Visiting Seattle For MLB Or A Cruise? Information You Need!

Terry Hacienda

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July 5, 2023

Visiting Seattle For MLB Or A Cruise? Information You Need!

Summer is bringing MLB and cruises to popular Seattle. Here is a quick guide of what to do, where to eat, how to consume and a word of caution!

Seattle has long been a tourist destination. Home to the historic Pike Place Market, the soaring Space Needle and mystical Chihuly Garden and Glass, a vibrant music scene, tourists from around the globe trek to the 30th anniversary of Sleepless in Seattle. In June, Seattle set another record for being the most sold out city in the US. The cruise industry is having a banner year and Major League Baseball All Stars kicks off 11 July at T-Mobile Park. Visiting Seattle for MLB or a Cruise, we have some must know information for you.

While the city is flooded with visitor, if doesn’t feel crowded and has something for everyone to explore. Marijuana is fully legal so that isn’t a concern. But, be warned, Seattle is the only city in Washington that has chosen, for now, not to prosecute drug offenders. Here are some direct and general tips for visiting the city.

The Amazon Spheres in the South Lake Union neighborhood of Seattle

Seattle has fully legal recreational marijuana. The greater downtown area has a variety of retail shops including Have A Heart (Belltown) and Uncle Ikes (Capital Hill). While people smoke on the streets, don’t plan to whip out a pre-roll in restaurants, retail stores, bars or nightclubs. Look for something more discreet. The stadiums have security checks and cannabis and alcohol are not allowed. Cruise ships are also not open to marijuana being part of your luggage. For the cruises the telltale sign is the aroma.

The light rail can take you from the Stadium district to the retail core, where the largest hotels are located. It can also take you the International district (excellent food), Captial Hill (trendy music and bar district), and historic Pioneer Square.

The city has a great food scene with a variety of experiences and cuisines. Consider treating your palate at The Pink Door, Japonessa, Communion, Aqua and more. Low key place include Bar Cotto, Fogon, Assagios and gems in Pike Place Market. In the international district, Jade Garden is known for excellent dim sum, Tai Tung is the oldest restaurant and Harbor City is open until 11 pm. For drinks, high end would include the Fairmont, the Four Seasons, and at the other end you have The 5 Point along with a whole range of bars in Belltown and Capital Hill. Near the stadium you can pick from a wide choice of watering holes.

As of 1 July, the city does not have a system to deal with open air drug users, so some of the downtown streets have some extra local scenery. Fentanyl is freely used on the streets and 3rd Ave should be avoided except as a crossover street. Don’t be surprised if you randomly see people screaming, waking naked, or stealing. Police are hamstrung in their approach, so try to stay in groups. A majority of Seattle City Council believes there is not need to prosecute and the office of the Mayor is taking a slow approach to potential resolution.

Seattle in the summer is beautiful and it will be a warm, so enjoy your visit to the Emerald City.

Can Marijuana Help When The Heat Wave Has You Boiling?

Amy Hansen

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July 5, 2023

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Can Marijuana Help When The Heat Wave Has You Boiling?

Temperatures seem to rising. Can marijuana help you with the heat?

July 3rd was the hottest day of record on the planet, until July 4th came along. Scientists are warning the temperature records are likely to be a trend for the next few months. El Niño phenomenon is cited as part of the reason for extreme heat. It was so hot, a piece of the interstate buckled in Louisiana.

High tempertures can play havoc with your body. Extended hot weather days can cause poor sleep, lack of appetite, hot or damp skin, headaches, loss of motivation, irritability and more. Staying cool and keeping your body at a reasonable temperature of 97° – 99° is key. Can marijuana help when the heat wave has you boiling and miserable?

Oregon's marijuana industry — Photo by alseeger via Pixabay

Yes, cannabis actually does reduce your body temperature—temporarily. Several studies indicate marijuana can, reduce the body temperature short term. Food like spicy mustard, chili flakes and wasabi can also provide quick relief. The cannabis cool effect is thought to happen because of the way THC interacts with a receptor called TRPA-1. This receptor controls important functions, including pain relief and body temperature.

Not all weed is created equal when it comes to body chilling phenomenon. According to some consumers, switching to tinctures and edibles rather bongs, pre-rolls, or other methods involving heating the product helps move to a cooling response quicker.

You can also replace drinking alcohol at home with cannabis beverages. Consuming this way is refreshing and as potent without dehydrating your body.

Aluminum Cans Can Reduce Potency Of Cannabis Drinks — Photo by skeeze via Pixabay

Cannabis is popular as a non addictive sleep aid. In hot weather, some struggle with both falling and staying asleep. The sleep-promoting effects of cannabinoids are due to their interactions with cannabinoid receptors in the brain. When cannabinoids bind to these receptors, they send messages to increase levels of sleep-promoting adenosine and suppress the brain’s arousal system. Together, these effects may help cannabis users feel sedated or sleepy.

Here are some other ways to help stay cool during a heat wave.

Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing

If possible, avoid being out in the heat of the day

Drink plenty of water

Avoid heavy meals

The best way is to build your day around not being in the heat and monitor your body so you don’t develop serious issues.

What To Expect From A Cannabis Edible

Terry Hacienda

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July 3, 2023

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New to marijuana edibles? Here is how to consume and what to expect.

Marijuana has become almost mainstream with around 88% of the population supporting legalization. Homemade treats were the OG edible, but in the new legal recreational world you can get high-end chocolates, gummies, and a whole host of candies. Those recently hitting legal age in the 23 fully recreational state can work into a store and buy an edible as easy as they can purchase beer.

Science has said marijuana is better over alcohol, has medical benefits and fights don’t break out after getting a bit high. The new generations are paying attention as alcohol use is dropping and marijuana consuming is rising.

marijuana edibles — Photo by Flickr user David O’Hare

If you are unfamiliar or new to eating edibles, here are some tips on how to consume and what to expect. The first piece of advice is start low and go slow.

Understand the dosage

Retail bought edibles should be labeled the the per piece dosage . Most have about 10mg per piece. Casual users should be in the 5-10 mg for a pleasant high.Only seasoned cannabis users and medical marijuana patients are recommended to start dosing above 15mg. It is very common for people to start with a portion of edible (2.5-5 mg) to see the reaction. With homemade edibles, like the classic marijuana brownie, you need to find out from the baker how much they put in, to figure out the dosage. You should proceed with caution since you don’t want to have an over reaction.

How is works

When you take an edible, the cannabinoids/THC is the part which give you the buzz. This is similar the ethanol in alcohol. Unlike vaping, joints, or oils which go straight to the bloodstream, edible THC first travels to the stomach and then liver, before making it to the bloodstream and brain. THC works best with fats, think of chocolates, to help it activate in the body.

Timing is key

Average edibles effects take about 45 minutes to an hour when consumed on an empty stomach due to their digestive nature. When consumed alongside a full meal, it can take up to three hours. If you are not feeling anything about 1.5 hours in, you can take a bit more, knowing it will prolong the high once it hits. You don’t want to keep consuming like Washington Post columnist Maureen Dowd. The high will peak in about two to four hours. You can have more edibles to continue the buzz. As you become better acquainted with use, you will be able to mange length and potentency of your journey.

What to expect

As portrayed in the classic Doonesbury strip, everyone has their their own reaction, from relaxation, to sleepiness, to just a mind wondering about the beauty of the world. The type of cannabinoid your edible contains guides the different effects. Higher THC edibles typically have a more intoxicating or psychoactive effect. Edibles with greater levels of CBD cause less of the high, and instead relaxes you and helps you feel less anxious.

Remember, no one has died from an overdose of marijuana and if you have a worst case reaction, you can always just go to sleep. Here are some way to come down from a high.

Enjoy

When you start out on your edible education, find a comfortable atmosphere to begin and don’t overthink it. Relax and enjoy the journey.

Seven Marijuana Tips For You To Enjoy July 4th

Terry Hacienda

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July 3, 2023

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Seven Marijuana Tips For You To Enjoy July 4th

July 4th can be a party marathon and not a sprint. Here are some tips to enjoy marijuana while having a great time.

July 4th is a huge party holiday, and a long weekend is the perfect time to kick back and relax. Most people will grab a cold one. Having a beer while enjoying fireworks has become tradition for people while celebrating. Other popular traditions include fireworks, bbqs, hot dogs and lots of drinks including rosé, sangria, vodka, tequila and most things over ice. But it has also become a huge marijuana holiday. The last few years, sales have exploded in the 23 recreational states in the days leading up the 4th.

As the population becomes cool with marijuana use, incorporating into holiday festivities just seems natural. But there are some things to watch up for and consider to maximize everyone’s enjoyment. Here are seven marijuana tips for a great holiday.

4th Of July Weekend To Beat 420 Cannabis Sales — Photo by rgbspace/Getty Images

Cannabis is a no go in National Parks And Federal Property

Remember that just because weed is legal in your state does not mean it is legal everywhere in your state. As previously reported, marijuana possession and usage is prohibited on federal property. This is particularly critical to remember on July 4th, as fireworks celebrations and events can happen on federal property. Federal property includes parks, park reserves and public monuments.

Hydrate

Summer heat and outside activities mean drinking extra water. While alcohol can dehydrate you, cannabis makes it seems like you are dehydrated with cotton mouth. Drinking water will help you overcome the dryness and help you last for the day.

Consider Low Dose Edibles For The Main Festivities

If you are attending a big fireworks show at night, or some other long event with lots of people, remember that July 4th is a marathon and not a sprint. Heat, marijuana and lots of walking is enough to wipe anyone out. A longer slight buzz could make the day more enjoyable and still have you going into the night.

CBD Edibles Not All They Claim To Be — Photo by IRA_EVVA/Getty Images

If you have a long day ahead, consider lower dose edibles, or other low-THC methods. This way you can have a relaxed day without getting burnt out. This method also ensures you aren’t stone cold sober by the time the fireworks start.

Keep You Weed Stored Securely

July 4th is known to be a rowdy, and often wet holiday, between water balloons and squirt guns or just plain old rain. Unsuspecting party guests sometimes get dunked in a pool/lake with maybe a bit of help. While this is usually all in good fun, the last thing you need is a soggy joint or your weed floating all over a pool.

Follow the basic rules of weed storage if you plan on being out and about for the entire day. Either keep your product in its original container (if watertight), or grab an airtight container to nip any potential disasters in the bud. And if all else fails, here’s What To Do If Your Weed Gets Wet.

The Odor Doesn’t Always Attract The Right Crowd

Remember that Independence Day is a holiday that all Americans celebrate. This includes people who are opposed to marijuana usage, and also their children. While there is high support for usage, it doesn’t mean it is popular in the crowd at the moment. All you need is one of those opponents to catch wind of your joint to really spoil your high.

To be more discreet, consider an odorless vape pen, edibles or cannabis beverages instead.

Don’t surprise anyone

Weed treats and friend gathering are becoming more popular. Label anything with weed and let everyone know. Like we have said before, no need to get overly scientific. Just be sure to mention what is in them, how strong they are, and if you have tried them. If you are attending a more transient “pop-in, pop-out” function, it is best to keep your cannabis treats tucked away. Offer them out yourself as people arrive to avoid any unexpected trips.

Have A Blast

You are officially ready to celebrate now that you have more information about how to stay safe, high and healthy this weekend. After all, there are few holidays that allow for so many fun, free, lively activities among friends and family. So go forth and enjoy July 4th!

Long Holiday Weekend? Here Are 5 Ways To Really Chill.

Terry Hacienda

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June 30, 2023

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Long Holiday Weekend? Here Are 5 Ways To Really Chill.

A long holiday weekend gives most people the time to relax, unwind and, at least temporarily, put the issues of work, the news, and general life behind them. Things are a bit crazy and a holiday gives the freedom to disconnect and find your inner self. Want to be lazy and just soak up the summer and relax? Here are 5 ways to really chill…do it alone or with someone you enjoy.

Lose yourself in music

The classic way to chill while consuming is with music. With or without headset the music wraps around your soul and penetrates your inner being. Line up your favorites or explore new genres. Open our mind and let the sound weave its way through your brain and bring the bliss to the forefront.

RELATED: People Who Use Weed Also Do More Of Another Fun Thing

Savor a nap

After a week of work, escaping into a nice, long weed nap is one of the best things. When your eyelids start to feel heavy and your eyes stop working, you know some good stuff is about to come your way. Collapse into the heaviness, and enjoy a deep snooze. Wake up refreshed, renewed and ready for whatever is next.

Watch your favorite shows from your youth

Whether it is Sponge Bob, the Regular Show, Friends, or anything in between. Consumer and losing yourself in some nostalgia television is a way to return to a more careful space. Thanks to Amazon, Netflix and Youtube, you can be laughing for hours and enjoying old friends.

smoking marijuana — Photo by Kosamtu/Getty Images

Relax in nature

Whether in a cozy spot in the backyard, stretched by the water, or just in a meadow or lawn, it is great to sink into nature. Part of the wonder of marijuana is that it is a medicine that comes from the Earth. Maybe that’s why it feels so good to chill in nature after partaking. Find a spot to enjoy the sunset while you immense yourself in the sky as it change colors is a wonder for you mind. You might even squeeze in a small nap in the fresh air.

Scroll TicTok

No matter what you are into, TikTok has content that you want to see. From mild gardening and DIY cleaning hacks to extreme sports and pranks and everything in between, if you want to chill, laugh, or just be amazed, check out TikTok. Careful, you will likely end up scrolling for longer than you anticipated.

Not matter what you do this weekend, take some time for yourself.

Cannabis Caught Up In Naming War

Amy Hansen

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June 30, 2023

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It started with champagne and now has hit cannabis. Pride of name is not only respectful, but can be very lucrative, and cannabis is the latest in a series of lawsuits and mandates about what you can call a product. Canadian cannabis companies are in a pickle with a new naming regulation regarding certain products. Who would have thought with legalization the cannabis industry would get caught up in a naming war?

Champagne started the trend after WWI. French vinters wanted to protect the use of the term “champagne”. Only bubbly made using traditional methods from grapes grown and vinified in the Champagne region of France would only be allowed the moniker. When the Treaty of Versailles was signed in 1919 ending WWI, the French inserted limits on the use of the name. It was ratified by all the players, except the United States.

Korbel and Miller have used the term champagne liberally for decades. Miller Beer refers to itself as the champagne of beers. In 2006, the United States and the European Union signed a wine-trade agreement, and the champagne name issue resurfaced. This time, the United States agreed to not allow new uses of certain terms that were previously considered to be “semi-generic,” such as “Champagne” (as well as “Burgundy,” “Chablis,” “Port” and “Chianti”). But anyone who already had an approved label, Korbel and Miller High Life two key players, could continue with use.

cannabis beverages — Photo by LauriPatterson/Getty Images

Xerox works hard to ensure its brand names avoids becoming generic. Xerox, which manufactures photocopying and printing machines, is arguably one of the most famous examples of a trademarked name being used in everyday speech, but not yet becoming a generic term. This is thanks to a major advertising campaign including. “When you use ‘Xerox’ the way you use ‘Aspirin,’ we get a headache.” Aspirin was a trademark owned by Bayer until 1919. Xerox has worked with dictionary publishers in an effort to convince them to define ‘Xerox’ as a trademark as well as a company.

Despite efforts, Coke became a generic name in ordering soda, especially in the American South. They lost out and now people can order a coke and receive a Pepsi, Costco cola or anything else.

Now Canada has ruled cannabis beverages can not be called soda or cola. Health Canada, which oversees the marijuana industry, has decided cannabis products can not be called soda or cola due to the potential to appeal kids.

A Health Canada spokesperson referred to a policy statement on the Cannabis Act stating they determine whether a product appeals to young people based on specific circumstances and factors.

These factors encompass the product’s name, shape, smell, color, flavor, and how it is presented to consumers. According to the spokesperson, terms such as “soda,” “root beer,” “cola,” and “ginger ale” are considered potentially attractive to youth due to their association with soft drinks, which falls under the prohibited examples outlined in the policy statement.

This enforcement action could significantly impact the thriving market of carbonated cannabis beverages, which currently represent approximately 60% of all cannabis beverage sales.

According to an analysis conducted by market analytics firm Headset, nearly half of the top-selling carbonated cannabis beverages could face repercussions from this directive.

This will litigated in court and in back rooms with the outcome far from decided. Think of milk. Soy, oat, almond and other drinks billing themselves as “milk” can continue using the name, according to draft federal rules released in February of this year. The dairy industry was highly distressed.

And it is still up in the air if plant based protein is allowed to be called meat. Stay tuned for further developments.

Fireworks And Pets, Can Marijuana Or CBD Help

Amy Hansen

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June 29, 2023

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Fireworks And Pets, Can Marijuana Or CBD Help

The 4th is a time for fun, family and fireworks – and a ruff one for pets!

The 4th of July is a huge celebration with bbqs, parties, drinks, red/white/blue clothing and fireworks. While most people enjoy the 4th, dogs, cats and other pets find it upsetting. In a study, it is estimated that 45 percent of dogs show signs of fear when they hear fireworks, and a New Zealand survey recorded 79 percent of horses as either anxious or very anxious around fireworks. When it comes to fireworks and pets, can marijuana or cbd help?

According to PetAmberAlert.com, animal control facilities experience a 30% increase in missing pets between July 4 and 6, with July 5 being one of the busiest days for shelters. The poor things are frightened by the loud, unpredictable booms.

CBD is a big yes, and cannabis more of a no. It is highly discouraged to give pets marijuana due to the THC. Pets have more cannabinoid receptors in their brains, which means the effects of cannabis and THC are more dramatic and potentially more toxic when compared to humans.

CBD doesn’t have THC and can provide relief without the high. A CBD for pets is recommend based on the dosage being for a pet size rather than a person size.

A method of medicating your pet with cannabis is by using a CBD oil and rubbing into their ears. CBD-infused treats do not get pets high, but can relief stress, but they need to consume it at least 40 minutes before the start of the fireworks/noise.

The following general suggestions are good for pets.

Stay inside: Try to keep your pet indoors at all times as much as possible. Ideally, someone stays home with your pet.
Make them feel safe: Comfort your pets with petting, hugging, talking to them in a soothing voice, providing a treat and staying nearby if possible. Make sure they can access their crate or “safe place.”
Avoid the noise. Try to drown out the fireworks sounds as much as possible by closing windows, playing music or turning on the TV.
Act normal. Your pet takes cues from your and your family’s actions. Go about your normal routine as much as possible, talking and playing with your pet as usual.

Hopefully everyone in your family this year will have a great 4th!

Sleep Apnea And Medical Marijuana – A Good Combo?

Amy Hansen

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June 29, 2023

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Sleep Apnea And Medical Marijuana – A Good Combo?

President Biden has joined the millions who suffer from sleep apnea and is seeking relief with a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAC) machine. It is a potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts. As the leader of the free world, it is not surprising Biden has a bit of trouble sleeping. Maybe someone in the White House might talk to him about sleep apnea and medical marijuana? Just to remind him he committed to legalization?

One cause of sleep apnea is excess weight and obesity, which is associated with the soft tissue of the mouth and throat. While asleep, throat and tongue muscles are more relaxed, allowing soft tissue to potential block the airway. Other causes include anxiety, being male, age, family history, a narrowed airway, a deviated septum and more. Snoring loudly or feel tired even after a full night’s sleep key symptoms.

Medical marijuana may help with sleeping issues, but can it help with sleep apnea?

tired sleeping — Photo by Ron Lach via Pexels

Medical marijuana and synthetic marijuana extracts should not be used for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM).

The reason for the warning is there is little scientific evidence medical marijuana can help. The obstruction of the airway can be dangerous and life threatening, so medical professionals always, for good reason, land on the side of caution. While there have been a couple of small studies, more data needs to be accumulated to ensure it is safe and will help toward the illness.

While alcohol can aggravate sleep apnea, there doesn’t seems to be the same issue with cannabis. You would be advised to not smoke before bed and to definitely not use it as a sleep apnea treatment.

Here's Why The White House Is Moving Against Cannabis Reform — Official White House Photo by Andrea Hanks

“Until we have further evidence on the efficacy of medical cannabis for the treatment of sleep apnea, and until its safety profile is established, patients should discuss proven treatment options with a licensed medical provider at an accredited sleep facility,” said Kannan Ramar MD, professor of medicine in the division of pulmonary and critical care medicine at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.

Sleep is tough and roughly 40% of people have a sleep issue at some point. President are no exception. Ronald Reagan, JFK, and Bill Clinton napped daily; Reagan even made a schedule for his naps and took them at the same time each day. While there are pros and cons to napping, research indicates that a properly executed nap increases alertness, performance, and memory. All great benefits to have if you’re the leader of the free world. Hopefully this new treatment will help Biden get a sound sleep and avoid seeing or hearing the White House’s ghosts.

As Eid Starts, is Cannabis Halal?

Terry Hacienda

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June 28, 2023

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Millions are pouring into Mecca where the heat is around 110 degrees at the height of the day. The Hajj is an event of the faithful and a dream for many despite the temperature and the crush of bodies. The crowd avoids all alcohol at all cost. The Qur’an explicitly forbids drinking and a reliable hadith forbids even indirect association with alcohol. The truly faithful can not associate with someone who drinks, even if they are a family member or a close employee at work.

But what about cannabis and its healing powers? And as Eid starts, is cannabis halal?

medical marijuana — Photo by simpson33/Getty Images

It is believed that the Qur’an forbids alcohol because it harms one’s health, can lead to addiction and disrupts society. Some countries, like Saudi Arabia, outlaw alcohol altogether. Drinking there can be punished by flogging, fines, imprisonment and, for foreigners, deportation

A tobacco fatwa (an Islamic legal pronouncement) prohibits using tobacco by Muslims. Arab Muslims tend to prohibit smoking. Despite this, Saudi Arabia ranks 23rd in the world for their smoking population. Over 16% of all Egyptians smoke (led by men at 33%). And in South Asia, smoking tends to be considered lawful but discouraged.

The Qur’an does not directly forbid cannabis. There is a controversy among Muslim scholars about cannabis as some deemed it, by analogy, to be similar to khamr (intoxicants/alcoholic drink) and therefore believed it to be haraam (forbidden). However, other scholars consider cannabis to be halal (permissible). Lebanon in 2020 become the first, and so far only, middle eastern country that allows cannabis and it is with medical marijuana.

A widely accepted account (hadith-e hil) says, ‘Everything is allowed for you [halal lak] until you learn it is forbidden”. Hence, cannabis does not carry a total prohibition among most Muslim scholars.

In 2018, the Fiqh Council of North America (FCNA), a deliberative body comprised of Islamic jurists and medical consultants, stated while the use of intoxicating substances is proscribed by Islamic law, medical cannabis was permissible for Muslims to use with the following stipulations: Non-psychoactive preparations of cannabis are permitted to treat illnesses for which therapeutic effects of cannabis are certain, and psychoactive preparations are contingently permissible in cases of dire necessity.

A wise traveler would not consume and not carry or consume in strict countries.

Muslims around the world are celebrating Eid al-Adha, the Feast of Sacrifice. The sacred observance coincides with the final rites of the annual Hajj in Saudi Arabia. Eid al-Adha commemorates the Quranic tale of Prophet Abrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael as an act of obedience to God.

The Epic Global Battle Over Marijuana – Worthy of A Marvel Movie

Amy Hansen

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June 28, 2023

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The Epic Global Battle Over Marijuana – Worthy of A Marvel Movie

It is time for the summer blockbuster and action movies win huge – big screen battles, villains, etc. In the real world, another one is heating up. The global effort to reclassifying marijuana received a recent key boast. With the US President, global leaders, villains, billions of dollars, history, millions of victims and hundreds of millions consumers, this could have a massive effect. The West vs East showdown now has changing players and facts plays a part. The epic global battle over marijuana is worthy of a Marvel movie.

The first international drug war was the Opium Wars in the 19th century when Western countries lead by the United Kingdom forced China to open their borders and provide opium to the rest of the world. China lost and tried to push back during the Boxer Rebellion of 1900, but lost again. Japan, Russia, the United States and more were caught up in the action and it made daily international news.

In a major shake up in the cannabis war, a division of the United Nations (UN) seems to be switching sides. The UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is marking World Drugs Day with the theme “People first: stop stigma and discrimination, strengthen prevention”, and launched another edition of the World Drug Report. UNODC continues to fail in raising concerns over the continued use of the death penalty for drug-related offences despite a sharp increase in executions last year.

In 1925The League of Nations, the pre-cursor of the United Nations, during a plenipotentiary conference first regulated cannabis worldwide and in 1936 had anti-trafficking convention. By the 1960s marijuana was general illegal, but consumed, in most parts of the world. In 1972, the Dutch divided drugs into more- and less-dangerous categories, cannabis being in the lesser category. Accordingly, possession of 30 grams or less was made a misdemeanor. Cannabis has been available for recreational use in their coffee shops since 1976 making Amsterdam an iconic marijuana tourist destination.

In 1996, California became the first U.S. state to legalize medical cannabis in defiance of federal law. Canada followed in In 2001.

In 2001, Portugal decriminalized all drugs, maintaining the prohibition on production and sale, but changing personal possession and use from a criminal offense to an administrative one. Subsequently, a number of European and Latin American countries decriminalized cannabis, such as Belgium (2003), Chile (2005), Brazil (2006), and the Czech Republic (2010). In 2013, Uruguay legalize recreational cannabis them the first country in the modern era to legalize cannabis.

More Western World and South American countries leaned into the science of medical marijuana and the data proving cannabis is less harmful than alcohol. China, Russia, Eastern Africa and the Middle East took an opposite stance increased draconian punishments.

The failed war on drugs continues to reap a horrible harvest of ruined lives and economic devastation. Reports by Amnesty International and Harm Reduction International show people who are marginalised, including because of their socio-economic status, ethnicity, mental or intellectual disability, and nationality, continue to be disproportionately impacted for drug-related crimes. The situation sharply deteriorated during 2022, as the recorded number of people executed for drug-related offences increased by more than 100% in 2022 compared to the previous year. As reported by Amnesty International, executions for drug-related offences amounted to more than a third of all executions recorded globally. Executions for drug-related offences were confirmed in Iran, Saudi Arabia, Singapore and China – likely occurring in Vietnam as well, where state secrecy is prevalent.

Added to the mix is a slow moving President Biden on US decriminalization and Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau allowing international cannabis trade despite the UN. Former cartel kingdom Columbia is working to legalize marijuana and become the “weed basket” of the world with their outdoor grow. Pete Davidson, Rihanna, Elon Musk and other bold faced celebrities join international conglomerates like Constellation Brands, Altria, Alimentation Couche-Tard, and Imperial Brands to embrace legalization both nationally and beyond.

Legal marijuana States Buying 'Nasal Rangers' To Detect Illegal Grows — Photo by Riccardo Livorni/EyeEm/Getty Images

With millions being penalized, some severely, and hundreds of millions who consumer, especially those who need it medically, this shouldn’t be difficult. The UN Office on Drugs and Crime new position, are starting to reframe the discussion into equity, science and medical data. Medical marijuana has been world benefits since ancient times and can go a long way in the fight against opioids with the governmental support.

The Fresh ToastThe most trusted name in cannabis

Visiting Seattle For MLB Or A Cruise? Information You Need!

Summer is bringing MLB and cruises to popular Seattle. Here is a quick guide of what to do, where to eat, how to consume and a word of caution!

Can Marijuana Help When The Heat Wave Has You Boiling?

Temperatures seem to rising. Can marijuana help you with the heat?

What To Expect From A Cannabis Edible

New to marijuana edibles? Here is how to consume and what to expect.

Understand the dosage

How is works

Timing is key

What to expect

Enjoy

Seven Marijuana Tips For You To Enjoy July 4th

July 4th can be a party marathon and not a sprint. Here are some tips to enjoy marijuana while having a great time.

Cannabis is a no go in National Parks And Federal Property

Hydrate

Consider Low Dose Edibles For The Main Festivities

Keep You Weed Stored Securely

The Odor Doesn’t Always Attract The Right Crowd

Don’t surprise anyone

Have A Blast

Long Holiday Weekend? Here Are 5 Ways To Really Chill.

Lose yourself in music

Savor a nap

Watch your favorite shows from your youth

Relax in nature

Scroll TicTok

Cannabis Caught Up In Naming War

Fireworks And Pets, Can Marijuana Or CBD Help

The 4th is a time for fun, family and fireworks – and a ruff one for pets!

Sleep Apnea And Medical Marijuana – A Good Combo?

As Eid Starts, is Cannabis Halal?

The Epic Global Battle Over Marijuana – Worthy of A Marvel Movie

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