Medical

Analysis/Opinion, Culture, Marijuana Legalization, Marijuana News, MedicalMarch 19, 2018 by Adam Rhodes

Holland Takes Sessions to Federal Court

David Holland is here to defend marijuana.

Holland is a member of the legal team representing 5 plaintiffs in an ongoing suit against the current Attorney General.But he is no fledgling looking to make a name for himself. He is a litigator in New York City and the legal director of Empire State NORML. He also used to be on the High Times Magazine legal team and is a member of the New York Cannabis Bar Association.
So when it comes to productive stoners, he is one of the shining examples. But he feels that the current state of marijuana enforcement is unsustainable. Holland’s firm is suing Sessions and the DEA. The suit claims the classification of cannabis under the Controlled Substances Act is unconstitutional.
Their list of reasons include it violates rights surrounding travel, business and racial discrimination against communities of color. Basically, the law works to discriminate and criminalize communities that don’t have the power or money to resist. Sessions and the DEA failed to get the case dismissed.

The case is going forward.

Holland’s legal team managed to convince US District Court Judge Alvin Hellerstein to let the case go forward. That decision was made in large part because of the personal experiences the plaintiffs had with medical marijuana. The medical efficacy of cannabis to treat patients suffering from a variety of ailments is so apparent, the court has to reconsider the constitutionality of the law.
Despite the strong support showed by the judge, it is still too early to break out the champagne. Despite a mountain of evidence showing the opposite, Jeff Sessions continues to blame marijuana for the opioid epidemic. And with almost no pressure from the White House to change his stance, there is little to stop him from waging a emotionally motivated war against the American population.
Attorney General Sessions is the same person that thought the KKK was OK. At least until he found out some of them smoked marijuana. And he is the same person who said “I can’t remember” in one form or another over 26 times when asked under oath. The performance showed how willing he is to stonewall and deflect about his questionable activities.

The CCC believes marijuana prohibition is racist.

Some plaintiffs claim that people of color are disproportionately targeted for prosecution for marijuana offenses. Armed with scientific evidence and confessions, the Cannabis Cultural Association (CCA) went to bat for its members. We still don’t know how Judge Hellerstein will rule on the racism claims presented by the CCA. But Judge Hellerstein seemed unconvinced by opening statements showing that the Nixon administration admitted to criminalizing marijuana for the express purpose of suppressing minorities and social backlash against the Vietnam War.
Both sides of the case are preparing for a long battle. But despite the court clearly favoring marijuana reclassification, there are many hurdles to overcome. One major hurdle is making sure the court doesn’t pass off the problem to a dysfunctional and ideologically insane Congress. But Holland hopes to keep that from happening.
There is always the possibility the court will decide to ship the final decision over to Congress because of the political controversy surrounding marijuana. But proving its controversial is harder than ever for Sessions defense team. There are more than 30 states and the District of Columbia that already passed legislation legalizing marijuana in some form. With so many, there isn’t much controversy left. But don’t underestimate the vitriol and determination of the diminutive lawyer from Alabama.

Do you think the court will reschedule marijuana? Do you think the Attorney General is doing the right thing or mad with power? What would you do if cannabis became federally legal tomorrow? Let us know in the comments below!

Culture, Medical, ProductsFebruary 16, 2018 by Adam Rhodes

Puffland Delivers Canadians The Best

Marijuana delivery is alive in Canada.

Medical marijuana dispensaries like Puffland are big business in Canada. Canadians spend as much money on marijuana as they do on wine and almost all that money is currently spent on medical marijuana. And despite Prime Minister Justin Trudeau passing legislation legalizing recreational weed, many Canadians still use it medicinally.
There is still some work to be done before the new recreational laws come online. But as the Canadian marijuana market moves ever closer to legalizing recreational marijuana, the dispensary market is getting flooded. With so many options to choose from, many patients don’t know what they are missing out on until the find it. This makes it increasingly important to understand what makes a good dispensary service and sticking with one once you find it.
There is more to a great dispensary than just good prices. One delivery service that provides great product and solid customer service is called Puffland. They also happen to offer a 100% money back guarantee so patients can feel secure in their purchases.
What is Puffland?
Puffland is a Canadian company based in British Columbia. They specialize in delivering discrete medical cannabis across the Great White North. With low prices and access to some killer genetics, patients are taking notice. Their high quality of product and great customer service is starting to earn them a solid reputation.
With the goal of providing safe access to medical marijuana to suffering people, Puffland makes sure to provide the highest quality product at an affordable price. Medical patients depend on them every day to provide their medicine on time and as promised.
A great service with loads of options.
The internet has made more of the world accessible to everyone. That’s why Puffland is using the internet to ensure that medical patients are able to get their medicine. They set up their site to offer clients their products and services with minimum hassle and maximum features.
The Puffland website is responsive and easy to navigate with prices prominently displayed among quality images. You can see what they offer, how much it costs and add it to your cart without having to change screens. Checkout is also fast and easy with only a few steps before your delicious cannabis is on its way.
When it comes to paying, Puffland is ready and willing to take both Interac E-Transfers and Bitcoin through Coingate. Additionally, every purchase earns clients reward points for free gifts like cannabis and smoking accessories. In addition to lowering the overall cost of marijuana supplies, the points offer patients the chance to sample products they might be on the fence about.
And don’t forget the massive selection.
Puffland prides itself on having a wide selection of medical flowers, concentrates and edibles. Patients suffering from conditions and disorders such as chronic pain, insomnia, loss of appetite, nausea, anxiety, add/adhd, and ptsd can all find the right strain or product for them.
From sativas to indicas and every kind of hybrid in between, Puffland has patients covered. They also have almost every possible preparation of cannabis. From shatter to sap and live resin crumble to infused honey and CBD capsules, they have it all.
With a wide selection of cannabis flower available, it can be easy to forget that they also have competitively priced tinctures, balms and CBD products. Finding the right product is simple and only takes a few clicks to have shipped right to the door.
It’s as convenient as possible.
Puffland provides clients with express shipping options as well. Their standard shipping arrives a couple days after ordering. The discrete packaging ensures anonymity while the tracking allows for constant monitoring.
If xpresspost is too long to wait, patients can get Post Priority shipping. One click and the medicine is shipped in half the time, often arriving overnight. This gives patients with time constraints the options they need to stay medicated and healthy.
If you ever have any problems with your order, the service team is there to help. Just shoot them an email or touch in with them on any social media platform and they should respond quickly and professionally.
Do you use Puffland? What was your experience? Would you ever use a delivery dispensary service? Let us know in the comments below!

Medical, Strain ReviewsFebruary 12, 2018 by Adam Rhodes

Weekly Strain Breakdown: Sirius Black

Sirius Black Is Passion Incarnate.

Sirius Black is a cannabis strain that was developed in the early 80’s by the dream team known as the Oregon Breeders Group in Portland. They worked tirelessly to create a strain that blossoms into deep purple buds. And they succeeded.
The Oregon Breeders Group proudly presents, Sirius Black. A tightly packed bud that has the shape of spades and is completely purple. It also has several orange hairs and its trichomes are light purple.
The club also created a strain that tastes like it smells. This strain smells like bold, sweet grapes and fill the air with a hint of musk. The high starts in the head and makes people feel euphoric and creative.

Relax And Be Sirius…

This strain makes people feel like they want to relax without melting into the couch. It is a unique strain because it is an indica that works better as a daytime strain. After a dab or a couple puffs, people feel calmer. Like they can slow down for a moment and breathe.
After a few minutes have gone by, it’s easy to see why this strain is so effective. It can help take away some of the pressure from chronic pain, depression, fatigue, inflammation and lack of sleep. Even though this strain can be taken in the day, people who need to sleep can take a slightly different dose to relax further into bed.
Sirius Black can also help people calm their muscles spasms. That kind of pain is uncomfortable and makes daily life a chore. A couple puffs of Sirius Black can help calm the spasms down enough to relax and take it all in.

…But Not Too Sirius

Sirius Black is a strong bud to smoke. Its effects are strong and provides several bonuses. But with the good comes the bad, and the bad of this strain is the awful dry mouth.
Normally, when a strain gives people dry mouth, a small glass of water can provide enough substance to get the juices flowing. But this strain makes people drink lots of water because the cotton mouth sensation is desert dry strong.
When a strain causes dry mouth, expect dry eyes to follow. But the dry eye effect is not as strong as the dry mouth effect. A couple of drops of eye drops should do the trick. And don’t move too quickly after getting high because this strain causes dizziness.

You’ll Know When The Right Time Comes

To Netflix and chill with Sirius Black. The high that this strain provides fills people with a heavenly buzz that engulfs your body head to toe. All mental and physical pains start to melt away as the cerebral lift leaves you feeling sedated.
Eventually you’ll start to slowly fall into a heavy deep sleep. And when you wake up in the morning you’ll feel relaxed and ready to seize the day. This strains high THC levels work to treat medical conditions while you dream of better days.

Have you sampled some of the magic of Sirius Black? Tell us what you think in the comments down below.

A visit to dispensary in Colorado with Tony M. Fountain

Analysis/Opinion, MedicalDecember 15, 2017 by John Vegas

Medical Marijuana, a Revolutionary Approach to Wellness

Cannabis and health? Necessity makes strange bedfellows indeed. But studies have been done over and over on this topic, and every time researchers find additional health benefits of marijuana. Today marijuana and its extracts are used to treat several health conditions and alleviate pain. Cannabis is saving lives. It has now been legalized in Georgia and other 25 states.
The lifeline from opiate addiction
Opiate addiction is now endemic, the number one cause of deaths in the United States. The primary medical interest in marijuana was its pain relieving abilities. Cannabis is a natural and efficient pain reliever. Patients suffering from chronic pain now no longer have to be prescribed the addictive drugs like Vicodin and Oxycodone. Then again, deaths due to narcotics overdose have reduced. There have not been any reported cases of death due to marijuana overdose. It is factually improbable to OD and dies from cannabis. Opioid addicts have realized that, and are now switching to medical marijuana. Recent studies show that opiates use and addiction has dropped in states that have legalized marijuana.

Tony Fountain of NOW entertainment thinks the legalization of medical marijuana is a move that that was long overdue. Growing up in my small town, I saw real close and personal what a nightmare opiate addiction is. I lost friends who were forced down that road.’ He says addiction was not the only problem; crime syndicates spread their tentacles riding on the wave of opiates. Tony is a pragmatic investor who believes that there is also a great economic potential to be tapped from medical marijuana.
Cancer treatment
Big news: recent studies reveal that cannabis extracts can cure cancer cells and prevent it from spreading. If this kind of research is anything to go by, we may have a way to suppress the grim reaper that is cancer. Presently, medical marijuana is widely used by cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. It helps to reduce pain and improve their appetite. Beyond that, it reduces nausea and vomiting, giving cancer patients a better fighting chance. The FDA has approved two drugs made from marijuana extracts for use in chemotherapy. These are dronabinol and nabilone.

There have been many milestones in the research of medical marijuana. Today there is an increased use of cannabis in the treatment of mental disorders, HIV/AIDS, and Multiple Sclerosis. Today medical marijuana is openly prescribed to patients who have PTSD, Alzheimer’s disease, and other psychiatric disorders. It helps to reduce anxiety and other neurotic symptoms. Medical marijuana is also used in the treatment of HIV/AIDS. It helps to relieve pain and reduce nausea and vomiting. In multiple sclerosis, cannabis is used to reduce pain, muscle spasms and tremors.
CBD – the Holy Grail
A chemical compound found in marijuana CBD, or cannabidiol makes it more than just a pain reliever. CBD is anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticonvulsant, antiemetic, and anxiolytic. Today manufacturers are extracting CBD from and packaging it in bottles as CBD oil, or as capsules. It is used to treat pain, mental illness, anxiety and skin conditions.
Legalities aside, marijuana can indeed be lifesaving.

Medical, ScienceNovember 27, 2017 by Adam Rhodes

Chemotherapy and Cannabis Treatment

Cancer affects almost 40% of the population.

Chemotherapy is a part of many peoples lives, including children. A 2014 study estimated that 15,780 children and teens learned what it means to have cancer that year. That same study found that 1,960 also died from the disease. The remaining 13,820 children had to receive treatment. Most elect for some form of radiation or chemotherapy if surgery isn’t an option.
Anecdotal (evidence based on personal observations and experience) evidence about the effectiveness of cannabis in treating cancer is strong. So strong that there are many studies trying to disprove their claims. Yet the studies consistently (for many types of cancer) show concrete evidence supporting the claims.
It is through these scientific studies that we have learned that cannabis is a powerful phytonutrient and antiseptic. Studies also prove that cannabis is linked to tumor reduction and apoptosis. Specifically in breast, lung, prostate, colon cancer but a variety of others are under consideration as well.

Thousands of people use cannabis in conjunction with chemotherapy.

Not everyone uses it the same way though. There are a variety of ways canna-consumers incorporate it into their treatment. From Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) to edibles and micro-dosing, the world of cannabis does not require a pipe or patchouli oil. If cannabis is a treatment you decide to use, it doesn’t mean you have to be a stereotypical stoner.
Every cancer journey is unique. After diagnosis, it is up to YOU to determine the path you take. Traditional cancer therapy (chemo, radiation or surgery) is part of standard protocol. But certain cancers may require a combination of methods to properly remove.
Cannabis can play many roles in treatment. Research shows that cannabis is a great adjunct for system relief and healing after invasive procedures. While a typical course of chemotherapy significantly reduces overall immune system function, using cannabis supports quick recovery.

Cannabis provides verifiable symptom relief.

Multiple studies prove that cannabis provides symptom relief of chemotherapy. An Israeli study recently followed 200 traditionally-treated cancer patients. They found that cannabis use led to “significant improvements” in symptoms overall, including the symptoms and immediate side effects of chemotherapy.
According to the National Cancer Society (NCS), cannabis may help relieve a myriad of side-effects from chemo. These include: nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, fatigue, itchiness and rash, nerve damage and pain associated with neuropathy. Not to mention their positive effects on generalized pain, and emotional imbalance and mood issues, including anxiety and depression.
In addition to whole plant or natural extracts, the FDA approved Dronabinol to treat “some conditions.” Known by the drug name Marinol, this synthetic cannabinoid treatment is considered less effective than organic cannabis. It also has certain ‘unique’ side effects like neurologic issues and possible seizures.

Cannabis rarely interferes with treatment.

Traditional oncologists may discourage using cannabis while on chemo or radiation treatments. They may claim it could interfere with the treatment and suggest abstaining. It is important to listen to healthcare professionals but treatment is a personal choice.
It is important to remember that thousands of people use cannabis in conjunction with other treatments. Most individuals experience no negative side effects on their treatment. In fact, physicians in medical marijuana states often recommend using cannabis.
In a recent article for Newsweek, Dr. Donald Abrams, Chief of Hematology-oncology at San Francisco General Hospital said “I could write six different prescriptions, all of which may interact with each other or the chemotherapy that the patient has been prescribed,” He followed up by saying “Or I could just recommend trying one medicine.” referring to medical marijuana.

Marijuana acts synergistically with our bodies to promote healing.

The hardest part about chemotherapy is the toll it takes on the body. The majority of people who undergo treatment experience reductions in immune system function. This reduction can last anywhere from months to years after treatment finishes.
A 2016 article in the journal Breast Cancer Research reported that chemotherapy led to long-term changes in the immune system. These changes included lower than average levels of lymphocytes and natural killer cells (also known as NK cells, K cells and killer cells). These are main elements of the immune system and it’s their job to destroy pathogens like cancer cells.
Modern science has revealed that humans have a special element in our immune system. Called the endocannabinoid system, it helps the body achieve homeostasis and balance. Animals without this system (like insects or birds) don’t process THC or other cannabinoids so gain no benefit from using them.

How does the endocannabinoid system interact with cancer?

In addition to providing a boost to recovery and immune system health, cannabinoids interact with the body in many ways. Cannabinoid receptors in the nervous system (called CB1 and CB2 cells) effect everything from hunger to tumor production.
A decrease in endocannabinoids may increase cancer cell tumor production. Researches in a 2008 preclinical trial conducted tests with colon cancer cells at the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Texas. Their research indicates that cannabinoids have a preventative effect on certain types of cancer.
In addition to reducing cancer cell development, cannabinoids seem to calm the immune system and offer anti-inflammatory properties. This is a key part of healing under any circumstances but is especially important when dealing with cancer. Cannabinoid interactions also show increases in immune-system function.

Oncologists see the benefits of medical marijuana.

Medical marijuana is gaining ground nationally. Oncologists and patients can see the benefits and challenges of integrating cannabis into treatment. Over a fifteen years ago, Harvard conducted a study where 44% of traditional oncologists advised marijuana use. A more recent study found almost half of the physicians surveyed supported medical marijuana.
These studies combine to show that patients have more options than ever. While many hospitals still ban doctors from prescribing/recommending medical marijuana, that number is decreasing. Thanks to scientific studies proving the efficacy of medical marijuana and the ceaseless efforts of the community, there are more options than ever.

Do you use cannabis during chemotherapy?

Did your doctor advise against it? What is your story and how did cannabis fit into it? let us know in the comments below and help others draw strength. Thanks for reading.

Growing, Guides, Medical, Strain ReviewsNovember 1, 2017 by Adam Rhodes

The Weekly Strain Breakdown: Blueberry

The Mysterious History of Blueberry

Blueberry is an indica dominant strain that was created by American cannabis breeder, DJ Short, in the early 70’s. The exact lineage has been lost to time but several prominent producers have tried to resurrect it. Rumor has it that DJ Short was experimenting with various exotic landrace strains that created Blueberry. Over the years different breeders who worked and traded with DJ Short cultivated their own versions of Blueberry.
Some say that that Blueberry could be a combination of Purple Thai and Afghan. Others say that Blueberry is a combination of Afghani, Thai and Purple Thai. No matter which parents were used to cultivate the phenotype, breeders love this strain of cannabis because of its relaxing effects and long-lasting euphoric sensations.
Blueberry is an award-winning strain. It won the High Times Cannabis Cup in the year 2000 for Best Indica. This strain can be found in several dispensaries along the west coast as it has become a dispensary staple.

Anyone Can Grow Blueberry

Blueberry is an easy to grow strain. It doesn’t take up too much space but it does tend to stretch a bit toward the end of the growing cycle. It’ll flower in 7 to 9 weeks and it produces high yields. This strain prefers the outdoors.
It is recommended that breeders start growing this strain in a greenhouse, and after the first frost plant outdoors. Put in high quality nutrients, worm castings and bat guano into your soil and top plants to a bush shape. The bush shape and soil ingredients helps increase the yields.
Powdery mildew is an issue when growing this strain. But there is a simple way to prevent it from building up. Just keep pruning the inside of the plants to prevent the powdery mildew problem. Even though this phenotype likes to grow outside, it also likes temperatures between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit and under sunlight. It can handle cooler temperatures at night just fine.

A Blueberry to Remember

Medical and recreational consumers absolutely rave about this Berry. Even though it is a staple in the West Coast, it is growing in popularity across the U.S. After a few puffs, smokers feel relaxed, happy, euphoric, sleepy and uplifted.
Blueberry is not just a feel-good strain. It helps people feel at ease because it provides other wonderful benefits. The medicinal benefits people feel are relief from stress, pain, depression, insomnia and lack of appetite.
Medical patients hunt for this strain because it provides relief from serious medical conditions. Some of these serious medical conditions include ADD/ADHD, bipolar disorder, migraines and nausea. Blueberry is a strain that makes people feel hazy but euphoric after minutes have passed from the last toke. It is a creeper weed.

Blueberry is to Be Respected

There are a few negative effects associated with Blueberry. But these issues are easily treatable and avoidable. With a little preparation, smoking Blueberry can be a relaxing and positively memorable experience.
The most common complaint associated with Blueberry is dry mouth. The cure for this is simple. Before toking, grab a nice cool glass of water or your favorite refreshing beverage and have it nearby. The next most common complaint is dry eyes. The cure for that is to have Clear Eyes for the pie eyed ready and accessible.
Other complaints associated with Blueberry are dizziness, paranoia and anxiety. What new and senior smokers need to remember is that Blueberry is a strong indica dominant strain that creeps up on people. These last effects are avoidable by taking a few puffs and then putting the pipe down. Wait a few minutes to see if the desired effects have been achieved. After a few minutes take a few tokes then put the pipe down again.

These Shnozberries tastes like Shnozberries

Ever enjoy a warm piece of blueberry pie? Remember the sweet smell it releases as you slice a bit size portion with your fork? When smoking this potent indica, people tend to think about eating a slice of pie. The smell Blueberry creates when a person cracks open a bud is fresh and invigorating.
It has great bag appeal. This phenotype also has beautiful colors and high THC content. The best time to enjoy this strain is in the evening because it helps people relax and sleep. Expect to wake up feeling refreshed and ready for the day.
This strain puts people into a state of couch-lock, that is why it is better to smoke this strain in the evenings. When all important chores and tasks are done for the day. Have a cup of milk, a slice of pie and a toke for an enjoyable evening.

Have you smoked Blueberry? What was your experience like after a few puffs of this tasty strain? Did it taste like a pie? For those of you who grew this amazing strain, what was the experience like? Let us know in the comments down below.

Growing, Guides, Medical, Research, Science, Strain ReviewsOctober 30, 2017 by Adam Rhodes

The Weekly Strain Breakdown: Diablo OG

The Devils Lettuce

Diablo OG (also known as Diablo Kush and Diablo OG Kush) is a sativa dominant hybrid. It originates from the Canadian seed company, Next Generation. They crossed Blueberry, Grapefruit and a South African landrace strain to create the little devil, Diablo OG.
Rumor has it that Diablo OG is a phenotype of OG Kush-descended Ghost OG. But Diablo OG’s effects are generally cerebral than the couch-lock that is usually a characteristic of Ghost and other OG’s. Another company that takes credit for creating Diablo OG is Reseda Discount Caregivers. They are located in L.A. and are known for creating popular OG strains such as Herijuana OG.
The THC levels usually tests between 15% and 20% THC. But don’t let the numbers fool you, this strain becomes more potent as dosages are increased. Next Generations Diablo OG’s parent (OG Kush) is an award-winning strain. It won the British Columbia Harvest Cup in 2002.

How to Conjure the Devil

Diablo OG is difficult to grow. But if you want to take on the challenge, here are a few things you might want to know. It can grow indoors and outdoors and prefers warmer climates. It’ll grow just fine using soil or hydro methods.
It can grow up to 100 cm but it tends to stretch. Garden canes may be helpful to support this strain which will flower in 7-8 weeks. It produces low yields of about 300 mg^2.
Another phenotype of Diablo OG is a cross between OG Kush and a South African Sativa strain. This type generally tests between 16% to 28%. The nugs are dense dark green buds with bright orange hairs. They are also completely covered in white trichomes and resin.

The Helpful Devil

A creepy weed. Lazy, couch-locking strain, leaves people sedated, provides pain relief from head to toe. Doesn’t make people sleepy, but people do tend to melt into their seat and are in a sedative state.
Medical and recreational smokers enjoy smoking some of this devils lettuce because it makes them feel wonderful. The most common moods are euphoric, calm, increases appetite, numb, creative and provides pain relief. “This is a great strain, up there taste-wise with Ghost OG and 3 Kings.” Says Rastasaurus, a Diablo OG enthusiast.
Medical patients have their own reasons for specifically smoking this strain. Diablo OG helps relieve stronger medical symptoms such as anxiety, loss of appetite, nausea and stress. Basically, this strain helps calm people down while helping them regain a sense of happiness and appetite.

The Naughty Devil

Unlike several popular strains, Diablo OG doesn’t have many negative effects. Almost everyone complains that most strains cause dry eyes, headaches and paranoia. But that is not the case with this strain. The most common complaints about this deceptive devil is that it causes dry mouth and anxiety.
Combating dry mouth is a cinch. Before smoking, make yourself a tasty beverage or grab a nice cold glass of water. This will make smoking a delightful experience.
To combat anxiety, it is quite simple. Just remember that Diablo OG is a little devil because it is a creeper weed. Novice and experienced smokers should take a few puffs then put it down and wait a few minutes. If after a few minutes, you’re not getting the sativa effects you were hoping for then go ahead and take a few more puffs. But the last thing you want to do is toke and toke until you start feeling the effects because it will be more than you can handle.

A Tasty Surprise

When smoking Diablo OG, expect the air to be filled with a wonderful mix of aromas. Its sweet and sour, earthy and piney. Some say that it smells like lemons and limes. While others say that there is a dank diesel smell in the air.
The after taste is smooth. On inhale, it tastes like lemons and limes. On the exhale, it tends to have a piney, spicy and peppery aftertaste.
Diablo OG is a great baking ingredient too. “This is another of those hybrid that when you smoke it please don’t drive… I feel kind of floating somewhere in hyperspace when I smoke it. I made some cookies with it, but I like it better when I smoke it.” Says Diablo OG enthusiast, Goderick1.

Have you tried Diablo OG? What was your experience like? Was growing Devil OG easy or not worth the efforts? Let us know in the comments down below.

Culture, Marijuana Legalization, Marijuana News, Medical, Research, ScienceSeptember 20, 2017 by Adam Rhodes

MEDS Act Sponsored by Senator Hatch

Senator Hatch Introduces the MEDS Act.

The Marijuana Effectiveness Drug Study Act (MEDS Act) was just sponsored by Senator Orrin Hatch from Utah. If you have ever been to Utah, you might know that it is a highly religious state. The Mormon temples are proudly displayed and most stores are closed on Sunday. So it comes as no surprise that Senator Hatch is a dedicated Mormon.
But the Senator isn’t a blind follower. He sees the damage that opioid addiction causes and the good that cannabis can do. Especially as the U.S. grapples with spikes in teen overdose deaths rates. And the opioid crisis is causing a significant drop in U.S. labor force participation—particularly among American men. And Senator Hatch wants to stop it.
But the problem is bigger than just one state. The entire nation seems under the oppressive whip of opioid addiction. If you aren’t struggling with opioids, chances are you know someone who is. And most of them got hooked by their doctors.
Trump even declared the opioid crisis a national emergency and seeks solutions that will appease his base and his face. But Trump has yet to put forth a comprehensive sentence, much less a policy directing the nation on how to handle cannabis. And Hatch is much more pragmatic about his approach to dealing with this sensitive and rampant issue.

Senator Hatch has a plan for how to fight the opioid crisis.

As part of his plan to combat the opioid epidemic, Hatch introduced the Marijuana Effectiveness Drug Study Act of 2017 (MEDS Act). The speech he gave during the introduction Wednesday, he couldn’t help but sneak in some weed puns.
He started his speech by saying “Mr. President, it’s high time to address research into medical marijuana. Our country has experimented with a variety of state solutions without properly delving into the weeds on the effectiveness, safety, dosing, administration, and quality of medical marijuana.”
Hatch wore his religion on his sleeve but showed his willingness to compromise when he said “it will surprise no one that I am strongly against the use of recreational marijuana. I worry, however, that in our zeal to enforce the law, we too often blind ourselves to the medicinal benefits of natural substances like cannabis.”

He feels cannabis is a powerful ally in the fight.

Senator Hatch sees red tape as the big problem with cannabis today. He explained that there are no federal quality controls for marijuana-based medications. The MEDS Act would remedy that and establish standards for growing medicinal marijuana.
Bureaucratic red tape surrounding safety and efficacy prevent the kind of “rigorous scientific evidence” Hatch feels is still needed. He understands that there are many unique and powerful compounds in the cannabis plant. And the MEDS Act is his attempt at stimulating research into the potential of cannabis.
Like most of us, it took Senator Hatch a personal encounter to come around to cannabis. When a friend was faced with the choice between using weed and getting a risky brain operation, Hatch realized how important research into cannabis is.

Hatch isn’t a hippy.

He was quick to clarify that he wasn’t going to be advocating recreational consumption though. His very next words were “While I certainly do not support the use of marijuana for recreational purposes, the evidence shows that cannabis possesses medicinal properties that can truly change people’s lives for the better. And I believe, Mr. President, that we would be remiss if we threw out the baby with the bathwater.”
Senator Hatch wants to encourage research into potential medical uses for marijuana. The plan involves streamlining the research registration process. The goal is to make marijuana more available to the scientific and medical research communities.

The MEDS Act will make an impact if it passes.

Ideally, the bill will sail through both houses, get signed into law and become a new foundational piece of legislation moving forward. But that seems like a pipe dream. There is plenty of cannabis reform legislation making the rounds right now and none of it has much support.
More likely, it will suffer the same fate as the other pro-cannabis legislation making the rounds in congress. Bills like the Compassionate Care Act and the Research Expansion and Respect States (CARERS) Act couldn’t find the support they needed to move forward.
These bills are stuck in a state of limbo, dead on the floor and unable to pass on. Mainly because there isn’t enough support to pass them or even to get them to a vote. This effectively makes them zombie legislation with little hope of actually passing.

Senator Hatch wants to do things right.

The MEDS Act encourages commercial production of FDA-approved drugs derived from marijuana. It would also put pressure on the Attorney General (AG) to increase the national marijuana quota in a timely manner. It would do this by requiring the AG meet the nations changing medical, scientific and industrial needs for marijuana.
The bill would also include certain protections against abuse as well. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) would then have to develop and publish recommendations and best practices. These would include how to grow and produce marijuana for research.
But there is still a long road ahead. Even if the bill gets passed, there will be many edits, re-writes and last minute additions. Political opponents will try to dismantle the important protections and stall it out like past bills. It’s hard to tell how far this one will go. But we can at least hope it goes all the way.

What do you think about Senator Hatch and the MEDS Act? Do you think it will become law? Let us know why or why not in the comments below.

Analysis/Opinion, Culture, Marijuana News, MedicalSeptember 13, 2017 by Adam Rhodes

House Rules Committee Marijuana Vote

The House Rules Committee leaders fear vote on cannabis.

The republican-led House Rules Committee recently blocked protections for MMJ patients and banks that want to serve state-legal canna businesses. Known as the Rohrabacher-Blumenauer amendment, the now axed legislation was attached to a spending bill. The proposed edits prevent the Justice Department from using its budget to prosecute state-legal businesses. But all that flew out the window when the committee refused to allow a vote.
There are also a number of other proposals that were rejected. According to reports by The Hill, GOP leadership cut the proposal because “it splits the conference too much so we’re not going to have a vote on it.” But history shows that previous versions of the medical protections have passed with wide margins in the House. However, those protections expire at the end of September.
Despite several days of intense lobbying by California Rep. Dana Rohrabacher (R), the longtime champion of patient rights was unsuccessful. She couldn’t rally enough support to protect the legislation from the religious zealotry of Jeff Sessions. Despite repeated assertions by Donald Trump that marijuana should be a state issue, the Attorney General continues his crusade.

This move puts cannabis users in Sessions cross-hairs.

And I’m not being cute here. If Sessions had his way, he would end cannabis consumption entirely. And Sessions belief that “good people don’t smoke marijuana” is well-documented. As is his passion for prosecuting stoners and minorities.

It wasn’t long ago that Sessions sent a letter to the DOJ directing prosecutors to “charge and pursue the most serious and readily provable offense” for cannabis users. But it isn’t just a bunch of stoners getting shafted by Sessions. Even the DEA is mad at Sessions for actively preventing them from researching cannabis. So it comes as no surprise that many in the community are depressed.

There is some light at the end of the tunnel though.

Luckily for those of us who understand the science behind cannabis use, one man’s opinion isn’t the only thing that matters. There are a total of 13 members of the House Rules Committee. It just sucks when a handful of people with no stake in the outcome decide to obliterate millions of jobs, waste billions of tax dollars on incarceration and actively cause unneeded suffering.
But not all cannabis reform was banned from voting though. Three amendments on banking were offered to the committee. Sponsored by Dennis “Denny” Heck, D-Washington, they would have allowed for marijuana businesses to access banking services. It would have accomplished this by prohibiting the punishment of financial institutions that serve licensed marijuana businesses.
The legislation could also prevent the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network from rescinding its guidance for banks that work with marijuana firms. Unfortunately, the measures were rejected on an 8-5 vote. Although in this age of partisan politics was that the four Democrats on the committee joined by Republican Rep. Dan Newhouse of Washington.

Everyone can see what is happening here.

Rohrabacher also delivered an impassioned pitch to his colleagues on the House floor on Tuesday night. He claimed that without the amendment, “we’re changing the status quo in a way that undermines the rights of the states and the people”. Yet despite the long hours and passion, the decision to scrap cannabis protections was made without a vote.
In addition to blocking the Rohrabacher-Blumenauer amendment, Rep. Pete Sessions and the Rule Committee also blocked several other amendments from even being considered. These measures also would have improved the state-legal cannabis environment. Another proposal that was cut was to prohibit federal funds from being used to penalize banks for serving legitimate marijuana businesses.
The Rules committee also blocked several other cannabis related proposals. The additional blocked measures would protect state-run hemp programs, ease restrictions on scientific research, allow the District of Columbia to implement adult-use and protect the states where cannabis use is legal. Because these proposals were blocked, there is little chance for voting on them in the foreseeable future.

Legalization is a long-term goal.

While Wednesdays action was a setback, it doesn’t mean the end of cannabis. The Senate appropriations bill that was approved in July contains the same MMJ protections as the Rohrabacher-Blumenauer amendment. But the current legislation is still getting hammered out in a House-Senate reconciliation committee. That also means the language or protections can still change.
Many were devastated by the House Rules Committee decision. Don Murphy, the Marijuana Policy Project director of conservative outreach said that, “Unless Congress chooses the Senate budget version, millions of seriously ill patients and the legitimate businesses that provide them with safe access to their medicine will be at risk of prosecution,” He continued by saying “This vote is a slap in the face of patients, their families, their elected representatives, and the 10th Amendment.”
While this setback will have long-reaching consequences for millions of people, the legalization movement will continue. There are also bound to be more blind corners and rough patches on the road to full legalization. But those of us that can see the light at the end of the tunnel realize that there is a lot more tunnel ahead of us.

House Rules Committee members:

Rep. Pete Sessions, R-Texas (chair)
Rep. Tom Cole, R-Oklahoma (vice-chair)
Rep. Rob Woodall, R-Georgia
Rep. Michael Burgess, R-Texas
Rep. Doug Collins, R-Georgia
Rep. Bradley Byrne, R-Alabama
Rep. Dan Newhouse, R-Washington
Rep. Ken Buck, R-Colorado
Rep. Liz Cheney, R-Wyoming
Rep. Louise Slaughter, D-New York (ranking minority member)
Rep. Jim McGovern, D-Massachusetts
Rep. Alcee Hastings, D-Florida
Rep. Jared Polis, D-Colorado

How do you feel about the House Rules Committee’s decision? Should MMJ be protected? Or should it remain as it is? Let us know how you feel and what you want to see happen in the comment section down below.

Culture, Marijuana Legalization, Marijuana News, MedicalAugust 22, 2017 by Adam Rhodes

The New Jersey Marijuana Justice Act

Senator Cory Booker’s Marijuana Justice Act

The Action Together New Jersey (ATNJ) Supports Senator Cory Booker’s Marijuana Justice Act. The ATJN advocates for fair and equitable drug policy reform. Sen. Booker’s Marijuana Justice Act would legalize marijuana at the federal level. It would also encourage states to legalize marijuana. One of the most important parts of the Marijuana Justice Act is the promise of expunging criminal records. This includes those convicted solely for possession and/or use. Also, to hold sentencing hearings for those currently serving time.
ATJN’s Director of Drug Policy Reform, Moira Nelson made a statement. “We know that communities of color and low income communities have been disproportionately impacted by marijuana prohibition. African Americans are three times more likely to be arrested for marijuana than white people even though both use marijuana at similar rates. This is a fact. These convictions are tearing families apart, it’s difficult to find a job once you’ve been convicted, it’s impossible to get a student loan and hard to obtain housing. Marijuana should not have prohibited in the first place. It was an oppression tactic. The time has come to regulate and tax marijuana in the same way we do alcohol”.
Several New Jersey groups have paired up with ATJN such as the Drug Policy Alliance (DPA), and the New Jersey United for Marijuana Reform Coalition (NJUMR). In addition, thousands of citizens support the move. Also, the NAACP – NJ State Conference, National Organization of Woman NJ (NOW-NJ), New Jersey Policy Perspective, New Jersey Citizen Action, People’s Organization for Progress, Latino Justice PRLDEF, to name a few.

The New Jersey Senate Bill 3195 / Assembly Bill 4872 would legalize marijuana in the state.

ATJN and other members of the coalition are working together to ensure policies are fair, equitable and just. The coalition is fighting for policies such as expungement for people previously convicted of marijuana offenses, investment of some portion of the revenue generated from the sale of legal marijuana back into the communities that have been disproportionately impacted by marijuana prohibition, and equal opportunity to access employment created by the cannabis industry.
After the hearing, Nelson said that it was inspiring to see how thoughtful the state legislators were about this legislation. And how many people are in favor of marijuana legislation. Nelson also went on to comment that it was really uplifting hearing person after person speak on behalf of those communities. These communities have feel the deep impact of prohibition and speak for many. “I am very hopeful for our future. In this unsettling political climate, we need advocates and allies to speak up for those that are disenfranchised in some way. What I witnessed today brings me immense hope.”
For more information about what ATJN commits too and what they strive to accomplish, please visit them at www.ATJN.org.
For a closer look at the conference, check out this YouTube video. Any comments? We’d love to hear them. And as always, thanks for reading.