In addition to being the home of Surf City, USA (because they have the best surf, not because all the surf companies are based there unlike Huntington Beach), Santa Cruz is also home to the second-biggest pot school in the country: UC Santa Cruz (Humboldt St. holds a comfortable lead in the top spot).  Which is why it is all the more surprising that UCSC officials are trying to put the kibosh on 420 festivities this year.

Felicia McGinty, vice-chancellor of student affairs for USSC, decided to get the parents involved.  In an e-mail to freshman parents, McGinty said, “I encourage you to talk with your student about his or her plans for 4/20. Ask direct questions about the choices they make and express your expectations regarding marijuana, alcohol or other drug use. Although students may not initiate discussion on this topic, your opinions and expectations can influence their behavior."

In fact, USCS has suddenly become so paranoid about 420 that the University is banning on-campus overnight guests from Friday, April 18th through Sunday, April 20th.  UCSC is spending this much effort on a marijuana holiday at a time when the UC system is going broke and their workforce is facing salary cuts and furloughs.  Don’t they have better things to do than crack down on harmless stoners?

While we’re on the topic, a friendly reminder that this year’s 420 celebrations will be taking place on Sunday, April 20th at 4:20 p.m. at Porter Meadow in Santa Cruz.  Participants are encouraged to bring plenty of munchies and rolling papers.  San Francisco will be celebrating 420 at the exact same day and time, only Cypress Hill will be hosting the festivities at The Fillmore.