This last March 2 – starting at around 6pm and going to 3am – over 900+ people poured into Tobacco Road to experience the 15 Annual Medical Marijuana Benefit Concert.
Needles to say, a good time was had by all. However, aside from having a good time, there were no incidents; hundreds found new networking venues and most importantly, the cause was brought in front of the media – again.
More to forward progress, several citizens signed up to be a part of next year’s event; some for the stage and others behind the scenes. It’s very encouraging in that the more who participate, the more awareness is created for this rather controversial issue: Legalize Medical Marijuana.
Several speakers told their stories and plights, authors were there as well, selling their books in hopes of enlightening the vast unknowing public. Yes, the movement is growing. As proof, even State Senator Dwight Bullard spoke along with South Miami City Commissioner Walter Harris and in attendance was Dave Crystal, candidate for Miami Beach City Commissioner.
People across Florida are beginning to see that Cannabis is not just a recreational drug; for many – like Cathy Jordan, ALS survivor – it’s the only drug that stands between her and certain death.
Currently, SB 1250: The Medical Cannabis Act is in committee in the Florida State Capital. [Medical Cannabis; Creating the "Cathy Jordan Medical Cannabis Act"; authorizing a qualifying patient to possess and administer medical cannabis, and possess and use paraphernalia for a specified purpose; requiring a qualifying patient or the patient’s caregiver to present to a law enforcement officer a registry identification card to confirm that the person is authorized to possess, use, or administer medical cannabis or paraphernalia; requiring a qualifying patient or the patient’s caregiver to possess, use, or administer only medical cannabis that is obtained from a dispensary or medical cannabis farm, etc.]
We need Medical Marijuana reform. Too many of us suffer needlessly because of special interests and big business. It’s time for a change in the way we view our fellow citizens who suffer without cause for the sake of politics.
Oh and by the way, the only crime committed at the benefit concert was that hundreds of voices were heard, people brought forth genuine health issues and solidarity was established against a decades-old law-travesty. The question is, ‘How much longer do we need to suffer an unjust and economically stupid law?’ Lives depend on support of SB 1250. The clock is ticking.
For more information or to donate support, please visit Norml of Florida. And for information as to how you can participate in next year’s event, contact Ploppy Palace.
Stay safe and stay healthy, guys and gals.
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