Numerous drug use booths in Germany By Alex Templar - MSTv w/additional information from BBCNewsbeat While the United States struggles with the widespread legalization of simple marijuana, other countries are stepping much further by actually opening and regulating drug consumption rooms. To this point, the majority of these spots have been located a in a few European countries; with Germany being one of the most significant. But now, the trend seems to be spreading nearer to the U.S. as our closest world ally might be considering adding such facilities on United Kingdom soil. The Brighton & Hove Council of East Sussux, has become the first in the United Kingdom to officially consider opening a drug consumption room. A 12-month review of the area's drug problem suggests the facility could help reduce deaths and encourage addicts away from shooting up in public places. A handful of European cities have drug consumption rooms including Germany. "We're not the most popular neighbour," admits Andreas Geremia, who runs a drug consumption room in Frankfurt, Germany's red light district, near the cities main train station. Drug paraphernalia is issued in sterile conditions In 2012 alone, the centre had in excess of 100,000 visitors. In protecting the safety and privacy of its clients, fresh needles, syringes and other bits and pieces used for injecting heroin and crack cocaine are provided. When the centre opens in the morning, a group of people are usually already waiting outside. Some of them stagger and Andreas explains: "Many people are shocked at how normal our clients look." Geremia believes Brighton and the UK should welcome the idea of drug consumption rooms as they helped Frankfurt bring the problem of public drug use under control. The centre also offers help accessing doctors, rehab and help with social services and parole officers. Despite managing to get the problem off the streets, Andreas admits: " In Germany drug use is falling but in Frankfurt it has increased." Users of the rooms appreciate the safety of the locations. But, even the best laid plans come with problems. As most users come in to inject heroin or crack cocaine, on average two a week overdose and need medical help. However as yet, no deaths have occurred in the rooms. The Brighton & Hove Council say they have changed their approach to dealing with the drug problem in their area. They say they used to have the highest level of drug related deaths in the UK - now they are eighth. Manchester is now number one according to St George's University of London. The city council there say they are watching with interest any attempt to introduce drug consumption rooms in the UK.
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April 2018
Jude's Korean adventures
Alcohol in South Korea All bars and local night establishments are filled to the brim with things you have seen in all other places like Jack Daniels and Jagermeister. However you may spy a little green bottle with Korean writing on it and you may ask what is that? It's called Soju, my friends or 소주 for the Hangil inclined (Korean Language). Soju is a spirit primarily made from rice, barley, potatoes or tapioca and has an average alcohol content of 20% ABV however there are some brands of Andong Soju that are upward of 45% ABV. None the less, they will both get the job done. Soju has a taste very similar to vodka but it is slightly sweeter and easier to consume by itself. Now we get to the matter of cost and availability; however rest assured the answer will be qiute positive. Soju is available all over South Korea from the local convenience store for 1,000 Won = roughly $1 or in a restaurant for 3,000 Won =$3. So these adult treats certainly won't set you back any considerable amount. It alco mixes quite well with beer, cider, and energy drinks. Soju has been around since the 13th century and shows no signs of going anywhere anytime soon. So when you get the chance come on down to the Republic of South Korea and have a shot of deliciousness. Jude Falcon |