Hoping to study the potential effects of medical marijuana dispensaries and the best way to regulate their operations, the Santa Monica City Council has approved a 45-day moratorium on issuing licenses for the businesses. The City Council voted unanimously Oct. 2 to pass the moratorium after the city has received four over-the-counter inquiries and 11 telephone inquiries over the last three months to establish medical pot dispensaries in Santa Monica. Staff had recommended the 45-day freeze on licenses because the city's zoning ordinance does not contain regulations governing the establishment, location and operation of such businesses. Additionally, the law on enforcing the regulation of pot collectives currently has uncertainties, staff noted. [continues 632 words]
A Moscow tradition since 1996, Hempfest is filled with characters, music, booths, art and speakers. The theme for this year's Hempfest is "Dispel the myths - Fact and Fiction." From 10 a.m. to dusk, the 12th Annual Moscow Hempfest will provide access to hemp education and advocacy, live music, food and a variety of vendors. Vendors come from across the Northwest selling hemp-related products, such as clothing, jewelry, lotions and soaps. "Vendors offer more than just glass art," said Arlene Falcon, Hempfest organizer and owner of Tye Dye Everything in Moscow. "We have moved all the glass art to the back of the park, making it a more family-friendly environment." [continues 635 words]
