SAN DIEGO (KGTV) - A pair of parties on opposite sides of the marijuana issue will mark the first 4/20 since California voters legalized recreational marijuana use.
The Cannabis Social will hold a party at AD Nightclub downtown. Its organizer says the goal is to bring marijuana use out of the shadows and show a more refined image of people who use it.
"My vision with this was to create an environment where professionals can come meet other like-minded people who are interested in the cannabis industry," says Heather Jane, CEO of the Cannabis Social.
"We can really expand awareness of the industry beyond the typical stoner stereotype."
Meanwhile, at Boomers in Vista, the North Coastal Prevention Coalition will host the "420 Remix." It's a party aimed at middle school students, to show them that even though marijuana is legal now, it's still dangerous, especially for kids.
"Our youth are bombarded with different messages about marijuana right now," says Craig Balben with the NCPC. "It can be really confusing for them."
The 420 Remix party targets middle schoolers because it's a pivotal age in their decisions on drugs and alcohol. Student surveys show that only 10 percent of 7th graders drink or use drugs. By the time they're in high school, that number jumps to around 25 percent.
The event will also have resources for parents to teach them how to talk with kids about drugs.
The Cannabis Social organizers say they do not support recreational marijuana use in children.
They hope their event is a chance for people to come together and not be afraid to talk about using marijuana, now that some of the stigma is gone.
