medical marijuana
Cypress Hill Smokeout for Safe Access Protest Shows Huge Support for Patients
Although a vast majority of Americans support physicians prescribing marijuana for medical relief, the federal government and now Los Angeles City Council have targeted medical cannabis collectives. As marijuana.net reported yesterday from the rally, patients and advocates took action and protested the recent actions by local and federal municipalities.
Those in attendance gathered at city hall and marched to a local federal building in order to show opposition to the actions of both city and federal agents. The march occurred with almost no legal issues. Witnesses did observe one patient being arrested for medicating as the crowd gathered before the march. So far we have no indication that there were any further issues between law enforcement and attendees. The hundreds who took part in the march displayed their passion and enthusiasm as chants of “DEA, GO AWAY” were directed toward local federal offices. Drivers passing by acknowledged their support by pressing loudly on their horns
The event even boasted celebrity credentials as both Tommy Chong and B-Real of Cypress Hill took part in the protest. Tommy Chong serenaded the crowd with a song as they recognized his long term dedication to marijuana reform by chanting “Patient #1”. Cypress Hill and Americans For Safe Access helped to organize the event that serves as a precursor for the sure to be popular Cypress Hill Smokeout this weekend. The event will feature Korn, Mobb Deep, Sublime With Rome, Wolfgang Gartner as well as many other artists and surprise guests. Marijuana.net will also be there so come visit our tent.
Gary Johnson Links Border Security to Marijuana Prohibition
Border security has and will likely continue to be a point of debate in this election cycle. While we hear candidates talk about unrealistic and unaffordable “Great Walls” to separate Mexico and the United States, we hear very little in addressing the root causes of violence along our borders.
Giant security walls have not enjoyed their place in history. The GOP has taken a very rigid stance on immigration and border control (click here for a breakdown of recent statements made by GOP candidates regarding border security). However, the Republican modern hero, President Ronald Reagan famously said “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall” and then we all know what happened in Berlin shortly after.
Former republican Gary Johnson has actually decided to engage in a conversation on border security that avoids the typical clichés and talking points. Mr. Johnson, former republican and now libertarian candidate for president, recently told Fox News “It should not be under-emphasized how much the violence on the border has to do with the prohibition of drugs, I think if we legalize marijuana, we will take a huge step toward a rational drug policy.” When asked about building a giant border fence, Gary Johnson responded by saying “It’s a no brainer, don’t build a fence; it’s an incredible waste of money.” The party of supposed fiscal conservatism may have a hard time selling Newt Gingrich’s moon base and extremely costly (approximately 3 million dollars per mile) border projects.
Many Americans truly want to see a new approach to marijuana reform, immigration, and border security. Supporting marijuana reform would go a long way to appease patients and advocates. Taking money and power out of cartel hands with new marijuana laws could also enhance the party’s credentials on border security. Political strategists have identified cannabis supporters and immigrants as vulnerable groups for President Obama as many of them feel he did not live up to expectations on these issues. However, if the policies of the GOP remain on the current path, those groups will likely (even if reluctantly) throw their support behind Barack Obama.
We have to ask ourselves how effective a giant barrier is going to be dividing the Mexican and US border. For one, marijuana.net recently ran a story that described the massively complex tunnel system cartel members are using to smuggle in marijuana. A giant wall will likely result in more cartel resources being directed at the often undetectable tunnels. In a sense, the fence may drive the problems underground, literally, with security becoming even more of a concern. Does ignoring a problem and erecting a barrier ever truly deal with any of our problems on either an emotional or physical level? If we had a problem with our next door neighbor we would not request tax dollars during a troubled economy to separate two homes from view of each other. Additionally, if we erected such massive wall, what would we do about Canada? Would criminals and terrorists direct their efforts to the even larger border we share with Canada? Sooner than later America will set aside all the emotionally charged rhetoric against marijuana and decide to simultaneously improve our security, economic, and healthcare concerns.
Feds Oversee Colorado Marijuana Collective Shutdowns
The latter part of 2011 put a chill down the spine of many patients who were concerned about where they would have access to medication. Federal raids in California received a great deal of media attention as many news outlets claimed medical marijuana in America was over. Now that the dust has settled and the vast majority of collectives remain open, the raids seem to be targeting an altogether different goal than a total annihilation of the program.
The federal attention has now shifted toward Colorado. Several months ago, federal authorities issued letters informing 23 collectives that they would have to relocate or close their doors because they were too close to schools and in violation of Colorado law. Earlier this week federal agents were sent in to oversee the shutdown, which occurred without incident according to reports. While this is an inconvenience for patients, hopefully most will still be able to access relief without major issues.
Most patients felt that President Obama and Attorney General Eric Holder indicated that the administration would not conduct federal raids on collectives. That seemed to match the tone of the statements made on the 2008 campaign trail, however, team Obama choose their words very carefully. They mentioned not raiding any establishment that followed state law, and even as recently as two months ago Eric Holder reiterated the position by saying “our thought was that where a state has taken a position, has passed a law, and people are acting in conformity with a law, not abusing the law but acting in conformity with it, and, again, given our limited resources, that would not be an enforcement priority for the Justice Department.” Of course the statement seems to be filled with exit clauses, but it does indicate that those following state law should not be a federal target.
Much of the media signaled the end for medical marijuana toward the end of 2011. That does not seem to be a well thought out idea as no state has revoked its medical marijuana program even in the face of federal pressure. Additionally, there are 17 other states considering medical marijuana laws and other states considering total legalization. Although California is in a state of legal uncertainty, the pending decision of the state Supreme Court may re-establish order and consistent laws so that patients are ensured their legally protected “safe access”. Colorado has over 700 medical marijuana collectives. With 23 shutting down, that represents approximately 3% of collectives. While those who are against providing accessible relief brag about the closings, it truly is just a drop in the bucket. Of those 23, many may relocate and be able to open up legally elsewhere.
While no advocates/patients want to hear about dispensaries being forced to shut down, it is important to keep everything in perspective. America has changed its views on marijuana and the Federal government does not even seem willing to challenge state laws. While the closings appear to be defeat on the surface, the fact that the federal government is only willing to enforce its laws on 3% of Colorado collectives may signal a victory for patients and advocates alike.
Families find Stress and Relief with Medical Marijuana Laws
As we constantly hear about “family values” in this election year, we find ourselves questioning the sincerity of those statements. The United States witnesses so many families struggling with healthcare, and even for those lucky enough to have access to pharmaceutical treatments it is often not enough to provide relief. Two families have been featured in the news recently as they try their best to provide a better quality of life for their children.
A recent article entitled “Without Marijuana, I’d Probably Be Dead” describes 17 year old Chaz Moore’s health struggles. Doctors say that Chaz is one of 50 people in the entire world who have been diagnosed with myoclonus diaphragmatic flutter. The condition causes muscle spasms that can occur dozens of times in one day alone. For most of his life, Chaz Moore was healthy, athletic, active and seemingly normal. Several years ago this all changed drastically and Moore started to notice hives and spasms several times a week. The symptoms became progressively worse as Chaz’s father recalled, “One week, we went nine times to the ER, we were going nuts, just totally freaking out. Nobody knew what was wrong.” Traditional medicine proved to be ineffective until Chaz was taking a combination of 16 pills per day.
Although doctors were able to treat his symptoms at first with an aggressive pill cycle, eventually the spasms returned and were unable to be controlled. Shan Moore eventually suggested to doctors that Chaz try marijuana as a way to regulate the attacks. To date, it is the only treatment that has proved to be consistent. Although Moore is one of 41 minors who possess a medical marijuana card in Colorado, he could benefit greatly from further marijuana legal reform. His situation requires him to medicate during the day and this has put him at odds with school administrators. Chaz Moore now takes online classes from his home.
Unfortunately, another family seeking relief for their child has even more legal hurdles to overcome. Gill and Catherine Mejias are seeking an alternative approach toward their son Deacon’s autism. Deacon is only seven years old which makes the situation even more sensitive. While it may sound extremely controversial to use marijuana in treatment for young children, many parents are claiming it has helped their children who have autism (click here for a letter from a mother titled “Why I Give My 9 Year Old Pot”). Deacon’s parents claim that his teachers noticed a drastic turnaround in his behavior after he started taking Marinol.
However, Catherine Deacon says that Deacon typically builds up a tolerance to synthetics and the Marinol regimen has lost its effectiveness. Oklahoma is not a state that permits medical marijuana although the Mejias family is hopeful that will soon change. State Senator Constance Johnson (D-Oklahoma City) has proposed senate bill 573, which would allow doctors to prescribe medical marijuana. The Mejias family has stated they will move to another state if the bill does not pass. Oklahoma state governor Mary Fallin has indicated she would veto any bill to legalize medical marijuana.
We are a country that places an emphasis on “family”. Is it not equally important that the word “compassion” closely accompanies family? Current laws have forced little choice but to break the law for those who have true family values.
Keep it Clean
Purity of product is one of the most essential requirements of any medication. To date, it is not something that has been overly emphasized for medical marijuana. It’s a naturally occurring plant that grows in the ground; what could be wrong with it? Well, usually nothing. But that is no reason to assume that any crop is 100% pure cannabis. So, what can go wrong with marijuana? There are some naturally occurring problems that plague growers, like molds, fungus, and pests. These strike during the growing process and can damage yields and potency of crops, but have minimal effects on users. The other, more dangerous problems are those that are man-made. The nefarious and artificial treatment of marijuana can be very dangerous and is popularly known as “laced weed.” Both of these problems can be addressed through regulation and proper laboratory testing of marijuana.
The diseases that strike cannabis crops are usually detectable by the vigilant grower. All diseases have symptoms, and the primary caretaker should know how to spot them. Proper climate control is the key to maintaining crop growth. Sometimes the plant’s environment will have a pH (acidity) imbalance and that can effect calcium intake, which severely impairs a plant’s life processes. Calcium is key for proper osmosis within the plant’s cells, which is how plants take in energy and remove waste on a cellular level. Growers will observe plants with yellow leaves or brown stalks, and these are indicators of imbalances in pH or nitrogen shortages. Molds and fungus also strike at cannabis and must be treated immediately or else the crop will be lost. Pythium is one such mold that leads to rot in the roots and stem. Mold and fungus can be controlled with proper humidity. And if a mold or fungus attack is spotted early enough, the effected plants can be removed or sometimes treated with fungicides. However, be wary of treating plants with chemicals. They must be removed, or catalyzed before people can enjoy a safe product.
Pests can also be a big problem for growers, especially as grow operations continue to grow in size and complexity. An unnoticed invader can easily spread and damage a whole operation. One of problems with cloning operations is that all the plants in a crop will be identical. So, if one plant is susceptible to a pest or disease then all of them will be. That makes it very easy for plagues to multiply across a garden in very short time. Some pests that have been striking California growers include spider mites, white flies, and lice. These bugs are small but they pack a punch. But why do they attack our plants? For the sweet sweet sap, the plant’s life-blood. The majority of these pests hide from the eye, underneath leaves but you will notice their presence. They chew into the plant’s veins and suck out the sap. This leaves white spots on leaves, buds and any affected area. But there is good news for growers. There are natural remedies for some of these killers. Spider mites, identifiable by the webs they spin (and the fact they are spiders and not insects), are the favored snack of Phytoseiulus persimilis (Predator Mite). So, get a batch of those guys and a magnifying glass then you can watch as your enemies are eaten and destroyed! White flies and lice can be treated with Assassinator wasps (awesome name) and Amblyseius cucumeris. However, the most effective way to protect a crop is through proper climate control and sterile surfaces. This prevents plagues and pests from finding their way to the plants in the first place.
By far the most notorious impurities in marijuana are those added to it by people, after it is harvested. Manufactured drugs (cocaine, heroin, meth, crack) are routinely cut with impure chemicals to increase profit and decrease potency. For years people have known that they can find sugar, baking powder, drano, other herbs, and even Crisco in their designer drugs (that’s if their drugs even have any of the real drug in it). It doesn’t happen too often in the United States that laced marijuana makes it into the news. Why would someone do that? Sometimes a plant yields a weak potency (perhaps due to previously listed problems) or maybe a dealer wants to add weight to make it seem like a larger crop. And sometimes, they’re looking to get users hooked on other drugs and use a sprinkle of coke or heroin to jump-start a smoker into a profit-bearing coke addict. These are serious issues that can mean life or death for the unsuspecting cannabis user. Marijuana effects people because the chemicals in it mimic those already in our bodies. When foreign chemicals (pesticides, embalming fluids, meth) are inhaled the experience is much different and can be life-wrecking, even deadly. The big problem for most people in this country, is that the majority of users must purchase their marijuana illegally from black market sources, and there is no accountability for purity from these suppliers.
The key to ensuring pure marijuana for patients is regulation and quality-control testing. In states like California and Colorado where medical marijuana is legal, regulation is underway and patients have a communal voice that can call for enforceable standards. In other states, patients have no way to ensure their products will be clean. All they can do is avoid known crop-adulterers and hope the next bag is clean. The Werc Shop is one of the leading labs for cannabis control and testing. They ensure that patients are getting 100% pure marijuana from their suppliers. They test for anything that people should worry about. Their dedicated technicians spot spider mites, find fungi and fungicides, and sniff out poisons. Also, they analyze and break down the chemical contents of the buds. It helps patients figure out what to buy. Some people want a higher CBD content for treating inflammation and pain. Others want something with more THC to treat depression or anxiety. And as research unfolds, letting us know which chemicals help treat which ailments, these “ingredients labels” will be a great aid for future treatments.
Cypress Hill Presents: The 2012 San Bernadino SmokeOut
Okay patients, waiting for is nearly over. The 2010 San Bernadino SmokeOut from Cypress Hill is simply nearby. For individuals individuals that do not know, The SmokeOut is definitely an annual event that Cypress Hill has backed and set together since 1998. Their mission statement, “The SmokeOut Medicinal Marijuana Expo is founded in the fact that the general public is much better offered when people and public authorities work cooperatively to be able to effectively accomplish goals,” is all about uniting to make sure that the Medicinal Marijuana Movement continues forward, building upon its achievements and conquering the brand new hurdles that rise to bar progress. It’s also about getting a lot of fun. The 2010 selection features heavy-players like Korn, Sublime with Rome is headlining, and also the ever-present Cypress Hill, along with a couple of other treats.
How can this be evening not the same as other festivals? You are able to break it lower into three parts. First may be the music, which is really a large draw for many people. Cypress Hill happens to be about disregarding limitations, and then any fan of the music notice they don’t hesitate to combine up styles and influences. That’s fantastic since it means they’ll draw an audience from individuals with diverse interests. So, should you appear only for the background music, you’re going to get individuals who like a myriad of tunes. Which means individuals are getting uncovered to new ideas also it will make them open their brains a little. Second, it’s a professional-medicinal marijuana event along with a huge setup for individuals individuals who require medication. You will see another area where people from the medical community will have the ability to medicate (verification needed for those patients trying to medicate for the reason). Third, it’s a massive trade event event for that marijuana community. Individuals who attend might find vendor platforms for items and tools from the trade. You’ll also have areas put aside for discussions by experts within the medical area, in addition to individuals pioneers of politics that need to grow the legalisation/decriminalization efforts. You’ll also have people from Cannabis Testing Labs, that is a large deal. The regulation and standardization of marijuana for treatment is an integral part from the movement. All medications are strictly controlled and should stick to recommendations. It ought to be exactly the same for cannabis therefore, farmers (large and small-scale) have to be educated and attributed for his or her product.
NORML, People in america for Safe Access (ASA), a couple of political figures, LEAP (Police Force Against Prohibition) and many other organizations is going to be getting sections and cubicles to assist spread information and promote activism. Marijuana.internet may have representation to ensure that people in our community will have the ability to meet those who make our website and work possible.
For individuals who reach attend the big event, you want a safe and enjoyable day. Make sure to go to the SmokeOut occasions page and appearance the rules for medicating prior to going. It might be a pity if our buddies weren’t permitted in simply because they did not bring their documents. Have some fun, but don’t forget it is not concerning the eventually, it’s about using the movement forward.
Study Shows Medical Marijuana States have Reduced Suicides
As study after study confirms the medicinal qualities of marijuana, we should probably stop being surprised. However, there are times when new benefits are discovered that are so groundbreaking, even advocates have to take a step back and breathe a sigh of relief.
While many medical marijuana advocates focus on physical pain relief from HIV/AIDS, cancer treatments, MS, Nausea, and chronic pain, the psyche also benefits greatly from cannabis. New research has demonstrated a link between PTSD relief and marijuana use as many returning soldiers say it is the only way they can relieve their symptoms. Now it appears another significant link between the psyche and marijuana has been discovered. According to a research paper entitled “High on Life? Medical Marijuana Laws and Suicide”, states that have legalized marijuana have seen a significant drop in suicides. The paper was written by D. Mark Anderson, Daniel I. Rees, and Joseph J. Sabia.
The paper analyzed data from 1990-2007 and found an overall reduction by 5% in overall suicides. Males aged 20-29 saw an 11% drop in suicides. In states that do not permit legalized marijuana, suicide rates actually rose during this time period. While suicide does not garner the attention of many other causes of death, it is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. The authors mentioned above believe that legalizing marijuana may “lead to an improvement in the psychological well-being of young adult males, an improvement that is reflected in fewer suicides.” They also went on to say “The strong association between alcohol consumption and suicide-related outcomes found by previous researchers raises the possibility that medical marijuana laws reduce the risk of suicide by decreasing alcohol consumption.”
While lawmakers still drag their feet and state that marijuana is extremely dangerous, advocates are concentrating on how we can treat the a top ten leading cause of death in the United States. While this may sound naïve in this day and age, we are expected to look up to our government officials. How can we do that? How can we seek help from those who will not even pass a congressional insider trading bill, or allow Super Pacs to influence an election. For the time being, both physical and mental relief are in direct violation of federal law.
For the full research paper including additional statistics from the study click here
Proposed Kentucky Medical Marijuana Law Shows Change in Midwest Politics
The traditional ideas of red and blue state politics may no longer apply. Many Southern and Midwest states are seriously considering medical marijuana, a political issue that would have surely had little chance of passage only several years ago.
With Missouri, Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, and Alabama among states that either permit medical marijuana or have pending legislation that could legalize it, the political map has changed drastically. Medical marijuana is becoming a consensus issue, and Kentucky is the newest state to join the mix. Kentucky state senator Perry B. Clark (D-Louisville) has sponsored Senate Bill 129, which would move marijuana from a schedule I to a schedule II substance and allow physicians to prescribe marijuana. The bill is also being titled the Gatewood Galbraith Memorial Medical Marijuana Act, after the high profile attorney who advocated for marijuana reform. Unfortunately, Louis Gatewood Galbraith passed away last month.
Senator Clark cited a poll conducted by the Marijuana Policy Project which indicated that over 81% of Americans feel doctors should be able to prescribe marijuana to patients who are in need of relief. Under the new bill patients would be allowed to have up to 5 ounces of marijuana per month. He also said “Marijuana has positive medical benefits for patients dealing with illnesses like cancer, multiple sclerosis, and AIDS, to name a few, I want to allow this as another treatment option for those individuals.”
This proposed legislation comes from a state where many may be surprised to see considering medical marijuana. As mentioned above, predictable politics is no longer a sure business. Technology connects us at speeds only limited by our high speed internet connections. As patients continue to share their stories, it will not matter what state one resides in, health and relief are desired in both red and blue states alike.
Cartel’s Advanced Tunnel System may pose a serious Security Threat to U.S.
As new details are provided concerning the fight against drugs, this news isn’t positive. While U.S. government bodies happen to be fighting cartel forces for many years, the conflict may now be a much bigger domestic threat.
U.S. Border Patrol agents have found over 160 illegal tunnels across the U.S./Mexico border. However, agents have found much more advanced tunnel systems lately. Huge amount of money are increasingly being spent to equip the marijuana smuggling tunnels with lighting and today even railway systems. Many government bodies believe the geography in Tijuana might be especially useful towards the efforts from the cartel. U.S. attorney Laura E. Duffy has stated that smugglers use horizontal drills that don’t disturb top soil making recognition difficult. The soil is soft and simple to drill through. North Park College anthropologist Victor Clark Alfaro feels this really is one more reason which helps the efforts of individuals digging the tunnels. He lately stated the “noise in the airport terminal is a superb benefit to them.” Probably the most advanced tunnels have been discovered near Tijuana Airport Terminal.
Escalation is definitely an issue in police force. Aggression always provides the opportunity for retaliation, and cartel efforts to smuggle marijuana now pose a much greater security problem than in the past. The weapons and transportation employed by smugglers has become progressively advanced as U.S. agents have concurrently elevated its degree of pressure used to look for marijuana. The fight against drugs cost has jumped in to the billions, as the intended target is continuing to grow unmanageable. America’s almost century lengthy fight against marijuana has produced a scenario where organized crime makes money and people are frequently forced to cope with them (even when in a roundabout way) when they seek relief. A lot of us will invariably question just how much bloodshed and today domestic security risk might have been prevented having a more sensible approach toward marijuana. With no underground community, it is not easy to picture 100s of subterranean tunnels being funded by organized crime.
Of course, national security is a large area of the approaching presidential election. In the end watch two males in customized suits discuss issues overseas or even the Mexican border as it requires immigration, will People in america again be refused the chance to listen to our leaders discuss our most harmful and native security risks?
Colorado Legislation to permit Banking for Shops Fails but Momentum for Reform Accumulates in Alabama
While there absolutely are developments which should lift the spirits of patients, regrettably you will find still obstacles when it comes to a really compassionate health care system. Besides organizations which are only worried about a fast profit at the expense of patient care, advocates experienced a legitimate defeat .
Of course, it’s most likely a much better idea to begin with unhealthy news. Because the Washington Publish reported, an invoice that will have allowed medicinal marijuana shops to get access to accounts unsuccessful to outlive the legislative process in Colorado. The balance might have setup organizations much like lending institutions, that shops would in a position to utilize. Presently, no banks are prepared to conduct business with marijuana collectives because they don’t want to stay in breach of federal law. Obviously, everyone knows that keeping piles of money and marijuana available offers a lot of possibility of criminal activity. Furthermore, backers from the law believe that dispensary use of banking provides an essential paper trail to make sure a legally run operation. Political figures don’t appear to become lined facing a smart method of marijuana finance. However, such as the banks, they seem to be scared of federal penalties. Democratic Sen. Pat Steadman stated “I’m unsure this can be a problem the condition can solve.”
Obviously now we are able to start more beneficial news. Medical and legalisation efforts happen to be released from coast to coast and could increase the already 16 states (and D.C.) that enable some type of legalized marijuana. Alabama might be searching to become listed on the growing list. Repetition. Patricia Todd, D-Birmingham is supporting an invoice that will see Alabama enact its very own medicinal marijuana program. Repetition. Todd is mainly trying to provide relief for individuals struggling with Aids/Helps, but regrettably observed her similar proposal fail formerly. However, another politician is joining her cause. Repetition. K.L. Brown, (R-The city of jacksonville) has additionally introduced legislation that will allow patients to own as much as 8 oz . of marijuana. This news is exciting to advocates as this signifies bi-partisan support and may possibly bring people of both Republican and Democratic parties towards the table. Alabama joins other states within the south and 17 overall which are thinking about legislation that will legalize medicinal marijuana.
We are keeping an eye on these developments. Weight loss states make an effort to seriously alter marijuana laws and regulations, deficiencies in an economic structure for shops might not be tolerated. Possibly someone will propose an innovative approach which will satisfy advocates and political figures. Meanwhile, we are able to still hang our hat on the truth that medicinal marijuana is clearly not disappearing, the concept has become thriving in places we weren’t aware of.