The Gaithersburg Mayor and City Council will hold its record open until 5 p.m. on Friday, September 15, 2023 (10 days) for a proposed ordinance to amend Chapter 15A of the City Code to apply restrictions to the use of marijuana, including but not limited to the same restrictions that now apply to smoking. Policy Discussion, and possible adoption, will take place on October 2, 2023. Per the proposed ordinance, “this has become necessary since Maryland State voters in the 2022 elections approved the use of cannabis, including marijuana, in small amounts for more than medical purposes.” More from the proposed ordinance below:
In 2022, The General Assembly approved proposing to the voters of Maryland a constitutional amendment authorizing the public and recreational use of marijuana without a medical need, and the voters approved this amendment in the November 2022 elections. The amendment required the General Assembly to enact legislation authorizing distribution, and in Senate Bill 516, the General Assembly passed the Cannabis Reform Act, which enabled and authorized the use and sale of cannabis, including marijuana, in small amounts for general and recreational use. The legislation also imposed a 9% tax to be shared with municipalities and counties. While the legislation did not impose restrictions on the use of cannabis, it established local authority to restrict public use and establish some distribution zoning requirements. If the City does not impose restrictions on the use of cannabis, such as for the use of tobacco, no such restrictions will be in place at least for uses of small amounts now authorized by state law.
The proposed ordinance would amend Section 15A-1, establishing restrictions in City parks, by adding cannabis and marijuana to the definitions. The proposal would also amend Sections 15A-7 to add cannabis and marijuana to current restrictions on tobacco and controlled substances to sell or distribute and package or transport with the intent to sell or distribute cannabis and marijuana, while Section 15A-8 also specifies that smoking and vaping of cannabis, unlike tobacco, is also prohibited.
Courtesy of the City of Gaithersburg
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FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
