HT Medical Cannabis Cup - San Bernardino 2013

Various vendors offered sample hits of their products, often in the form of 'dabs', or solvent-extracted hash.

On the 16th and 17th of February, I had the pleasure of attending the High Times Medical Cannabis Cup at the National Orange Show Event Center in San Bernardino.

The venue changed not once, but twice. First it was going to be held in Los Angeles, then Glendale, until finally landing in San Bernardino - this left me with a hotel reservation for a room two hours or so away from the event.

The orderly line to enter on the first day was only orderly until someone came out and tried to organize it. Gentle Reader, I have been to several of the HT Cups, and at this point I recommend attendees consider problems with the venue, problems with access to the venue and issues with long lines as not only something to be expected, but something to be embraced as part of the experience. Think of it as an adventure. Just make sure to double-check where the event is being held before you leave, bring water to drink in line and make friends with the folks around you when you get there. Try to not be in a hurry and enjoy the opportunity to 'people-watch'.

Inside the first gate was another queue to have paperwork checked and medical marijuana wristbands applied, which allowed access through a second gate. Visitors without a medical recommendation were restricted to the panel discussions, concessions and informational stands - although there was a consulting booth where a recommendation could be written on-site.

Once past the second gate, however, things improved substantially. Various seed banks, collectives and vendors filled a friendly outdoor fair. Various jars of buds were proudly displayed and sometimes shared. Various vendors offered sample hits of their products, often in the form of 'dabs', or solvent-extracted hash. One reason so many vendors chose to offer dabs instead of floral clusters is its rise in popularity. Another reason cited was the same given for Cannabis concentrates: since time immemorial, concentrates are easier to transport.

Pretty buds, pretty girls and pretty pipes were shown to a whole lot of pretty high folks as they wandered from booth to booth. The atmosphere was friendly, jovial - all-in-all a very mellow and entertaining scene. Breeder Subcool and vegan nutrient proponent Kyle Kushman both had booths, where they talked with fans and offered advice.

'Best Sativa' went to Reserva Privada for Tanj (ironically enough, in science fiction circles, TANJ is a common abbreviation for 'there ain't no justice'). 'Best Indica' was awarded to Godfather OG by Alpha Medic, and 'Best Hybrid' went to Girl Scout Cookies by Life is Good. Comic legend Tommy Chong was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Gentle Reader, it is sad to say there were a couple of folks who overindulged in the festivities, to the point they required medical attention. Not only does this help to give Cannabis a bad name, but it is a major buzz-kill for all involved. Consume responsibly - especially in public.

Peace, love and puka shells,
Grubbycup