In a statement today to go along with the release of a video with the Drug Policy Alliance, Melissa called for the State Senate to quickly pass marijuana decriminalization.

“I applaud Governor Cuomo for endorsing marijuana decriminalization and pledging to close the “in public view” loophole which the NYPD has unjustly utilized to arrest tens of thousands of mostly black and Latino people each year after asking them to take marijuana out of their pocket during a stop-and-frisk. During the Council’s 2011 budget hearings, I questioned Police Commissioner Kelly regarding existing laws and concerns that police officers were not honoring the intent of the law. Senator Grisanti and Assemblyman Jeffries then proposed their legislation to decriminalize marijuana in public view. Governor Cuomo, Assemblyman Jeffries, Senator Grisanti, and in particular the Drug Policy Alliance and VOCAL-NY deserve thanks for pushing this bill and I call on the State Senate to quickly pass it. This bill to decriminalize marijuana in public view is a step in the right direction and the City Council will be moving forward with a resolution in support of the change. We look forward to continuing to educate New York and close loopholes in the law that result in the unjust criminalization of our youth.”

HBK Incubates supports the growth of food businesses for low income and minority entrepreneurs.

HBK Incubates provides licensed commercial kitchen space and business development support to culinary entrepreneurs. It is a place for small businesses to grow without having to spend money building their own kitchen.

Their new program for Low Income Food Entrepreneurs (LIFE), lowers the barriers to success for low-income food businesses. This program eliminates the startup costs of incorporation, insurance and licensing, which are necessary to sell food legally in New York City.

Members of the LIFE program, receive help in formalizing their business, allowing them to sell their product at grocery stores, markets, or online improving their ability to make money and grow your business.

If you are a low income food entrepreneur who has outgrown your home kitchen, HBK incubates’ LIFE program can help you grow.

Download a flyer with more information. Spaces in the program are limited. For more information and to join the program, call Beatriz at (212) 369-3331.

This program is supported by the New York City Council.