On January 1, 2014, Denver made history by hosting the world’s first legal sale of recreational marijuana. Mason Tvert, who led the successful campaign for legalization, managed the influx of media that came to witness this momentous occasion. The dispensary’s sales floor was so crowded with camera crews and reporters that Tvert had to rotate two groups through at a time. This allowed each transaction to be advertised as the first time anyone over 21 could purchase weed without a doctor’s note, simply by showing ID and paying for it. Cannabis enthusiasts also flocked to downtown Denver, forming long lines outside the new recreational stores. Customers proudly held their purchases overhead like trophies, and there were even rumors that some stores had sold out, adding to the excitement of the day. 

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