NEWS
nuggets Tulare Gives Existing Collectives “Grandfather” Status Like most cities concerned with deadlines associated with the Medical Marijuana Regulations and Safety Act (MMRSA), the city of Tulare decided in January to ban the regulation of the commercial use of cannabis including cultivation, delivery and collective operation. According to the Visalia Times-Delta, the ordinance would allow the city’s two collectives currently in operation to receive “grandfather” status. This means that Tulare Alternative Relief Association and Tulare Alternative Healthcare will be able to continue to operate within the city as long as they follow regulations set forth in the new ordinance. The collectives must not move from downtown Tulare and are subject to closure if inoperable for six months. If the collective owners are interested in selling, they can do so as long as the buyer complies with state and local regulations.
Collectives Keep Popping up Bakersfield Despite Recurring Bans We’ve learned that Bakersfield’s ban on medical cannabis collectives is a perpetual cycle of regeneration, as one closes down another opens right up, and there is little the city can do about it. Deputy City Attorney Richard Iger has said that despite his efforts, collectives continue to sprout up throughout the city and it’s not easy to just shut them down (not that we want them to). According to Kern Gold Empire, Iger estimates that there are an existing 50 collectives in operation and what gives new collectives time to sprout up is the time-consuming process needed to shut them down. Iger explained the process to the Kern Gold Empire, stating, “What we do is, I get a complaint and give them 30 days. I send a letter, give them 30 days to comply. If they don’t comply, I file a lawsuit and typically I work out a settlement to close them down relatively quickly,” adding, “It takes approximately 18 months to get through from filing a complaint to shutting them down.” Local Attorney Phil Ganong disagrees with these efforts, expressing his belief that it provokes illegal and unsafe activity in the medical cannabis community, since Iger only shuts down collectives on a “complaint driven basis.” Ganong states that, “If everybody is at risk, nobody wants to tell, but if some people are doing it right and they’re legal, they know they’re legal, it’s been given to them by the city, then they have every incentive to call the police and report illegal activity.”
St. Patrick’s Day 5K Run/Walk Just try to go through a day without tripping over a new medical study that says running is good for you. These researchers are trying to tell us something. Their results essentially say, “Go long or go home.” Hard science has firmly established that running significantly increases our chances for more time on the planet, better time on the planet. Choose almost any physical calamity you can think of, and a recent study will indicate that the simple act of running will tip the odds in your favor. As tough as running can be, it’s nowhere near as tough as what happens without it. This St. Patrick’s Day, instead of drinking til you feel nothing, why not run and feel better? This event is for all ages, has awards for ages 10 and up, 11-12, 13-14, 15-19, 20-29 and in 10 yr age groups above. This one mile fun run and walk even has a costume contest for the “most green” and offers raffle prizes! Register by March 7 for $22 fee, registration after March 7 for $25. Race proceeds to benefit SSE community outreach projects improving quality of life.
What: 5th Annual St. Patrick’s Day 5K When/Where: Sat, March 12, 2016. The Park at Riverwalk, 11298 Stockdale Hwy., Bakersfield, 93311. Info: Registration is 7am8:30am. Start time is 8:30am. Tickets are $22-$25. For more information visit www.active.com/ bakersfield-ca.
“The sheriff and others trying to end medical marijuana will make people like myself— who are honest, law-abiding citizens—into criminals.”
Coalinga Sheriff Tries to Force Council to Reconsider Medical Cannabis Program by Victoria Banegas
In last month’s issue of CULTURE, we delivered news that Coalinga became the first city in the San Joaquin Valley to legalize cannabis cultivation and delivery services, as well as allow dispensaries to operate within the city. This was great news for cannabis patients like Anthony Schiozzi who turned to cannabis after a car accident that nearly crippled him. According to The Fresno Bee, Schiozzi went through surgery prior to the accident, tried Oxycontin and muscle relaxers, but none of the pharmaceuticals relieved his chronic pain. It wasn’t until his surgeon recommended cannabis therapy that Schiozzi was able to find
relief. Unfortunately, as Schiozzi and many other medical cannabis patients reveled in the city’s decision to legally regulate the plant, opposing citizens encouraged the City Council to reconsider its vote. Sheriff Margaret Mims and other concerned Coalinga citizens begged the Council to readdress the issue as they believe that cannabis is dangerous and should not be sold as a medicine. Schiozzi was enraged by this proposal stating in an interview, “How dare someone tell me that I don’t have the right to take something my doctor prescribes.” Currently, Schiozzi has to drive an hour to get his medicine from a collective in Goshen called CannaCanHelp (CCH), whose
staff Schiozzi says helped him find a strand that eases his pain while not causing psychoactive effects. While the staff at CCH has been great to Schiozzi, he admits it is hard for him to make the trip in his current condition. Coalinga Mayor Pro Tempore Patrick Keough bluntly commented on the Council’s quick decision to reassess its choice to legalize cannabis stating that the Council is made of “weak individuals.” “Personally, I think if we governed based on mob rule we would be in pretty bad shape, but at the same time I am fine with putting the decision to the ballot,” Keough said. While Mims continues to create a negative stigma around the medical cannabis
industry, Schiozzi continues to back the plant, telling of how he had never used any substance prior to his accident, not even aspirin. Schiozzi was even skeptical to use cannabis as medicine, but it proved the only worthy choice. Shiozzi hopes that Mims’ does not win this battle stating “The sheriff and others trying to end medical marijuana will make people like myself—who are honest, law-abiding citizens— into criminals.” As for deciding whether or not medical cannabis will remain legal in Coalinga, the council has backed off their “full steam ahead” approach to cannabis less than 30 days after, to consider all possible issues and concerns, forcing the decision to most likely go to popular vote. c
REVIEWs
strain & edible Available at: Rosedale Remedies in Bakersfield.
Abusive OG The Abusive OG from Rosedale Remedies in Bakersfield presents a classic pineapple-shaped nug with an emblematic OG physicality. A firm tight bud exudes the easily recognized OG aroma—an aroma so popular that an OG cologne would be very successful. The resinous sticky bud breaks up into easy to pack pieces, but its density would make a grinder the best choice. Easy to inhale, there is a sweet and sour licorice taste that is particularly satisfying. True to its name, there is a sudden rush to the head that quickly flows downward. A tightness envelopes your body that slowly melts away into a body relaxing state that is comfortable and calm. This is good to use when you work out as it motivates your muscles and makes your after-gym shower refreshing and stimulating.
Available at: Vital Care Center in Bakersfield.
Big Al’s Banana OG x Purplicious Rather than come up with a new name, Big All prefers to let the imbiber know the genetics of the smoke. Very admirable especially when the genetics are two very classy and sought after strains like Banana OG and Purplicious. Available at Vital Care Center in Bakersfield, the frosty nug is tight and covered with elongated red hairs. An appealing rose strawberry banana floral aroma is very evident with a strong taste that fills your mouth with an enlarging and assertive floral expansion. It is the kind of smoke that causes you to lean back, lift your head up and let the smoke leisurely escape from your nostrils. This delightful cross produces a very happy type weed that underscores the expected OG stimulation but is more light-heartened and festive. Excellent for sharing with a roomful of celebrants producing laughter and good times.
Available at: Cannibal’s Medibals (Morning location) located in Bakersfield.
Dark Knight Bright cheerful nugs covered in red hairs and a literal cookie-cutter perfect appearance, the Dark Knight is a highly appreciated strain with an excellent example of its potent qualities available at Cannibal Medibals “morning” location in Bakersfield. Undertones of a dark pine scent accent its natural appearance. A full-flavored smoke that is savory and appealing, keep some iced water nearby as cotton mouth is not uncommon. Producing a tranquil energetic meditative state that for some will be focused and others more dream-like, expect a body stimulation that is both relaxing and gently inspiring. This is really excellent for stress-relieving and mind soothing. If Heath Ledger had been using this potent Dark Knight strain instead of popping all those doctor prescribed pills, he could have played the Joker again in another Batman sequel.
Available at: Cannibals Medibals (Montclair location) located in Bakerfield.
Blue Cookies A cross of Blueberry and Girl Scout Cookies, the aptly named Blue Cookies found at the Montclair location of Cannibals Medibals in Bakersfield is an intriguing strain highlighting its derivation from two legendary strains. The large medium green bud is pliable and spongy with a mild aroma. The very sweet taste of the blueberry strain dominates the cookie taste but that is not true of its effect as the potency of the celebrated Girl Scout Cookies is evident first followed by the more soothing Blueberry. Blue Cookies is truly an all-purpose strain as it delivers the effects of both strains, although Girl Scouts Cookies’ effects are more noticeable. Blue Cookies does not reach the intensity of either strain, but its unique blending of the two produces an effect that is quite unusual in its ability to please and stimulate.
REVIEWs
Cheesecake Available at: various collectives throughout the Bakersfield area.
A light green color with hints of purple and orange create a nug that is a true beauty to behold. Opening the bag provides an enticing rush with a fruity sweet cheese aroma reminiscent of blueberry cheesecake. Developed by the skillful hands of Mad Scientist genetics and available at collectives throughout Bakersfield, the nug is shiny with trichomes exuding a visual potency making you want to get home as quickly as possible to savor its strength. Cheesecake is as perfect a way to end a day as real cheesecake is a way to conclude a meal. Expect a light, giggly mindset with a comfortable body effect. Many people will find a time-space distortion that persists way longer that one might expect. For those who engage in manual labor for employment, cheesecake can provide sore muscle relief while producing a very relaxing mood.
Available at: various collectives throughout the Bakersfield area.
Chocolate and Peanut Butter Punch Combo Punch Edibles prides itself on producing medicated edibles made with absolute shatter concentrates. Lab tested for potency and purity, Punch Edibles deliver both with quality ingredients and amazing taste. The Chocolate and Peanut Butter Punch Combos available in Bakersfield and in many collectives are well worth seeking out. Rich flavorful chocolate overlaying creamy peanut butter looks ever so tempting as you unwrap the freshness retaining foil wrapper. There are 225mg THC in every combo. Each combo bar is scored for nine separate pieces with each piece containing a modest 25mg THC. Consuming the entire bar could be a bit much for all but the most seasoned edible aficionados. Better to start out with just a couple and go from there. Beginners should definitely only consume one piece. They are so tasty that you will want it all, but play it cool and take it slow.
Sunset Sherbet Available at: Taft Highway Collective in Bakersfield.
Fragrant and skunky, the sunset sherbert obtainable from the Taft Highway Collective in Bakersfield has a dark and dank nug that beckons the senses. Just one hit of this delectable strain derived from classic Girl Scout Cookies will have you feeling like you are rejoicing in the dim light of a glorious sunset. Sweet with a mouth-puckering sensation, the floral clove scent underscores its dark and dank color. Burns very smoothly with no harshness. The stimulating and euphoric effects associated with Girl Scout Cookies is very evident along with a tantalizing body stimulation. Smooth and calming yet mind focusing, expect the munchies to surface. A wonderful smoke for the evening, it is equally effective and enjoyable during the day, especially when mundane repetitive tasks are to be performed.
Available at: Patient’s Wellness Center in Bakersfield.
Big Al’s Girl Scout Cookies With an extraordinary sized nug, Big Al’s Girl Scout Cookies is heavy, weighty, solid and ever so alluring. Exhibiting excellent flower formation with good color and professionally manicured, it is a delight to behold. As close to the smell of thin mint girl scouts cookies without actually being a cookie, this amazing example of an amazing strain can be found at the Patient’s Wellness Center in Bakersfield. A delightful light sweet mint green tea taste with a rapid onset wakes you up while it aids in providing focus and clarity. A gentle pulse flows through your body so lay down, relax, close your eyes and be prepared for vivid imaginary images. Most will experience an initial euphoria that plateaus into a tranquil state of mind and body elation.
“Shutting down the legal recreational systems is going to be quite difficult for any president. If California legalizes it becomes impossible.”
Tulare Collective Sets Standard for Legal Cannabis Market by Victoria Banegas
Cannabis legalization is within arms reach as California voters are likely to legalize the plant recreationally during November elections. While this may sound like a sure victory for cannabis lovers within the golden state, there are concerns that our next elected president will eradicate this win before it fully pans out. While President Barack Obama has allowed the recreational use of cannabis in states like Oregon and Colorado, Republican candidates Marc Rubio and Ben Carson have stated that they would definitely shut down recreational cannabis legalization if elected, according to the Visalia Times-Delta. Cannabis writer John Hudak states that it would be easy for the next president to eliminate cannabis legalization but doing so would be an enormous task for federal law enforcement. “Shutting down the legal recreational systems is going to be quite difficult for any president. If California legalizes it becomes impossible,” Hudak said. “I think there is a lot riding on California in terms of the response of the next president.” One collective setting the standard for a regulated and successful cannabis market in California is medical cannabis is CannaCanHelp Inc in Tulare County.
Currently this collective is brining in $300,000 in tax revenue to the county each month according to Visalia TimesDelta. Not only does CannaCanHelp Inc. create a generous amount of revenue for the county, it obeys all local regulations (recently taking edibles off its shelves and reducing its allotted number of plants) the collective has donated thousands of dollars to local organizations. This alone should be enough of an example for federal and local officials to see the benefits behind a properly regulated cannabis market in terms of economic boost and potential local support. Supporting this observation, spokesperson for the ballot campaign to legalize recreational cannabis in California, Jason Kinney states, “Given the increasing bipartisan support within congress for allowing states to make their own decisions about the issue, we are confident that California will be allowed to implement the will of its people and create a tightly regulated, controlled and transparent system for the cultivation and sale of adultuse marijuana within its borders.” If recreational cannabis is legalized in California it would be the biggest recreational market in the U.S. with its population of 40 million, far surpassing the current biggest recreational market in Washington with a population of 7 million. c
50th
Bakersfield Fiesta Put on by The United Square Dancers Association, the 2016 Bakersfield Fiesta is a threeday event for the square dancer in all of us! This Fiesta will feature a complete round dance program with programmed round, request rounds, and teaches along with their complete square dance program; mainstream, plus, advanced and challenge. With special guest cuers for the dance competitions from all over the country, Bakersfield Fiesta promises to keep you entertained. A weekend-long event surrounding the art of the square dance, Bakersfield Fiesta offers a variety of ways to enjoy the events, and a prominent schedule. With notable experts like Michale Kellogg, Tony Oxendine, Bronc Wise, Neil Booth and Patty Karshman, among many others, if you’ve got an itch to dance, whether or not you’ve got experience in square dancing, this is bound to be a fun weekend for all who attend. What: 50th Bakersfield Fiesta. When/Where: Thurs, March 18-Sun, March 20, 2016. Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 South P St., Bakersfield, 93307. INFO: Tickets are $8-$40. RV Parking available on grounds. For more info visit www. bakersfieldfiesta.com.
San Luis Obispo Cultivation Ordinance in Drafting Process by Victoria Banegas
Like most city officials throughout California, members of the San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors were up in arms due to the Medical Marijuana Regulations and Safety Act (MMRSA) March 1 deadline. With the deadline fast approaching, at the end of last year Supervisors within the county planned on setting down an emergency ordinance to avoid allowing the state to regulate its medical cannabis market, according to New Times. Thankfully, the March 1 deadline turned out to be a typo in the MMRSA and state officials acted quickly to extend the deadline giving cities more time to regulate cannabis as they see fit. On February 9, supervisors in San Luis Obispo County began to
draft an ordinance that would regulate the cultivation of medical cannabis. The ordinance would indicate how many plants a medical cannabis patient is allowed to grow, the size of the plants, permitted zoning areas and whether plants will be allowed to be grown indoors or outdoors. Supervisors also want to figure out how they can control the smell of cannabis grows to avoid conflict with neighboring establishments. Although officials in San Luis Obispo County are making quick progress to regulate medical cannabis, Assistant County Administrative Officer Guy Savage told The Tribune that he is unsure of when the draft ordinance would be ready for review, but it is expected to be in place by the end of this year. County Supervisor Bruce
Gibson, believes that the county needs to be ready not only for legalization of medical cannabis but recreational as well, seeing as California voters are expected to vote on overall legalization in November state-wide elections. While supervisors within
“The ordinance would indicate how many plants a medical cannabis patient is allowed to grow, the size of the plants, permitted zoning areas and whether plants will be allowed to be grown indoors or outdoors.”
the county collectively agreed on drafting the ordinance, Supervisor Lynn Compton showed slight concern over how the ordinance would affect her district. Compton’s district, Nipomo, is the green house epicenter of San Luis Obispo County, “It is four times more profitable to grow high-quality marijuana in a greenhouse,” states Compton. “I don’t want Nipomo to bear the brunt of medical marijuana cultivation.” Again, the ordinance will take some time for supervisors to research and draft out and the county plans on working with neighboring cities that are drafting similar ordinances, according to Savage. When the ordinance is ready it is expected to go through a series of public hearings before it is adopted. c
Chuck Shepherd's
News of the
Weird
LEAD STORY— INTELLIGENT DESIGN u Wired.com’s most recent “Absurd Creature” feature shows a toad devouring a larva of a much-smaller beetle, but the “absurdity” is that the larva is in charge and that the toad will soon be beetle food. The larva’s Darwinian advantage is that, inside the toad, it bites the hapless “predator” with its hooked jaws and then secretes enzymes to begin decomposing the toad’s tissue (making it edible)— and provoking it to vomit the still-alive larva.
GREAT ACHIEVEMENTS IN LAZINESS u An 80-year-old man and a 37-year-old woman were ticketed in separate incidents in Canada the week of Jan. 18 when police spotted them driving cars completely caked in snow except for a small portion of the windshield. The man, from Brussels, Ontario, was driving a car resembling a “pile of snow on the road.” The Halifax, Nova Scotia, woman’s car was, a police statement said, “a snowbank with four wheels.” GREAT ART! u Fed up with the “pretense” of the art world, performer (and radio personality) Lisa Levy of Brooklyn, New York, sat on a toilet, naked and motionless, at the Christopher Stout Gallery in January to protest artists’ “BS” by presenting herself in the “humblest” way she could imagine. Visitors were invited to sit on a facing
toilet (clothed or not) and interact with her in any way except for touching. Levy told the Bushwick Daily website that too much “ego,” “like a drug,” “distorts your reality.” WAIT, WHAT? u In January, the U.S. Department of Justice’s inspector general recommended closing down a program of the department’s Drug Enforcement Administration that paid employees of other federal agencies (Amtrak and the beloved Transportation Security Administration) for tips on suspicious passengers. (The program apparently ignored that federal employees have such a duty even without a bounty). DEA was apparently interested in passengers traveling with large amounts of cash— which DEA could potentially seize if it suspected the money came from illegal
activity (and also, of course, then keep the money under federal forfeiture law). According to the inspector general, the tipping TSA agent was to be rewarded with a cut of any forfeited money. u Chiropractor William DeAngelo of Stratford, Connecticut, was charged with assault in January after an employee complained that she was ordered to lie down on a table and let DeAngelo apply electrical shocks to her back—as punishment for being the office gossiper, spreading rumors about colleagues. DeAngelo said he was reacting to complaints from patients and staff, but seemed to suggest in a statement to police that he was only “re-educating” the woman on how to use the electrical stimulator in the office’s practice (though she felt the need to report to a hospital afterward).