I am a big fan of Jeff Mizanskey. For those that are not familiar with Jeff Mizanskey, he was sentenced to life in prison in Missouri for non-violent, marijuana-only offenses. After serving over two decades of that prison sentence, and after a very concerted effort by cannabis activists and his family, Jeff Mizanskey was freed earlier this year. Since then Mr. Mizanskey has been making public appearances all over the place, and it makes my heart skip a beat each time I see his name on a schedule.
The 4th annual Marijuana Business Conference and Expo is coming to Vegas next month, and as part of the event Marijuana Business Daily is putting on a celebration and fundraiser for reform organizations, and Jeff Mizanskey is going to be the special guest of the evening (go get ’em Missouri!). I was able to get press passes to the conference, but as of right now don’t have tickets to this fundraiser. If that changes, I hope to see as many TWB readers there as possible. Tickets are $125 a piece, so hopefully I can scrum up some funds between now and then. I don’t normally have extra money, but all the proceeds from this event go to reform organizations, so if I have to collect pop cans to get in there, then so be it. And if not, you should still go to shake Jeff Mizanskey’s hand! Below is more about the event, via the event’s webpage:
Join us for an unforgettable evening of celebration and networking, and help raise over $100,000 toward ending cannabis prohibition!
We’ve dedicated this official show party of the Marijuana Business Conference & Expo to connect the industry’s thriving business community with the advocacy organizations who have been, and will continue to be, instrumental to achieving full marijuana legalization in the US.
100% of net proceeds for the Benefit – including your ticket purchase – will be donated to six non-profit beneficiaries:
Students for Sensible Drug Policy
Drug Policy Alliance
NORML
Marijuana Policy Project
Americans for Safe Access
National Cannabis Industry Association
Register now for this event where you’ll mingle with leaders from six of the top national advocacy groups, as well as industry stalwarts who have shaped the marijuana business landscape, surprise guest legalization supporters and hundreds of your industry peers in a relaxed poolside setting perfect for after-hours networking.
You’ll also enjoy an open bar, hearty appetizers and live entertainment. You’ll have a great time, celebrate the industry’s advances with like-minded industry professionals, and have the satisfaction of knowing you’re directly helping to support our industry’s successes.
Special Guest
Jeff Mizanskey
After spending almost 20 years of a life sentence in prison for a non-violent marijuana-related charge, Jeff Mizanskey was released this September. His sentence was a byproduct of Missouri’s now-defunct three strikes law due to two other non-violent drug charges. Mizanskey was the only inmate in Missouri serving such a sentence for marijuana. Jeff’s release is symbolic of the country’s rapidly-changing opinions of marijuana. Now an advocate for cannabis legalization and sentencing reform, Mizanskey is enjoying his life outside of prison with his family, friends and a new pair of shoes.
When: November 12, 2015 7:00-9:00 pm
Where: Rio Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas
Cost: $125
