October 7th @ 7pm
Where: Crusaders Hall
320 Harris Avenue, Suite H in Sacramento

For more info, email Lanette: cannacare@earthlink.net
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*7. Wednesday, October 8 - San Rafael: Emerging Chapter - Marin Co. ASA Meeting*

When: Wednesday, October 8, @ 7pm
Where: Law Office of Scott Candell 4040 Civic Center Dr.
San Rafael 94903

Marin County ASA is just getting off the ground, and is a group of dedicated and influential citizens getting together to influence their local government on important medical cannabis issues. Please come join the growing body of ASA activists in Marin County. Contact Scott - candell@sflegalhelp.com

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8. Monday, October 13th - Fresno: Fresno ASA Meeting

When: Monday, October 13th 6-7:30pm
Where: 620 F Street - Full Circle Brewing Company
Fresno, CA

Fresno ASA is coming off of their success in getting Fresno County Supervisors to vote to implement the medical cannabis state ID cards. Now they've got their sights set on implementation of the AG guidelines with regard to allowing nonprofit collectives and cooperatives. Come be a part of this exciting and growing movement in Central California. Contact Diana - fresnocagal@sbcglobal.net
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9. Tuesday, October 14th - San Francisco: SF ASA Meeting

SF ASA is one of the longest running ASA chapters, responsible for much of the major medical cannabis progress we've seen in the Bay Area over the years. Meetings are an excellent way to meet like-minded people, to learn about medical cannabis research, law, and politics, and to get involved in impacting your community in a positive way. Be proactive - Come to the SF ASA Meeting - and be sure to come for this meeting's Candidate Forums! A look at a variety of local officials running for public office - be an informed voter this November!

When: Tuesday, October 14th @ 7:30pm
Where: Bowzer's Pizza,
371 11th St
San Francisco CA

For more information, contact Brent Saupe: brent_saupe@yahoo.com
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*10. Tuesday, October 14th - San Diego: SD ASA Meeting*
*
*At the San Diego ASA meeting, join dozens of community members in standing up for your rights. The San Diego County Board of Supervisors continues its wasteful attempt to violate state law and refuse to implement the state mandated ID card program that would allow patients to be easily identified by law enforcement.

When: Tuesday, September 9th @ 7pm
Where: International Cannabis University
6070 Mt. Alifan Suite 202
San Diego, CA 92111, Claremont

For more info, contact Dion, 4cccp@cox.net
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*11. Wednesday, October 15th - Chico: Emerging Chapter - Butte Co. ASA Meeting*
*
*When: Wednesday, October 15th @ 6pm
Where: Chico Public Library, East 1st Ave and Sherman near the HWY 99 exit/onramp.
Chico, CA

The newly emerging Butte County ASA chapter is focusing on raising awareness about the group and about ASA in the area. There's much need for organizing, and the group is looking for influential and motivated volunteers to participate in the growth of medical cannabis protections, rights and education in their community. Come show your support and participate!
Contact Rob at microbudsdude@yahoo.com
**
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*12. Wednesday, October 15th - Fullerton: Orange County ASA Meeting
*

When: Wednesday, October 15th @ 7pm
Where: 922 Williamson Ave Fullerton, CA

Orange County ASA has experienced some great success with the recent passage of dispensary regulations. Local officials are being educated and medical cannabis support is gaining ground.

For more information, please visit www.asa-oc.org, or contact OC ASA Organizer Cha Hanna: channa.ocasa@yahoo.com

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*13. Thursday, October 16th - Arcata: Humboldt County ASA Meeting*

Recent events have sparked increased interest at the city and county levels. In addition, DEA has been making an increased presence in our community. Come to the Humboldt Co. ASA meeting to learn how to get involved in standing for the rights of patients and Californians.

When: Thursday, October 16th @ 6pm
Where: Community recreation room of the Bayview Courtyard Senior Housing Complex
550 Union Street,
Arcata CA
For more info, contact Linda-Anne Cummings: asa-humboldt@sbcglobal.net

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Patients Rights Icon Court Support

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14. Monday, October 6 - Fresno: Scarmazzo and Montes Sentencing
and Request for New Trial

Two jurors publicly recanted their guilty verdicts in the federal trial of Ricardo Montes and Luke Scarmazzo, operators of the California Healthcare Collective raided by DEA in 2006, providing their attorneys an opportunity to push for a new trial.

Jurors Craig Will and Larry Silva said they would not have convicted Montes and Scarmazzo if they had realized the felony charges carry a mandatory sentence of 20 years to life in federal prison. They both claim they intended to find the men not guilty until they read a summary of a news story in the San Francisco Chronicle that said future presidential administrations likely would not prosecute dispensaries in medical cannabis states. In the news story it "appeared as though this wasn't a serious crime," Will told the court. If its found that jurors were unduly influenced by the Chronicle, or any other outside source, it may be enough to retry the case with a new jury.
What: Sentencing and motion for new trial for Montes and Scarmazzo
When: Monday, October 6th @ 2pm
Where: Judge Oliver W. Wanger
Fresno Federal Courthouse
2500 Tulare, Fresno, CA

Jessica Santos, a friend of Scarmazzo, is collecting signatures at gopetition.com to contest the mandatory minimum sentence. The repentant jurors were the first two people to sign the online petition. For more information contact Vanessa Nelson at: vanessa@crazybrain.org
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Marijuana Icon Special Events

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*15. Monday, October 6 - Los Angeles: FREE CHARLES C. LYNCH peaceful PROTEST

* When: Monday, October 6, 2008
11 am rally in front of the courthouse (professional attire and respectful demeanor requested)
Where: U.S. District Courthouse
312 NORTH Spring street (at Temple St) in downtown LA

Charles C. Lynch was raided by the DEA and the San Luis Obispo County Sheriffs on March 29, 2007 at Central Coast Compassionate Caregivers (CCCC) in Morro Bay, CA. Lynch stringently followed state, county and city medical cannabis regulations, and developed positive and open relationships with all top local officials. On March 29, 2007, San Luis Obispo County Sheriff called in the DEA to raid the dispensary.

On July 17, 2007, after his collective was already closed, the DEA and local sheriffs arrested Lynch on $400,000 bail, posted by his family and FACES UP TO 100 YEARS IN FEDERAL PRISON. On August 5, 2008, Lynch was convicted on charges of 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 Lynch's assets.

Watch Drew Carey's account of Lynch's struggle with the federal government on Reason.tv <http://www.reason.tv/video/show/413.html>. For more information visit http://www.friendsofccl.com to give money, assistance, and support. Or, write to Judge Wu directly and plead for Charlie's freedom. Letters of support helped Mickey Martin receive a lighter sentence, so we need to show the same support for Charles Lynch.

Please join ASA for a rally at 11am at the federal courthouse to show support for victims of federal interference and to call for an end to raids and intimidation. We hope to have thousands of peaceful protesters there! Please mark your calendars for this important date now.**

Bring: signs, banners, sunscreen, a hat, water and acoustic instruments and bring friends and loved ones to this peaceful protest for medical marijuana.

Organizers respectfully request you leave your medication at home or in your car and refrain from using medication that this event. Please medicate responsibly before or after the event. We do not want to news media to focus solely on protesters medicating. We want them to focus on Charles Lynch and our issues.

_*Parking:*_
PLEASE CARPOOL or take PUBLIC TRANSIT. Ask your coop to organize a carpool from or near the dispensary. There is parking below the mall on Main street between Temple and Aliso St. Price
The parking lot on N Spring street directly across from City Hall (between Tom Bradley Blvd and Temple) costs $16.
There is parking on N. Spring Street Arcadia and W Cesar E Chavez Ave which cost $9 but fills up fast.
There is also parking on Main street between Arcadia and W Cesar E Chavez Ave price unknown
For public transit information, visit http://www.metro.net/riding_metro/default.htm
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*16. Monday, October 13th - Santa Rosa: ASA Sponsored Forum with Board of Supervisor Candidates *

Join Sonoma ASA for an excellent opportunity to learn about the positions of local candidates running for Sonoma County Board of Supervisors.

The Board of Supervisors plays an important role in determining personal medical cannabis use guidelines (how many plants and pounds). They also influence dispensary regulations and make final decisions related to which permits are approved. Please join for an exciting discussion related to issues that effect patients and caregivers in Sonoma County. Refreshments will be provided.

When: Monday, October 13th @ 6 - 8:30pm
Where: Sonoma County Central Library
3rd St. & E St.,
Santa Rosa, CA
For more information, contact Sarah@AmericansForSafeAccess.org
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--
George Pappas
Field Coordinator
Americans for Safe Access
http://AmericansForSafeAccess.org

Americans for Safe Access (ASA) is the largest national member-based organization of patients, medical professionals, scientists and concerned citizens promoting safe and legal access to cannabis for therapeutic use and research.

Join us today... http://AmericansforSafeAccess.org

1322 Webster St Suite 402
Oakland, CA 94612
P: 510-251-1856 ext. 321 F: 510-251-2036




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