420 Use and Health

[Crow]

Terrible news for Cali http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-14351501California police arrest 100 over marijuana growing

A marijuana plant Authorities are targeting illegal marijuana growers over the summer

Police in northern California have uprooted 460,000 plants and made more than 100 arrests in a major operation against illegal marijuana cultivation.

This isn't a raid on medical cannabis. This is a raid on a large group of individuals using national forest land to grow a ton of herb for the drug cartels. Reform the laws, snuff them out.

Mendocino County Sheriff Tom Allman said there was no sign that any of the gardens raided were being used to grow medical marijuana.

In the past, Mexican drug cartels have been blamed for the cultivation large quantities of marijuana in California, though no details were given about those arrested over the past two weeks.

But US Attorney Melinda Haag told the Associated Press that 25 people were already facing federal charges.

"The Mendocino National Forest is under attack by drug traffickers," she said.

Public land is often chosen by clandestine growers because of its remoteness.

[sirloot]

exactly if it were legal they wouldn't have this problem.How many law enforcement man hrs are wasted combing how many thousand acres of nat'n forrests ? and then the time it takes to go in and clean up the mess ?

[Crow]

exactly if it were legal they wouldn't have this problem.How many law enforcement man hrs are wasted combing how many thousand acres of nat'n forrests ? and then the time it takes to go in and clean up the mess ?

Yes, it's time for change, and it looks like America is beginning to open their eyes.

When it comes to sensible cannabis reform, its no longer a matter of IF, but a matter of WHEN.

[Crow]

What a day... I went to a natural food store that was recommended to me by one of my doctors. This place was huge, and they had everything.

I bought myself a box of this:



I looked on the side of the box and noticed its from Blaine, Washington.

They also carry 4 different kinds of Hemp Milk, so I bought this one to go with the cereal:



It says it's from Oregon. This is the best hemp milk I've had (Living Harvest is the other brand I've tried).

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Tried a bowl of this stuff, and I have to say it's amazing. The best cereal I have ever had. Excellent taste, great texture (both the cereal and milk). Highly recommended!

If you're in Washington, check them out:

http://www.marlenesmarket.net/

2565 S. Gateway Center Place
Federal Way, WA 98003
(253) 839-0933

[Mr. Snuffleupagus]

Man I love that Hemp Plus cereal. Been eating it for years. They have it in quite a few stores around here

[ABW]

Yes, it's time for change, and it looks like America is beginning to open their eyes.

When it comes to sensible cannabis reform, its no longer a matter of IF, but a matter of WHEN.

You can grow 10 plants here in AZ with your card so change is happening... Who would have thunk it?

[Crow]

New York (US)

The New York Times Supports Medical Marijuana for New York

Sensible and Humane

There is no good reason to deprive patients with cancer or H.I.V. or Lou Gehrig’s disease of the relief from pain or extreme nausea that could come from using marijuana. Gov. Chris Christie of New Jersey, who once opposed his state’s medical marijuana law, has changed his mind, deciding earlier this month to allow six alternative treatment centers to begin dispensing the drug to those in need, possibly by early next year. Gov. Andrew Cuomo of New York needs to change his mind as well.

Governor Cuomo said during his 2010 campaign that he opposed legalization of medical marijuana. Recently, he said he was still opposed but that he was “reviewing” the issue and “we’re always learning and listening, talking and growing. We hope.” It shouldn’t take much more personal growth to make the right call.

Governor Cuomo should ask Governor Christie about how he resolved his own doubts. Mr. Christie could explain how his law is the nation’s most restrictive and how the federal Justice Department has indicated that its agents will rightly direct their energies in New Jersey to go after big-time marijuana traffickers, not doctors or alternative centers helping the desperately ill.

Under New Jersey’s law, doctors can recommend that a patient suffering from a specific disease or condition use marijuana of limited strength. Patients cannot grow their own, and they can only purchase 2 ounces every 30 days. Physicians must register to recommend the marijuana use, and patients and caregivers must undergo background checks to get ID cards.

Mr. Cuomo should champion a similar and humane system and ensure that New York’s residents coping with illness have the same chance at relief.

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/07/28/op...rijuana&st=cse

[Crow]

Ohio (US)

MEDICAL MARIJUANA ISSUE COULD BE ON 2012 BALLOT

DAYTON - A group supporting legalization of medical marijuana in Ohio has taken the first steps to place a Constitutional amendment on the November 2012 ballot.

Supporters turned in 2,143 signatures on petitions containing summary language of the proposed amendment to Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine, who has sent the signatures out to local boards of election to verify.

The group needs 1,000 signatures before DeWine will determine if the summary is a fair and truthful statement. After that, it is forwarded for review by the Ohio Ballot Board and to Ohio secretary of State Jon Husted. The group would then need to gather at least 385,245 valid signatures on petitions to place the amendment on the ballot, said Matt McClellan, press secretary for Husted.

"I'm totally opposed to that amendment," said Montgomery County Sheriff Phil Plummer. "I think it would make too much marijuana available to kids in the community."

He said it would create traffic problems because people high on marijuana could be driving and causing accidents and it would be an issue for employers, including him, who want drug-free employees.

"I think we have enough prescription drugs out there to handle the ( medical ) problems. I'm worried about the use and availability of this marijuana," Plummer said. "I think it would be just more problems for us so I'm opposed to it."

At least a dozen states have legalized medical marijuana (EDIT: There are 16 medical cannabis states to date), but it remains illegal under federal law and opponents question both the medical value and the validity of the medical claims of those who receive prescriptions? An April study released by the Pew Research Center found that 73 percent of Americans favor their state permitting the sale and use of medical marijuana prescribed by a doctor.

"We're hoping the ballot will force our legislators to stand up and do what's right," said Kettering resident Tonya Davis, 48, who was one of four committee members in charge of petitions supporting medical marijuana.

Davis, who suffers from a variety of physical ailments, said marijuana brings her relief without the negative consequences of narcotic pain relievers. She said people like her should be able to legally grow, possess or obtain marijuana from a certified provider if a medical professional prescribes it.

According to the group's summary of the amendment, qualifying conditions would include glaucoma, post-traumatic stress disorder, sickle cell anemia, Parkinson's disease or any condition that causes symptoms such as chronic pain, severe muscle spasms or wasting syndrome. Patients could possess up to 3.5 ounces of marijuana.

"I've got more things wrong ( with me ) than right," said Davis, who said she suffers from scoliosis, thyroid disease, inflamed bowel disease and other problems.

"Medical marijuana would be a lifesaver for me because ( with ) the stronger pharmaceuticals I can't function: the spasms, the nausea and all of that," Davis said. "I do not buy, sell or grow. I pray my friends come through."

The proposed amendment is similar to a bill legalizing medical marijuana proposed in April by state Reps. Kenny Yuko, D-Richmond Heights, and Rep. Robert Hagan, D-Youngstown. The bill is being reviewed by the House health and aging committee.

[sirloot]

I love how LEO's and Beaurocrats always come up with "the children" or "driving under the influence" issues do they not understand its used regardless of the legality and probably more accessable to children thru black markets ?

whats to stop some one from downing a few vicodins and getting behind the wheel ? common sense id hope.

[Crow]

We’re Looking for a Few Good Politicians: Tell Your Rep. to Co-Sponsor HR 2306

HR 2306, the Ending Federal Marijuana Prohibition Act of 2011, is still awaiting a hearing assignment from either the House Judiciary Committee or the Committee on Energy and Commerce. The chairmen of these two committees seem content to bury their heads in the sand and ignore the will of the people on this issue, while simultaneously stonewalling the democratic process. The refusal thus far to allow HR 2306 its “legitimate debate” illustrates the frustrating side of national politics.

However, the twelve co-sponsors who have since joined with HR 2306’s primary sponsor, Rep. Barney Frank, in supporting this bill show that not all lawmakers are content to watch tax dollars being frivolously thrown away while our citizens are being robbed of their civil liberties. We need more brave individuals to stand up and rally with them, which is why NORML is asking you to reach out to your elected officials and encourage them to co-sponsor this important legislation. With each legislator added to the list of co-sponsors, we are adding a new political ally and demonstrating the widespread support for our cause.

Over the past 70+ years, the federal criminalization of marijuana has:

1) Failed to reduce the public’s demand for or access to cannabis.

2) Imposed enormous fiscal and human costs upon the American people.

3) Promoted disrespect for the law.

4) Reinforced ethnic and generational divides between the public and law enforcement.

This debate is long overdue. It is time to rethink the leaf.

Contact your Representatives today and tell them to stand with us and co-sponsor HR 2306.

NORML would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to Representatives Polis, Paul, Honda, Nadler, Conyers, Cohen, McDermott, Norton, Lee, Stark, Rohrbacher, Rangel, and, of course, Barney Frank for their support and advocacy of HR 2306.

Click here to contact your Representative.

[Crow]

Seattle Hempfest is an annual event in Seattle, Washington, the world's largest annual gathering advocating decriminalization of marijuana.

Seattle Hempfest is held the third weekend in August each year. The next Seattle Hempfest is August 19-20-21, 2011. It's open to the public on Friday from 12 noon to 8 pm, and on Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 8 pm. Admission to Seattle Hempfest is free.

The event spans three Seattle waterfront parks: Centennial Park, formerly Elliott Bay Park (North Entrance), Myrtle Edwards Park, and Olympic Sculpture Park (South Entrance).

To beat the crowds, use the north entrance by crossing the Amgen Pedestrian Bridge off of W Prospect Street. It has an elevator and is wheelchair accessible, placing the avid attendee just north of Seattle Hempfest's north entrance. There is very little parking at W Prospect Street. So your best bet is to walk, bike, or take a metro bus to that location. For example, take metro bus 18 to north entrance, and 15 to south entrance. Between downtown Seattle and Leary Way. There are many other Metro bus routes that can drop you at either entrance too. Downtown Seattle has several parking garages. Bicycles should enter through the North entrance in Centennial Park to utilize the bike racks. Attaching bikes to the fence at Olympic Sculpture Park is not allowed.

Hempfest's PHYSICAL address at the park is: 3130 Alaskan Way W, Seattle, WA 98121 (Don't try to mail something there, it is a park! Also, you can NOT drive into the park from that entrance, even if you are a vendor or a delivery).

More information can be found at http://www.hempfest.org

[Crow]

Massachusetts (US)

MEDICAL MARIJUANA INITIATIVE FILED IN MASS.

Group Petitions to Get Binding Referendum on Ballot For Legalization

Voters in several area communities strongly endorsed non-binding resolutions last fall supporting the legalization of medical uses of marijuana.

Next year, they might get a chance to vote for real.

A group calling itself Massachusetts Patients Advocacy Alliance has petitioned to get a binding referendum on the ballot legalizing medical marijuana.

Whitney Taylor, a spokeswoman for the group, said the votes in places like Attleboro and North Attleboro last year reaffirmed the strong support for medical marijuana that shows up in public opinion polls.

"People want patients and doctors to have all options open to them," she said. "This is not a liberal or conservative position. It is not pro or con law enforcement." Taylor said the group prefers to have the issue dealt with by the Legislature and said progress has been made on a bill sponsored by Sen. Stanley Rosenberg, D-Amherst.

The referendum route, however, should be explored in case Beacon Hill fails to act next year before the legislative session ends, she said.

Making marijuana available through non-profit organizations with a doctor's prescription is "about compassion," she said.

For some seriously ill patients, marijuana might work better than traditional medicines in easing the nausea that comes with chemotherapy, the muscles spasms that come with multiple sclerosis or the pain with a number of other ailments, she said.

Medical marijuana referendums were put on the ballot last year in 18 communities, including Attleboro, North Attleboro, Mansfield, Norfolk, Norton, Plainville and Wrentham. Voters in every community voted in favor.

Attleboro voted 5,745 to 3,689 in favor. North Attleboro voted 7,299 to 4,768 in favor. The referendums were advisory in nature, designed to inform local legislators how citizens would like them to vote on the issue.

Organizers from the Cannabis Reform Coalition said they picked the Attleboro area communities to show the issue had support in conservative areas.

Some area legislators, such as state Rep. Steven Howitt, R-Seekonk, said they are in favor, but others, such as state Rep. George Ross, R-Attleboro, said they were opposed.

The Patients Advocacy Alliance was just one of 21 groups to file with the state Attorney General's Office to start the process of getting on the November 2012 ballot. The groups will now have to collect almost 69,000 voter signatures to qualify.

[Crow]

Israel

Israeli government approves guidelines for medical cannabis

Cabinet agrees on arrangements and supervision of marijuana supply in medical centers and for research; 6,000 people in Israel currently treated with medical cannabis.

The Israeli government approved on Sunday arrangements and supervision regarding the supply of cannabis for medical and research purposes.

A statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's media adviser said "the Health Ministry will – in coordination with the Israel Police and the Israel Anti-Drug Authority – oversee the foregoing and will also be responsible for supplies from imports and local cultivation."

Of approximately 6,000 Israelis currently being treated with medical cannabis (aka medical marijuana), most suffer from chronic pain and terminal illnesses.

The therapeutic potential of cannabis has been known for many years and is recognized by the Health Ministry.

But many patients – such as sexual assault victims suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), who have been recommended psychiatric treatment with medical cannabis - encounter bureaucratic obstacles.

http://www.haaretz.com/news/national...juana-1.377416

[truthwolf1]

125 Year Old Woman Claimed Smoking Pot Everyday Was Her Secret to Long Life

http://valetudocafe.wordpress.com/20...-to-long-life/

[Crow]

HERE'S WHY LEGALIZING MARIJUANA MAKES SENSE

by Alex Newhouse, (Source:Yakima Herald-Republic)

Washington
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The call to legalize cannabis continues to grow louder despite all of the other problems our country is currently facing. Mainstream polls indicate almost 50 percent of Americans favor full-out legalization, and nearly 80 percent believe that marijuana should be available for medicinal purposes.

No one has ever died from simply using marijuana. In 1972, then-President Richard Nixon appointed the Shafer Commission to study the nation's rising drug problem. It reported the following: "Neither the marihuana [sic] user nor the drug itself can be said to constitute a danger to public safety." The commission's findings have withstood the test of time.

The more we learn about marijuana, the more benign it becomes. Marijuana does not cause cancer. Sound scientific studies, such as those done by UCLA's Dr. Donald Tashkin, have clearly demonstrated this. We also know that marijuana is legitimate medicine. If marijuana has no medicinal benefit, why are so many terminally ill patients turning to it to improve their quality of life? Why, after countless legislative hearings and initiatives, have 16 states and our nation's capital legalized marijuana for medicinal use? And why does an expensive prescription drug called Marinol, which is a synthetic form of the active ingredient in marijuana, exist? Even the federal government owns a patent for the medicinal use of marijuana. (The patent number is 6630507.)

Marijuana is medicine to many people. The Drug Enforcement Administration's own administrative law judge, Francis L. Young, held that "marijuana has been accepted as capable of relieving the distress of great numbers of very ill people, and doing so with safety under medical supervision. It would be unreasonable, arbitrary and capricious for DEA to continue to stand between those sufferers and the benefits of this substance in light of the evidence in this record." Studies done by the California Center for Medical Cannabis Research and the recent breakthroughs highlighting the antibacterial properties of cannabis extracts also clearly demonstrate marijuana's potential as a natural and inexpensive medicine.

Unlike most medicines, it is quite safe for marijuana to be used recreationally by responsible and healthy adults. According to the White House's Office of National Drug Control Policy, over 100 million Americans have tried or use marijuana. If this market were taxed and regulated, crime rates would go down and agriculturally based communities would profit. We easily forget how much disrespect for the law vanished when alcohol prohibition was repealed, or that well over 30,000 Mexican citizens have died since 2006 as a direct result of a drug war fueled in large part by demand for marijuana, or that the U.S. has spent approximately a trillion dollars and 100,000 lives on a drug war that could be reined in considerably with marijuana legalization.

Regulating marijuana would also protect our children. It is easier for kids today to get marijuana than it is for them to get alcohol or tobacco, which is a fact supported by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse. Drug dealers simply do not ask for ID. Regulation would also lessen the burden on the criminal justice system, making it easier to keep violent criminals behind bars. Washington currently has mandatory minimum sentences for marijuana possession, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports more people are being court-ordered into treatment for marijuana than ever before under threat of incarceration. This is a huge waste of resources.

The legalization movement is not about persuading people to use marijuana, but for giving the sick and responsible the liberty to consume a relatively benign product. Proposed policies within the spirit of the movement are worthy of our consideration.