Kush LA Magazine

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Herbal Solutions

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Kush L.A. Staff Publishers Robert Selan, Esq. • Ron Dennis • Michael Lerner Editors Ron Dennis • Michael Lerner Associate Editor Leanna Harshaw Director of Advertising Michael Lerner Account Executive Dina Davis Director of Sales Audrey Cisneros Administration Lisa Selan creative director Dave Azimi Graphic Design Jeannine Crowley Writers Jeff Williams • Nalea J. Ko • Courtney Krueger • Nina Crow Courtney Bee • Samantha Ofole-Prince • John Markley Susanne Dresel • Tina Dupuy • Niki P. • Helga Douglas Noah Dennis • Suki-Rose Etter • Leanna Harshaw Doug Kiphut • Jack LeBlanc • Mark E. Rose cartoonist Dan Gibson Published Monthly by DB Dot Com, LLC 5737 Kanan Rd. #277, Agoura Hills, CA 91301 (888)9-KushLA • Fax (888)9-KushLA Info@kushla.com

Inside Sorry Johnny - Jeff Willams

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Charles C. Lynch - Nalea J. Ko

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Journey Down Main Street - Courtney Krueger

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Dear Courtney - Courtney Bee

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Marijuana and Music - Samantha Ofole-Prince

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The Miracle Mushroom - Susanne Dresel

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Patients Prosecuted - John Markley

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Oral Sex, Sodomy Laws and Immoral Prosecutions - Tina Dupuy 36 Top Four 420-Friendly Sites for Online Dates - Niki P

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Puppy Mills - Helga Douglas

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The Difference Between Hemp and Marijuana - Noah Dennis

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Top Ten Late Night Munchy Restaurants - Courtney Krueger

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Weed in Hollywood - Suki-Rose Etter

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Frank Sheftel - Leanna Harshaw

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Battle in the Southland - Doug Kiphut

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My Opinion - Bring in the Funk - Jack LeBlanc

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Medical Marijuana and HIV/AIDS - Mark E. Rose

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M.P.P. Is All Over D.C. - Nina Crow

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Top Ten Kush Quotes - Leanna Harshaw

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Dispensary Listing

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Letter from the Editors

In

a few weeks we will have a brand new vibrant website, www.DailyBuds.com. It'll be updated constantly, will expand our coverage area worldwide and promises to be your best resource for cannabis culture content.

We'll have medical updates, interactive dispensary listings, political updates and analysis, trends and happenings, blogs and even strain reviews. A robust entertainment section will feature music and film coverage, celebrity personality profiles and events. As always, we welcome your feedback and content ideas and will do our best to make sure that we are covering all angles.

The MMJ community is just that-- a community, and our goal is to create a space where you, the members of our community, can feel comfortable and confident that you are getting the best online experience in the industry. Thank you for being a part of our growth. We look forward to delivering the most entertaining, informative and interactive destination on the web.

-- The editors of KushLA / DailyBuds.com

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The Editors

invite you to submit your letters or articles for publication consideration.

They can be sent to: stories@kushla.com

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Sorry Johnny, Stopping Pot Is More Important Than Saving Lives …

by Jeff Williams

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have no criticism whatsoever as to the quality of training I was given by the military. The fact that I am sitting at my computer, very much alive, rather than the alternative, seems a testament to the training I received, and the training of those alongside whom I fought.

However, I do have many reservations about an aspect of the military, other than training, which I feel is equally as important. Along with training for procedures and fighting, there must be a focus on the quality and availability of equipment. Unfortunately, this focus seems be of low priority and possibly high cost.

One example comes from the most important piece of equipment a soldier can possess – our rifles. In 2004, when I was deployed for my combat tour, I was issued an M16. Certainly not a bad piece of equipment, but the one I was given was likely older than I was at the time. It had been on my company’s property books for long enough that no one was sure when it had arrived. Ironically, it may likely have been around during the war in Vietnam, when the M16 was first introduced.

Not to say that there is anything significantly wrong with the M16, but there are other situations where a smaller more compact rifle would likely work better, thus contributing to the safety of the soldiers who use it. An example of this rifle is the M4, a smaller variation of the M16 with a collapsible stock, and slightly shorter barrel, both of which make a significant difference in tight spaces.

Although the M4 is slowly taking the place of the M16 in the military, there are many units still without this potentially life saving piece of equipment. When members of my unit asked about this issue before we were sent to war, we were told that funds were limited.

Some may think that this is a minor complaint; however, the pattern is far worse than lacking a preferred variation of a rifle. The problem carries over to many other pieces of equipment.

The body armor we were given was designed to stop AK47 rounds. The only issue with the body armor was the fact that although I was being sent to fight in Afghanistan, a land of very few trees, and although I was given DCU’s (Desert Camouflage Uniforms) the fabric of my body armor was a BDU patterned. BDU refers to “Battle Dress Uniform,” but is otherwise known as green camouflage.

The problem here was the fact that although most of my uniform blended in to my environment, my entire torso was dark green.

Considering the fact that most things there were beige or sand colored, I felt that although I would certainly be protected by the armor plates, I was probably more likely to be shot since the green of the body armor against a sandy backdrop on a 6-foot 2-inch tall soldier could be seen from over a mile away. I resolved this issue like many of my fellow soldiers; I paid a local civilian from Afghanistan to make me an armored plate carrier that was desert colored.

Along with the outdated rifle, and outdated armored vest, we were given unarmored vehicles that served as little protection from the enemy. Around every corner there were more things that I was spending my own salary on just to help increase my odds of survival. I remember having to buy Continued on page 12

Sorry Johnny Continued from page 10 batteries at the on base PX whenever I was lucky enough to go to one, just to keep my night vision goggles running. At one point, the soles of my boots were taped together because I was told that there weren’t any boots of my size available, so I paid to have some sent from the US so I could continue doing my job once the tape holding mine together finally gave out.

Every story from soldiers in the recent wars involves a fair amount of the soldiers compensating for equipment

So what I am finding is that my country, that I have sworn to protect at any cost, feels that it is more important to arrest people for marijuana than it is to make sure that my fellow soldiers have the proper equipment. shortcomings at their own expense. We are constantly presented various rationales about why supplying each soldier with more modern equipment has not been a top priority. Politicians constantly say that there simply is not enough money to cover the costs of such upgrades.

Yet each year I hear about the many billions of dollars being poured out of the taxpayer’s wallets and into the war on marijuana. In every instance that I have seen, the Drug Enforcement Administration appears to have modern, new equipment. They are given M4’s rather than the bulky M16. They

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spend billions on equipment and vehicles to track suspects, and perform surveillance on various people across this country.

Most estimates show roughly $10 billion spent on enforcement of marijuana laws every year. This is to say nothing of the tax revenue that could be generated from legal marijuana. Tax revenue estimates are consistently in the multi-billion dollar range as well.

So what I am finding is that my country, that I have sworn to protect at any cost, feels that it is more important to arrest people for marijuana than it is to make sure that my fellow soldiers have the proper equipment. My critics may say that I am complaining, or that this is all just typical“left-wing veteranstoner babble.”

I have a simple response to those that feel that I am wrong, those who feel that we should continue spending billions to stop marijuana in America. I ask that you take on the responsibility of explaining to the children of my fallen brothers why we chose to spend billions to fight marijuana, instead of issuing better equipment that may have saved lives. Some of our most honorable and dedicated men and women might still be here, if we did not insist on modern day prohibition of a substance consistently deemed safer than alcohol and tobacco.

So for those who disagree, I want you to repeat the following phrase out loud:“I’m sorry that your father/mother was killed at war, but we busted another pot farm with the money we saved by not sending them armored vehicles and now less people will get high!”

Charles C. Lynch: The Last Prosecuted Dispensary Owner?

by Nalea J. Ko Charles C. Lynch’s life took a dramatic turn two years ago. His business is now shut down, and his home is in foreclosure. In April, he filed for bankruptcy. Lynch has not been able to find a source of income. He is a selfproclaimed “Internet panhandler.”

Lynch’s world started unraveling in March 2007, when he phoned his staff at the medicinal marijuana shop he then owned in Morro Bay, Calif., only to learn of some unexpected visitors at his dispensary. It was the Drug Enforcement Administration, the DEA, and local law enforcement raiding the office. Shortly after, agents also raided Lynch’s home.

“My life has been virtually destroyed,” wrote Charles C. Lynch in an e-mail in late July.“The federal government took all my money and my livelihood. They did the best to destroy my reputation by making it look like I was selling drugs to children and made million of dollars in profits, all of which is not true.”

Nearly two years have passed since Lynch’s business, the Central Coast Compassionate Caregivers, and home were raided, but he is still picking up the pieces. Now out on $400,000 bail, Lynch is required to check in twice a week with the federal government. This is in addition to having to make a daily phone call to find out about his next drug test.

Once a month, Lynch makes a 200-mile trek to Los Angeles from his home in Arroyo Grande, Calif., for a 10-minute mandated meeting regarding his case. He said 14 14 KUSH KUSH L.A. L.A.

this is all part of the federal government’s failed attempt to make an example out of him.

“The prosecutor has cut me no slack at all and has taken a personal vendetta against me,” Lynch said. “The federal government hates people who stand up for their rights.”

UP IN SMOKE: A SEQUENCE OF EVENTS Lynch was not arrested during the raids in March 2007. But a few months later he was taken to the Federal Detention Center and charged with selling marijuana, “conspiring” to sell weed to minors.

Federal prosecutors painted a picture of Lynch as a drug pusher, who sold about $2 million of weed. Some of his customers, they said, were minors. But, Lynch explained he did not violate the Morro Bay rules, saying those regulations defined a minor as someone under 18.

“My defense was strong because I called the DEA before I opened the dispensary and asked what their policy regarding medical marijuana was,” Lynch said. “I was told that it is up to the cities and counties to decide how to handle the matter.”

Lynch said that officials with the city of Morro Bay told him the rules and regulations on the age limit for medical marijuana customers was,“18 or older unless accompanied by a parent.”The federal law defines someone under 21 as a minor. Regardless of the conflicting definitions, Lynch was convicted in August 2008 for operating his marijuana dispensary.

In March of this year, U.S. Atty.

Gen. Eric H. Holder Jr. announced a change in the federal medicinal marijuana procedure. He said that the Justice Department did not plan on prosecuting legal marijuana dispensaries.

In light of these changes, Lynch’s attorney, Reuven Cohen, said his client’s sentencing would likely be the last prosecution case against a dispensary owner.

His sentencing day came earlier this year. On June 11, U.S. District Judge George Wu sentenced Lynch to a year and one day in federal prison for operating a medical marijuana dispensary. Lynch said the prison term was a small victory because he could have been given five years or more.

After his sentencing, Lynch was greeted outside the court by crowd of well-wishers who erupted into applause, hailing the one-year prison sentence as a victory.

“I like to compare my case to the Vietnam War.” Lynch told Kush LA. “Essentially there are no winners. The federal government, although they have convicted me, did not make the example out of me like they were trying to do.”

Lynch said he not only abided by those city and state rules, but he also received a blessing to operate from city officials. He also registered with the local Chamber of Commerce. During the trial, the City Attorney Rob Schultz testified on behalf of Lynch, saying he complied with the Morro Bay regulations while in business for a year.

While Lynch’s case was being played out in court, there was a shift in federal policy. In March of this year, U.S. Atty. Gen. Eric H. Holder Jr. announced a change in the federal medicinal marijuana procedure. He said that the Justice Department did not plan on prosecuting legal marijuana dispensaries.

In light of these changes, Lynch’s attorney, Reuven Cohen, said his client’s sentencing would likely be the last prosecution case against a dispensary owner.

“I think we’re going to come back here in about a year, maybe about a year and change, and have another trial,” said Reuven Cohen to reporters outside of the courthouse on June 11. “I think the matter might be moot at that time.

Because I really think you’re now looking at, if not the last, certainly the penultimate, maybe next to last, third to last medical marijuana dispensary prosecution in the United States.”

Continued on page 28

Got Bud? www.dailybuds.com

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ourney to Santa Monica this summer, and travel down four blocks of pure entertainment! Main St. conveniently lies two blocks east of the sparkling ocean, paralleling the sand and strand, and it offers the locals and visitors scenic eye candy and a unique shopping selection. This realm is engulfed in a chilled yet stimulating vibe, merging the energies of Venice and Santa Monica.

Whether you head north or south, this road will lead you to a bar or restaurant, that will satisfy your need for alcoholic creations and quality food. This area makes great use of space, enabling you to hit up a multitude of bars in just a few steps.

Let’s embark on an imaginary pub crawl, and see how many intoxicating atmospheres we can visit in one evening…

Stop #1: O’Brien’s What better way to begin our pub crawl than with…a pub!

O’Brien’s Irish Pub & Restaurant has been a favorite attraction on Main Street for 14 years, and its invigorating environment serves the public with dependable amusement and a guaranteed good time! Whether you’re an Irish native, or someone who’s intrigued by the culture, you can appreciate Irish inspired artwork and furnishings, and indulge in authentic platters like Guinness pie, fish and chips, bangers and mash, shepherd’s pie, and poached salmon. And since everyone enjoys partying like they’re in Ireland, you can quench your thirst with a variety of draught and bottle beers, whisky, and other flavorful beverages.

Your taste buds and wallet will simultaneously prosper with a daily happy hour available until 7pm.

O’Brien’s is more than a scenic tavern with good food and beer; it is an outlet for diverse entertainment. Inside this pub lies the Live Room, a facility equipped with a stage, lighting, and sound, which can accommodate up to 50 people. This convenient area hosts an array of live events, ranging from music to comedy to trivia. The schedule is jammed-packed, offering a fresh band or comedy act every night of the week.

Now that we’ve initiated this party, gotten our fill of Guinness, and checked out the action in the Live Room, let’s move on to see what the night has in store for us…

Stop #2: Circle Bar Our second stop, the Circle Bar, is an LA hotspot that has continuously been voted a “top singles bar.” Whether you’re with a date, or looking to mingle, the romantic, dimlylit décor will put you in a sexy mood and get your hormones revved up for the evening.

The red walls are ornamented with old Hollywood photographs, giving your eyes something to stare at, in addition to the good-looking people. The intimate room is situated around a large, circular bar (as the name suggests), and the bar’s arrangement is ideal for group interactions. The set-up facilitates

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communication, encouraging those shy individuals to spark up a conversation. The back of the room holds cozy booths, illuminated by candlelight, which provide the perfect space to advance a novel relationship. This well-known lounge enables you to socialize in style, and you’ll look great sipping on a martini within these chic walls.

Now that we’ve flirted with the pretty people, let’s head to our next stop (and bring along anyone you might have met)…

Stop #3: Library Alehouse Our third stop is the Library Alehouse, and this is one library that encourages noise and allows you to get rowdy!

It will heighten your understanding of beer with 29 unique microbrews and select imports, and enhance your worldly knowledge with remote bottles from around the world. These cold brews offer a refreshing blend of unique flavor, freshness, and consistency, and the exclusive assortment is continuously growing (and outshining other southern California sources).

The Alehouse also supplies an extensive wine list that will stimulate the mind and taste buds of any sommelier. You can further your fermentation education by picking the brain of the

An Intoxicating Journey Down Main Street

by Courtney Krueger “beer guru,”Leo Stanton. This knowledgeable expert will share his wisdom and passion, and answer any questions pertaining to beer or wine. Your beverage can be savored on the stylish patio, and this outdoor area creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Since beer and wine, designed to supplement with delectable fare, the library offers a diverse menu full of sustenance to elongate your buzz.

Now that we’ve concluded our alcohol lesson for the evening, we’re ready to move on…

Stop #4: Rick’s Every neighborhood needs a staple dive bar, and Rick’s Tavern on Main is a familiar place to gather for sporting events, social interactions, and cocktails amongst friends. The laid back and playful environment encourages participation and motivates you to play one of the games on the premises. There is a sidewalk patio from which you can observe the action unfold on Main Street, and engage in some people watching.

And since greasy grub is an essential component of a dive bar, Rick’s specializes in the hamburger, and they offer mouthwatering, meaty discounts every Tuesday and Thursday.

Now that we’ve played some games, feasted on a juicy burger, and gotten our daily dose of dive, let’s migrate across the street and check out the World Café…

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Stop #5: World Café While you’re exploring the active territory of Main St. (and searching for an amusing terrain), you’re bound to discover the plush land of the World Café. This bar and restaurant is a world of its own with a festooned dining room, an extensive bar, and a trendy lounge. The area that makes this land unique is the outdoor courtyard, which offers botanical beauty through the green and floral scenery. The air that encompasses this world is energetic, and it will awaken your senses with a booming nightlife.

You’ll want to revisit this exciting realm, and if you come back the next morning, you can feed your hangover a specially designed weekend brunch (with mimosas of course).

Now that we’ve had a worldly and captivating experience, it’s time to end this journey with a bang…

Stop #6: Fin McCool’s Let’s finish this pub crawl the same way we started it…with a pub! At Finn McCool’s, we can revisit the delightful flavors of Guinness and whisky, and revel in a lively Irish atmosphere!

This Main St. tavern supplies an ample amount of space to drink, listen to music, consume the authentic fare, and witness live entertainment. You can experience Irish fate every Monday-Saturday from 4pm-7pm, with a lucky $3 happy hour consisting of beer, wells drinks, wine, and appetizers. And don’t miss out on the Sunday Roast, where a special Irish meal is available from 1pm until closing. This energetic atmosphere has the power to liven up any event, and it will keep the party aflame, as if it was taking place in Ireland.

Okay, now that this bar crawl has memorably concluded, we have one last, and important, stop to make…

Final Stop: Bravo Pizzeria Your late night munchies are begging you to feed them pizza pronto, and Bravo Pizzeria has a large selection to satisfy every craving and prevent the inevitable hangover.

What better way to “top” off the night than with your favorite toppings (over a perfectly baked piece of pie)! This late night pizza establishment is known for providing the drunkards with their post-bar comfort food.

Six entertaining bars and now great pizza: what an ideal ending to an invigorating evening! Time to get to bed–we need to do this again, soon.

Courtney Krueger is a creative writer from Hermosa Beach, CA, who has a passion for quality food and drinks and enjoys the active nightlife that Los Angeles provides.

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Dear Courtney, I’m a bisexual 20-something girl that’s always been on the adventurous side when it comes to sex.

I’ve had a lot of casual relationships (okay, sexual flings) in the past, but recently I met a guy and fell hard for him. We’ve just started a relationship and so far, things are going great. I only want monogamy with him and I’m completely devoted. The problem is I never told him about my bisexuality. I want to be totally honest and open with him, but I’m nervous about his reaction if I reveal that I’ve had sex with both guys and girls. Any advice?

—Likes It All but Likes Him Best, Santa Monica

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Dear Likes It All,

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There’s nothing wrong with a girl that likes the hole and the pole. And Woody Allen had a point when he said that bisexuality immediately doubles your chances for a date on a Saturday night. One survey conducted over the past few years by the Center for Disease Control’s National Center for Health Statistics showed that 14 percent of women in their late teens and 20’s had engaged in at least one sexual experience with another woman (for males it was 6 percent). Telling your boyfriend that you’re part of this demographic can have several outcomes: Outcome One: “You’re a what?! Egads! Do you secretly wish you were scissoring another woman when I’m ramming you from behind? Am I not going to be enough for you when you’re craving boobs? I’m beyond freaked out and don’t know how to deal with this. I need a beer.”

Outcome Two: “Holy crap! Every night since I was 15, I’ve prayed for a girl that loved getting poked by me but also appreciated a great pair of breasts. God has smiled upon me this day. Come. Let’s grab your friend Stacy and a bottle of wine and have ourselves a sexy gender neutral evening. You don’t ever have to buy me another Christmas present for the rest of your life. This is so awesome! I need a beer.”

Outcome Three: “You’re bisexual? I’m cool with that. Will you grab me a beer?”

If his reaction leans toward outcome one, your boyfriend is probably worried that he will not be enough for you or that eventually you’ll go chasing clam behind his back. If you’re committed to him, you need to assure your boyfriend that bisexuality doesn’t equal promiscuity. Because you’ve enjoyed casual flings up until this point and it sounds like this is your first serious relationship, you need to ask yourself if you’re truly ready for monogamy, which has nothing to do with your bisexuality. If the answer is yes, in time your unwavering devotion and affection will ease any insecurities he may initially experience.

If, however, your boyfriend is one of the blokes who think that a bisexual girlfriend means an automatic threesome, you need to set him straight (so to speak). Although it goes without saying that he’d tattoo your name on his arm the next day in a pheromone-soaked haze, expecting you to bring your bisexuality into a monogamous coupling is not cool, and if he

does have this mentality than you’ll need to reevaluate your relationship.

Lastly, don’t dismiss the fact that he may be more openminded than you think. I’ve had bisexual friends whose partners were very supportive of their sexuality and never found it to be an issue. One female pal once said, “My boyfriend and I have a mutual appreciation of Angelina Jolie. It brings us closer!”

Although you and your boyfriend probably won’t spend nights snuggling as you share “hot actresses I would bang” lists, if your boyfriend truly cares about you and has confidence in the relationship, he’ll know that even if you received tickets to a Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders no-panty day, your devotion— and access to your genitals—belong strictly to him.

Courtney Bee

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Courtney Bee’s articles on sex and relationships have appeared in Hustler, Playgirl, and numerous adult books. She’s currently a top-ranked writer on examiner.com, where she betrays her prim Catholic upbringing on a daily basis.

She’s currently working on a novel that features drugs, kittens and gratuitous sex.

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Marijuana and Music: The Industry’s Obsession With Pot

by Samantha Ofole-Prince Bob Marley referred to it as “ganja”, the Beastie Boys called it “cheeba,” while the Beatles just wanted it legalized.

Whether it’s kush, hemp, reefer, bud, doobie, herb, sinsemilla, spliff, endica, weed, grass, mary jane or marijuana, the music industry has long had an obsession with pot since the advent of the jazz era in the early 1930’s. According to historians Ernest Abel and Harry Shapiro, the first recorded American use of “marihuana” occurred at the turn of the 20th century. Commonly know as Mezz, coined after Milton Mezzrow, the jazzman and dope dealer who supplied the drug to jazz greats such as Louis Armstrong and Dizzy Gillespie, many references of the drug can be found on numerous jazz compilations. Even Gillespie talked about pot smoking in his autobiography and how the herb was often used as a stimulus for creativity during practice sessions.

Embraced by pop artists in the 1960’s’, it was any self-respecting pop star’s “mode of operation,” and Bob Dylan and some members of the Beatles admit to being stoned on a regular basis and every mention of “high” or “grass” in a Beatles song, said ex-Beatles member Paul McCartney, was always intentional.

While the likes of the Beatles and the Rolling Stones took their cannabis lead from Dylan, Rastafarian Reggae legend Bob Marley claimed to have a more author-

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itative influence for his smoky partaking. Following his Rafastarian ideology, Marley promoted the use of the herb through Rastafrezism. In addition, many reggae artists, from Collie Budz to Peter Tosh, have numerous songs which reference the use of pot.

“For many [Reggae artists] it is a veritable pre-requisite that you have at least one ‘weed tune’ in your repertoire as an instant crowd pleaser,” says Kennedy ‘Prezedent’ Mensah, publisher of Back 2 Da Future Music, “It’s something of a standard when an artist is performing, whoever they are, they’ll have a ’girl‘ tune, a ’badman‘ tune and a ’weed’” tune which they can call on. It’s normal for a Reggae artist to extol the virtues of weed – you just expect it!”

In the last 30 years, there has been an increase in music glamorizing the use of illegal drugs, but when it comes to singing the praises of marijuana, many rappers put it very bluntly and have coined an entirely different meaning to “going green.”Producer, rapper and former NWA member Dr. Dre titled his 2001 album,“The Chronic,”named after a potent strain of marijuana with the CD featuring an artistic rendition of a pot leaf. The members of platinum-certified Cypress Hill regularly speak out about their quest to legalize marijuana and have been known to light joints in mid-performance, as well as backstage at industry events. Even guitarist Carlos Santana wishes the president would legalize pot, whilst Basehead, Snoop Dogg, the Black Crowes, Lemonheads and Sacred Reich appear to be saying anything but“no”to drug references in their art.

Not only do some of these musicians promote pot in their artistry, many have also been caught with the elicit drug. In 1968, Larry Graham of Sly and the Family Stone was arrested for marijuana possession at Heathrow Airport in London causing a cancellation of the band’s British tour. A year later, Mick Jagger of the Rolling Stones was fined in London for marijuana possession. Paul McCartney famously spent nine

According to historians Ernest Abel and Harry Shapiro, the first recorded American use of “marihuana” occurred at the turn of the 20th century. Commonly know as Mezz, coined after Milton Mezzrow, the jazzman and dope dealer who supplied the drug to jazz greats such as Louis Armstrong and Dizzy Gillespie... days in a Tokyo jail after attempting to import marijuana in 1980. And in 1976, David Bowie and Iggy Pop were arrested on suspicion on marijuana possession. Although the case was eventually dropped, they join singers Whitney Houston, Amy Winehouse, rappers Juvenile, Lil Wayne, Birdman, Snoop Dogg, Redman, Method Man and musician Fela Kuti for arrests relating to pot possession.

Whether the appreciation of bongs, blunts and joints is merely for creative stimulation or otherwise, the music industry, record labels and many of its artists have certainly rejected the “just say no” adage and as a result, pot has reached a new height of popularity with the help of the music industry.

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Charles C. Lynch Continued from page 15 The story of a Morro Bay business owner up against the federal government received national media attention.

Larry King Live, MSNBC with Al Roker, ABC News with John Stossel, and others aired stories about Lynch.

Actor Drew Carey also documented Lynch’s story in a short film.

A FEDERAL APPEAL Lynch’s mother, Bodine Jones, said after the sentencing that she does not expect her son to serve any prison time.

And at a rally earlier this year in February, Jones said she does not want to lose her second child.

“I’d like to say that I have four children: three sons and a daughter,” said Bodine Jones. “In November, I lost my youngest son to the complications of diabetes. He was 45. And I refuse to lose another son to the federal government!”

The story of a Morro Bay business owner up against the federal government received national media attention. Larry King Live, MSNBC with Al Roker, ABC News with John Stossel, and others aired stories about Lynch.

Actor Drew Carey also documented Lynch’s story in a short film.

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“This is not the kind of fame one could really predict or not something that has been financially beneficial to me,” Lynch explained. “I guess it is good though that I received such good press to get the real story out.” In the future, Lynch might write a book or make a movie about battle against the federal government. Right now he is awaiting the appeal of his case.

Lynch hopes that the appeals court will dismiss the charges against him and order a new trial. If that happens, Lynch plans to ask for a presidential pardon.

“I hope change comes real soon and the federal government ends its civil war against me and others,” Lynch said. “I would like to get on with my life and find the wealth, health and happiness I enjoyed before the federal government and local sheriff decided to destroy my life.”

To donate money to the Friends of Charles C. Lynch Fund, visit www.friendsofccl.com/donate. Donations go to help with Lynch’s daily “financial survival.”

Nalea J. Ko’s first experience with the newspaper industry was an ill-fated stint as a papergirl. As a child she became a fixture at the Hawaii state Capitol, writing and delivering her own testimony on topics such as education and keeping dolphins in captivity. Ko moved to Los Angeles from Honolulu, Hawaii when she was a teenager. She returned to Hawaii to receive her bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. After chasing President Barack Obama on the beaches of Hawaii as a fledgling reporter with a local daily, Nalea moved back to Los Angeles and now works as a freelance writer.

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The Miracle Mushroom:

Fact or Fiction?

by Susanne Dresel

Because I was born and raised in Germany and then relocated to the Los Angeles area, I have learned to keep one foot in the States and one in Europe. In some ways, people in Europe are more accepting, or at least more interested in considering untried herbs, medicines or procedures than people here in the U.S. Consequently, I am sometimes pleased to learn things that I would not have heard nor even read about here in California.

Having my first child in 2005, at a later age, left me with severe back and knee pain coupled with depression and listlessness. This worsening condition would often hamper my otherwise active lifestyle. Since my husband is Jamaican we were literally becoming the international family, I wanted to keep a worldly and open mind regarding medicines and doctors going forward, in not only my life but in the lives of my family.

We traveled back to Germany for our son’s first birthday and were so excited to bring his loving grandparents up to date on our lives in America and to simply let them hold and love him like we do. While there, I mentioned my ailments to my father and he told me a fascinating tale about a family friend who survived leukemia with aid of natural mushrooms in a powder form. My husband studies the ancient art of traditional Chinese medicine so we were immediately interested in what my father had to say.

We’d heard about the“Miracle Mushroom”in the past, but both considered ourselves healthy skeptics on the subject. This story of my father’s however, stimulated our interest in it so we began researching these fascinating fungi. The origin of mycology (the use of mushrooms as alternative medicine) lies deep in traditional Asian 30 KUSH KUSH L.A. L.A. 30

The origin of mycology (the use of mushrooms as alternative medicine) lies deep in traditional Asian medicine and mushrooms have played a major role in the treatment of illnesses for several thousands of years. medicine and mushrooms have played a major role in the treatment of illnesses for several thousands of years We learned that just as unique as the cause of an illness can be, so unique is the use of the appropriate healing mushroom to fight that specific illness. The greatest advantage might lie in the very fact that a mushroom is made of natural substances, so undesirable and “unnatural” side effects are often not an issue. I read all the success stories about people who experienced the extraordinary benefits that these medicinal mushrooms had on their health and well being.

In addition to being a beneficial treatment for such illnesses as obesity, diabetes, gout, alterations of the metabolism, hypertension and cardiovascular disease, another effective application of the mushrooms is in the treatment of cancer. I was even more impressed to learn that when the immune system is supported in its fight against cancer cells, the effected organs are strengthened and the side effects of chemical and radiation therapy can be alleviated.

We purchased some of the medicinal mushrooms from Germany’s leading mycologist, Franz Schmaus, whose approach to using the powder from the entire mushroom body has achieved substantial success in the therapy of chronic illnesses, not only in Germany but all over Europe. After taking the mushroom powder in pill form for about a week, I transformed into “super mom” with lots of spare energy and a wonderful balance now beginning to guide my entire being. And as an added benefit, to my surprise, my chronic knee pain was slowly disappearing. Were the miracles beginning to happen?

With my new found zest of life, I dove into the studies available about the benefits of mushroom powder when taken from

the entire fruit body. It made sense to me that as a whole, they would have the ability to absorb the toxins more effectively from the human body and eliminate them more naturally. Just like in nature, mushrooms would help to keep the body’s environment clean.

Long since our visit to Germany, I have recommended these amazing supplements to my friends and acquaintances. Some of which were labeled with stage four terminal cancer while others, were just the everyday “tired moms,” like I had been. Recently, two of my associates who had cancer were actually in remission after only four months of taking the mushrooms.

Could it be that something as simple as a wholly natural mushroom could make such a difference where Western medicine could not? Could it be that there were other possibilities beyond the pharmaceuticals that Western doctors had found themselves enslaved to?

After seeing friends and family experiencing the healing powers of medicinal mushrooms, I do believe in miracles… and so do they.

After taking the mushroom powder in pill form for about a week, I transformed into “super mom” with lots of spare energy and a wonderful balance now beginning to guide my entire being.

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Patients Prosecuted

by John Markley Richard Paey is a paraplegic who suffers chronic pain from multiple sclerosis and severe injuries from a car accident and subsequent botched back surgery. Thanks to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the State of Florida, his desire to ease his agony through legal medications was an offense heinous enough to put him in prison for three years.

In constant pain from his illness and injuries, Paey has gradually developed a resistance to his prescription painkillers that made larger and larger doses necessary. When he and his family moved from New Jersey to Florida, he was unable to find a doctor to prescribe the medication he needed due to Florida’s draconian prescription drug policies, and so Paey was left in constant torment because any doctor who gave him the help he needed would be risking prosecution.

Desperate, Paey was eventually able to get undated prescriptions from his former doctor in New Jersey, which he illegally filled out himself. Paey came under police suspicion because of the quantities of painkillers he was buying from pharmacies. He was finally arrested in 1997, when a police SWAT team battered down the door of his house to take the wheelchair-bound Paey to jail. He was prosecuted for his alleged intent to distribute narcotics, despite the prosecutor’s own admission that the drugs were solely for personal use.

After two mistrials, Paey was convicted and given a mandatory minimum sentence of 25 years in prison and a fine of $500,000.

He remained in prison for three years, spending much of it in punitive solitary confinement as punishment for talking to a journalist about his conviction. This was until the growing media coverage of the case led to a pardon from the governor in 2007.

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The degree of attention Paey’s case received is unusual, but the legal environment that produced it is not. Across the country, doctors frequently prescribe inadequate pain medications for people suffering chronic pain due to their fear that providing enough drugs to give their patients relief will lead to prosecution and prison time. This fear is well-justified, and countless people with serious illnesses or injuries live tormented lives as a result.

Working in concert with state and local law enforcement, the Drug Enforcement Administration began a crackdown on abuse of opioid painkillers, such as OxyContin in 2001.

As seen in Paey’s case, patients can be prosecuted as well. The oft-used criminal charge of “possession with intent to distribute” is dishonestly named – in many jurisdictions it is invoked automatically when the accused simply possesses quantities of a restricted drug beyond some government-specified amount...

Due to the DEA’s claims of huge quantities of prescription drugs being illegally diverted by doctors, this has manifested as a war on doctors who prescribe treatment for patients in severe pain. Doctors, like James Graves of Florida and William Hurwitz of Virginia, have been imprisoned because the drugs they prescribed to someone posing as a legitimate chronic pain patient were subsequently misused or resold without the doctor’s knowledge. Prosecutors and DEA agents with no medical training set themselves up as judges of how much pain relief patients “really” need, and declare it proof that a doctor is a drug dealer if he prescribes more. Their patients often become medical pariahs, unable to get treatment for pain because other doctors fear falling under investigation themselves for treating people stigmatized as drug addicts.

As seen in Paey’s case, patients can be prosecuted as well. The oft-used criminal charge of “possession with intent to distribute” is dishonestly named – in many jurisdictions it is invoked automatically when the accused simply possesses quantities of a restricted drug beyond some governmentspecified amount, whether there is any actual evidence of intent to distribute or not. As a result, people in chronic pain have been prosecuted as drug dealers for maintaining an adequate stockpile of painkillers. Often, they are terrorized by the prosecutors into testifying against their doctor in order to stay out of prison, creating an environment where doctors worry if a patient claiming to be in agony is actually setting him up.

The epidemic of painkiller abuse that supposedly justifies these polices is largely fabricated, the product of the DEA’s

mendacity and a credulous, hysteria-mongering news media.

Millions of people in America are denied effective pain relief because of this draconian legal environment. Some suffer mildly. Many suffer horribly. And some eventually stop suffering when they can no longer get the treatment that made their pain endurable, and take their own lives.

This is not a surprising or mysterious outcome. It is the predictable result of the government’s paternalistic claim of a right to forcibly control what people do with their own bodies, law enforcement agencies that need to collect scalps to prove how valuable they are, and a public that has been whipped into a frenzy about the issue of drugs and is filled with people willing to endorse almost any degree of cruelty and brutality for the sake of the war on drugs. As long as these factors endure, this senseless torture of innocent people will go on and on.

Sources Balko, Radley. (2007, November 20) Reason. Retrieved July 28, 2009, from http://www.reason.com/news/show/123589.html Libbey, Robert T. (2005, June) Cato Policy Analysis no. 545: Treating Doctors as Drug Dealers: The DEA’s War on Prescription Painkillers.

Retrieved July 27, 2009, from http://www.cato.org/pub_display. php?pub_id=3778 Tierney, John. (2007, April 24) At Trial, Pain Has a Witness. The New York Times. Retrieved July 28, 2009, from http://www.nytimes. com/2007/04/24/science/24tier.html?_r=1&pagewanted John Markley is a newspaper reporter and freelance writer from Illinois. He has written on a variety of topics including politics, entertainment, and autism-related issues. He has a home page at http://markley.weebly.com/index.html and can be reached at johndrewmarkley@gmail.com.

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Oral Sex, Sodomy Laws and Immoral Prosecutions

by Tina Dupuy In 1988, James Moseley went through a bitter divorce in his home state of Georgia. His estranged wife, Bette Roberts, had accused him of rape in an attempt to secure custody of their two children. At the trial, the jury found the wife’s claim not to be credible and her ex-husband was acquitted. However, when Moseley took the witness stand, as part of his testimony he admitted to performing consensual oral sex on his then wife.

In Georgia, sodomy (legally including oral sex among married heterosexual couples) was against the law. The maximum sentence for the “crime” in that state was 20 years in prison.

Moseley was given five. He ended up serving 18-months.

Yes, in the land of the free, as a private citizen, going down on your wife was criminalized. And yes, penalized. Not exactly what the Founding Fathers had in mind when they rebelled against tyranny.

Moseley wrote a letter to Playboy in 1990: “My life has been virtually destroyed. I have lost everything, including my family. I am now a convicted felon, convicted of a sex crime.

As a result, I will not be allowed to visit or have custody of my children. I cannot even be paroled to a Georgia halfway house, since Georgia will not accept convicted sex offenders in its halfway houses. The state will accept convicted murderers in the same halfway houses.”

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It’s a story so stupid it sounds like an urban legend. It has an air of like that of the “Vanishing Hitchhiker” because the logic is missing. Why put people in jail for doing something harmless in private?

It’s legislating morality and in Moseley’s case and the many others identical to his – preference. The whole idea of living in a country touted as “free” is to enjoy freedoms. One being what you do privately is your own business and not subjected to the scrutiny of the government.

For sodomy and its proponents this all changed with the decisision by the U.S. Supreme Court on June 26, 2003 in the case of Lawrence & Garner v. State of Texas. The Court ruled 6-3 that sodomy laws are unconstitutional.

Reagan appointee, Justice Antonin Scalia in his dissent wrote, “Many Americans do not want persons who openly engage in homosexual conduct as partners in their business, as scoutmasters for their children, as teachers in their children’s schools, or as boarders in their home. They view this as protecting themselves and their families from a lifestyle that they believe to be immoral and destructive.” Don’t feel bad for Scalia and his short view of what many consider to be a good time. Feel bad for his wife.

Justice Sandra Day O’Connor voted with the majority and wrote, “A law branding one class of persons as criminal solely

based on the state’s moral disapproval of that class and the conduct associated with that class runs contrary to the values of the Constitution and the Equal Protection Clause, under any standard of review.”

One class of persons as criminal solely based on the states moral disapproval? Is that about sodomy or smoking weed?

Not that it’s a good idea to do either while driving …

Let’s talk class of people and for argument’s sake, let’s take potheads vs. beer drinkers.

One group can publicly claim they like to get high, do it all the time and have a great time doing it. The other has to feign back pain in order to not be thrown in jail.

Marijuana, being an illegal substance, while booze is taxed and regulated, is legislating morality and also in this case – preference. It’s not that getting buzzed is the issue – tons of mind altering drugs are legal and regulated. In regards to weed, it’s always been the circular logic: it’s illegal so it is therefore immoral.

Illegal is not the same as immoral. Jaywalking is illegal, few would argue it’s immoral. What deregulatory law makers, banks and brokers did to the economy was technically legal – but it was far from being moral.

Sodomy is an activity millions and millions of Americans enjoy without incident, yet it was against the law and prosecuted. Of course, as soon as it was decriminalized there was not an increase in sodomy – there was only a decrease in the prosecution of consensual acts. It didn’t alter morality in any way – it just made it not a punishable offense by authorities.

Indulging in some cannabis is an activity millions and

millions of Americans enjoy without incident. Currently, it’s still against the law and prosecuted. Mainly because some hold fast that it’s “a lifestyle that they believe to be immoral and destructive.”

What’s immoral and destructive is using the legal system to destroy people’s lives based on preferring the wrong (fun) drug or in Moseley’s case the wrong (fun) carnal act.

Tina Dupuy (tee-na doo-pwee) Writer, Investigative Journalist, Brevity Researcher, The Sardonic Sideshow “Taking eternal vigilance too far...” www.tinadupuy.com www.twitter.com/tinadupuy “Write a wise saying and your name will live forever.”

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Top Four 420-Friendly Sites For Online Daters

by Niki P. After attending the 5th annual Internet Dating Conference (also known as iDate) this summer in Beverly Hills, it has become apparent that the lines are blurring between online dating and social networking. In fact, Zoosk pretty much officiated the trend by turning social networks like Facebook, MySpace and Friendster into what is now known as the “social dating” scene.

The Zoosk interface looks the same on all social platforms and connects you to users across multiple networks. It’s a social application that syncs up to your profile, but functions as a separate entity within a larger platform. Another fun social application that has emerged is MatchMatrix’s Best Friends & Lovers. This application uses your birth date to generate energetic compatibility among your friends and friends of friends and also facilitates the introduction process by serving as a fun icebreaker.

Online dating has definitely gone through an evolutionary process, especially now as it continues to evolve with new advances in technology that not only make it easier and more convenient to find love, but also creates a diversity of online dating scenes through niche community sites people can trust.

The combination of online dating plus social networks of varying niches has resulted in the emergence of social dating, where communities exist not for the sole purpose of dating but

for the additional purpose of socializing with other individuals who share common interests.

The common interest of those living the pot culture is, of course, marijuana. So where do pot users go to find love online, let alone meet others who smoke marijuana without the worry of someone passing judgment on you?

Sure, dating sites like Chemistry or eHarmony might work like a charm, but there’s always that fear in the back of your mind of meeting someone and having that person suddenly judge you when he/she realizes you smoke a little ganja every now and then when you’re stressed out. When all you want to do is find someone to toke up with before you even consider getting involved in any serious dating shenanigans, where on the Web do you go to find others pot-friendlies?

In light of the social dating trends made popular by social networking, I compiled a short list of the top four marijuanafriendly sites you should visit first, where you can meet a toke buddy or stir a little stoner romance. The top four pot-friendly sites for online daters are: 1. PotPartner.com is the best online dating site for stoners currently in existence from what I could find. Two avid marijuana smokers who both had to deal with the problems associated with being in a relationship with nonsmokers developed PotPartner so that members could find their “smoking match” without having to worry about giving up their habit.

2. 420dating.com is the second best choice for stoners dating online. It’s 100% free to join and allows you to find smokers in your zip code. “Why toke alone?” reads the website. If you’re already in a relationship, there is even a search option for couples looking for other couples to smoke with.

Online dating has definitely gone through an evolutionary process, especially now as it continues to evolve with new advances in technology...

3. PotSpace.com is another great source for online dating.

This community is made up of more than 170,000 stoners, making it the perfect place to engage in a little “social dating.”The set up and functionality of the website mirrors the MySpace template but has a very pot-themed twist.

4. PlentyofFish.com is actually among some of the top dating sites in the industry. The reason POF has made the list of online dating sites for stoners is because of one little question that sets the tone for that persons tolerance of weed. “Do you do drugs?” If someone says socially, it’s safe to say that marijuana is one of those drugs, if not the only drug they do.

Niki P. is a budding journalist with a B.A. in journalism. She currently writes a column for Examiner.com as the LA Singles Examiner.

She also writes a dating blog called “Dating is a Payne.”

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Puppy Mills:

How They Treat Man’s Best Friend

by Helga Douglas Puppy mills are large-scale commercial dog breeding operations which mass produce dogs to sell them to pet shops and individuals. Puppies born into this situation often face a bleak and uncertain future as these businesses are created to generate profit and the well-being of the animals is very often ignored.

Responsible breeders raise their animals with the intent to produce healthy dogs and take relevant issues into consideration, such as breed-specific health problems. They are also committed to providing adequate nutrition, nurturing and veterinary care to the mothers and puppies they produce, giving them plenty of space to play and socialize with humans and other animals.

On the other hand, puppy mill dogs are often subjected to horrific living conditions. The average puppy mill will house between 50 and 80 dogs, although some of the larger operations have thousands of dogs on their premises. The animals are kept in cramped, dirty cages with wire floors and are sometimes living among the corpses of dead puppies.

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Their feces and urine drops through the bottom of the cages onto the ground, leaving an awful stench and attracting flies, rodents and other pests which constantly harass the puppies.

The puppies rarely leave their cages, are given little affection and very seldom receive proper veterinary care.

Many of the puppies are not fed adequately and the females are forced to breed every time they are in heat until they are rendered useless. They are then usually shot, abandoned or disposed of in another inhumane manner. Inbreeding is common and the breeding standards are low, often leading to genetic mutations, as well as various health and social behavior problems. Even though the puppies produced might come with pedigrees, the pedigree itself is not an indication of quality or authenticity.

To add insult to injury, the puppies are often taken away from their mothers before the recommended eight to 10 weeks and then the majority of them are shipped off across the country to be sold in pet stores. Some of the animals are unable to survive the trip. Others are sold via Internet sites or

Many of the puppies are not fed adequately and the females are forced to breed every time they are in heat until they are rendered useless. through newspaper classifieds where they are often claimed to be “home raised” or “farm raised.” It claims like these and the façade that has been created that helps cover up the truth about this billion dollar industry which is clearly devoid of any social or moral responsibility. Unwitting customers buy these adorable puppies and even though they are giving the dogs a home, they are also fuelling this machine and putting money into the pockets of the puppy mill owners and ensuring they can continue their business.

However, even though the breeding conditions might not be ideal, puppy mills are not illegal. Breeding kennels are permitted to keep hundreds of dogs in cages for their whole lives as long as they are given food, water and shelter.

In 1966, Congress passed the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) which outlines specific minimum standards of care for dogs, cats and other animals bred for commercial resale. This act is enforced by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), however only large-scale commercial facilities that breed animals for resale are required to be licensed and

inspected by the USDA. This has created several loopholes in the system where backyard breeding and smaller puppy mills are often overlooked. However, many USDA licensed breeders have also gotten away with repeated violations of the AWA. Organizations such as the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) are committed to educating the public about this puppy mill problem and taking measures to put an end to this cruel injustice. These groups take a stand by conducting investigations and litigation, promoting public awareness and supporting legislative change.

Recently, Santa Barbara Democratic Assemblyman Pedro Nava introduced House Bill 2470, dubbed“The Puppy Mill Bill,” which was designed to establish guidelines on issues such as how many unaltered dogs can be kept by breeders and how to keep them. It obligates anyone owning 10 or more such dogs to exercise them twice daily and make sure they have enough space to move without touching the walls of their enclosure.

It also provides other guidelines such as consumer protection Continued on page 52 KUSH LA 45

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The Differences Between Hemp And Marijuana Clearing up a Botanical Misunderstanding

by Noah Dennis The differences between hemp and marijuana are often confused, some people claiming they are the same, others saying that they look similar, but are actually different. In reality they are actually the same plant, yet with a few vital differences.

THC, the drug in marijuana that has the physical and psychoactive effects, is only found in very small amounts in hemp. While marijuana and hemp are practically the same plant, this small difference has a vast effect, leaving hemp for industrial use only, as its medicinal value is non-existent.

Normal marijuana can be anywhere from 6% THC up to 20%, meanwhile hemp’s THC content tops out around 0.6%. In comparison, non-alcoholic beer contains a small amount of alcohol when put next to regular beer. These numbers are very similar to the ratio of THC found in hemp compared to the levels of THC found in marijuana Hemp’s industrial uses are well recognized worldwide, except in the United States on a federal level, where growing hemp for industrial use is strictly prohibited. On August 4th 2009, Governor Ted Kulongoski of Oregon, signed a bill to make the cultivation

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of hemp legal in his state. The United States is one of the larger importers of hemp products because it is not grown here, yet there is still a need for it. In fact, one of America’s most iconic brands, Levi Strauss, actually founded its company making durable canvas pants, which breathed well, and were inexpensive to make. The textile of choice for their admired jeans, hemp, as it was cultivated easily, and quickly renewed.

Surely the botanical misunderstanding that hemp and marijuana are the same thing could have been resolved by now. There are even a few hemp advocacy groups, who realize the value of a resource that is easy on the environment and can be grown in many areas. At times, it has been argued that the small amount of THC in hemp could be extracted and used recreationally. However, this process would be so tedious, and even at points hazardous (as the chemicals used for the separation are dangerous), that it would actually be easier to get actual marijuana and smoke it, in that same time period.

Researchers at the University of Louisville School of Medicine in Arkansas, actually did extensive testing on the two plants, and put out a statement labeling the idea that hemp could be used for drug purposes as “absurd.”

Another common argument against hemp is that it would be used to mask the growing of some marijuana plants. Once again this would not be possible, as hemp and marijuana are grown differently and are harvested at different times.

Cross-pollination between the two would render any nearby marijuana plants practically unusable, as they would become just another wooded hemp plant.

Hemp, and subsequently marijuana, first came under heavy scrutiny thanks to the newspaper mogul, William Randolph Hearst, who recognized that it could damage his interest in the lumber industry. Through his many newspaper media outlets, he continually printed articles about the dangers of hemp and marijuana in society. This lead to the eventual passing of the 1937 “Marijuana Tax Act,” which placed high tariffs on the purchase and growing of hemp in an attempt to discourage its use.

Despite this, during World War II hemp was actually used as a tool to support the war. America’s government at the time actually started a“Hemp for Victory”campaign, urging farmers to convert more that 400,000 acres of land into hemp fields, They did this so they could supply troops with durable ropes and light yet protective uniforms. In 1970, hemp was officially made illegal, when laws banning all strains of the cannabis plant were enacted.

The companies that have realized the value of hemp have Continued on page 80

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Puppy Mills Continued from page 45

Approximately 4 million adoptable pets are killed each year, including millions of puppies. Animal shelters have dozens of wonderful dogs just waiting for good homes. rules, forcing dealers to disclose known genetic defects or medical conditions.

Unfortunately, this bill failed to pass the Senate in July 2009. Although animal rights groups, such as the Humane Society, supported the measure, it was opposed by pet owner groups, like the American Kennel Club and PetPac. Fortunately, Nava said he will continue to

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work on the puppy mill bill and bring it up for vote again next year.

There are several ways you can help bring an end to this sad puppy mill situation. You can visit www. stoppuppymills.com for more information and also take actions like contacting your federal and state legislators to let them know that you’re concerned about the inhumane treatment of dogs in puppy mills. Also, when you are considering pet ownership, please consider adoption.

Approximately 4 million adoptable pets are killed each year, including millions of puppies. Animal shelters have dozens

Helga Douglas is a certified Green Consultant and President and Founder of Green Gaia Consulting. Her website is http://www.greengaia-la.com/ and she can be contacted at helga@greengaia-la.com

Top Ten Late Night Munchy Restaurants

by Courtney Krueger The midnight munchies: this is one phenomenon we’re all bound to experience. Dinner can’t keep us satiated into the final hours of the evening, and late night partying requires the proper sustenance to prevent hangovers. We’ve all driven around afterhours looking for the ideal grub to satisfy our midnight craving; sometimes we succeed, and other times we settle for the nearest drive-thru (swearing this is the last time we turn to fast food in a moment of desperation).

Whether you’re enjoying an evening out at the bars, or simply hanging out late night amongst friends, it is crucial to detect a cure for your next attack of the late night munchies.

Don’t waste another cent on gas searching for that scrumptious midnight fare; below is a list of 10 late night eateries that are sure to gratify your appetite afterhours.

1. Roscoe’s Chicken & Waffles If you haven’t tried Roscoe’s Chicken and Waffles, it’s time you introduce your taste buds to this enticing combination.

(Who’d of thought these two opposing entrees would taste so delectable on the same platter?) This soul food establishment is a Los Angeles staple, supplying a secret fried chicken recipe that can’t be comprehended… or topped. Roscoe’s Chicken and Waffles was brought to Los Angeles from Harlem, and it’s been delighting the locals and visitors since 1976. This comfort food is available daily until midnight (and until 4 a.m. Friday and Saturday in Hollywood), allowing you to indulge in this renowned dual meal late night. And you won’t have to drive too far for the fried fowl, as it has two convenient Los Angeles locations, along with establishments in Hollywood, Pasadena, and Long Beach.

décor is comprised of differing patterns, and this contrary theme creates an eccentric ambiance (even the juke box is decorated to a tee). This hip joint is swinging until 4 a.m., and an authentic Swinger’s experience can be enjoyed in Santa Monica or in West Hollywood.

Address: 8020 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles

(323) 653-5858 Address: 802 Broadway, Santa Monica

(310) 393-9793

3. Pink’s Hot Dogs Pink’s Hot Dogs is a Los Angeles landmark, and these famous dogs have been brightening the Hollywood food scene since 1939. Pink’s is opportunely open until 2 a.m. Sunday through Thursday, and until 3 a.m. Friday and Saturday, making it the ideal post bar stop. You can have a delectable dog prepared anyway you desire, whether it’s smothered in guacamole, encompassed by chili, situated amongst onion rings, or wrapped in a tortilla with bacon and cheese.

Address: 709 N La Brea Ave, Los Angeles

(323)931-4223

4. Benito’s Taco Shop Nothing speaks to your late night buzz like a savory burrito, and Benito’s (a.k.a. L.A.’s Original Taco Shop) provides authentic Mexican food 24 hours a day. No matter what time the fiesta ends, you can indulge in their specialty rolled tacos or feast on a carne asada torte.

Address: 1514 N Gower St, Los Angeles

(323) 466-7453

Address: 11614 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles

(310) 442-9924

Address: 5006 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles

(323) 934-4405

Address: 7912 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles,

(323) 938-7427

Address: 106 W Manchester Ave # F, Los Angeles

(323) 752-6211 Address: 830 N Lake Ave, Pasadena

(626) 791-4890 Address: 730 E Broadway, Long Beach

(562) 437-8355

2. Swinger’s Swinger’s is not your average diner, and the menu offers everything from burgers to ahi salad to multigrain banana pancakes. It caters to the health conscious and the vegetarians with an array of organic and meatless options. The unique 54 54 KUSH KUSH L.A. L.A.

5. The Kettle The Kettle is conveniently situated in the heart of downtown Manhattan Beach, and a visit to this friendly restaurant is the perfect conclusion to a night out in the South Bay. This chic coffee shop creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, and it features an outdoor patio with plush botanical scenery. It is open 24 hours, making it the perfect pick for a late dinner or an early breakfast. If you choose the latter, be sure to try their freshly baked muffins. These large, warm, and flavorful pastries are guaranteed to satisfy any midnight or morning craving.

Address: 1138 Highland Ave Manhattan Beach

(310) 545-8511

6. The Original Pantry Café The Original Pantry Café is a historical eatery, as it was established downtown in 1924, and it has evolved alongside the city. Today, it lies in the core of the city and still provides dependable American fare and friendly service.This round-theclock restaurant is more than just a place to grab a sourdough sandwich at 2 a.m. (after visiting the downtown bars); it is a sample of the Los Angeles culture that shapes the city.

Address: 877 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles,

(213) 972-9279

7. Canter’s Canter’s is the ultimate deli of Los Angeles, and it’s been satisfying the patrons 24 hours a day since 1931. No matter which delicatessen favorite you’re craving (whether it be a corned beef sandwich, matzo ball soup, bagel with lox, etc.), Canter’s will prepare and serve your meal with their distinctive flavor and flair. The genuine atmosphere and diversified clientele offers a true New York experience on Fairfax. The deli also houses The Kibitz Room, an area devoted to providing quality live music and cocktails (open til 1:40 a.m.). Don’t forget to purchase an enticing treat from the bakery to take home as a souvenir and savor at a later time.

Address: 419 S Fairfax Ave., Los Angeles,

(323) 285-5659

8. Toi on Sunset Toi has a prime location on the bustling Sunset Boulevard, and it is literally rockin’ every day until 4 a.m. This Thai food joint delivers an authentic rock and roll ambiance, and the walls are draped with autographed posters and other unique rock paraphernalia. Even the waiters adhere to the theme and rock out while on the job. The Bangkok homestyle platters they serve include their specialty pad thai and vegetarian friendly dishes (such as eggplant pumpkin tofu). You can enhance your energetic meal with beer, wine or sake until midnight.

Address: 7505 ½ Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90046 (323) 874-8320

9. Johnnie’s Pastrami

tasty eatery lies adjacent to Tito’s Tacos, another Los Angeles favorite. If you finish your meal before 10 p.m., wander next door and indulge in a taco for dessert.

Address: 4017 Sepulveda Blvd., Culver City

(310) 397-6654

10. Enzo’s Pizzeria Pizza was designed for the late night munchies, and this is why Enzo’s Pizzeria stays open until 3 a.m. on the weekends (and midnight Sunday thru Wednesday). This Westwood Italian eatery has mastered the thin crust concept, and they can create a pie up to 23 inches with their fresh and flavorful ingredients. The quaint environment is authenticated with Godfather pictures, and since several UCLA students frequent this pizzeria, the scene is consistently vibrant and youthful.

Address: 10940 Weyburn Ave., Los Angeles

(310) 208-3696 There you have it: 10 restaurants that want nothing more than to delight your taste buds afterhours. While three meals a day is standard, sometimes a fourth meal is required (and justified), especially when you’re exuding energy into the wee hours of the morning. You now have no excuse not to adequately fuel your midnight appetite, whether you’re dining at 11 p.m., 2 a.m., or if it’s a really good night, 5 a.m. Next time those drivethru lights are luring you in, drive right on by them and into the parking lot of one of the above restaurants.

Courtney Krueger is a creative writer from Hermosa Beach, CA, who has a passion for quality food and drinks and enjoys the active nightlife that Los Angeles provides.

This dependable Culver City restaurant will feed your midnight appetite a piled-high pastrami sandwich until 3:30 a.m. You’d be wise to supplement your meaty entrée with garlic pickles and chili cheese fries. Johnnie’s Pastrami evokes an old school diner vibe with tabletop juke boxes, traditional barstools and old-fashion waitresses. An additional perk is that this KUSHL.A. LA 55 KUSH

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weed in hollywood

by Suki-Rose Etter

A giant joint walks into a bar, aliens zoom by in a roach shaped ship, cops turn into lizards, and dude, where the hell is my freaking car?

The stoner comedy is a staple in both pot culture and pop culture.The modern stoner comedy has come a long way, baby.

Perhaps the most iconic (and somewhat dated) cinemacannabis enthusiasts are the hippy-dippy, free-lovin’ Cheech and Chong. When you take a look at the high jinks of Cheech and Chong, it is undeniable that these characters live in an alternate reality. Fantasy elements dominate Cheech and Chong movies, solidifying their “silliness” and shaping the mainstream public view of the stoner as an unintelligent slacker.

That’s not to say they aren’t near and dear to our hearts. To many, Cheech and Chong are much like Laurel and Hardy. Laurel and Hardy are one of the most beloved comedy teams of the silent era; two bumbling “dumb” guys who, when given a task, only create chaos for each other.

If you say to Laurel and Hardy,“Here, build this fence,” you can be sure that someone will be hit in the head with a 2x4 and both will be covered in paint by the end. It is the same thing for Cheech and Chong. We love them, however, we are laughing at them.

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When we take a look at more modern stoner characters, we see a very different and much more human depiction. In Pineapple Express and Knocked Up, we are shown characters that smoke weed and exist in a very real and sometimes harsh reality. They have jobs, relationships, bills and responsibilities.

And in Express, they deal with very serious, action-filmdangerous situations. Seth Rogan’s characters in these films struggle with relationships and responsibilities ... and that’s more relatable to the audience than moving pounds of pot out of the back of an ice cream truck.

Today’s Joe Dime Bag is being portrayed in cinema as a functional member of society. At times, these characters are more like the Marx brothers, quick talking and thoughtful, creating chaos, not for each other, but for the people around them. We are laughing, empathizing, and relating to and with them.

Another example of the melding of the two marijuanafilm tones is Half Baked. All the smoking characters somewhat slack to varying degrees, but then they get entrepreneurial.

Dave Chapelle gets around to making bank just in time to knock on Jon Stewart’s door for an excellent cameo appearance, too.

Now picture a person with limited cultural exposure, whose only information and exposure to weed culture is mainstream cinema. What image is being communicated to

these people about marijuana? The fact that the characters in these current cannabis flicks are not jokes or complete fools means that the public image will follow suit. Whether art mirrors life or life mirrors art, the more thoughtful and three dimensional stoner leading roles become the more accepted marijuana will be. Soon, we will get to a point where a character can light up a dooby and it won’t be a plot point at all.

Until then, watching Seth Rogen smoke up and thoughtfully discuss the intricacies of Internet porn will certainly do.

Other memorable film references * Brad Pitt pulling on an empty honey container shaped like a bear in “True Romance” and coughing it out as he tries to find the answer to “which way did they go?” * The dog flying through the air in “Half Baked” * Jeff Spicoli telling Mr Hand “I am today” when asked if he was in Mr Hand’s class in “Fast Times” * “You’re from the Hamburger Train, right?” -- Pee Wee Herman talking to Tommy Chong in “Up In Smoke”

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Frank Sheftel:

A Sympathetic Candidate

by Leanna Harshaw If you live in Los Angeles City Council District 2, which stretches from Mulholland Drive in the Hollywood Hills to Big Tujunga Road in the Verdugo Hills, Frank Sheftel is your new best friend.

He’s running for the open City Council seat and he’s a strong supporter of medical marijuana. “Medical marijuana patients have a great opportunity in this election to get somebody working from the inside instead of the outside,” Sheftel says.

On September 22, 2009, residents in District 2 will be deciding who will take Wendy Greuel’s place on the Los Angeles City Council. This election is the only thing on the ballot and residents in District 2 are the only ones voting.

According to Sheftel, there are currently about 125,000 registered voters and he estimates about 10 percent will come out and vote. “If you live in the district, you have a choice,” Sheftel says.“Voters have the ability to put someone in office who will be an advocate for medical marijuana rights. Every vote counts.”

Sheftel became a proponent of medical marijuana in 2006 when he landed in the hospital with bleeding ulcers. To make Sheftel better, doctors put him on three different medications.

The side effects from those medications made Sheftel lethargic and were adversely affecting his taste buds.

“Someone suggested that I try cannabis as a medical aid. Maybe this would work instead of the medications,” Sheftel comments. “I went to a doctor and got a prescription. It really helped me and I felt much better.”

The collective that Sheftel was frequenting was closing because it lost it lease, so he decided to open his own. Sheftel went to all the officials in the area to let them know what he was doing. “I wanted everything to be transparent and do everything by the book. However, we were a victim of the Drug Enforcement Administration twice with letters to the landlords and had to move. We’re now in a very comfortable location.”

Sheftel is currently in the process of selling his collective.

He doesn’t want there to be any appearance of a conflict of interest. He also figures he will gain more support from other parts of the community if he is no longer involved in the dayto-day operations of his collective.

“I think like a businessman, like a community member, like a medical marijuana patient. I see things differently,”comments Sheftel. “The City of Los Angeles has truly dropped the ball on medical marijuana. We had an opportunity to set the standard

Frank Sheftel and Mayor Villaraigosa

for the rest of the state and the rest of the country. But we didn’t do that. If I get elected, I will bring reason and responsibility to the program.”

According to Sheftel, the medical marijuana situation in Los Angeles has reached a crisis point. “We have an out of control business. We have no rules or regulations. We have city officials that are afraid of their own shadow when it comes to this issue.

They don’t want to take a position for fear of hurting their careers politically.

You have others that have stepped up to the plate that have said that this is ridiculous and that we need to do something about it. Further, you have others that have the attitude that it will never be legal, never accepted and that we cannot have this in our city.

You have all these differing viewpoints and that makes it very difficult to get anything accomplished.They are doing nothing but arguing the point and not coming up with any solutions. This is one of the reasons I am running for City Council. I’m going to responsibly and intelligently bring this issue out into the open and try to get something on paper that is going to give the people of Los Angeles some comfort that finally this industry that has been out of control for so long is gong to be reigned in.”

Sheftel believes that medical marijuana industry can help the City of Los Angeles solve its current fiscal crisis.“Our services are being cut and the budget passed in Sacramento is gong to affect the city dramatically. The medical marijuana industry could help bring in revenue. A really simple fix is a permit fee.

We don’t have that right now. If you had each collective having to pay a permit fee along the lines of San Francisco, we would generate millions of dollars overnight for the city. And the collectives would be happy to pay the fee to get a license, an official seal on their wall that says they are doing it the right way.”

The current direction the City of Los Angeles is taking with the collectives is putting the city at risk for liability and litigation down the line, comments Sheftel. “That’s the last thing we want with this economy. We can barely afford to pay our city

“The City of Los Angeles has truly dropped the ball on medical marijuana. We had an opportunity to set the standard for the rest of the state and the rest of the country. But we didn’t do that.

If I get elected, I will bring reason and responsibility to the program.”

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employees as it is. We’re cutting services left and right and now you want to start closing down an industry that has every right to exist and the ramifications are going to be litigation.”

Sheftel believes that there is a disconnect in our society when it comes to marijuana.“I think that we, right now, are living in a time where you have the perfect storm for legalization. You have marijuana already being legalized for medical purposed and you see the demand it has created for that. You see that our city and state are broke – nearly bankrupt – and looking at all kinds of ideas to raise revenues. And you have the largest cash crop that is now poised to be legalized and taxed to be the savior of the state. It could happen and I believe that when you have elected officials stating that it’s time to look at this – to legalize marijuana – to generate revenue it’s going to happen.”

Sheftel is hitting the streets of District 2, trying to drum up support and name recognition as he gets to know people he wants to serve. But he’s battling some misconceptions on the campaign trail. He’s more than the “marijuana guy,” more than the “pot dude,” and way more than the “cannabis candidate.”

“I always say that I am a small business person and that I am product of this community. I was born and raised here. I let them know that my roots are deep and that I am a grassroots candidate, albeit maybe a different kind of grassroots candidate,” comments Sheftel.

“I’m a homegrown candidate. The puns come left and right and while I smile, I understand that it’s an uphill battle to let people know that I am a serious candidate. It’s not just about medical marijuana. There are so many other issues. I’m

letting people know that I am concerned about the quality of life in District 2 –the streets, the parks, the services that we’re not getting. Again, it’s not just a cannabis issue and I think this comes with meeting people face-to-face and dispelling myths and rumors they may have heard about me.”

If elected, Sheftel plans to encourage more small businesses to open up in District 2. “We have an unfriendly business atmosphere in our city. We tax them out of the city and into other areas of the community. We need to review that.”

The environment is another big concern for Sheftel. “We also need to look at the recycling laws in Los Angles. Right now, we are being robbed every week by scavengers and people that are going through the recycle bins that are put out for trash pick up. This is money that is being taken out of the city’s pockets.”

Sheftel is also outreaching to all the fire stations in District 2. “The fire services were proposed to be cut by the mayor and I think that this is the last thing we need to start cutting. We don’t want to be furloughing our safety officials – the people we rely on in cases of emergency. We want to have them available if something happens. To cut these is a terrible mistake. So, I’m going around and letting them know that I support them and I would do everything I can to not cut those services if elected.”

If you live in District 2, get out and vote on September 22, 2009. Remember Frank Sheftel’s name.

Kush LA Magazine does not specifically support or endorse any particular politician or candidates, but we do support your right to know the issues!

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Battle in the Southland

by Doug Kiphut

After a long fought battle against the powers that be in local government, patients in the Inland Empire have finally been presented with options for receiving medication, and, more importantly, seems to have law enforcement and county officials supporting them. For those of you living under a rock and don’t already know, patients statewide received an unofficial seal of approval when the 2nd District Federal Appeals Court overturned San Diego County’s lawsuit against the State of California in May. San Diego County claimed that the state was violating federal law by passing Prop 215 and S.B. 420 (as did Merced, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties in separate law suits). The Appeals Court ruled that county governments and law enforcement are obligated to uphold state laws, and can no longer hide behind the veil of federal drug laws. The next day, San Bernardino County dropped their case, obviously aware that they stood no better chance of winning. And then, like a house of cards folding, within days both Riverside and Merced Counties had dropped their suits as well.

While the news didn’t automatically grant access to the several thousand patients living in the Inland Empire, it did provide a much needed moral boost for the patients and activists working in the area. Since the closing of Healing Nation Collective in Corona in 2007, medical cannabis awareness and support in the IE has been exponentially increasing, largely thanks to grassroots actions and events sponsored by yeswecannabis.org. And now there is a new captain at the helm of this great ship, a man by the name of Lanny Swerdlow.

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Under Lanny’s direction, support groups and speakers have been present at the County Board of Supervisor’s meetings in both Riverside and San Bernardino. At the San Bernardino County’s meeting a few weeks ago, the Supervisors voted in favor of implementing the County Medical Marijuana ID card program, which the County’s Public Health Director had been ready and waiting to start, saying he could begin the next day. On the heels of that victory, Lanny and company returned to the next San Bernardino Supervisor’s meeting to implore them not to pass a ban on medical dispensaries in the unincorporated areas of the county.

While their words didn’t fall on completely deaf ears, the Board voted in favor of a new 60 day moratorium, during which time they claim they will work with a planning commission to develop an effective ordinance.

However, at present there are several dispensaries operating underground, as well as a few delivery services that are operating uninterrupted. There was also a report at a recent meeting from a gentleman who had his grow house raided, only to have law enforcement

commend him for stringently following guidelines and and the patients know that money speaks louder compliment him on the cleanliness of his facility. than words. Hopefully, now that they have seen how In Riverside County, the Board of Supervisors organized and empowered the IE medical movement is, enacted a moratorium on dispensaries in 2007, but law enforcement and local governments will begin to that decision is also being reviewed in light of recent take things a little more seriously. developments. Recently, over 40 activists and patients Reports are coming in from patients in the San went to the Board meeting initially to show support Diego area that several dispensaries have reopened for a presentation from Ryan there as well. It seems that with Michaels, another key player in the changing political climate, the IE medical movement. After The Appeals Court ruled that county and the economic hardships a deliberate miscommunication governments and law enforcement everyone is facing, our elected from county officials, Ryan officials are finally ready to start are obligated to uphold state laws, trying some new things. There is was not allowed to use more than three minutes to make his a collective understanding that and can no longer hide behind presentation. Improvisation then business as usual, in the financial the veil of federal drug laws. The became necessary, and over half world and in the political of the supporters decided to take next day, San Bernardino County arena, is largely to blame for their three minutes of public avalanche of failure that dropped their case, obviously aware the comment, dragging out the propelled us to today. that they stood no better chance of meeting for an extra 45 minutes While across-the-board simply to re-iterate what the first decriminalization of drugs winning. And then, like a house few said: “We know that the state is still a bit of a pipe dream of cards folding, within days both (although Oaksterdam is is allowing this, we know the guidelines, now we need you to Riverside and Merced Counties had close enough), especially on a follow them and stop harassing federal level, it seems that the dropped their suits as well. sick people.� light at the end of the tunnel is Following the meeting, finally here. Medical cannabis patients began contacting their patients and the activists who respective Supervisors and setting up individual have been fighting desperately for access in the IE now meetings to discuss safe access and the potential have an opportunity for responsible regulation, and economic benefits of regulating and taxing dispensaries. the possibility of seeing their local governments lead Riverside has been extremely politically conservative for the way in a statewide shift to support the legitimate a decade now, in both the City and County governments, medical cannabis industry.

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Cops Stumble On Solution to California’s Budget Crisis $1 Billion Pot Seizure, 40,000 Plants Destroyed

by Andrew D. In July 2009, Sheriff’s in Fresno County, CA, destroyed over 40,000 pot plants in just one day. Police told reporters that one plant may be worth $4,000 and that in 2008 over 5.3 million plants were eradicated in California by law enforcement. Another article covering the seizure put the value of the plants at over $1 billion.

Cross-checking some other statistics, law enforcement estimates that the marijuana plants seized per year represent only about 10% of the actual number of plants grown.

By the cops’ estimates, there are over 50 million plants grown in California possibly worth $4,000 each. In another report, law enforcement estimates the state of California produces 8.6 million pounds of pot a year worth over $13 billion.

With California and the nation in a budget crisis, it’s nice to see the cops are finally drawing attention to the huge dollar value of California’s number one cash crop. Only 25 more seizures of crops worth about $1 billion and California will have matched its $26 billion deficit.

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The Battle for the Best Kush: LA vs. XXX by: Mike James

I had an incredible time investigating what Amsterdam was all about but it felt really good to get home when I landed in LAX. A friend picked me up and took me to my apartment. I didn’t even bother carrying my bags up the stairs to my room. I went right to the half eighth of Blackberry Kush I stashed in my desk before I left for this very occasion.

The

destruction in your brain cells is more like coke or crack than it is like the old time marijuana.”This comment from Rep. Mark Souder on MSNBC’s The Situation with Tucker Carlson speaking about “Kush” marijuana.

Mark Souder is a member of the United States House of Representatives for Indiana’s 3rd Congressional District. He has tried to increase federal funding for anti-marijuana ad campaigns and has led the war against the extremely potent and according to Souder, deadly form of marijuana we know as Kush.

I grew up in Indiana and I can tell you first hand that Rep. Souder’s ridiculous ideas about marijuana is echoed by many people throughout the Midwest. The hilariously ineffective ads of stick figures melting into a couch do anything but stop people from smoking the dreaded Kush weed. In fact, it makes one want to know what you have to smoke to be able to turn to a liquid state.

That was my first reaction when I saw those ads while I was smoking my “old time marijuana” back in Indiana. I wanted to know where I could get some of this weed that could turn me to jelly.

This type of marijuana that holds mythical status within the oppressed users of the Bible belt can be found on the West Coast. Los Angeles is the herbal El Dorado for those who prefer the natural remedy to their ailments.

There is another haven for coinsurers of cannabis besides California though, like Vegas is to the gambling junkie, 7676KUSH KUSHL.A. L.A.

Amsterdam is to the stoner. It was time for me to make a Mecca to the world’s freest city to find out once and for all ...

Who’s got better weed? California or Amsterdam?

When my two best friends from college proposed we plan an Amsterdam trip back in February it wasn’t the promise of smoking the world’s finest bud that led me to agreeing immediately. I love to travel and the opportunity to see a beautiful city like Amsterdam may not come around often.

My two friends, both who still live and work in Indiana were naturally most drawn to Amsterdam because of their liberal stance on soft drugs. I’m all about having a liberal stance on soft drugs but the ability to smoke weed legally didn’t hold much of a charm to me having been a medical marijuana patient in California for more than a year.

I’m also a skeptic.

When a restaurant boasts “World Famous Fish Tacos” I don’t buy into it. Your fish tacos are world famous according to whom? Can you please cite your source? My policy of doubting the fame of fish tacos carried over to my doubt of the weed in Amsterdam. I’ve eaten a lot of fish tacos and I’ve smoked a lot of weed. Over time, I have collected a vast amount of knowledge on both subjects, so if it has trichomes or it’s deepfried then I’m your man.

At our first coffee shop stop in Amsterdam, Barney’s, I bought a gram of Super Silver Haze and a gram of Red Dragon. I am a Silver Haze fan so it was kind of like your girlfriend trying to make your Grandma’s recipe for chicken noodles. You have an impossible standard, but appreciate the effort nonetheless.

After a few bags of the Red Dragon (thick red hairs on small dense buds) out of the Volcano vaporizer I had completely forgiven the Silver Haze’s shortcomings.

The debate continued from coffee shop to coffee shop.

I scoffed at their Blueberry and I don’t even remember the Amnesia Haze. My friends said I was “so LA” but I think I just have good taste. We were at a bar in Leidseplein Square when I started talking to a beautiful blonde haired, blue-eyed Belgian girl.

“Where can I find good Kush?” I asked with my most playfully tourist smile.

“You want koosh?” She replied with a cute enough accent to almost make me give up smoking all together. She giggled a little bit then said, “You want the Blue Cheese at Magic Sweetie.”

I was more staring at her than listening, but before I could respond to her advice, a burly Irish dude with a red beard that was either an over protective adopted brother or her boyfriend walked up to us. It was evident he didn’t approve of my attempt at international relations.

“So Blue Cheese over at Magic Coffee Shop then eh?”

I said walking backwards toward the door. I found the Blue Cheese and I also got some Utopian Haze, which had come highly recommended. Amsterdam for me was a lot like being at an all-you-can-eat pie buffet. I love pie, so how can you possibly ask me to tell you which pie is better than the last when they are all so glorious?

The Utopian Haze would have been the mincemeat among the key lime and pecan pies. It was filling but just not satisfying. The Blue Cheese however held its own. The smoke was mellow and smooth with a tangy after taste. It had a strong sativa head buzz and it made me think about pies in a very creative way.

I had an incredible time investigating what Amsterdam was all about but it felt really good to get home when I landed in LAX. A friend picked me up and took me to my apartment. I didn’t even bother carrying my bags up the stairs to my room.

I went right to the half eighth of Blackberry Kush I stashed in my desk before I left for this very occasion.

I packed a bowl and got comfortable in my bed. I took one big puff and completely melted into a liquid state. The City of Angels easily won this battle.

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The Difference Continued from page 48 had great success importing it and then using it to make high quality products. The Body Shop, a popular high-end cosmetic lotion and oils store, sells hemp hand cream that is one of their most popular products. At the same time, a few clothing companies that specialize in hemp-based clothing have been created to great success, as the quality of the hemp fibers is practically unmatched.

Knowing that hemp is grown in more than 29 countries, the United States government still seems to be blinded by ignorance in its decision to keep the production of hemp illegal for industrial use.

Hemp is of first necessity to the wealth and protection of the country."

- Thomas Jefferson, U.S. President

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MY OPINION

Bring in the Funk!

by Jack LeBlanc The hairs stand up on the back of my neck and my toes start tapping uncontrollably. I’m not much of a dancer, but my feet just can’t seem to stand still. Before I know it, the groove has taken over.

Growing up in Louisiana, there was no greater feeling than the rush that would hit me when I heard those first funky notes.

While the rest of the country loves New Orleans Mardi Gras or maybe our food, I love New Orleans because of the music--the funky music.

Funk is a delicious musical style that originated in the mid 1960s when African American musicians blended soul music, jazz and R&B into a dance-friendly new form of music. The new style takes the emphasis off the melody and harmony and brings it back to the basics: strong rhythmic bass and drum grooves.

While many rock fans enjoy the funk-rock hybrid sounds of the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Incubus, I think we are too quick to overlook the bands that gave those bands their funky inspiration.

A new generation of music fans is missing out on James Brown, Sly and the Family Stone, George Clinton and Parliament-Funkadelic, Curtis Mayfield, The Meters, etc.

There’s nothing in the world like dancing in the street till sweat runs down your neck, and I feel like the funky tradition is being overlooked in favor of the newer, the hipper, or the more hardcore.

But, I think I’ve found the solution, and it starts at the beginning.

Orgone, a funk/soul band from right here L.A. is doing their best to keep the tradition alive, while adding in their own flair.

The band started with a core rhythm section comprised of close friends who have played together for more than 10 years and has since grown into a nine piece band, with a three piece horn section and fiery soul singer, Fanny Franklin.

Orgone has released three LP’s to date and is looking forward to the release of their forth later this year.

The band is known for its energetic, dance-happy live performances, and you can check out one for yourself this summer. They play the Mint, located on Pico Boulevard near Crescent Heights, regularly and have booked several shows around the Northwest for the end of the summer and early fall.

“It’s not wide open improvisations, but there’s a lot of the set open to solos. It’s more about laying into than it is exploring. It’s about seeing how deep you can get into a groove, getting that hypnotic aspect. As long as it’s moving and it feels good, we are happy,” said guitarist Sergio Rios.

And it does feel good.

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or•gone (ôr’gōn) n. A universal life force, a cosmic unit of energy, the creative force in nature.

The band has toured with hip-hop acts like Little Brother, Pharoahe Monch, Black Sheep, Nice and Smooth, Bun B. and Plant Life.

Their range is great, and I just can’t stop moving every time I hear that infectious bass line.

Orgone is right in the middle of what some critics have termed a “funk-soul revival.” With bands like Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings selling out venues on a regular basis and creating a name for themselves through constant touring, maybe a mainstream funk revival might be feasible. I know the idea of a funk revival sure makes me tingle in anticipation.

“Reaching more people with your art is kind of the whole point of music,” Rios said. “We just want to be in a band that would be our favorite band.”

Since the mid 1990s, the nu-funk scene, has emerged as contemporary bands have interpreted their favorite funk jams in the own style.

Among the wave of new bands are The New Mastersounds, Brooklyin Funk Essentials, The Soul Destroyers, The Bamboos, The Legendary J.C.’s and Lefties Soul Connection. Some of these bands have received nominal radio play and regularly tour the country, but is it enough?

Singers like Norah Jones and Amy Winehouse have done their part to revitalize the idea of a strong female soul singer, and, in my opinion, Fanny Franklin of Orgone is right on their heels.

Funk is also alive and well in the jam band scene with bands like Phish, Galactic, Medeski Martin & Wood and Robert Randolph & The Family Band drawing heavily from the funk tradition.

Several hip-hop groups also rely heavily on the funk idiom. James Brown is said to be the most sampled artist in the history of hip hop and Dr. Dre has nodded to George Clinton and Parliament-Funkadelic as the main inspiration on his beloved debut solo album “The Chronic.” With acts like the Roots performing nightly on the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, maybe funk has a chance for a mainstream comeback.

But one thing is for sure, it won’t happen without the fans. So, next time you feel like getting down, skip the electronic and rap sections, and maybe make a stop in funky town. You’ll be happy you did.

Jack is a recent college graduate and freelance journalist. If 6 turned out to be nine, I wouldn’t mind.

Blog: www.wordpress.if6wasnine.com.

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California Board of Equalization Releases Report:

Marijuana to Bring in $1.4 Billion for California

by Andrew D. On July 15 2009, in response to Assemblyman Tom Ammiano’s (D-San Francisco) bill to regulate and tax marijuana, the California Board of Equalization released their analysis that if marijuana were legalized, state revenues would likely be at least $1.4 billion from the crop. In February, Ammiano introduced California Assembly Bill 390, which would legalize the sale and use of marijuana in California. A scientific poll conducted in April of registered voters found that 56% support the legalization of marijuana.

The Board came to that figure by estimating that Californians consume 16 million ounces of marijuana a year, and under Ammiano’s legislation, marijuana would be taxed at the rate of $50 per ounce on retail sales. Another interesting figure the board came up with is that legalization would drop the price of pot by 50%. $150 for an ounce of Kush, or $100 for some Northern Lights is starting to sound really good.

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MEDICAL MARIJUANA AND HIV/AIDS

by Mark E. Rose, BS, MA Licensed Psychologist

M

edical marijuana is frequently used to relieve the nausea, vomiting and appetite loss associated with HIV infection or the medications used to treat it.

Research has consistently found that these side effects are the leading reason patients interrupt or discontinue antiretroviral therapy. Additionally, marijuana is sometimes used to relieve the pain of peripheral neuropathy, a condition which eventually impacts up to one-third of people with HIV. Persons who are HIV+ or who have AIDS are among the most frequent consumers of medical marijuana. A survey of 900 members of the Oakland Cannabis Buyer’s Cooperative in 1997 found that 62% were HIV+ or had AIDS. Among 600 members of the Los Angeles Cannabis Buyer’s Cooperative, 70% had AIDS. This data indicate that persons with HIV/ AIDS represent a large group of medical marijuana users, and use the drug to stimulate appetite and alleviate weight loss, fatigue and neuropathic pain.

Several studies examining the effectiveness of smoked marijuana and synthetic oral THC (dronabinol) in the management of symptoms associated with HIV/AIDS have recently been published and are summarized below.

These studies, except when noted, randomly assigned participants to active treatment or a comparison group that received placebo marijuana cigarettes (all THC removed).

with HIV/AIDS with the lowest CD4+ counts, medical use of dronabinol or marijuana did not adversely affect CD4+ count. A 6-year follow-up study of persons with HIV+ in San Francisco found no association between marijuana use and progression to AIDS. In the past, there has been concern over the possible negative impact in immune system function caused by marijuana. The studies responsible for this data used enormous doses of the active ingredient, delta-9 THC, in laboratory research that did not involve human subjects. Recent placebocontrolled research involving human subjects with HIV/AIDS has not found any adverse effect of marijuana on CD4 and CD8 cell counts.

Data from other research suggests that medicinal use of marijuana may facilitate, rather than impede, anti-retroviral therapy adherence in persons with nausea, in contrast to the use of other illicit substances, which were associated with lower rates of antiretroviral therapy adherence.

Despite the major benefits of anti-retroviral therapy on survival, there is an increasing need to manage the symptoms of HIV and medication side effects during the long-term drug therapy.

Impact of Cannabis on Viral Load and HIV medication efficacy HIV-infected persons receiving protease inhibitors who had stable viral loads were randomly assigned to receive a marijuana cigarette, a dronabinol (synthetic THC) tablet, or a placebo tablet three times daily for 21 days. They stayed in a research unit, and researchers observed them taking all treatments. The researchers found no differences in viral load between the groups. Patients receiving cannabinoids (marijuana and dronabinol) had improved immune function compared with those receiving placebo. They also gained about 4 pounds more on average than patients receiving placebo. Two patients stopped taking cannabinoids because of mind-altering symptoms, and one patient stopped because of headache and nausea. These findings suggest no major, shortterm harmful effects and possibly some beneficial effects of cannabinoids in HIV-infected persons taking protease inhibitors.

Another follow-up study found that among persons 98 KUSH L.A.

Cognitive effects

The interaction of HIV disease-stage and the cognitive effects of marijuana use have been examined. Cognitive impairment was greatest in subjects with symptomatic HIV infection, and was due primarily to performance on memory tasks, suggesting a synergistic effect of HIV and marijuana use in persons with advanced HIV disease. Another study of cognitive impairment found no evidence of a significant marijuana effect in an HIVnegative control group or in subjects with asymptomatic HIV infection. A third study found that HIV+ marijuana users had slower reaction times on some tests of neurological function, but also exhibited a normalization of a neuroanatomical abnormality associated with HIV infection compared with non-marijuana using HIV+ persons.

Appetite and weight The most commonly reported reason for medicinal marijuana use is appetite stimulation and weight gain.

Compared with placebo, marijuana and dronabinol increased daily caloric intake and body weight in HIV+ marijuana smokers. Recipients of marijuana and dronabinol exhibited a greater number of total daily eating occasions, and a greater intake of total daily calories than placebo recipients. Patients receiving cannabinoids also reported significant improvements in mood and energy, and those receiving marijuana, but not

dronabinol or placebo, reported sleep improvement. This data suggests that for HIV+ marijuana smokers, both dronabinol and marijuana are well tolerated and produce substantial and comparable increases in appetite and mood. The follow-up period was not long enough to evaluate whether weight gain occurred.

Another study of experienced marijuana smokers with clinically significant loss of muscle mass found that marijuana and low-dose dronabinol were well tolerated, that both significantly increased caloric intake, and that drug effects on cognitive performance were minor. The authors concluded that dronabinol and marijuana produce substantial and comparable increases in food intake without significant adverse effects.

Pain reduction Chronic HIV-associated neuropathic (nerve) pain is characterized by aching, painful numbness, and burning, and affects up to 1/3 of persons with HIV/AIDS. Despite management with prescription opiates and other pain relieving therapies, neuropathic pain can persist, and reduces the quality of life and daily functioning in the HIV-infected person. A study enrolling patients with neuropathic pain resistant to at least two previous classes of pain killers found that pain relief was greater with cannabis than placebo. The proportion of subjects achieving at least 30% pain reduction was 46% with cannabis versus 18% with placebo.

In another study of the effect of smoked cannabis on HIVassociated neuropathic pain, patients were randomly assigned to smoke either cannabis or identical placebo cigarettes three times daily for 5 days. The smoked cannabis reduced daily pain by 34% versus 17% with placebo. Pain reduction greater than 30% was reported by 52% in the cannabis group and 24% in the placebo group. Interestingly, the initial cannabis cigarette reduced the chronic pain level by an average of 72% compared with 15% with the placebo.

The authors of the study concluded that the pain relieving properties of marijuana in HIV neuropathy are comparable to oral painkilling drugs, with few significant side effects.

the survey concluded that symptom control using cannabis is widespread among HIV outpatients, and that large numbers of patients experience symptom relief through medical marijuana.

Alternative delivery systems The harmful effects of long-term inhaled marijuana smoke on pulmonary structure and function have been welldocumented. These effects were observed in recreational users, and although the use pattern of marijuana by recreational users is different from medical users, the potential negative effects of inhaled marijuana smoke in medically ill patients is still cause for concern. A delivery system is now available that vaporizes marijuana, making it possible to deliver even high doses of THC to the lungs far below the flash point of the cannabis leaf and bud, thus eliminating smoke, tar and possible carcinogens.

Summary Recently published well-designed clinical trials have found that marijuana, when used medically by persons with HIV/ AIDS, alleviates the symptoms of neuropathic pain, increases appetite and calorie intake, and improves mood and sleep.

There is some evidence of memory impairment associated with medical marijuana use in persons with advanced-stage HIV infection, and there is no evidence that marijuana use weakens the immune system, further depresses CD4+ count, or accelerates the progression to AIDS among persons who are HIV+. It is also likely that marijuana use allows some patients to better adhere to anti-retroviral therapy.

In conclusion, a substantial proportion of persons living with HIV/ AIDS use marijuana for therapeutic purposes, despite considerable legal barriers in most areas of the United States. Informal surveys and the results of clinical trials indicate that marijuana represents a very useful option in the health management of these persons, and that greater access to medical marijuana and the elimination of legal and bureaucratic barriers is warranted.

Quality of Life Despite the major benefits of anti-retroviral therapy on survival, there is an increasing need to manage the symptoms of HIV and medication side effects during the long-term drug therapy. An uncontrolled study of HIVpositive persons attending a large clinic found that persons using cannabis therapeutically reported improvements in appetite (97%), muscle pain (94%), nausea (93%), anxiety (93%), nerve pain (90%), depression (86%), and paresthesia (85%). However, 47% of the respondents reported memory impairment that they attributed to the marijuana use. The authors of

Sources AIDS Care. 2007 Feb;19(2):295-301.

AIDS Patient Care STDS. 2004 Apr;18(4):215-28.

Alcohol Clin Exp Res. 1997 Feb;21(1):122-7.

Ann Epidemiol. 1996 Jul;6(4):283-9.

Annals of Internal Medicine 2003;139:258-266.

Clin Nurs Res. 2009 May;18(2):172-93.

J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr. 2005 Jan 1;38(1):43-6.

J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr. 2007 Aug 15;45(5):545-54.

J Neuroimmune Pharmacol. 2006 Mar;1(1):65-76.

J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci 2004;16:330-335.

J Pain Symptom Manage. 2005 Apr;29(4):358-67.

Neurology. 2007 Feb 13;68(7):515-21.

Neuropsychopharmacology. 2009 Feb;34(3):672-80.

Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2005 Aug;181(1):170-8.

West J Med 1998;168:540-543.

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M.P.P. Is All Over D.C. The Marijuana Policy Project is A Catalyst for Change

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by Nina Crow The War on Drugs is losing momentum across the country as politicians try to find ways to balance budgets and turn medical marijuana into a windfall for a failing economy.

Oakland, California, will become the first U.S. city to tax proceeds on medical marijuana by passing Measure F on July 28, 2009 by a landslide vote (80 percent of voters according to the Alameda County Registrar of Voters). The Marijuana Policy Project supported the measure.

The Marijuana Policy Project (MPP), founded by Rob Kampia in January 1995, has introduced positive medical marijuana bills in six consecutive Congresses, with the U.S. House debating and voting on legislation in the summers of 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, and 2007. In April 1995, a few months after it’s founding, MPP was helpful in persuading the U.S. Sentencing Commission to vote 7-0 in favor of the penalty reductions, which took effect on November 1, 1995.

A subsequent 7-0 vote on September 6 made the change retroactive resulting in the early release of hundreds of federal marijuana prisoners — saving taxpayers over $20 million per year.

MPP’s vision is a nation where marijuana is legally regulated similarly to alcohol, marijuana education is honest and realistic, and treatment for problem marijuana users is non-coercive and geared toward reducing harm.

In the meantime, across the country, criminal marijuana penalties often cause the greatest harm to individuals and families. According to MPP, “Someone is arrested for a marijuana offense every 36 seconds. … The majority of the arrests are for possession, not sales or manufacture. … In the U.S., there are more arrests for marijuana possession each year than for all violent crimes combined.” An incarcerated breadwinner often leaves family members dependent on general relief adding an additional burden to an already stretched social services system. With the help of duespaying members, MPP is working to end the persecution and destruction of people and their families.

In California, MPP’s mantra is “Tax and Regulate.” Marijuana is one of California’s top cash crops, but the industry goes untaxed while Sacramento raises taxes on middleclass families and is making deep cuts to police, schools and hospitals. Regulating marijuana will take marijuana out of the hands of criminals and put it where it belongs: in a well regulated, licensed market only available to adults. Unregulated marijuana allows a criminal market to flourish where drug dealers routinely sell to kids.

With a new administration and a new Congress, MPP is hoping to take some big steps forward in 2009. For a plethora of information, facts, news and testimonies, please visit www.mmp,org . To find out how take action on new issues in the 111th Congress click on “Take Action.” MMP has also created some innovated ways to donate by shopping online.

Take a look.

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by Leanna Harshaw

Top Ten Kush Quotes Kush Quotes

People Representing the Government

#10 “Even if one takes every reefer madness allegation of the prohibitionists at face value, marijuana prohibition has done far more harm to far more people than marijuana ever could.”

- William F. Buckley, Jr. #9

#10 “I wouldn’t answer the marijuana questions. You know why? Because I don’t want some little kid doing what I tried.”

- Former President George W. Bush #9

“If you substitute marijuana for tobacco and alcohol, you’ll add eight to 24 years to your life.”

- Jack Herer

#8

“It really puzzles me to see marijuana connected with narcotics, dope and all of that stuff. It is a thousand times better than whiskey. It is an assistant and a friend.”

- Louis Armstrong

#7

“I don’t consider weed to be any worse than having a beer.”

- Former Deputy Drug Czar Andrea Barthwell #8

#7

“When you smoke the herb, it reveals you to yourself.”

- Bob Marley

#5

“I think people need to be educated to the fact that marijuana is not a drug. Marijuana is an herb and a flower. God put it here. If He put it here and He wants it to grow, what gives the government the right to say that God is wrong?”

- Willie Nelson

#4

“That is not a drug. It’s a leaf,”

#6

#5

#3

“When I was a kid I inhaled frequently. That was the point.”

- Barack Obama

#1

“I can’t tell you how much bulls#*t I’ve been through because I will openly say that I smoke weed. People look at it like it’s this crazy, hippy, f*&ked-up thing to do. And it’s not. I hope they legalize it. And when they do, I’ll be the first person in line to buy my pack of joints.”

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- Megan Fox

“Marijuana leads to homosexuality ... and therefore to AIDS.” - Former White House Drug Czar Carlton Turner “Casual drug users should be taken out and shot.”

- Former LAPD Chief Darryl Gates

- Jay Leno #2

“Marijuana is an addictive drug which produces in its users insanity, criminality, and death.”

- Former Federal Bureau of Narcotics Chief Harry J. Anslinger

#4

“Forty million Americans smoked marijuana; the only ones who didn’t like it were Judge Ginsberg, Clarence Thomas and Bill Clinton.”

“Dope? Do you think the Russians allow dope?

Hell no. Not if they can catch it, they send them up.

You see, homosexuality, dope, uh, immorality in general: These are the enemies of strong societies.

That’s why the Communists and the left-wingers are pushing it. They’re trying to destroy us.”

- Former President Richard Nixon

- Arnold Schwarzenegger #3

“I now have absolute proof that smoking even one marijuana cigarette is equal in brain damage to being on Bikini Island during an H-bomb blast.”

- Former President Ronald Reagan

- James Franco #6

“A crude plant is definitely not a medicine. A surgeon doesn’t come to a patient recovering from surgery and give them a pipe of opium - you give them a derivative.”

“Marijuana causes people to lose their memory and lose their energy, and it makes them stupid... It is the last thing that one would want to see happen on or around a university or state capital.... And people who are casual about drugs ought to realize that a lot of people are dying in America.”

- Former Drug Czar William Bennett.

#2

“When I was in England I experimented with marijuana a time or two, and I didn’t like it. I didn’t inhale.”

- Former President Bill Clinton

#1

“When I was a kid I inhaled frequently. That was the point.”

- President Barack Obama

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