NUG Magazine Issue 21 by Ian Ruz

PUBLISHER’SLETTER Cover Photo by. Phil Calvin with SCR Photos

JUNE 2011 VOL. 3 ISSUE #6 NUG Magazine Staff: Publisher: Ben G. Rowin Associate Publisher: M.J. Smith Editor: Dion Markgraaff Associate Editor: George Alberts Administrative Assistant: Gio Blitz Music Editor: Ras Mike Photographers: Gio Blitz, Eric Fowler, Jennifer Martinez, Chris Konecki, SCR Photos, Ashley Parda Videographer: Chris Gabriel, NS Entertainment Contributors: “SD OG Grower”, Dion Markgraaff, Canna Chef Kim, Eugene Davidovich, Marc Emmelmann, Pamela Jayne, Lance Rogers, Zodiac Mama, Tiffany Janay, Leo E. Laurence, J.D., Jed Sanders, George Alberts, Robert Stinson, Tiffani Kjeldergaard, R.J. Villa, Ryan Whitaker, Sandieganliz, Eric Fowler, Bahareh, Mel The Bumbling Gardener, Dannabis Ruderalis, Simon Eddisbury, Nicole Scott, Esther Rubio-Sheffrey, Aaron Evans, Brom Richey, James Stacy, Kelly & Crystal Hutchinson Comics: Joshua Boulet, Georgia Peschel

June is here and summer has begun! Since Father’s Day is coming up this month, we had to take a moment to say Happy Father’s Day to all the Dads out there who are active in their children’s lives. Anyone can father a child, but it takes a real man to be a Dad! We got a CRAZY issue for you this month! As always, we have our well-loved columns like The Chronisseur and Cooking with Kim; but this month, we lined up an exclusive interview with one of the most controversial figures in recent history, Charles Manson. The interview was done via phone, email and regular mail by Kelly and Crystal Hutchinson, exclusively for NUG Magazine. Charles Manson has only allowed three to four interviews in the last 10 years and we were lucky enough to be one the outlets he chose to speak with regarding his new pamphlet about ATWA. He also allowed us to ask questions about his art and music, as well as discuss his invention of a seed gun that he developed to OVER GROW the GOVERNMENT! Like it or not, Charles Manson is one of the most interesting counter culture icons of our time and given the opportunity, we HAD to do it! We also want to welcome some new columns this month. Aaron Evans will be dishing out a monthly glass article that focuses on the art of American glassblowing while featuring some different artisans of the craft! Aaron is a recognizable face in the activism community and a soldier for the legalization of cannabis, and we want to welcome him to the team. Make sure to check out his Sink or Swim article in this issue as well. It gives the great perspective of an outsider looking in on our local efforts. The Food Truck Chronicles written by Esther Rubio-Sheffrey is another new column that is appearing in this issue; however, it will be done monthly online at nugmag.com. In fact, we have SO MUCH new and constant content that our online articles are receiving tremendous views with over 10,000 unique visitors per month. Nugmag.com is hopping with fresh content ALL the time, so log on and read our online-only content to make sure you don’t miss a beat! Obviously, you noticed that Sprung Monkey graces our cover; so make sure to read the amazing interview written by Pamela Jayne as well as the full interview online.

Sales Director: Ben G. Rowin

Looking forward to a GREAT summer full of events and seeing you all out there!

Advertising Sales Reps: Dion Markgraaff, Eugene Davidovich, Brom Richey, Kirk L., Jordan D., Hashley, Gio Blitz

Late breaking news: As we go to print, we hear word that the Patient Care Association of California (PCACA) has possibly gathered enough signatures to force the city to repeal their restrictive medical marijuana ordinance or put the issue to a public vote! This is a wonderful example of how we can accomplish anything TOGETHER! Great job SD!

-Ben G. Rowin

Art Director: Ian Rie Finance Manager: M.J. Smith Marketing Manager: Marc Emmelmann

Distribution/Subscriptions: Beau’s Distribution Service info@beausdistribution.com NUG Magazine Staff Contact Information: 9880 N. Magnolia Ave #168 Santee, Ca 92071 (619) 616-4961 For general information or to reach our Publisher: info@nugmag.com For all art/design information: art@nugmag.com For all editorial related information: info@nugmag.com For submissions: submit@nugmag.com NUG Magazine is published and distributed by NUG Magazine LLC. All contents are for entertainment and educational purposes only and are intended for mature audiences. We are not responsible for any actions taken by our readers nor do we condone any illegal activity. Advertisers are responsible for their own ads and content. All opinions expressed are those of the writers and not necessarily of the magazine. All submissions become our property and may be used for publication. At times we may use materials placed in the public domain. If you own it let us know and we will acknowledge you. Reproduction of any content is encouraged if you get permission from our Publisher. All contents copyright. 2011

CONTENTS

\\:NUG TIMES

\\:L.E.A.P

\\:ACTIVISM

\\:STEPPING STONE

\\:PATIENT PROFILE

\\:CARL OLSEN

\\:MIND-BODY

\\:HEMP LEGISLATION

\\:CHARLES MANSON

\\:COOKING W/ KIM

\\:GROW

\\:CHRONISSEUR

\\:VAPOR ROOM

\\:SPRUNG MONKEY

\\:BABYLON SAINTS

\\:PERFORMING ARTS

\\:EVENTS

\\:PRODUCT REVIEWS

Steele Smith is the central figure in what could be the most significant Federal Marijuana Case in U.S. History – the first to allow a medical defense based on state law- http://www.steelescase.org/ A medical marijuana patient and his wife face 10 years in federal prison in a fight to uphold the Tenth Amendment of the United States Constitution and the state’s rights that allow safe, legal access to medical marijuana. The story of a patient diagnosed with a rare disease who is embroiled in a fight for his life and the rights of medical marijuana patients nationwide. The following is a timeline of events that led to Orange County residents Steele and Theresa Smith’s battle with the federal government over medical marijuana:

Summer 2001: Steele Smith – husband, entrepreneur and owner of an Orange County marketing company for 14 years – suddenly doubles over with excruciating pain and finds himself in an emergency room. It’s his first of several such visits over the next four months. Each time, emergency room doctors can’t figure out what’s wrong, so they prescribe him pain meds. Steele loses 40 pounds. Finally, a rare-diseases doctor orders an invasive scope that finds 11 ulcers in Steele’s duodenum – between the stomach and upper intestines. The disease is called Zollinger-Ellison (Z-E). It’s so rare that the doctor, who has been practicing for over 50 years, shakes Mr. Smith’s hand and says he’s the doctor’s first patient to ever have the condition. Steele is prescribed high levels of the newest and strongest acid-reducer known as Protonix. Due to the gut-wrenching pain, the doctor further prescribes high doses of morphine and sends him to a ‘pain’ doctor for a follow-up morphine regimen. Mid-2004: Steele and his wife, Theresa, begin to realize that Steele

has become terribly addicted to morphine. Following research on the internet and many phone calls, the couple decides to rapid detox Steele, a procedure that nearly kills him. He spends several days in the ICU while most patients walk out of the hospital after a day or two – not in ICU. As it turns out, he isn’t completely detoxed due to the high levels of opiates he had been ingesting – the rapid detox failed to work. Over the next year and a half, the couple tries over and over to detox Steele on their own, but it doesn’t work. The Smiths search the internet and discover a new detoxification drug known as Suboxone. With the help of a certified physician, Steele begins to use Suboxone and, over several weeks of this specialized drug therapy, becomes drug free. Steele is still experiencing pain and nausea, and cannot function completely – nor can he eat. About this time, the couple begins to gather information about Proposition 215, Senate Bill 420, and Health & Safety Code 11362.5 – the state’s medical marijuana program. Steele is given a medical cannabis recommendation and obtains his medicine from one of the many L.A. dispensaries. This was a second miracle drug for Steele. Medical marijuana took away his pain and nausea, enabling him to eat and become healthy again. No dispensaries exist in Orange County at this time, so over the next few months with several visits to L.A. dispensaries, Steele and Theresa decide to open a small collective to assist patients – California Compassionate Caregivers (C3). They open their home to local medical cannabis patients and begin to grow cannabis for safe access. The next few months pass in a whirlwind as OC patients seeking safe access find C3 – the patient base reaches over 1,000 by 2006. Along the same timeline, officers with the Placentia Police Department pay a visit to Steele and Theresa’s apartment and seize 18 plants, patient records, 4 pounds of medical marijuana, a small amount of concentrate, and $1,000 in cash – no charges are filed at that time. On several occasions, Steele tries to contact the Placentia

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Theresa and Steele Smith officers that seized C3’s property; however, they refuse to return anything to him. He then consults an attorney and the two decide to file a lawsuit against the City of Placentia to return to him all that was confiscated. It seems that the City of Placentia is unhappy with the lawsuit filed and elevates the case to a federal level. This causes Mr. Smith to lose standing in civil court.

Nov. 1, 2007: At approximately 6 a.m., federal agents raid the

Smith’s two homes using paramilitary-style tactics – several officers wearing masks and dressed from head to toe in black break down the front door and hold the couple (who were asleep in their bed) at gunpoint. A fire extinguisher is sprayed at their two dogs – one dog dies four days later. The officers then begin to destroy the home while they look for guns, drugs, or anything else that could incriminate the Smiths. The couple’s home is completely ransacked with the front door broken down and left wide open for any and all of the public to take furniture and belongings at will. At the same time, police go to C3’s medical dispensary, which is located a few miles away, and proceed to confiscate 2 pounds of medical marijuana and a small amount of concentrate; again, leaving this door open to the public to take anything left. Steele, Theresa and two other defendants from the second grow house (Alex Valentine, a 21-year-old patient with Elephant-man’s syndrome and 30 surgeries by his 20th birthday; and Dennis La Londe, a friend of a friend and homeless man that was given a bed only three weeks prior) would be incarcerated and spend most of the next year in the Metropolitan Detention Center in Los Angeles, a maximum security, level-five federal prison. The four defendants were charged with conspiracy to manufacture or grow medical marijuana and are facing 10 years each in a federal penitentiary for said “crime.” Theresa is released after 60 days on a $200,000 bond – her dying mother’s home and two signatures – while all three of the other defendants languished in federal prison for nearly a year. After 10 months, Steele is finally released back to his wife with an electronic ankle bracelet attached to him for the next year. All four defendants currently report to federal pretrial service officers regularly until trial.

April 2010: The Honorable Cormac J. Carney, who presides over this case, rules that the medical marijuana issue will be heard as testimony – the first time in a federal court in U.S. history. The case has been continued over a dozen times. The current trial date is scheduled for June 28, 2011.

Help us change federal cannabis law: 1. Contribute funds; help us pay for our legal defense. Every dollar helps. Send checks or money orders to: Theresa Smith 2166 W. Broadway, #100 Anaheim, CA 92804-2446 2. Please join us for a rally at the courthouse. Bring your signs! June 28, 2011 Ronald Reagan Federal Courthouse 411 West 4th Street Santa Ana, CA 92705

Medical Marijuana Advocates Sue Federal Government over Rescheduling Delay- http://www.safeaccesssd.org Washington, D.C. — A coalition of advocacy groups and patients filed suit in the D.C. Circuit Court on May 23rd to compel the Obama Administration to answer a 9-year-old petition to reclassify medical marijuana. The Coalition for Rescheduling Cannabis (CRC) has never received an answer to its 2002 petition, despite a formal recommendation in 2006 from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) – the final arbiter in the rescheduling process. As recently as July 2010, the DEA issued a 54-page “Position on Marijuana,” but failed to even mention the pending CRC petition. Plaintiffs in the case include the CRC, Americans for Safe Access (ASA), Patients Out of Time, and individually named patients – one of whom is listed on the CRC petition, but died in 2005. “The federal government’s strategy has been delay, delay, delay,” said Joe Elford, Chief Counsel of ASA and lead counsel on the writ. “It is far past time for the government to answer our rescheduling petition and, unfortunately, we’ve been forced to go to court in order to get resolution.” The writ of mandamus filed today accuses the government of unreasonable delay in violation of the Administrative Procedures Act. A previous cannabis (marijuana) rescheduling petition filed in 1972 went unanswered for 22 years before being denied. The writ argues that cannabis is not a dangerous drug and that ample evidence of its therapeutic value exists based on scientific studies in the U.S. and around the world. “Despite numerous peer-reviewed scientific studies establishing that marijuana is effective” in treating numerous medical conditions, the government “continues to deprive seriously ill persons of this needed and often lifesaving therapy by maintaining marijuana as a Schedule I substance.” The writ calls out the government for unlawfully failing to an-

swer the petition despite an Inter-Agency Advisory issued by the Food and Drug Administration in 2006 and “almost five years after receiving a 41-page memorandum from HHS stating its scientific evaluation and recommendations.” The two largest physician groups in the country – the American Medical Association and the American College of Physicians – have both called on the federal government to review marijuana’s status as a Schedule I substance with no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. The National Cancer Institute added cannabis to its website earlier this year as a Complementary Alternative Medicine (CAM) and recognized that “cannabis has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years prior to its current status as an illegal substance.” Medical marijuana has now been decriminalized in 16 states and the District of Columbia. It has an 80% approval rating among Americans according to several polls. In a 1988 ruling on a prior rescheduling petition, the DEA’s Administrative Law Judge Francis Young recommended in favor of reclassification stating, “Marijuana, in its natural form, is one of the safest therapeutically active substances known to man.” A formal rejection of the CRC petition would enable the group to challenge in court the government’s assertion that marijuana has no medical value. “Adhering to outdated public policy that ignores science has created a war zone for doctors and their patients who are seeking use of cannabis therapeutics,” said Steph Sherer, Executive Director of ASA and a plaintiff in the writ. Jon Gettman, who filed the rescheduling petition on behalf of the CRC, added, “The Obama Administration’s refusal to act on this petition is an irresponsible stalling tactic.” A synthetic form of THC, the main chemical ingredient in the cannabis plant, is currently classified as a Schedule III substance for its use in a prescribed pill trademarked as Marinol®. The pill goes off-patent this year and companies vying to sell generic versions are petitioning the government to also reclassify the more economical, naturally-derived THC (from the plant) to Schedule III. The rescheduling process involves federal agencies such as the National Institute on Drug Abuse, HHS, and the DEA. On average, it takes 6 months from HHS review to final action, but it’s been nearly 5 years since HHS issued its recommendation on the CRC petition – more than twice as long as any other rescheduling petition reviewed since 2002. To read more NUG Times log on to www.nugmag.com and click on the News tab.

From outside the looking glass, no one told me that sleepy, sun-drenched San Diego was secretly still the Wild West. A whirling dervish where whimsical street performers, activists, and poet laureates still thrashed against neo-conservative undertones determined to protect starry-eyed tourists wandering through wonderland. Seemingly, I underestimated the looming prowess of a military and the commercial conglomerate intent on stalling forward progress, hell bent on sitting in place while stepping into the future, complacent, believing only in the voices of those who can afford to pay for it. Yet, the most disheartening thing I’ve experienced since touching down in So. Cal. has come from within my, not our, very own culture where leaders have apparently and sadly forgotten that you can’t have a community without unity first. I’ve never been keen on conspiracy theories until I moved to San Diego 18 months ago and saw first hand what the term “divide and conquer” really meant. I don’t even have to name names, the major players have done that job quite eloquently for me, perpetually slinging mud back and forth on social networks like a cyber school lunchroom, lacing icy glares across courtrooms and council meetings where we stand together, yet separate. I have and would still call many of these people my friends, but there comes a time when I must draw a line in the sand. This lion can no longer hold his tongue. We’ve all seen it and I’ve had a front row seat to this delusional presentation of a modern revolution. After watching Prop. 19 fail and the City and County of San Diego impose unreasonable zoning restrictions upon co-ops, each and every one of us, leader or follower, patient or sympathizer, must take a long, hard look in the mirror and have a very honest conversation about what went wrong. Last fall, amongst the plume of adolescent infighting, I came across a quote from a friend and local activist, Ree Obana, which stopped me dead in my tracks. It has become the basis of my ideology concerning service to others. The passage read, “One of the most valuable things I have learned and relearned from time to time is asking ‘for whom and for what? Why do you do what you do? What and who does it REALLY serve? How much value do you place on fame, recognition and acknowledgement vs. doing the work to achieve actual progress?’ Chances are…if the masses are truly not of your concern...there may be something flawed in your process.

I spent countless hours contemplating, analyzing and soul searching as I ask myself those questions again and again. Why do I do what I do and who exactly do I do it for? Am I simply another self-absorbed artist screaming for attention with my heart on my sleeve? Or did I truly believe in the struggle of each and every person I claimed to be fighting for? We all have egos; we all play the fool and, trust me, I’m no exception to the rule. I found that the trick is to maintain an internal system of checks and balances. I reiterated to myself that pride must never overpower true priority, and self-worth is never more important than those I’m serving. I try to do my best to remember that the voice I’m screaming atop the mountain with is not truly mine, but rather the collective consciousness and thoughts of those who have not yet learned or are unable to scream for themselves. I’m the first to admit that for years I’ve wanted to be a poster boy for the movement, and I’ve come to accept that it’s fine as long as I’m not striving to be THE poster boy. For as much as I’m one to believe that any one driven individual can change the world, I’m not one to think that any one of my heroes actually accomplished their dreams single handedly. I’m still somewhat of a new kid on the block and I’ll openly admit that my previous exposure to these parts was limited to pit stops in La Jolla in route to building homes for the homeless in Mexico, a four day bender in O.B. to kick off the “Everybody’s Green” tour, and an all expense paid vacation with a love that didn’t last the plane ride home. Needless to say, upon moving to San Diego, I was one of those starry-eyed tourists with a rock star complex at best. I missed the 9/9/09 raids, the historic vote on Prop. 215 sixteen years ago, and I never met Jack, Tommy or Eddy. I wasn’t here when someone did or didn’t fuck someone else and I honestly couldn’t give a fuck less. I’ve sat and listened to almost every leader in the community call each other informants. I have come to realize that it’s basically a right of passage to be called a ‘Federal Agent’ before being called a ‘Real Activist,’ which is normally a level of insanity limited to those who like to rock straight jackets for the style of it. AND guess what? I’m over it; all of it. Like a championship dynasty facing off against an inferior team and getting its ass kicked, we are performing down to the level of our opponent rather than maintaining focus, playing the game our way, and finally getting the job done. We’re smarter, more talented, and I’m calling a time out for self-reflection. I’m not claiming to have all the answers, but from outside the looking glass, I have a few theories. I’m convinced that the only way to overcome this conundrum is to bind together tightly as if we’re the molecules of a mighty tidal wave, crashing against an archaic wall of oppression. We must lay our differences down or duke it out and let the dust settle once and for all. For as long as we allow “them” to pit “us” against ourselves, we will continue to fight an unwinnable war. We’re portraying crabs in a bucket while dancing a dance with the devil. Simply put, it’s a sink or swim situation and from this point forth, I must emphasize that I only raise my hand to solute THE PEOPLE as I believe any true leader in any cultural revolution should.

L.E.A.P. LAWSUIT AGAINST SAN DIEGO TO BLOCK NEW DISPENSARY ORDINANCE APPEARS UNLIKELY. . . BUT By Leo E. Laurence, J.D.; Law Enforcement Against Prohibition

When you wear a badge and carry a weapon 24/7, you look at the world differently. As a sworn officer, you ARE different! Ordinary events like going to a private party with friends can present serious ethical problems for a law enforcement officer; particularly if someone, a medical marijuana patient with the right to do it, lights up a joint, which for non-patients would be unlawful.

Some legal issues involved include the alleged unconstitutionality of any municipal government enacting local laws that prohibit the enforcement of state law. A city has no jurisdiction to do so. It’s a violation of both federal and state constitutions. Similarly, a state has no jurisdiction to pass laws that would block the implementation of federal laws.

At nearly every party these days, somebody undoubtedly lights up a joint, especially among younger people. Even if that guest/smoker is a patient with a valid medical marijuana card, an officer who is another guest just isn’t going to “check out” other guests. Frequently, when somebody lights up a bowl of grass at a private party, a law enforcement officer may handle the dilemma by simply being gracious with their host and quietly leaving the party.

Another major problem with the new city ordinance is that the wording of the ordinance is very vague. Procedural rules of statutory construction used by appellate courts when reviewing the constitutionality of a statute require that a law cannot be vague. To pass constitutional muster, a law must make it clear to the public what conduct is allowed and which is prohibited. A law that is vague is unconstitutional and cannot be implemented; for example, the new ordinance says a medical marijuana dispensary cannot operate within 600 feet of a church...But, what is a church? Can someone simply put a cross on any storefront and call it a church, thereby prohibiting the operation of a nearby dispensary? The ordinance doesn’t explain or define those important terms.

“It can be a real dilemma in my private life,” says John T., a veteran and local active duty officer. “Sometimes a host will let me know ahead of time that there will be patients smoking joints at their party. Then, I can tactfully decline the invitation and avoid the ethical problems the party may throw at me if someone lights up.” For those who don’t see the ethical problems (probably most officers), they will probably take a few hits off a joint themselves if it’s not revealed that they are in law enforcement. L.E.A.P is an international organization of active duty and former law enforcement officers, prosecutors and judges with headquarters in Massachusetts and Washington, D.C. This is an attempt to help my readers get inside the head of some law enforcement officers within L.E.A.P. who openly support medical marijuana. “My sergeant knows I support medical marijuana, so he avoids giving me assignments where the issue may come up,” explained another active duty officer in an exclusive interview for NUG Magazine. During an appearance at a recent monthly meeting of the San Diego chapter of Americans for Safe Access (A.S.A.), I was unexpectedly approached by people who thanked L.E.A.P. for bringing the prestige of law enforcement to the medical marijuana campaign. Being treated like a hero at that recent A.S.A. meeting was a new experience for me.

L.E.A.P. Lawsuit Considered San Diego, like many other cities in Southern California, has a new city ordinance that is an unlawful de facto ban on medical marijuana dispensaries. Unfortunately, a shotgun approach is being used by some local cannabis leaders to fight this new ordinance, which includes a proposed and very costly referendum. To get the new city ordinance before the court, I asked the L.E.A.P. Board of Directors to approve filing for injunctive relief in the San Diego Superior Court. That would begin with a temporary restraining order (TRO) from the court and against the city to prohibit implementation of the ordinance until the legal challenges are fully heard by the court.

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There are numerous other legal issues that can be litigated in a civil, injunctive lawsuit against the city to prohibit implementation of the new city ordinance, and the lawyers will dig them up. At press time, the Executive Director of L.E.A.P., Major Neill Franklin, unfortunately declined my request that L.E.A.P. authorize an injunctive lawsuit, saying in an email that “this is not something that L.E.A.P. does. L.E.A.P. must remain focused on its priorities as an educational entity.” Major Franklin urged that A.S.A. “take on this type of charge.” However, A.S.A. seems to be going in different directions. Major Franklin said in another email that he understands the dilemma that patients are facing in Southern California, particularly San Diego. He explained that L.E.A.P. has limited funds and needs to focus on certain tasks, such as our speakers bureau, op-eds, and supporting other drug policy organizations that lack a law enforcement perspective. “Since funding is scarce for us, I must choose my battles wisely,” Major Neill explained. “What I am willing to do is request support from NORML and MPP. I can call the heads of both organizations to get something going,” he added with a touch of optimism. Major Franklin can be reached at neill@leap.cc, so express your personal support! Meanwhile, Shaleen Title, Esq., the Speakers Bureau Director of L.E.A.P., optimistically reported in a recent email that she “talked with Nate from Lawmen Protecting Patients (L.P.P.) and he is very interested.” The L.P.P. website is www. lawmenpro.org. People in the medical marijuana community are justifiably angry and very frustrated. Dispensary owners are reporting to me that many of their regular patients/ customers are calling them to ask if they are being forced to close. Some patients are beginning to panic because their medications may soon be stopped by the city’s new ordinance.

Finding a Lawyer Finding a good attorney can be perplexing for anyone, but the County Bar Association has an effective lawyer referral service that can be useful. Many of the attorneys who are currently working on marijuana cases are criminal lawyers, and a lawsuit to challenge the city’s new ordinance would be a civil lawsuit. There’s a world of difference.

The lawyer(s) needed to file an injunctive lawsuit need(s) experience in civil law and working with TRO cases. The lawsuit will not try to establish the lawfulness of medical marijuana because it is already state law.

A.S.A. Meeting One of the leading community organizations in the medical marijuana community is the San Diego chapter of Americans for Safe Access. Eugene Davidovich is the San Diego Area Liaison of the local A.S.A. chapter, and at the May meeting, his presentation reflected the grassroots anger that is common in the community today as a result of the city council’s unreasonable actions. There was a strong, sustained, angry attack on some of the recent law enforcement raids. In response, I urged the meeting not to condemn all law enforcement officers for the actions of the few who conducted those unreasonable raids. Some of the hardest-working activists regularly attend the A.S.A. monthly meetings and make up the core of grassroots supporters who can be found at every event or meeting involving medical marijuana. In addition to San Diego’s recent council action, medical marijuana issues are heating up in cities from Imperial Beach to Oceanside. “The next major ground efforts” by A.S.A. will be in El Cajon and La Mesa in the east county, Davidovich reported. On behalf of L.E.A.P., I attend most of those council sessions to add law enforcement support to the campaign. It really annoys me when I hear the top brass (police chiefs and sheriffs) claim that dispensaries increase crime. Actually, the opposite is true, but the chiefs need to protect their shrinking budgets in this failing war on crime. Davidovich and his organization are also producing Raid Preparedness Training sessions to help patients and dispensary owners. The training goes over the rights of medical cannabis patients and how to deal with different levels of police encounters. However, raids on patients in their homes are highly unlikely, but targeting dispensaries is more possible. A.S.A. meetings are held on the 2nd Tuesday of every month. The June session will be on June 14th at 7 p.m. at the La Jolla Brew House, 7536 Fay Avenue. Active duty and former law enforcement officers are urged to call me at (619) 757-4909 to confidentially get involved with supporting L.E.A.P. locally. Email is leopowerhere@msn.com

Eugene Davidovich (standing), San Diego Area Liaison of Americans for Safe Access, conducts the group’s monthly meeting in May. Photo by Leo Laurence

services

Twelve Words That Will Help You Avoid Jail Time

by: Esther Rubio-Sheffrey

James Stacey was driving away from his medicinal marijuana co-op, Movement in Action, on September 9, 2009 when a patrol car and two undercover officers in an unmarked car pulled him over. He complied with the officer, stepped out of his vehicle, and was immediately placed in handcuffs. While Stacey sat in the patrol car, the officers searched his vehicle and armed DEA agents simultaneously raided his co-op and home. “I was scared,” Stacey recalled. “It was devastating to my life.” Stacey accepted a plea bargain to avoid jail time. His probation ends in two years, but he will never be able to shake the “felon” label. He says had it not been for the support of the local Americans for Safe Access (ASA) chapter, which he is now an active member of, he would not have been able to tolerate the long legal battle. Are you prepared to endure such a scenario? As San Diego moves closer to enacting the city council approved ordinances on medicinal marijuana co-ops, many in the marijuana community are preparing for a legal battle while others are focused on the growing concern about raids. What would you do if DEA agents burst through the doors with their weapons raised and you found yourself in the middle of a federal raid? What happens to you as an employee or a patient? What rights do you have? At a special raid preparedness training on May 3rd, the California Director of Americans for Safe Access (ASA), Don Duncan, gave local chapter members and concerned San Diegans an intense crash course on how to best protect yourself in such a case. As a raid survivor himself, Duncan shared valuable information that can keep you from spending time in jail. The best thing you can do is remain calm. Place your arms out forward with open palms to express your compliance and obey all orders. When the initial shock and awe portion of the raid subsides, the interrogation, whether subtle or intimidating, will begin. At this point, Duncan could not stress enough the importance of 12 words that he repeatedly referred to as the magic words: I choose to remain silent. I wish to speak to an attorney.

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“If there is a hostile takeover, you have nothing to gain by talking. It’s happening; you are being raided,” Duncan said. “85% of the information that police get on you comes from you, so about 90% of legal protection is silence.” As a patient, your time is likely to be the only thing inconvenienced. As an employee or co-op manager, however, the likelihood of arrest is high. How long you remain behind bars depends on your actions before and after the raid. According to Duncan, the key is being prepared. “Being prepared will help you remain calm, which is important, because aside from asserting your right to silence, you must also state that you do not consent to a search,” Duncan said. “Even if they have a warrant, you do not have to open any safes or unlock any doors. Let them do it. Any evidence obtained illegally may be dismissed later in court.” To ensure your co-op is ready for a raid, Duncan provided a number of tips: minimize exposure by keeping a limited supply of cannabis in the co-op, preferably no more than two days worth; have cameras that feature offsite video storage, so you can document the raid from inside and out; organize and protect the patient, doctor and financial data; and make sure you comply with all tax, zoning, and labor laws. “The best thing you can do is establish a community of support,” Duncan added. “Get together with likeminded people and develop a plan that includes everything from childcare to a media response, and make sure you have a criminal lawyer in advance.” Duncan emphasized the importance of compliance. Even after you have expressed your lack of consent to the raid, stand aside and remain silent. If you are 100% compliant with everything from the fire extinguisher on your wall to labeling all cannabis as medicine, your lawyer should be able to mount an undisputable defense.

“Do not have guns, do not have illegal drugs, do not allow for patients or friends to smoke inside the co-op, and do not keep a lot of cash on hand. Have your patients/cultivators make an appointment so that you will have the cash ready for them,” Duncan advised. It is also advisable to keep any plants at a separate location. According to Duncan, the golden goose for DEA agents is arresting a grower and/or confiscating marijuana plants. “Be cautious about everything and make sure everyone on staff knows whether or not they will be bailed out, so appropriate plans can be made,” Duncan added. “Also, have a plan for after the raid that includes a staff meeting, so everyone knows how to move forward legally.” Another key element that will keep you out of prison on federal charges is to have help spinning the community and media focus from “another drug dealer bust” to “Feds terrorizing patients.” To achieve that successfully, you need support. ASA offers free raid preparedness training for co-op managers and employees. They are conducted onsite and feature a raid simulation. Additionally, ASA offers a wealth of legal resources and is prepared to help any co-op in the event of a raid. By taking less than 20 minutes to fill out a one-page questionnaire, one phone call to ASA in the event of your arrest is all you will need. They will do everything from contacting your lawyer and family members to protesting at your co-op and drawing media attention to your plight. They can even send out an emergency text to your supporters as you are being raided and help get witnesses to the site. “We must come together as a community. We can fight this together,” Duncan said. Find your ASA chapter online for more information and take advantage of this resource.

By: James Stacy One of the worse things to happen to our freedom is the privatization of our prison system. Prisons are supposed to be a drain on our society so that we are reluctant about taking away freedom from our citizens. Freedom is our most important right as American citizens. Prison labor has its roots in slavery. After the Civil War, many of the freed slaves were put in prison on false charges and then put to work on building bridges, picking cotton and working in mines. America has 5% of the world’s population, but 25% of the world’s prison population. We have a half million more people in prison in the U.S. than communist China. President Nixon wanted to stop protesters of the Vietnam War and thought the best way to do that was to outlaw marijuana. Nixon established the Controlled Substance Act and made marijuana a Schedule I drug in opposition to the Schaffer report he had commissioned to study marijuana. Now, a new group of people are taking advantage of Nixon’s attacks on American freedoms. The private prison system makes a lot of money off marijuana users. Private prisons are getting paid by the state or federal government to house prisoners. They then make the prisoners work for $15 a month. The prisoners work full-time, can’t call in sick, strike or ask for raises. If they refuse to work, they are placed in isolation cells. Some of the corporations using prison labor are: IBM, Boeing, Motorola, Microsoft, AT&T, Wireless, Texas Instrument, Dell, Compaq, Honeywell, HewlettPackard, Nortel, Lucent Technologies, 3Com, Intel, Northern Telecom, TWA, Nordstrom, Revlon, Macy’s, Pierre Cardin, Target stores, and many more. [Former] Oregon State Representative Kevin Mannix recently urged Nike to cut its production in Indonesia and bring it to his state, telling the shoe manufacturer that “there won’t be any transportation costs; we’re offering you competitive prison labor (here).” The federal prison industry produces 100% of all military helmets, ammunition belts, bulletproof vests, ID tags, shirts, pants, tents, bags, and canteens. Along with war supplies, prison workers supply 98% of the entire market with equipment assembly services; 93% of paints and paintbrushes; 92% of stove assembly; 46% of body armor; 36% of home appliances; 30% of headphones/microphones/speakers; and 21% of office furniture. They also produce airplane parts and medical supplies while some prisoners are even raising seeing-eye dogs for blind people. With the three strikes law, they can put people in prison for life. A man recently received three 25-year sentences for his third offense after stealing a bicycle. A private prison’s trade stock is based on the number of persons that are in their prison. They need more prisoners to make more profit; they need longer sentences to project the long-term profits. They lobby lawmakers to increase mandatory sentencing for drug use and possession to keep a steady flow of nonviolent prisoners.

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The biggest boom for private prisons is medical marijuana. State and local officials ignore the will of the voters and arrest legal medical marijuana users. District attorneys offer plea deals or turn over evidence to the DEA. Medical marijuana patients are caught off guard as they were following the law and now find themselves in court and facing jail time. When a person is sick and thinks they were following the law, they will not attack guards and get into fights. They want to do their time and get back to their families as soon as they can. Even when a medical marijuana patient takes a plea deal that is just probation, they still suffer. How? In this bad economy where jobs are hard to come by, a person with a criminal record will not have much of a chance in getting a job. When you can’t work, you might break another law and they’ll have you back in their private prison. Private prisons have insured support for longer mandatory minimums by giving $100,000 to the Republican Party and state elections – money that came from the suffering of our fellow Americans. It is obvious that the level of professionalism in private prisons is far lower than what we, the taxpayers, expect. We are getting a lower quality of service while the corporation is making the money. There is a moral question to be asked here. Is it okay for people to make a profit on putting someone in prison? Does that give them incentive to keep more people in prison? Do you know that in private prisons you are seven times more likely to get your good time cancelled? Good time is what will allow you to get out early. Getting out early is bad for the corporation that runs the prisons. As we fight for our rights, we must not forget the people who are profit centers for private prisons. We must demand that all prisons be run by the government and never for profit. You can write to your state and federal representative and demand that they change the law and make the government run our prisons. Take the profit out of prison.

Stepping Stone’s CEO By M.J. Smith

Looks to the Future

Stepping Stone is a nationally recognized alcohol and drug treatment agency that provides intensive residential treatment, relapse prevention and aftercare. The organization is one of only a handful in the nation that specializes in long-term addiction treatment for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals, many of whom are HIV/ AIDS positive. Stepping Stone was founded in 1976 in response to the unique challenges that the LGBT community faced with drug addiction. Since 2000, clients have been calling The Stone, the agency’s new treatment facility, their home during their 6-month stay. In addition to 12 step-based therapy, seeking safety, and other evidence-based treatment practices, Stepping Stone employs a holistic approach to recovery, including selfadvocacy and outreach. The agency also offers aftercare and operates 2 transitional living homes. The facility boasts 31 beds, a beautifully landscaped courtyard, a Zen garden, a gym, a gourmet kitchen, BBQ area, a lounge, treatment rooms, and a large community room that hosts residential and community meetings open to the public. The agency’s primary mission has been to create safe places where individuals can tackle the challenges of alcohol or drug addiction, being gay, transgendered, or HIV positive. The organization’s secondary goal is to improve the image of recovery in order to end the discrimination that surrounds drug addiction and people in recovery. The agency also offers the most up-to-date treatment options and ensures that people in recovery (or seeking) are treated with dignity and respect. Stepping Stone recognizes the medicinal value of cannabis to help those suffering from human wasting syndrome, which is common in HIV/AIDS patients. They hope for guidelines from the state or county to implement a policy for serving those who need addiction treatment, but also have a legitimate need to use medical cannabis. In 2003, the state of Oregon’s Health Department chose to be proactive and implement such a policy. It is their hope that California will do the same. Some dispensaries offer harm reduction-based recovery groups aimed at those in recovery who use medical cannabis, such as the Harm Reduction Therapy Center in San Francisco and the Berkley Patients Group. According to the Harm Reduction Journal, “The rise of authorized marijuana use in the U.S. means that many individuals are using cannabis as they concurrently engage in other forms of treatment, such as addiction counselling and psychotherapy.” To find out more about Stepping Stone, NUG interviewed Board Member Terrie Best and Director of Development Bixi Craig. What was the driving force behind Stepping Stone’s decision to collaborate with the medical marijuana service providers? Aside from having a board member with one foot in the recovery community and one foot in the cannabis patient advocacy community, we are looking at a very important time in history right now. What we are trying to accomplish is to look into the future and start planting the seed for something that will connect the treatment community positively with the medical cannabis community. Stepping Stone is nationally recognized for being a progressive alcohol and drug treatment facility. For over 35 years, Stepping Stone has responded to addiction with unique treatments, services, and angles. Stepping Stone would like to be in the forefront of providing and advocating services that help our clients endure their challenges.

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Has Stepping Stone been affected by the recession? Very much so. The past two years have been hard on the agency because with county funding reductions, we have lost programs, staff, and outpatient services. Now we are focusing on becoming less dependent on the traditional funding sources. We would like to get our outpatient program back and expand our services in the future, and that is why we are reaching out to our community. Could court ordering addicts into rehabilitation programs such as Stepping Stone as opposed to incarceration be an effective means of removing some of the congestion in our prison system? Dollar for dollar, it’s more effective cost wise and success wise to offer as much treatment as you can to nonviolent drug offenders. The elimination of Prop. 36 resulted in the loss of services many LGBT individuals were benefiting from. The governor has chosen to completely defund Prop. 36, but people still did vote it in. Consequently, the court cannot mandate people to prison right now because the voters have said we want to offer them treatment, but the money to offer them treatment isn’t there. So we are in sort of an unusual position where a lot of Prop. 36 eligible people are going unsupported right now. The courts can’t put them in prison, which is a good thing, but they are still not getting the services they need either. It is a difficult time for everyone and we hope the governor and legislative will come to their senses and start funding these services again. I hear Stepping Stone encourages its clients to take active roles in grassroots advocacy. Has this proven to be an effective means for empowering clients? Absolutely! what our clients learn is that they are essentially not powerless and have a right to treatment and safety. That is where the self-advocacy model is initiated. When they go out there in the real world, they have better tools to represent themselves and to be represented… …Especially if you are in a marginalized group like the LGBT community. The name of the game in the recovery community is to reduce the stigma of addiction. Reducing the stigma of addiction is a huge undertaking and is so necessary. Politicians again, just like with medical marijuana patients, need to look at people in recovery as a voter block and begin to fund these programs

again. They begin to realize that treatment instead of incarceration makes sense not only fiscally, but politically. Self-advocacy and advocating for the entire recovery community is huge and it is something that a lot of forward thinking people such as John de Miranda, our President and CEO, support, and they know advocacy is the key to getting these programs back on track with funding. There are a lot of people in the recovery community that would say total abstinence is the only solution. What would be your response to that? If you can get to total abstinence, that is the ultimate harm reduction. If you can’t ever get to total abstinence, there are still plenty of opportunities to make a positive change in your life. Some people will never get to total abstinence and that is a reality. We want to honor their goals for continuing to push forward for a better life. Harm reduction casts a wider net of services for a wider net of people who would otherwise be marginalized. If you try to force everyone into immediate abstinence, you are going to have a very narrow net of services. How can dispensaries and physician clinics get involved with Stepping Stone? Medical marijuana service providers are registered as nonprofit organizations, so any money beyond the operational funds each month could be allocated to other nonprofit services. It would make perfect sense to support and fund an organization that has a positive outlook on the future of medical marijuana in regards to alcohol and drug addiction treatment. This will make a case for the movement at large, so it can be recorded and archived. What I would like to propose here is a scenario in the future where dispensaries can stand up and say look, we have been supporting this treatment facility for this extended period of time and look at the results; look at the people in recovery, look at the positive impact. You can be part of this groundbreaking movement by helping to fund Stepping Stone’s programs. The organization can only become less financially dependent on restrictive government-based funding with the support of its community. For more information on how to get involved, contact Bixi Craig at bixi@steppingstonesd.org or 619-278-0777. Information about treatment programs and events can be found at steppingstonesd.org.

According to John de Miranda, it is quite possible that in the near future we will see: • Treatment programs with specialized protocols for serving bone fide medical cannabis clients who seek help with alcoholism and/or drug addiction. • Cannabis dispensaries working closely with addiction treatment providers that serve clients seeking “step down” alternatives to lethal drugs such as heroin and methamphetamine. • Specialized addiction services such as sober housing and mutual aid support groups for people needing medical cannabis to manage their disabling conditions.

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Patient Profile:Neil Vietnam Veteran, Christian, Medical Cannabis Patient By: Pamela Jayne I’ve had the privilege of meeting some truly amazing people while writing about the medical cannabis movement in San Diego, and Neil is no exception. He is honest, down to earth, and just about as laid back as a person can be when they’ve had to endure what he has. Actually, he reminds me of my father. The way he speaks, the lingo he uses and his mannerisms are tell-tale of the men from the generation that brought us the horrors of the Vietnam War and the life-changing music of The Beatles. It’s a generation that fought a war they did not necessarily want to fight, and some of them are still fighting. Although Neil may not be carrying a gun through a

foreign jungle like he did in Vietnam, he is carrying something that is just as taboo in today’s world – a joint rolled with medically prescribed cannabis. Interestingly enough, it was easier and more socially acceptable for Neil to smoke marijuana recreationally while in the United States Marine Corps over 40 years ago, than it is for him now with doctor prescribed medical cannabis to treat the symptoms of hepatitis C and the side effects of the harsh medications he must take to combat the constant pain from neuropathy and other medical problems. Because his condition is worsening, Neil has no choice but to take prescription pain pills. Without medical cannabis, there is no way he would be able to physically tolerate the side effects of the other medicines. “The pills, especially the OxyContin, are incredibly taxing on the body. It ruins your appetite, you have a stomach ache all of the time, and you can’t even go to the bathroom. You’re just blah all of the time. The side effects are brutal. If I smoke a joint, I can eat a little bit. It may not be a four-course meal, but at least it’s something. It makes my stomach feel a little bit better and I’ll have some energy – be more alert. And at night, it helps me fall asleep. It may be only for an hour or two, but at least I get some rest.”

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Neil describes his day-to-day life: “You know how awful it feels to have a really bad hangover? Well, that’s how I feel when I wake up every single morning. That’s how my day starts, everyday. So the first thing I do when I wake up is take my medication, make a pot of coffee, and smoke a joint. After about an hour, I feel alright. If I just take my pills and don’t smoke a joint, I feel terrible.” Simply eating enough to meet his daily nutritional requirements can be a challenge. “I am afraid to eat sometimes,” Neil said. “It’s because I’m afraid I’ll get sick or won’t be able to go to the bathroom.” Because he can only ingest small amounts of food, he makes sure that what he does eat is healthy. On the day we spoke, he was having a small fruit smoothie with wheatgrass that he picked up from a restaurant in his North Park neighborhood. Also in his neighborhood is The Green Door Collective, where he has safe and convenient access to medical cannabis. “Some people just don’t get it. They think we come in here (The GDC) to have fun. That’s not it at all. I’m not having fun; I’m just trying to feel normal. I walk in here slow, and I walk out of here slow. Hell no, it’s not recreational for me. I need it in conjunction with all of that other crap I have to take. Given that pills are handed out so freely, it blows my mind that we are still having this debate about the safety and usefulness of marijuana. It’s sad because it’s such a great medicine.” As I mentioned earlier, the only time Neil used cannabis “recreationally” was while serving in Vietnam.

When the subject turned to the recent decision made by the San Diego City Council, the frustration and disappointment on Neil’s face said it all. “I don’t know what they expect people to do,” he said. “They are making it even harder on people who already have it hard.” I asked him if he thought they cared about medical cannabis patients or if they were just playing politics as usual, and he said, “If they are going to do this, they obviously do not care.” As for those who claim that cannabis has no medicinal value, Neil was earnest when he said, “I hope they never have to use it,” but added, “How could anyone make a statement like that? Who are ‘they’ to say what is best for me? It really shouldn’t be any of their business, anyway. That’s how I look at it. I don’t want to break the law; I just want to stay healthy.” Although complete strangers seem to have no problem judging Neil (and medical cannabis patients in general), he has the full support of his family and friends. Because he is so discreet about his medical cannabis use, he could probably get away with not even telling them about it; but he is honest and upfront and says they have no problem with it whatsoever. Like he says, “As long as you are not harming anyone – to each his own.”

Like cannabis, faith is also a normal part of Neil’s everyday life. Raised Catholic, he was an altar boy as a child and is now a member of the Horizon Christian Fellowship in Clairemont. He made it a point to say, “Yeah, I am a Christian, but I don’t feel comfortable pushing my religion on others.” He reads The Bible and prays to God every day. “I just try to be the best person I can be. The people I hang with at Horizon know that I’m sick and they are fine with what I do to make myself feel better. They don’t have an issue with it.” It is incomprehensible to me that although Neil has the support of his doctors, family and friends, and even his church, this group of public officials, who have never even met the man, believe they have the right to take away the one thing that enables him to live a normal life. I didn’t really get into the details of Neil’s illnesses because although this is a patient profile, Neil is more than just a patient. He, like all other patients, is more than what is written on his medical records. He is a person; a really cool person who happens to rely on cannabis. That is what I want everyone to know. These patients are real people. They really need cannabis and no one should be able to deny them safe access to it.

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Does the prohibition of cannabis restrict religious freedom? Marijuana and the First Amendment By: Simon Eddisbury

The First Amendment guarantees American citizens the right to practice their faith without the fear of prejudice. Yet, the dozen or so religious groups whose beliefs involve the sacramental use of marijuana can often find themselves on the wrong side of the law. In Christian churches, wine is often consumed as part of the service. Alcohol is arguably a far more harmful substance than marijuana, so does banning the use of cannabis in religious ceremonies constitute religious discrimination? I caught up with Carl Olsen, a marijuana activist and member of a mansion of Rastafarianism known as the Ethiopian Zion Coptic Church, to find out just how difficult it can be to practice a religion that holds cannabis sacred in a country where its use has been prohibited. Firstly, can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your church? I have been a member of the Ethiopian Zion Coptic Church since it was incorporated in Jamaica in 1976. During the 1960s, I was lost in this world, unable to discern my purpose in life. One of my friends went to Jamaica in 1970 and met a man by the name of George Baker Ivy, who became the focal point that drew us together in the name of Jah, Rastafari. George Baker Ivy died in 1970, but lasting friendships were made and the Ethiopian Zion Coptic Church was eventually incorporated to carry on the legacy. Because the sacrament of the Ethiopian Zion Coptic Church is cannabis and because of the worldwide conspiracy to make it illegal, the distribution of cannabis became a highly lucrative source of revenue for the Ethiopian Zion Coptic Church, and its wealth grew rapidly throughout the 1970s. At the close of the decade, the CBS television news program ‘60 Minutes’ profiled the Ethiopian Zion Coptic in a story titled ‘Holy Smoke,’ focusing on the attention that the church had drawn from the seizures of tons of marijuana at various church properties in Florida, where the United States branch of the Ethiopian Zion Coptic Church was located. The Ethiopian Zion Coptic Church was the largest agricultural producer in Jamaica. In 1980, I was arrested with two dozen other members of the church while unloading a boat carrying 20 tons of marijuana off the coast of Maine in New England. Eventually, the church properties were seized by the Internal Revenue Service and many of the members were put in prison. I appealed from my conviction, but I eventually went to prison in 1984 and was released in 1986, two years before my sentence was completed due to a clerical error by the warden at the prison that I was in. In the early 1990s, I asked to be returned to prison to complete my sentence, but the U.S. Prison System declined my offer, formally excusing me from completing it. You mentioned it is your belief that there is a worldwide conspiracy to make cannabis illegal. Can you expand on this? The banning of cannabis was added into the U.N. Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, which was authored primarily by the United States. It was demonised in the United States during the first half-century, from around 1910 to around 1940.

the name of Employment Division v. Smith, where the court stated that laws of general applicability, which are neutral toward religion, will not be held to the ‘actual harm’ standard and can be upheld if their enactment was supported by a general finding that the activity is harmful. ‘General applicability’ means there are no exceptions to the law for anyone for any purpose. Obviously, since 1996, states in the United States have been gradually accepting the secular, medical use of cannabis, allowing qualified patients to cultivate their own plants. 15 states have done this so far. If you look at prescription medicines, you’ll notice that none of them can be manufactured in your own home, so this secular use of cannabis is significant in terms of a religious claim for the sacramental use of cannabis. So what exactly is the role of cannabis within your religion? It is written in 1 Corinthians 12:12-14: ‘For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also [is] Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether [we be] Jews or Gentiles, whether [we be] bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. For the body is not one member, but many.’ The same as your physical blood supplies

So how did you feel when you were arrested? What was your reasoning behind asking to return to prison? I felt like I was a martyr in a civil rights struggle. I asked to be allowed to complete my sentence because I was making an application for the restoration of my voting rights and I didn’t want anything unexpected coming up to interfere with that. And, if I’m correct, your defense for your activities was that banning the religious use of cannabis contravened the First Amendment? Yes. Although the First Amendment does not protect activities that injure the rights of another individual, the theory goes that religious conduct is protected as long as it isn’t hurting anyone. State courts in Florida, as well as in Iowa, found that the Ethiopian Zion Coptic Church was a bona fide religion, so the First Amendment was clearly applicable to our defense. The courts determined that the risk of diversion outweighed our right to use marijuana because of its general classification as being a dangerous drug, which was not what we were expecting. We were expecting that the courts would have to set us free unless they could show that it caused actual harm. The United States Supreme Court clarified this in 1990 in a case by

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nutrients to the extremities of your physical body, the members of the spiritual body of Christ have blood (blessed be the tie that binds our hearts in Christian love), which is cannabis. Cannabis is an intensifier and a purifier, which binds us together to work as one in unity for the good of all. Why do you think the right to use cannabis for religious purposes is so important? The use of cannabis for religious purposes is essential to prevent the extinction of life on the planet. God made us to have a special relationship with this plant so that we would never forget our responsibility to take care of the environment. Other religions, notably the Centro Espírita Beneficente União do Vegetal and the Native American Church, have been permitted to use hallucinogenic drugs in their ceremonies. Why do you think these groups have been allowed to use substances that would otherwise be illegal, whereas religious marijuana use is strictly prohibited? The União do Vegetal case was over a federal seizure of hoasca [a psychoactive drug], so the Religious Freedom Restoration Act was applied. The NAC has had a religious exemption in the federal regulations since the drug law was written, so they were grandfathered in. The courts have said that there is no significant problem with diversion in the religious use of hoasca by the União do Vegetal or the religious use of peyote by the NAC. That is really the only difference with the religious use of marijuana. Marijuana is the most popular controlled substance. Seizures of hoasca and peyote by law enforcement are almost nonexistent. What are your views on cannabis being legalized for recreational rather than spiritual purposes? Are you for or against this? There is no such thing as recreational use of marijuana. All use of marijuana is spiritual and medicinal. What steps are you taking to try and achieve your goal of a society where cannabis is free to use? In the 1984 decision in my case, the Supreme Court said the Iowa lawmakers had given the responsibility for the classification of marijuana to the Iowa Board of Pharmacy, which had not changed its classification as a dangerous substance. In 2008, after 12 states in the United States had accepted the medical use of cannabis by allowing patients to grow it themselves, I filed a petition with the Iowa Board of Pharmacy to reclassify marijuana as medicine here in the state of Iowa. The board initially rejected my petition, but I appealed and an Iowa court ordered them to reconsider. In 2009, the Iowa Board of Pharmacy

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held four public hearings across the state in four cities and accepted both verbal and written statements. The board reviewed all of the current scientific data available and reached a unanimous conclusion in 2010 that marijuana is medicine. That means that the 1984 decision of the Iowa Supreme Court is now based on an outdated classification, which is no longer valid, giving me another opportunity to raise my religious claim. I could raise that claim now, but I’m still working with the Iowa Board of Pharmacy to clarify the meaning of their ruling. The situation is rapidly evolving. What would you say to those who try and claim that it is somehow harmful to society for a church to advocate the use of cannabis? If you think cannabis is dangerous, come and prove it to the Iowa Board of Pharmacy. That is how the law works. You have to present your evidence to the Iowa Board of Pharmacy because our law says that they are the qualified experts who must decide whether marijuana is harmful on behalf of the state. Speak now or hold your peace. What have been your greatest successes to date in your fight for its legalization? The court ruling in 2009 that required the Iowa Board of Pharmacy to evaluate the scientific evidence on the medical use of cannabis was my first big success. The unanimous ruling from the Iowa Board of Pharmacy in 2010 that cannabis is medicine is my second and biggest success. Finally, how can people get involved with your cause and register their support? I have several websites and I do accept donations. The websites are http://www.ethiopianzioncopticchurch.org; http:// www.iowamedicalmariijuana.org; http://petition.iowamedicalmarijuana.org; http://science.iowamedicalmarijuana.org; http://blog.iowamedicalmarijuana.org; and http://www.cannabis-corner.com

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Mind-Body, Health & Wellness

Detox for the Mind

As a society, we place a lot of focus on outward appearances. We judge others and, perhaps more harshly, we judge ourselves based on how things look on the outside. It is natural and, in many ways, more efficient to look at someone and create a “story” about what kind of person they are. He is overweight; he must be lazy. She is beautiful; I bet she is so happy. This is much faster than getting to know someone, right? A quick assessment means I can judge you and move on. It means I don’t have to see you as another being, I don’t have to open my heart to others, and I can avoid exposing my own vulnerability. Do these stories we create about others really have more to do with how we judge ourselves? Does it have something to do with our deep-seated fears of how others judge us? Or is it a subconscious desire to protect our delicate egos? The truth is that the more you accept and care for yourself, the more capacity and ability you have to accept and care for others. Caring for yourself in this context doesn’t mean your external self, and it doesn’t imply new clothes or expensive cars. That is the easy way out and it fades as soon as the newness of the object disappears. It is about caring for your mind and your spirit in a nourishing and balancing way. This notion helps to develop a strong mind and heart, so you can have the strength to be open to others. Besides, there’s a lot of time and energy that goes into constantly judging and comparing. Let the sweet reward of freedom from these mental habits drive you forward. It is not outwardly looking. It is inwardly seeing. - Sogyal Rinpoche How do we begin to rid ourselves of such toxic thought patterns? – A mental detox to identify the negative and cultivate the positive. Before we move on, please remember that this is not intended to be medical or psychiatric advice. If you have or suspect that you have a medical or psychiatric condition, it is best to consult your physician or mental health professional. 40 | NUGMAG.COM

1. RECOGNIZE THE MENTAL HABITS OF SELF-SABOTAGE. The first step is really about mindfulness and recognition of habits. Be aware of any unkind thoughts that you may have about yourself. Notice when you are the harshest or most critical. We all tend to concentrate these thoughts in different areas of our lives. Some of us use food to drown out emotions. Do you overeat and then blame yourself for lack of discipline? Do you crave meaningful relationships and make yourself feel better by indulging in sugary snacks? Do you feel a need to prove your success to others with extravagant purchases? Does an unfulfilling career lead you to retail therapy? Take a moment and reflect on one area where you criticize yourself the most. What triggers this self criticism and judgment? Try to experience it, but not feel bad about the habit or feel that you “should” or “shouldn’t” be doing it. Let go of the analysis and just observe the habit, thoughts and actions as they are. As you go about your day, be mindful of when the self-destructive thoughts arise. Just notice them without the urge to get upset at yourself. Notice that it is happening and notice your reactions to it. 2. NOURISH YOURSELF WITH A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE. I’m a big believer in focusing energy on healthy habits instead of the unhealthy ones. This step is about setting yourself up for success with a solid foundation. So what does a healthy lifestyle entail? • •

• • •

Exercise – Schedule it in for at least 30 minutes, 5 times a week. Go for a walk, swim, bike ride, or slip in a yoga DVD. There are so many benefits to regular physical activity that I’m putting it first. Eat well – Forget the latest fad diet and focus on eating healthy portions of whole foods. Whole foods means food that can be found in nature (Chips: No. Apples: Yes.). Include plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and water. Get sufficient rest – Sufficient rest and sleep are part of your body’s recovery needs. Relationships – Create and cultivate meaningful and supportive relationships with others. Purpose – Do work that you love or find ways to like the work that you do. Move with purpose and intention.

Looking at the list above, what is one area that you can focus some positive energy on? List some specific steps you can take to achieve your goal. 3. OPEN YOUR MIND AND HEART TO OTHERS. You are mindful of self-sabotage and are focusing on making positive and healthy changes in your life. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s next in the detox? The last step is opening your heart to others. This simply means seeing others as you see yourself. Our most basic needs in life are a desire to avoid suffering and a desire to be happy. These are Buddhist principles and two concepts that tie us all together. The next time you catch yourself judging someone else, simply remind yourself that this person, like you, wishes to avoid suffering in life; and that this person, like you, seeks happiness in life. This gentle reminder allows me to smile at the people I see in recognition of our similarities. In opening my heart and smiling, I find that I am happier and more understanding towards my own imperfections. In health, Bahareh Bahareh is a certified Health Coach based in Encinitas, California. She empowers others to live healthier, happier lives by eating well, increasing energy, reducing stress, and finding balance. www.mindbodyalliance.com

2011 Hemp Legislation Introduced

in California and Congress

By Dion Markgraaff The California Hemp Farming Bill SB 676 was introduced into our state government this spring, and Rep. Ron Paul introduced H.R. 1831, the Industrial Hemp Farming Act, into Congress after a successful second annual Hemp History Week. A senate bill in support of industrial hemp farming is expected to follow soon. State bill SB 676 was introduced in February by State Senator Mark Leno. Senator Leno believes that hemp farming will help revitalize California’s economy. He stated, “The time is long overdue for California farmers to be allowed to grow this sustainable and profitable crop once again. The passage of SB 676 will create new jobs and economic opportunities for many farmers and manufacturers throughout the state.”

A variety of products made from industrial hemp, including healthy food, natural body care products, and eco-friendly clothing, are made in California. “There are over 50 member businesses of the Hemp Industries Association (HIA) that make or sell hemp products in the state of California alone, which could benefit from an in-state source of hemp seed, fiber and oil,” says Eric Steenstra, Executive Director of the HIA. “Because of an outdated federal policy, these businesses are forced to import millions of dollars of industrial hemp from Canada, China and Europe.” “Dr. Bronner’s currently purchases 20 tons of hemp oil each year from Canada. We look forward to the day that we can meet our supply needs from hemp produced right here in our home state,” says David Bronner, President of Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soaps of Escondido. To date, 17 states have passed pro-hemp laws or resolutions, including the California Assembly in 1999 when it passed a

42 | NUGMAG.COM

resolution declaring that “the Legislature should consider action to revise the legal status of industrial hemp to allow for its growth in California as an agricultural and industrial crop.” SB 676 would only allow farmers to produce the parts of the industrial hemp plant that are already legal to import under state and federal law: its seed, oil, fiber and woody core. “SB 676 would not conflict with federal law or interfere with the enforcement of marijuana laws,” explains Patrick Goggin, California Legal Counsel for Vote Hemp. For the fourth time since the federal government outlawed hemp farming in the United States over 50 years ago, a federal bill was introduced on May 11th by chief sponsor Rep. Ron Paul (R-TX). If passed, H.R. 1831 (the Industrial Hemp Farming Act of 2011) will remove restrictions on the cultivation of industrial hemp, the non-drug oilseed, and the fiber varieties of cannabis. “We are pleased to see the reintroduction of the Industrial Hemp Farming Act in Congress. Vote Hemp is currently working with a Democratic senator who is preparing to introduce companion legislation in the senate in support of industrial hemp farming,” says Steenstra. “It is due time for the senate as well as President Obama and the attorney general to prioritize the crop’s benefits to farmers and to take action like Rep. Paul and the co-sponsors of H.R. 1831 have done. With the U.S. hemp industry valued at over $400 million in annual retail sales and growing, a change in federal policy to allow hemp farming would mean instant job creation, among many other economic and environmental benefits,” adds Steenstra. U.S. companies that manufacture or sell products made with hemp include San Diego’s Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soaps, a company that manufactures the number one selling natural soap in the U.S., and the best-selling hemp food manufacturers such as French Meadow Bakery, Living Harvest, Manitoba Harvest, Nature’s Path, Nutiva and Sequel Naturals, who all make their products from hemp grown in Canada. Sustainable hemp seed, fiber and oil are also used by major companies such as Ford Motors, Patagonia and The Body Shop. “Public support for industrial hemp farming is growing in leaps and bounds in the U.S.,” explains Steenstra. “The second annual Hemp History Week, celebrated from May 2nd -8th, 2011, featured over 550 events in all 50 states. The campaign mobilized the support of tens of thousands of consumers, grassroots activists, and many high-profile celebrities from health and wellness experts to TV and entertainment personalities, professional athletes, and renowned musicians.” For more information, visit www.votehemp.com

A W T A and

The booklet describes: “The Savior or Savior Project is an idea of Charles Manson’s for a seed gun: a gun that anyone/everyone can use to quickly and effectively plant seeds over a vast area. Currently, the project is developing functional loads and proper seed/compost mixtures to be used universally in common paintball guns. Mr. Manson has expanded the invention to include M-80 block guns converted to seed loads, seed-mortars, seed-bombs dropped by helicopter, seed artillery, etc.” In an exclusive interview, we were able to obtain some insight from Charles Manson, along with friends Gray Wolf and Star, on his music, ATWA, and the Savior Project. The following interview was compiled by questions answered via email, postal mail, and by phone conversation between Charles Manson and Gray Wolf.

Is there a date set for your next record release, “Trees”? CM: No. How are these audio recordings made? What are the conditions like? CM: They were made at the C.M.F. in Vacaville, CA, and most-

ly in the 1980s when I had a recorder.

In regards to your artwork, I saw a television show a few years back that showed guards at Corcoran showing off a room of conf1scated pieces of art that were created by you. What happens to the artwork when it is conf1scated? Why is it being conf1scated? CM: They only obey the laws they want to obey.

harles Manson is an individual requiring no introduction. He is wellknown worldwide as an icon of evil, an image used to build what must easily be a multi-billion dollar industry for the corporate mass media, publishing companies, television, and the international film industry.

At the age of 76, Manson has spent the last 40+ years of his life behind bars. During this time, he has inspired a plethora of musicians and countless subcultural artists who are fascinated with him and his charismatic persona. Recently, Magic Bullet Records released Manson’s record album Air, which is the first part of a four record series. The album includes 8 tracks of previously unreleased material that some critics have compared to legendary blues singer Leadbelly because of its grainy sound and raw emotion. Later to be released are the albums: Trees (now expected early summer, 2011), Water, and Animals. The titles form the acronym ATWA, a term created by Manson that not only represents these essential elements of ecology, but also stands for All The Way Live. In January 2011, Charles Manson published a 12-page ATWA booklet that includes his life experiences in his own words, the role of ATWA, and the Savior Project. 44 | NUGMAG.COM

STAR: Manson wanted me to also tell you that they have taken 11 of his oil paintings, a $4,000 guitar and his jean jacket, just to name a few of the items in that “room.” He said that they trick him into buying stuff, like art supplies, and then they confiscate it. Are there any artists (visual or music) that inspire you? CM: I don’t need or use ‘inspire,’ I can get it up when I want. What do you want people to walk away with when they see your artwork or listen to your music? CM: Giving to my life, ATWA. Are you currently able to create art and play music? CM: No. Considering your history, life experiences, and the fact that when most hear the name “Manson,” they automatically associate it with evil; why is the future of the world important to you? CM: I’m my world. My life is life, ALL is everything, everyone,

and beyond and some.

by Kelly & Cry

stal Hutchinson

-- Brief Gray Wolf Interview -How did you f1rst meet Charles Manson? GW: My first visit with Charlie was in

downtown L.A. in 1970.

the old Hall of Justice building in

What is your association with Charles Manson? GW: He is my friend. In addition, because his rights were denied in the

courtroom in ‘69-‘70, I’m working, along with others, to see that those rights are restored. If they can take his rights, they can take your rights and my rights. As it stands now, if you don’t have money, you don’t have your rights in a courtroom; they do with you what they will. Our fathers and grandfathers suffered, fought and died for those rights. If we let Charlie’s trial stand as it is, we deserve what we get.

What is your role with ATWA? GW: My role is essentially the same as your role. If I can’t redeem my air

and water from the pollution-machine-beast, I won’t survive.

I saw an interview with CNN that said you believed Manson’s time in prison has given him a unique perspective on the environment. Would you expand more on that? GW: Yes. He was left behind, buried, forgotten, and covered up with lies

and deceit. His words and actions have been twisted and distorted to fit the media and Hollywood scripts played for ambition, money and attention. So, he has lived like a monk, like a bug in a cage for over 40 years, and he has survived. He grew up with only the prison system as his father, and so it follows that his perspective, his insight, and his experience are truly all beyond even our imaginations. In reality, he has given his all to our will, and he is our best servant. Charlie points to air as God. We would do well to respect his vision. In truth, our lives depend on it. It all boils down to surviving, and to survive, we must protect and nurture ATWA.

It is rumored by some online that ATWA proposes eliminating humans in an effort to save the earth…Is this true? If not, why do you feel someone might have this misconception? GW: Humans are eliminating themselves by destroying their own life

support systems, then they look for someone to blame. ATWA is not a politically correct concept or movement. It is well documented that in dire circumstances, humans will do anything to survive. What is the truth of our present circumstance? Who is willing to look at it for what it really is? Who is willing to speak the truth of what is? The truth is simple: those who want to live will work for Air, Trees, Water and Animals.

For more information visit www.mansondirect.com

What is ATWA and when was it formed? CM: 100 billion light years. GW: Manson coined the word ATWA to represent our life support systems on earth: Air, Trees, Water, and Animals – the animals including ourselves. What is the organization’s primary mission? CM: Redeem my life, my air, “my me.” GW: What is your primary mission? To breathe? Wouldn’t that indeed be your absolute first consideration for survival if you stripped away the BS from your everyday life? ATWA is everyone’s survival on this planet. As more and more people wake up to the immediacy of our remaining choices, intelligence moves with no doubt or fear to implement solutions that function. How did the idea of a seed gun come up with the Savior Project? CM: It started in 1969 as a stick to plant secret pot farms. I understand that one of the main objectives of the Savior Project is to educate and arm everyone with seed guns and seed artillery so that there is no space not growing something. If this was to happen, what do you believe this would solve? What problems might this f1x? CM: Weather balance. My life, my love, my God, my me. Has the seed gun been tested yet? What have been some of the results? GW: At this point, our focus is to support the manufacturing and distribu-

tion of “paintballs” filled with seeds instead of paint. The idea is to be able to shoot the seeds from existing “guns” on a worldwide basis. The technology can be modified for successful manufacture, and the gelatin “shells” have been tested, so we know that seeds will sprout from the “paintballs” on the ground in natural habitats.

Is there a projected date in which the gun will be released? GW: No release dates are known. What do you feel are some of the best ways to get involved and help with the environment? What are some ways to support the Savior Project? CM: Give your life and ALL to LOVE. Love=Life=Air, and all that works

for your life. ALL is God or no one is God and the other side will ride it.

-- Gray Wolf Interview Concludes -NUGMAG.COM | 45

The following was transcribed from a phone conversation on April 7th, 2011 with Charles Manson and Gray Wolf: CM: Do you remember what I wrote? GW: They asked, “When was ATWA created?” And you said, “A hundred billion light years.” CM: Oh, yea; in other words, it’s been right here all the time, man. It’s just becoming aware of it. Are you up on how that works? GW: Not really. CM: Well, you know certain things, like you go by an

apple tree, you see the apple tree. You understand it, you know it, but you don’t think about it. So, when you say, ‘I could make apple pie out of that,’ and then you get some apples and you make a pie. You say, ‘Oh, that’s far out.’ So then I come along and I say, ‘You know, I come to the same thought that you came to.’ I say, ‘Hey man, I could make a pie out of that.’ And then I run and act like I came up with the idea, you know. I say, ‘It was my idea to make apple pie.’ And you say, ‘Man, I made apple pies 20 years before you even thought of that.’

that bullshit, and then they’re taking my rights. They’re not giving me no rights, and then Gaddafi and Barackabable, and all them guys, they want to say, ‘Well, they can do whatever they want to do.’ Why can’t we do the same thing they’re doing? Why couldn’t we do what Nixon was doing? He was doing it in our name; he was saying that he was representing us when he was doing it. In other words, I’m going to represent Gray Wolf, and I’m going to pee on the radiator and make it stink. But then, if I catch you peeing on the radiator, I’m going to lock you up in a box and say you can’t pee on the radiator. Only I can pee on the radiator. Well, you didn’t whip me, I whipped you. So if I whipped you, then how come you’re peeing on me? You know, it doesn’t make sense to me. And then I say this; if I say, ‘You do that and you’re going to die.’ And you say, ‘Are you threatening me?’ I say, ‘I’m not threatening you. What you’re doing is threatening you.’ If you keep driving that automobile, keep driving them trucks, keep doing that, you’re going to die. You’re going to be without air. And they say, ‘We can’t stop that, because if we stop that, we’ll be out of food.’ I say, ‘Well, if you’re out of food, you can grow some food.’

So I mean, you know, everybody has known it. Like, when I was a kid, they used to say it. They used to say, ‘Cars are doomsday machines!’ Because they were new and people could see that they created pollution. And people would say, ‘The doomsday machine.’ And I’d hear them talking, my uncle Jess and them guys would be talking. They’d say, ‘Well, how long do you think it’ll take, Jess?’ And they had an argument over, ‘Well, all that will dissipate. The world is too big for that to bother the world.’ You know, ‘The world is too big,’ and it was for those little cars in that time. In other words, those little Model T Fords, they weren’t going to destroy the world. But you look at that freeway today and see all them trucks and cars, and then planes… …Over this prison, all day long, there ain’t nothing but just contrails, man. Well, you can probably see them from where you’re at. All that goes right in your lungs, man. You gotta breathe that shit. And I think that sometimes there are people in other parts of the world that are creating that over here because they want to destroy this half of the world. You know, if they can destroy America, that would give them Europe. You gotta save the whole planet; you can’t save half of it. There’s only one way to do something, and it’s not mine. I didn’t invent it, I just see it. In other words, it’s not me saying, ‘Well, this is what I’m creating.’ I’m not creating nothing. I’m just visualizing what is real because I’ve been forced to give my will up for over 60 years.

tum album

innersanc

If you do what you’re told and that’s the only thing you can do, is what you’re told, then you think behind that. In other words, you see somebody telling you and you look at what they’re doing and you say, ‘Well, they’re telling me this, and then they’re doing THAT.’ So, I mean, what’s real crook? They’re telling me all

46 | NUGMAG.COM

art for japan

The Food Truck Chronicles: Two for the Road Revamps American Comfort Food

By: Esther Rubio-Sheffrey

s a newbie to the food truck scene, Two for the Road has been roaming the pleasure of trying their menu, the burger of the week was the Brooklyn Burger. Served San Diego’s streets since March. Their American comfort food classics on a grilled brioche bun, this ½ lb burger featured a bed of spicy slaw and was topped with infused with local flavors are rapidly gaining popularity on some social hot pastrami and melted Swiss cheese. media sites. Orchow said they often sell out of their most popular menu item, the New England LobThe owners, Roberto Luciani and Lisa Orchow, are a husband and wife team who ster Roll. The chunky Maine lobster is served Cape Cod style with chopped celery, fresh grew tired of working for other people. Like most food truck entrepreneurs, Orchow lemon juice, and a light dressing of mayo. Their second most popular items are the Capexplained how starting a restaurant was out of the question due to a lack of funds, tain Crunch Crab Cakes. and not to mention, very risky. A food truck certainly made the idea of working for themselves much more affordable. Although there were less than 10 menu items, it was difficult to decide. We ordered a Mexicali Corn Dog with spicy mustard, the Miami Mojito Chicken Sandwich, and an order Their diverse backgrounds influence their “traveling restaurant” concept. Before of Parmesan Fries. The service was quick and all of our items were fantastic. they met, Luciani, a native of Fermo, Italy, was attending culinary school in his home country while Orchow was working in the travel industry. Years ago, their Served on a cardboard tray lined with blue checkered tissue paper, the corn dog featured paths crossed when they both worked at the Las Vegas W Hotel. Luciani was the a Hebrew National dog with bits of chopped jalapeños in the breading. It had the right Executive Chef at the hotel’s Italian restaurant and Orchow was the concierge. amount of spice and was quickly gobbled up. About a year ago, they relocated to San Diego with their son Austin, who recently graduated from high school and works alongside his parents. “The 20 some years I spent in the travel industry allowed me to travel all over the country and the world,” Orchow said. “When I did so, I loved eating at little local places, and I wanted to recreate some of my favorites from around the country.”

The Mojito Chicken was served on a grilled, but soft, brioche bun. The marinated chicken was a little bit dry, but the generous portion of caramelized onions and mint/lime mayo added enough flavor to make it a delicious sandwich.

Of course, anytime you have fresh cut french fries, it is always a treat. Top them with parmesan cheese and the right amount of salt and you end up with a side that is anything Orchow explained that they would have loved to focus on an Italian concept, but but common. Overall, our dining experience at Two for the Road was filling, good, and for it to live up to Luciani’s expectations, they would have needed an oven and their very affordable. We spent less than $15. truck does not even have a freezer. Every ingredient, from the potatoes they cut each morning to their lobster, is fresh and purchased locally. Although Two for the Road features a selection of unique and retro sodas, like the Dublin Dr. Pepper normally found in Texas, they were parked outside of a bar, so we elected to “It is a lot of work,” Orchow said with a laugh. “We make several grocery store have a beer. However, the beverage options are as unique as the sides, like the Route stops throughout the day and when the day is over, we are back at the store pre- 11 potato chips imported from Virginia and the Cravory cookies featuring flavors like panparing for the next day. But it’s a lot of fun.” cakes and bacon. The Food I have to agree with Orchow, Two for the Road is a nice alternative to regular fast food and The Two for the Road menu changes weekly. They always feature certain items you get to try things you normally do not find anywhere else. To find this food truck, follow like a burger with a Two for the Road twist. When my dining companion and I had them on Facebook or Twitter @TwofortheRoadSD. And make sure to follow our newest column, “The Food Truck Chronicles,” only at nugmag.com with even more delicious San Diego food truck discoveries to come. 50 | NUGMAG.COM

Written by Canna Chef Kim ~ Mother Earth Co-op ♥ Proudly serving San Diego MMJ patients since 2005 In celebration of cancer survivorship, the 24th annual National Cancer Survivors Day is on Sunday, June 5, 2011 and aims to unite millions of survivors across America with others around the world in a day of fun. National Cancer Survivors Day is an annual, treasured, worldwide “Celebration of Life” that is held in hundreds of communities throughout the United States, Canada, and other participating countries. Survivors unite in a symbolic event to show the world that life after a cancer diagnosis can be significant, fun and productive. The National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation defines a “survivor” as anyone living with a history of cancer, from the instant of diagnosis through the remainder of life. In America alone, there are over 11 million people living with a history of cancer. Survivors will be the first to tell you that you can live a fulfilling life after a cancer diagnosis. Major advances in cancer prevention, early detection, education and treatment have resulted in longer survival. On the other hand, surviving cancer can leave a host of problems in its wake. Physical, emotional, and financial hardships often persist for years after diagnosis and treatment. Survivors may face numerous challenges, including access to cancer specialists and promising new treatments, denial of health and life insurance coverage, financial hardships long after the initial diagnosis and treatment, employment problems, psychological struggles and the strain on personal relationships, and the profound fear of recurrence. In order to continue with improving the quality of life for cancer survivors, more resources, research, and survivor-friendly legislations are needed. The National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation encourages a greater commitment to resolving the issues of cancer survivorship through public education. Celebrate and remember that the key to survival is early detection and education! This month we have a few new healing recipes for your favorite patient with, of course, our medicinal twist! Some of the following recipes are taken from Mother Earth Co-op’s “Special Medicinal Recipes – A Medical Cannabis Cookbook.” Canna Chef Kim © 2008 Cookbook available at finer co-ops, collectives and physician offices or online at www.motherearthcoop.com/products TRIBAL VISION ICED TEA (Beverages) 1 qt. water 2 tsp. allspice 8 bags Earl Grey tea 1/2 tsp. black peppercorns (crushed) 8 sticks cinnamon (broken up) 3 tbsp. honey 8 pieces cardamom pods (crushed) 8 lemon wedges

1/2 tsp. kief* 2 tbsp. coriander seeds 2 tsp. anise seeds

8 orange wedges 8 sticks cinnamon (whole)

Bring water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add tea bags, then remove from heat and let steep for 20 minutes; discard tea bags. Reheat tea and pour into a heatproof bowl. Add all of the spices, including the kief* (see recipe), and mix thoroughly. Cover and let steep overnight. Strain tea into a medium saucepan. Reheat tea, stir in honey and let cool. Makes 8 curative servings. Note: For each curative drink, pour the spiced tea over cracked ice. Garnish with a lime wedge, an orange slice, and a cinnamon stick and serve. Nice relaxing beverage that helps with nausea, cramps, anxiety and pain. MAUREGON PRIMO QUICHE (Appetizers) 1 pkg. pie crust 1/4 tsp. onion salt 1 Portobello mushroom (chopped) 2 tbsp. cannabis (very finely ground) 1/2 lb. white mushrooms (chopped) 1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper 4 tbsp. cannabutter* 1 tbsp. cilantro (chopped) 1 large egg 1 ½ cups Swiss cheese (shredded) 1/2 cup whipping cream Let pie crust stand at room temperature for 20 minutes, then gently roll it out into 12-inch (28 cm) circles. Wipe mushrooms with a damp cloth and chop them in a food processor or with a chef’s knife. Place cannabutter * (see recipe) in a medium skillet, then cook mushrooms over medium heat until all liquid is evaporated and the mushrooms are brown and tender. Preheat oven to 375°F (190° C). Grease 2 dozen muffin cups. Using a 3” (7.5 cm) cookie cutter, cut 24 circles from the pie crust (12 from each crust), re-rolling crusts if needed. Press into prepared muffin cups. Divide mushrooms evenly among the lined cups. In a small bowl, combine: egg, cream, onion salt, cannabis, cayenne pepper and cilantro, and then beat well. Pour egg mixture over mushrooms and sprinkle with grated cheese. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until the center of the quiches are set. To serve warm, cool for 5 minutes before removing from the pans. To freeze, cool on a wire rack and freeze in a single layer until solid. Place in an airtight freezer container in a single layer. To reheat, place frozen quiches on a cookie sheet and bake at 350°F (180° C) for about 10 to 13 minutes, until hot. Makes 24 healing quiches.

about 5 minutes. Add garlic and pepper. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until onion is softened but not browned (2 to 3 minutes); set aside. Heat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down dough and shape into a ball. Cover with plastic food wrap and let it stand for 10 minutes. Place dough on a large greased baking sheet. Press into a 12-inch (30 cm) circle. Spoon the onion mixture evenly over the dough. Make 1/2 inch (12.5 mm) deep indentations [1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) apart] into the dough with floured fingers or the handle of a wooden spoon. Bake until the edges are golden brown for about 25 to 30 minutes. Remove from the baking sheet and serve warm. Note: These little special quiches are wonderful and can be served as appetizers for the small appetite. You can make the quiches ahead of time and freeze since they reheat wonderfully. Perfect for digestive problems, nausea and insomnia. CHILLIN’ MANGO & CUCUMBER SOUP (Soups) 2 small mangos 1/2 tsp. kief* 2 small cucumbers (seedless) 2 tbsp. cilantro 3 tbsp. lime juice (fresh) 1/8 tsp. sea salt 1/2 red onion (finely chopped) 1/8 tsp. pepper Chop one mango and one cucumber thinly and set aside. Coarsely chop the remaining mango and cucumber and purée with a 1/4 cup of water in a blender or food processor until the mixture is almost smooth. Transfer to a bowl and stir in the finely chopped mango, cucumber, onion, lime juice, kief* (see recipe) and 2 cups of cold water. Place bowl in a larger bowl of ice and cold water; stir until cool. Just before serving, stir in cilantro, salt and pepper to taste. Recipe makes 6 to 7 curative servings. Note: Soup can be chilled in a refrigerator until cold; about 2 hours. Patients love this exotic medicinal soup for reducing fever, cramps, and joint pain, as well as relief from nausea. HUBBA BUBBA FOCACCIA (Breads) 4 cups all purpose flour 1/4 cup cannabutter* 1 pkg. active dry yeast 1 large red onion (thinly sliced) 1 tbsp. sugar 1 tsp. garlic (finely chopped) 1/2 tsp. sea salt 1/2 tsp. pepper (finely ground) 1 ½ cups water Stir together 2 cups of flour, yeast, sugar and salt in a large bowl. Combine water and cannabutter* (see recipe) in a saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 2 to 4 minutes. Cannabutter does not need to melt completely. Add warm water mixture to the flour mix. Beat at low speed to moisten the flour. Increase speed to medium and beat, scraping the bowl often, until smooth for about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in remaining flour by hand until dough forms a ball and leaves the side of the bowl. Place dough on lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, adding more flour as needed to prevent sticking (3 to 5 minutes). Place dough in large greased bowl; turn greased side up. Cover loosely with plastic food wrap and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size (45 to 60 minutes). Meanwhile, melt the other 1/4 cup of cannabutter in a large skillet over low heat; add onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onion begins to soften;

Note: Onion and garlic topped bread is perfect for a sandwich and good for nausea. A bread machine will save you some time. Directions: 2 lb. Loaf; read instruction manual and prepare according to the manual directions for dough; however, make sure to decrease the yeast to 1 3/4 teaspoons. Prepare topping, shape, and bake as directed above. CROCKPOT CARAMEL CHEESECAKE (Cakes) 1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/4 cup sugar 1/4 cup walnuts (chopped) 2 large eggs (beaten) 1 tbsp. brown sugar 1/3 cup evaporated milk 1/2 cup cannabutter* (melted) 1 tsp. vanilla 2 (8-oz.) packs cream cheese (softened) 2 tbsp. flour 1 cup chocolate chips (semi sweet) 1 (3-oz.) pkg. cream cheese (softened)

“KIEF” is an age old way of extracting trichomes from plant material. Kief is the product derived from the kiefing process. Kiefing is a method in which you rub dry trim, buds and small leaves with crystals on them over a silk screen. The THC glands will form a powder that comes through the screen, which is then used for cooking or smoking. It is usually a pale green to light brown color depending on the strain of cannabis. Kief powder that is pressed together is called hash. Note: Kief boxes are sold at some smoke shops and are easier to work with than silk screens. In a kief box, the screen is above the collection drawer, allowing the THC glands to pass through the screen and into the collection drawer. This makes it easy and compact for the average user to collect the kief and use for smoking or cooking. *Cannaoil is any high-quality food grade oil such as coconut oil, hempseed oil, olive oil, or canola oil that has been infused with high grade medical cannabis. *Cannabutter is dairy butter that has been infused with high-grade medical cannabis. The recipes for cannaoil and cannabutter can be found in the first copy of NUG Magazine or online at www.MotherEarthCoop.com Wishing you a hempy journey to a healthier you! Please remember to continue the 2011 challenge of being kind to each other and practicing random acts of kindness each and every day!!! Peace, Love & Gratitude, Kim

In a medium bowl, combine: crumbs, walnuts, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and melted cannabutter* (see recipe); mix until crumbly. Pat into the bottom of a springform pan; set aside. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup sugar and beat well. Add eggs, milk, vanilla, flour, and beat until smooth. Pour mixture over crumb crust in the prepared pan. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave oven or over very low heat, and then drizzle over cheesecake in pan. Using a knife, marble by drawing the knife through the chocolate and cheesecake batter. Position a ring of crumpled aluminum foil at the bottom of a crockpot. Then, fold two 24-inch (60 cm) long pieces of heavy duty foil in half (the long way), then in half again; place over the ring of foil in the crockpot, making an ‘X’ and letting the edges hang down over the sides of the crockpot. Place the springform pan on top of all of this, making sure it’s level. Cover crockpot; cook on high for 2 1/2 to 3 hours. Turn off crockpot, don’t remove lid, and let it stand for 1 hour. Cautiously remove the cheesecake from the crockpot, using the strips of foil you placed over the rack. Chill for at least 3 hours. Remove sides of pan. Serve with hot chocolate sauce or caramel fudge ice cream topping and some whipped cream. Makes 8 curative servings. Note: When cheesecake is baked in the oven, the top usually cracks unless you bake it in a water bath. In a crockpot, that is not a problem because the baking environment is so moist. Make sure your springform pan fits easily into your slow cooker with a space of at least a 1/2 inch (12.5 mm) all the way around between the pan and the sides of the crockpot.

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>>Still Growing - Part 4 By: Mel the Bumbling Gardener

If you missed last month’s issue, then you missed how “my need to find healthy, root mature clones when I needed them” has taken me to a new level in the world of hydroponic growing. I decided to learn how to clone my own from what I have, just like the big guys. With help from my new friends at Pyraponic Industries and their Phototron growing chamber, I am well on my way to controlling the last part of the puzzle. As you remember, I am using the Phototron 8 as a very stable place to grow my mother plants. When I left you last month, my goal was to be able to take four or more cuttings from all three plants, which will turn into 12 healthy well-rooted clones every five to six weeks. My need for clones was not too far off. In the past, my habit took me to every collective in my area. If I was lucky, I found two or three different plants per stop. And after three or four stops, I had enough young ladies to get started again. This time my grow was going to be different. The children would be mine, all mine. Planning ahead, I decided it was time to take the first of many new cuttings from my Phototron mother plants. They say a picture is worth a thousand words, just look at the pictures of the first clones cut from the mothership. Look at how green and how close the leaf set is compared to the clones you usually see at the collectives. I think my mother plants look better than most I have seen. They still have that fresh look and all they ever had to do was grow, and grow they did. The changes over the last couple of months have been amazing. These plants just don’t look anything like they did when I first put them in the Phototron. Yes, they were very healthy, very strong “older” plants when I started, but all three have changed and for the better. No more large spaces between leaf sets and no more stretched out anything looking for more light. Okay, I’m ready to take my first cutting. I thought I might check out YouTube to see how all the experts did it. Just as I thought, everybody does it the

same way in a different way all together. After looking at several different videos, I decided to use a bit of everything I had just seen. Everyone had great ideas for cloning our favorite plant. Because I had already talked with my friends at the hydro shop, I had just what I needed to get started. With sharp clippers in hand, I took my first real stem cut. I looked for and found “new wood” with at least three leaf sets above and two sets below where the stem would fit into the grow block. After cutting the end of the stem at a 45 degree angle with a sharp razor blade, I quickly dipped the newly cut end into rooting gel and placed it into the hole of the rooting block – one down, 14 to go. As I continued cutting and dipping my new family, I started thinking about how cool this really was. Soon I would be smoking off the land or at least from my own hand. I can’t really tell you why I have this big smile on my face. Was it the fun I was now having or the bowl I just smoked from my last harvest? cont.

With the cutting, dipping and trimming finished, it was time to get my new family of clones warm and cozy under the T5 lights and dome. I mixed up a special batch of feed for the new family (rich in rooting and growing nutrients), gave each plant a fast spray, and closed the lid. Now comes the hard part – waiting for the first root to show. Everything else in this growing adventure happened very fast. After the first week under the light, the cuttings didn’t look as good as they did on day one. My friends at the hydro shop told me not to worry and to give it more time. They told me things would be just fine. Okay, week two and I still can’t see any roots. What’s up with this? Was I giving them too much water and rotting the roots or was I just not giving them enough time to “root out”? I guess time heals all things and it really healed my clones. In the next couple of days and weeks, roots started to appear. Very slowly at first, then more and more would show up. As each day passed, the roots got longer and the clones looked better. Color and new leaf growth started. I guess this is when your cuttings officially turn into a clone. She starts to grow up and look just like her mom. Five weeks later, I had roots everywhere. I have never seen a clone with roots like this on the $12 table at any collective. The collectives that sell clones with roots like this call them “Junior Plants“ and charge about $20 a pop. Look at the picture and see how the roots come out of the grow plug in every direction. Healthy roots = healthy clones. The last part of this adventure is to see if my clones would really grow. When the new ladies looked ready, I carefully moved them into their new home. I set the adjustable ballast to 50% for the first week, then up to 75% for the second week, then up to 100%. The growth was almost immediate. I could just tell this was going to be a great “home” grow. This has been a very interesting grow. The Phototron worked much better than I thought it would. It just goes to show that you can’t really judge a book by its cover. The growth in the chamber was just amazing to watch. Thick, lush, beautiful leaf and bud growth is what the Phototron is all about. “The Growing Plants Pyraponimetrically” book says that you can “re-bloom” your plant up to three times with the right light management. I just can’t wait to set the timer to 12 on and 12 off if you know what I mean. I’ll bet this Phototron is more than just a mothership. As they say, “Still the Original, Still the Best.” – Pyraponic Industries

Professor Lee’s Introduction to Growing Grade A Bud: Marijuana 101 By: Brom Richey

What type of individual are you when it comes to embarking on a new task or venture? Do you immediately jump into the information pool and start splashing around, or do you wade in slowly, methodically allowing the information presented to resonate before continuing? Personally, I’m the latter. Information is key when making decisions, especially when the decision is whether or not to start growing your own cannabis. When we received Professor Lee’s “Introduction to Growing Grade A Bud: Marijuana 101” at our NUG offices, I had a feeling that the folks over at Green Candy Press understood their potential readers and how their information needs will progress. Any book with 101 in the title will probably not be overly saturated with facts and figures that won’t mean much to a beginning cultivator, and that’s okay! In this case, Professor Lee has done a wonderful job at crafting a guide that is ultimately designed to light a spark under those individuals who have been thinking about starting a grow. Marijuana 101 offers some of the fundamental theories and grower-knowledge that would help anyone in their decision to grow bud. This book is chalked full of step-by-step instructions in 19 easy-to-follow modules, and contains an extensive layout of color photos that will help get the gears turning in many potential gardeners’ heads. Topics in the book include differences in strain types, general tools and equipment that will be utilized, potential plant health issues, lighting, room design options and so many more. I must stress that this particular book contains tons of relevant information for beginning growers; however, it is not the most scientific in its approach to this information. It is a tool that can be used as a jump-off point to get you headed in the right direction. It will not answer every question about every room/light/nutrient setup, nor every potential problem and simple solution that a grower will experience. I found the book to be a fairly quick and interesting read, and it actually left me feeling inspired to continue down the rabbit hole. Fortunately for us, Green Candy Press provided NUG with a secondary book option for those of you with a Short Circuit – Johnny 5 style appetite for input!

Cultivating Cannabis in the 21st Century Here we have a seriously comprehensive resource for the modern grower written by C.K. Watson. Mr. Watson left no stone uncovered when he sat down to catalogue the copious amounts of information that one must familiarize them self with when trying to become a master grower. One of the standout features in the book is quite honestly the amount of information presented on the topic of cultivation. Rather than listing a series of general facts about marijuana and how its grown, it is really so much more in depth in its explanations of the what, why and how of cannabis cultivation. However, a word to the wise: if you have no prior gardening experience, then this book might prove to be a little overwhelming in its approach. There are a lot of facts and figures regarding the science behind cultivation, so familiarize yourself with some of the general terms and ideas that make it up. If you are not an analytical individual who enjoys saturating yourself in the science of what is happening in your grow room, then this book might be a little advanced. Concepts are explored in much more depth so that you, the grower, can understand why you’re doing what you are doing, rather than blindly following someone else’s instructions. This book might not be as inspiring to a rookie as the one above, but it should be viewed as a reference guide for someone who has decided to take the leap into herbal development. Cultivating Cannabis in the 21st Century is a deep exploration into concepts of security, lighting, hydroponics, veg and flower cycles, breeding, harvesting, curing and all the possibilities thereafter. C.K. Watson does a fantastic job at guiding readers through the art of growing the stickiest and providing us with valuable insight from his 20+ years of experience. In my opinion, GreenCandyPress.com has a couple of gems in their hands that would be a great addition to just about anyone’s library. Upgrade your knowledge to the next degree, don’t hesitate, and get out there and start working on turning that thumb green. Visit www.greencandypress.com for more information on these and other works, as well as getting your copy ordered and shipped today.

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Hydroponics Can Save & Feed The World! By: The SD OG Grower What’s the most common term that comes to mind when someone mentions hydroponics? –Probably pot or growing marijuana. Well, the truth is that a lot more of the produce you’re purchasing is hydroponically grown, which is around 70% of the produce in your local grocery store. And there is definitely a lot more marijuana being grown outdoors with soil than indoors with hydroponics. It’s just another method or tool for growing plants! Hydroponics is a method of growing plants using mineral nutrient solutions, in water, without soil, which is by no means new to our society or world. It can be traced back to the Aztecs and Mayans who grew in rows flooded with water several times a week. For the last 30 years or so, hydroponics has been attracting a lot of attention and research; however, most people are not seeing it as the only option to save and feed the world, or as a more viable means of growing plants, but they should! Part of it is the government that controls us; basically, a criminal enterprise that controls the drug trade. They do not like drugs that can be grown here or anything that is not imported! –Obviously, it’s much harder to control something that is grown within our borders, rather than transported into our country! And because hydroponics is more widely associated with marijuana than any other plant (even though it is so far from the truth; tomatoes or lettuce alone surpass hydroponic marijuana), it is given a bad reputation and is not known for its great benefits or capabilities in being the only possible way to feed the world. Instead, it is looked at as drug paraphernalia. All hydroponic equipment, nutrients, and supplies are actually required to have federal and state licenses and permits to purchase; and are being federally regulated and controlled. This has already happened in Finland, Australia, and a few other countries. It has also been propositioned in the northwestern states of the USA. The bottom line is that hydroponics is a more advanced, efficient, conservative, and environmentally friendly way of growing produce or food for the masses. Zeitgeistmovie.com (film #3) even mentions hydroponics as the only solution for food production in this overpopulated world. With water and land becoming such a demand (with less of it for agriculture), new methods of growing are being developed to not only grow the produce, but to mechanically harvest and package it as well – not allowing for ANY human contamination or diseases. Automatic, self-contained grow boxes are already being developed in other countries to grow in desserts and barren lands with no natural resources. Simply plug the boxes or containers into a power source (either solar, wind, or a generator) and one can grow produce inside a container in the middle of the dessert. Ranchers in Australia have been doing this for years, due to the water shortages, to feed their cattle and live stock. They grow fodder feed or grass in refrigerated, environmentally controlled shipping containers, and they can grow this anywhere! Well, the same thing is going on now with the research and development of new systems, lighting, power sources, growing methods, organic and non-organic nutrients (the term organic is an absolute joke in hydroponics and really shows the need for education in most growers on nutrients and organics) – it is improving all the time. There are two different markets out there when it comes to hydroponics. One is the so-called “hobbyist industry” or “pot growers industry,” and the second is the professional greenhouse commercial hydroponics industry. These commercial industries grow thousands of acres of hydroponic produce, and we import a majority of our hydroponic produce from

Canada, Mexico and other countries. But why don’t we grow more if it’s a better way to grow? –It’s healthier and more nutritional with fewer chances of disease than soil-grown crops. Hydroponics has a negative reputation because of its first industry, the “pot growers industry.” If we want to change this, we need to start with proper education, research and development. The fact of the matter is that 1% of our population, including our government, controls and owns over 97% of America’s money and wealth. And because drugs are such a big business for large corporations, there is no reason for them to legalize marijuana. It’s all about the money, even with most prison systems that are privately owned. The more people they have in jail, the more their company stocks are worth on Wall Street! This is wrong on top of the fact that the C.I.A. has been caught on numerous occasions (including being the main supplier to the godfather of crack, Ricky Ross) bringing in and distributing most of the drugs coming into this country. Since marijuana is mostly grown at home and the government can’t make any money on it, it’s easy to understand why they don’t want to legalize it. By being illegal, it’s a much more profitable business for the government. Here’s a funny little fact about heroin: before 9/11, Afghanistan produced about 4% of the world’s heroin supply. After we invaded Afghanistan, the heroin or opium supply increased to about 96%, causing an epidemic in heroin abuse and huge profits for the drug trade by the government. Marijuana has been proven to be the most harmless drug known to man with zero deaths! Also, it has more textile uses than any other plant, it produces more oxygen in a shorter

amount of time than any other plant, it is the strongest natural fiber, and it has the potential to replace over 50 different pharmaceutical drugs that cause addictions, withdrawals, and even deaths! So why is it still federally illegal? Why is the government spending millions, if not billions, of our tax dollars on fighting what 70% of the population want legal and decriminalized? – Money, profit, corporate greed! Many of our products are produced in China, stealing money from our economy and leaving us with cheap, shitty-quality products. You get what you pay for when it comes to your grow gear and the quality of product you grow – and also the quality of product available on the market. A grower gets less for his product, so he buys cheaper products to grow! This is why I’ve always liked and preferred IGS in San Diego as my store to shop at and learn from. They’re not only a retail garden shop, but they also own and operate a 100 ft. commercial greenhouse for research and development. They work with industry-leading companies like Heavy 16 Nutrients, Canna Nutrients, Quantum Lighting, RTI Organics, Green Grow Organics, No Spider Mites and SNS Natural Organic Pest Controls, and Kessil LED Lighting – all with major research and development invested into their products. They test and try out only the best products before they offer them to their customers, so they know firsthand the real knowledge of growing plants! Hydroponics is not only the future of our food production; it is our medical supply of cannabis. It also produces healthier food and herbs for consumption and medicine. You have to admit, a plant that can replace over 50 pharmaceutical pills, cure numerous illnesses and diseases, and be a great source of energy, fuel, medicine, fiber and textiles – should be legal! It should definitely be researched and developed much more through hydroponics, legalization, and the support of our government! If the government really cared about us, wouldn’t they want to explore and legalize this natural God-given medicine? Does it not make sense that greed is the reason why they don’t legalize it or research it more? Just think about it? Can you think of a plant that has more natural, useful, and non-damaging effects than cannabis? I can’t!

Sweet home San Diego. No one loves this city more than Hopper, and he was stoked to find out that his friends of nearly 20 years would be on the cover of this month’s issue…An issue filled with some of San Diego’s best medical cannabis, reviewed by San Diego’s most notorious collective operator/philanthropist, and San Diego’s very own Sprung Monkey. It’s no wonder we’re known as America’s finest city. Let’s begin…

<<Purple x Lavender: (Trichome Healing Collective)

“Very nice purpling on this dense bud. Nug is super tight. The trichomes really accent the purple. This one kind of smells like grandma’s perfume, but not in a bad way. Although the aroma is perfumy, the taste is more floral. Great taste, great expansion. Overall, this strain is a winner. Very relaxing.”

New York Sour Diesel: (Sunset Coast Cooperative)>>

“This little nugget has a nice amount of red hairs peeking through the beautiful green bud; also, just the right amount of trichomes. When I snapped the nug open to break off a piece, the interior had a bright lime green color. The aroma is very much Sour D; it also had that traditional Sour D flavor. Not as much expansion as I would have liked, but it was pretty easy on the lungs and produced a nice cerebral high.”

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<<Skywalker OG Kush: (Sunset Coast Cooperative)

“A good amount of trichomes and darker green tones with reddish brown hairs make this a nice looking bud. It has that great OG smell with a blueberry overtone due to the Skywalker cross. Aroma is definitely on the sweeter side. Instant expansion in the hit; it gave me an intense cough. Not much of an OG flavor though. Again, I’ll assume that’s because of the Skywalker cross. Overall, this sample was nice. It went straight from the lungs to the head. This strain would be beneficial for a variety of ailments, everything from difficulty sleeping to moderate pain.”

Higher Level OG: (Higher Level)>>

“This one is a beauty; a very dense bud that appears to have been expertly cured. Not too brittle, not too soft – it’s just right. It has a true OG aroma. Smells great; I am looking forward to sampling this one. The hit was just as good as I expected it to be. Only a slight cough, but I got a huge grin on this one. Of course, I am a big fan of the OGs and this one did not disappoint. Perfect for a much needed head change after a long day. Hats off to the grower.” It has been quite a month for the San Diego medical cannabis community, and Hopper’s concern was apparent as we talked about the patients who will be left without safe access if the city council succeeds in implementing the de facto ban on legal, legitimate collectives. His concern quickly morphed into frustration as he told me how all of the time spent dealing with this has kept him from doing what he is most passionate about – helping out fellow San Diegans. “I have always been the one to ask patients to donate a little bit of time and/or money to the San Diego Food Bank, Toys for Tots, etc. Now, I have to put all of that on the back burner and beg for signatures on a referendum to make sure that I am legally allowed to provide a natural, God-given medicine? It’s ridiculous! Yeah, I’m frustrated. Yeah, I’m pissed. But I’m not going to give up. I will never stop doing what I know is right, and no matter what happens, I will always be here for my patients. The city council members don’t see these people on a daily basis, but I do. I know what they are going through physically and emotionally, and I refuse to leave them hanging. It just breaks my heart when they ask, “What I am supposed to do if you have to close?”

Story by: Pamela Jayne | All photos by: Phil Calvin for SCR Photos

“We have custom waterpipes made of 9mm Schott glass as well as Volcano Vaporizers on every table in our lounge,” states Olive. “We also provide glass pipes and RAW rolling papers.” The Vapor Room offers a varying selection of high quality therapeutic cannabis strains, concentrates, edibles, tinctures and Forest Nymph Botanicals cannabis products, which are all displayed in very artistic and professional glass display cases. A clone bank behind the counter holds a selection of healthy cuttings in a BCNL grow box for those looking to grow their own medication.

Visiting The Vapor Room of San Francisco By R.J. Villa

Like many things in life, good old Frank Sinatra painted a perfect picture of San Francisco as he sang, “High on a hill it calls to me, to be where little cable cars climb halfway to the stars.” The summertime is one of the best times to visit San Francisco. School is out, vacation time is banked, and the increasing summer temperatures have many Southern Californians taking holidays in cooler temperatures up north. It is a city where the train tracks that line the asphalt are just as plentiful as the cable lines lining the roads overhead. Cable cars continuously buzz by as regular automobiles and SUVs become fewer and far between with all the hybrid cars and scooters efficiently puttering along the city streets. When it comes time for considering your medication options while visiting the San Francisco area, a must stop is The Vapor Room Cooperative in the Lower Haight. The moment you reach Steiner Street, a familiar smell will draw you towards the cooperative’s doorway. After being buzzed in and given the rules by a security guard, you are greeted by a friendly staff member at the reception desk to handle your patient verification. Once a member, you are walked through a very relaxed lounge area and surrounded by patients from all walks of life. “The Vapor Room Cooperative started in June of 2006,” says Martin Olive, Executive Director of The Vapor Room. “Prior to that, we were a collective that started in 2004.” The environment and social vibe was very reminiscent of visiting a cannabis coffee shop in Amsterdam. People from different backgrounds were all congregating through the common thread of medicating with cannabis. What really makes this cooperative special are the high-end vaporizers, water pipes and papers provided for medicating within the lounge area. 64 | NUGMAG.COM

“We have been really excited about a return to some heirloom strains that have not been around consistently for a few years,” reveals Olive. “Strains like Champagne, Romulan, Northern Lights #1, Super Skunk and Silver Haze have all been making their way through our counter with welcome arms and bowls. Let us not forget all the creative endeavors put forth by our member providers with crazy cross strains that are very beneficial and unique in the their effects such as Amnesia (Skunk x Cinderella x Jack Herer), Bubba Berry (Blackberry Kush x Bubba Kush), RomWreck (Romulan x Trainwreck) and Cheese Cough (Cheese x Strawberry Cough). Lastly, we have been especially excited to be a part of Project CBD and carrying High CBD strains like Harlequin and Cannatonic (MK Ultra x G13). High CBD has been particularly beneficial to our members who prefer pain and inflammation relief without the high associated with THC.” The lounge area tables can comfortably seat up to 14 patients. Along the main wall, there are cleaning utensils next to the water station for cleaning waterpipes, as well as filtered drinking water and boiling water for making tea. Some homemade, non-cannabutter snacks such as cookies are offered from time to time. A bookshelf near the entrance holds a small library to thumb through, as well as some board games and a beautiful live plant freshwater aquarium. Centered in the cooperative is a large HDTV (which at the time of my visit was showing the original Conan the Barbarian).

“We regularly test samplings of our medicine for potency and contaminants,” Olive explains. “More importantly, we maintain strong relationships with our member providers and require that they consistently meet our strict quality control standards. Our medicine comes from our members for our members. Also, while THC potency testing can help provide an informed decision, it is important to recognize that it is not the only indicator of quality and, oftentimes, the appropriate choice for your symptoms is not the highest THC percentage strain.”

Casey Jones

Dark Star

I had a chance to take a closer look at their Casey Jones, Dark Star and Purple Nepal. Named after the greatest train wreck in history, their Casey Jones was a very strong sativa dominant strain that happened to be flying off the shelves that day. This Trainwreck x Thai strain crossed with Sour Diesel pops with vibrant green buds and orange pistils. The flavor was smooth and sweet with a strong distinct taste of Sour Diesel in the strain. I found the effects to be uplifting and cerebral; definitely fueling the more creative side of the spectrum. It is great for brainstorming and firing off ideas, but it can be a little hazy when trying to concentrate on something.

Purple Nepal

As Arnold Schwarzenegger continued to recite his barbarian one liners and dice up James Earl Jones, a brief look around the cooperative revealed patients from all walks of life and backgrounds with open arms, coming together, and interacting as long time friends, even if they had just met each other. A couple of ladies in their ‘50s and ‘60s were medicating with a small glass pipe as a few guys in their ‘20s and ‘30s, who were sharing their table, emptied Volcano bags. All of them were discussing the original Conan comic and upcoming remake with the security guards and budtenders. It was a great atmosphere for sampling sativas and socializing. “Our staff consists of highly trained, compassionate and caring members of our community,” adds Olive. “We pride ourselves on knowing our medicine and patients, and how to combine the two for the best benefit. We carry a wide variety of healing and therapeutic products, and offer our knowledge of these products to our members, so they can make the appropriate choice. Having been one of the longest continually operating dispensaries in San Francisco has provided us with a unique view on our community of patients, providers, activists and colleagues.” The mission statement of The Vapor Room sums up the goals of this quality cooperative. They are committed to serving member/patient needs with the highest level of compassion and professionalism, striving to provide the finest quality medicine in a safe, relaxed and comfortable environment. The Vapor Room continues to establish a healthy and caring community by educating their members and the public about the benefits of therapeutic cannabis, advocating compassion, tolerance and understanding towards all walks of life. At The Vapor Room, they are well aware of the intrinsic need for communication between doctors, patients and cannabis providers in order to effectively serve the diverse needs of their members. Medication testing and quality control is a large part of keeping medical marijuana patients safe. The Vapor Room takes the necessary steps to assure that all medication dispensed to their patients has been lab tested and examined for potential parasites and molds.

I was drawn in by the name Dark Star and sold on its appearance and extreme potency. This hard-hitting indica comes from a Purple Kush and Mazar-I-Sharif cross. The origins of this strain come from the Khyber Pass in Afghanistan, the original high elevation home where indicas first evolved. While the odor is a little subtle, this strain produces very dense nugs that are not to be taken unless you plan on completely losing yourself in whatever you’re doing. Whether you are losing yourself in live music, diving into a gourmet meal, or suspending your reality in the storyline of a film, its narcotic effects will keep you buried in the moment. Its effects help alleviate the focus on pain and work as a strong appetite stimulator. I really liked their Purple Nepal. It’s a very flavorful, strong and heavy-hitting indica. This strain appears dark green with orange hairs at first glance, but a closer look reveals distinct shades of purple. A squeeze of the nug produces a strong citrusy and sweet smell. While the buds are not predominantly purple, the purple definitely shines through in its fruity taste. Purple Nepal is a very potent indica. Its relaxing effects are well-suited for pain relief and for use as a sleep aide. The flavor on your palette and its calming qualities make this strain a great evening ender. “New members often receive a free edible or pre-roll on their first visit, though we don’t specifically have a policy in place,” states Olive. “That being said, we are a very compassionate cooperative and offer a variety of freebies, samples, and compassion to all of our members. As a Vapor Room Cooperative member (new and returning), your contribution goes on to provide a wide variety of member services that every member is able to participate in, free of charge. These include our multi-tiered compassion programs and member services such as free yoga, nutritional counseling, computer skill workshops, peer counseling, massage, free fruit and more. Check our site at www.vaporroom.com for more details, with an exciting new site launch in the next month or so.” So why not head north to San Francisco if you’re in need of a getaway? Spend an afternoon navigating through Golden Gate Park. The Presidio also offers great summer hiking, romantic scenery, and reveals breathtaking city and bay views around every corner. For culture and lifestyle, you can visit the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art or catch the boys of summer and take in a ballgame at AT&T Park. Shop or wine and dine along the world famous Fisherman’s Wharf, and visit Chinatown or the Castro, Marina, and Mission Districts. Flying or driving into the city is always an adventure, but the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) makes traveling throughout the city, and even out to and from the East Bay of Berkeley and Oakland, a lot less stressful. But while you are in San Francisco, do not forget to stop by the Lower Haight. When you are ready to take a break, vape and medicate, The Vapor Room Cooperative and its friendly staff and members will be waiting for your arrival. “When I come home to you San Francisco,” Sinatra sings. “Your golden sun will shine for me.” The Vapor Room Cooperative of San Francisco 607A Haight Street San Francisco, CA 94117 (415) 633-6072 11am-8pm Seven Days a Week www.vaporroom.com mail@vaporroom.com

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An Exploration into the American Glassblowing Culture

Personally, I’ve always found something mesmerizing, magical, and even hypnotic about a solid object that stays in a perpetual state of motion. Infinitely flowing as if its own universe is bound together by some unexplainable force, glass is a naturally occurring substance forged in the flames of volcanic fires, left behind by lightning strikes, and found after meteorites tumble through our atmosphere, heating then rapidly cooling particular rock compounds. Used by humans since the Stone Age, glassworking has a rich history in human civilization and played an intricate role in nearly every culture, creed, and corner of our world. Originally viewed and used only for its practical applications, glassworking has grown into an artistic mainstay, developing from its early roots in Roman architecture to modern installations in the world’s finest galleries, conservatories and private collections. As man found and adopted different techniques to replicate the natural phenomenon that created glass, craftsmen from around the globe began to see and manifest the potential of molding, blowing, and carving the unique substance into a menagerie of artistic goods. Glass beads present the most interesting example of the art form and its progression, having been used for centuries as a means of monetary trade, decorative adornment, and personal expression from ancient Asian dynasties to the early Americas. In fact, beads are so deeply rooted in American history that they can be traced back to early settlers such as Christopher Columbus and Lewis and Clark, who used beads to barter and trade with local indigenous tribes. Fascinatingly, the first glass house was located just outside of Jamestown, Virginia, the first permanent English settlement in the new Americas. That’s right, the same beads attached to the side of your favorite bowls, bongs, chalices and chill-ums are also attached to a timeless tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation. All of this leads us to the topic of NUG’s new monthly installment, “Perpetual Motion: An Exploration into the American Glassblowing Culture,” which focuses on this author’s preferred ways to medicate: glass pipes, tubes, and bowls. From mindboggling bongs that bend like bohemian contortionists to new developments in mixed media designs that combine metal and glassworking, I plan to ex-

amine, highlight, and review such rapidly advancing techniques being displayed by some of the finest artisans on the planet: American Glassblowers. It’s been said that any real art form is never accepted in its time. If this saying holds true, then I can find no other medium that more accurately fits the description than this specific field. Present day torch workers are the new age bootleggers who are boldly navigating the rocky terrain of modern prohibition and its murky shades of gray. What other form of art can be shattered in the streets as paraphernalia for simply serving a dual purpose? Its ingenuous innovations are cast aside because of ties to an “illicit” substance. Creative minds are being caged behind bars for providing essential tools to patients for ingesting their medication. Perhaps the most bothersome fact lurking behind the drawn curtain of the glass industry is the ongoing, senseless attack on the green culture. It has created a black market that indentures swarms of third world children to a life of servitude. Adolescents with lost innocence, teetering on starvation, are working inhumane hours in warehouses with unsanitary conditions and nearly nonexistent ventilation (ventilation is vital to the glassblowing process because it removes dangerous and deadly chemicals that are released from the materials used in heating the rods and the fumes cast off from the molten glass). I find it horrifyingly ironic when I see someone using a pipe or chalice that was obviously manufactured by unwilling hands.

The present day glass trade can draw parallels to African blood diamonds; and just as I’ve never seen the logic in symbolizing love with a gift of death, I’ve also never seen the logic in getting lifted with an item that undoubtedly has a negative dogma attached. My hope is that through education, adventure, and a little eye candy, I can entice you to take an extra moment when considering your next purchase of a soon to be new best friend. I plan to show a multitude of reasons why, in the realms of artistic quality, environmental impact and moral obligation, it is a must that we return to supporting local American glassblowers. Keeping it green doesn’t just come down to what you pack in your pipe; it also matters where that pipe was procured. As an artist and an American, I take pride in knowing that with every puff from “Lonely Fire” (my heady piece from which I’m blazing while typing this), another fellow artist and American is being supported rather than some industrial tyrant in some unknown land who couldn’t care less about me, his workers, our culture, or the world for that matter. Along my travels, I’ve learned that sometimes the best way to tackle a problem isn’t to look at the supplier, but to figure out how to change the public’s demand, and that’s my end goal with “Perpetual Motion.” I absolutely believe that my fellow smokers not only care about the sheer beauty and wonder they experience when that perfect new piece peers at them from across the store, but the craftsmanship behind it as well. Unfortunately, many of us have fallen naive to the lack of public knowledge surrounding the field or the misinformation from opportunists out to make a buck. Change can only come from within; whether personally or culturally, it takes merely the smallest spark to rouse a raging flame. I look forward to sharing the information I have and will obtain on this journey with you. I’ll be shooting for the stars as I set forth to bring you features, interviews and reviews from some of the industry’s most respected and accomplished names and events. Now off into the forest in pursuit of the wild North American Glassblower; I’ll be leaving behind bread crumbs of wisdom every step of the way.

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By: Pamela Jayne “Situation life defines something to live for, something to die for, something to try for.” These lyrics from Sprung Monkey’s first album in ‘92 defined who they were then, and those words still hold true to who they are today. Actually, if we stop to think about it, those words define us all. For these San Diego legends, it has always been all about the music. Here is a taste of the conversation I had with lead singer, Steve Summers. With the new material you are working on, which of your past albums is it most similar to? Was it a conscious decision to go in that direction? I would say it is most like our first album, ‘Situation Life.’ There was a conscious effort to make the music more aggressive and energetic. More like the place we started from. On our last couple of records (Mr. Funny Face and Get A Taste), there was a lot of pulling from different directions as to how our music should be. The business people were telling us that certain songs weren’t radio-friendly, but we were adamant about keeping the music true to who we are. We were literally saying, ‘Who gives a shit? We’re not doing this to get on the radio.’ Ultimately, we want our music to make it and that means being on the radio, so there was compromise. We’ve grown and now we know what we want and what is best for the band. These new songs are definitely aggressive sounding, but they also have that ear-candy quality that Sprung Monkey has always had. As hard as we play, we will never lose that melodic sound. Being native San Diegans has obviously inﬂuenced your music. What is it about this city that has shaped you as a band? Do you think that your music would be the same if you were from anywhere else? The culture here; the surfing, the extreme sports, the whole Southern California vibe. That vibe goes hand in hand with our music. I know that being born and raised in San Diego; we were definitely in the right place at the right time. Where do you most enjoy playing? –Other than San Diego, of course. We enjoy playing everywhere. Outside of here, the most success we have achieved is down under in Australia. I think that is because it’s such a big surf country. It has that same feel that we have here. Other than an accent here and there, and a population difference, it’s not much different from San Diego. They have the same vibe and they have always made us feel at home whenever we toured there. We will be back to Australia, for sure. Speaking of playing shows, what is your favorite song to perform live?

Photo By. Luke Sorensen That would probably be ‘American Made’ because of what it does to the crowd. It absolutely ignites the room. Also, it is always the last song of the set, so I know we have made it through the night and I don’t have to hold back in any way. It’s like, okay this is it, so let’s just go fucking nuts. Will it always be the set ender? I believe so. It has been our closer for…Well, forever. I’m pretty sure it will stay that way. This new album is going to have a lot of songs like ‘American Made’ on it. There is going to be a lot of energy on this new record. How does each individual band member inﬂuence the band as a whole? Well, Ernie is an insane drummer. He is an absolute beast on the drums. There is a fury to his playing that gave Sprung Monkey the aggressive, energetic thing that people instantly gravitated towards when we first started out. And William, he has always been the quiet guy that is always very calm, but when he hits the stage, it’s like dynamite. He is explosive. Plus, he has such a love for music that makes you love it even more. He loves the hardcore stuff, so he is the one who incorporates that. Tony came in to replace Pat (now in Unwritten Law and Thousand Watt Stare). Pat is like a brother. He was hard to replace, but we got lucky with Tony. He is the most musically trained out of all of us. He has an incredible knowledge of music, from the theory of it to…Well, everything about it. I think Tony really tightened us up as a band by bringing that bottom end that interacts with the drums; not to mention that he is just a good guy with a good heart. My brother Mike, he’s the one who will pick apart things until they are perfect. He takes time to really think it through and won’t put it out there until it is ready. He’s a subtle killer on the guitar. He is a far better musician than he gives himself credit for. Do you expect Sprung Monkey to ever call it quits? I really don’t think so. It’s amazing to me that so many people still care to listen to us and that we are still being given so many opportunities. I’m sure we’ll play until we literally can’t play anymore.

Your lyrics seem to be personal and very much story driven. Will you name one of your songs and tell us who or what it is about? A lot of the songs I write may seem as if I am writing about myself, but it is usually about someone who is very close to me. Most likely a good friend and a situation they are going through. I just try to put myself in their shoes and imagine how I would feel if I were going through the same thing. ‘Naked’ was a big radio song for us, and it was about a very close friend. ‘Get ‘Em Outta Here’ was about real people and real characters here in San Diego that I have come across over the years. ‘Good Times’ is about a tour we did with Pennywise and Unwritten Law. Those lyrics may seem to be very tongue-in-cheek, but they are true. I’ll tell you the story about ‘Mr. Funny Face.’ I used to work at a skate shop in Ocean Beach and there was a young man with Down syndrome who used to come in the shop. He was the nicest guy in the world. He truly had a kind and warm heart. He was friendly to everyone and always said hello, but all of the little groms still made fun of him. They would say, “Hey look. Here comes Mr. Funny Face.” But he didn’t realize that he was being teased, so he was just as nice to them as he was to anyone else. I thought about it and knew there was something there to write about. Who is the better man here? Back then, and still today, I believe that he wins. Does he know that the song was written about him? No, he doesn’t. Actually, only a handful of close friends know what it’s about. Do you still think about him or wonder what happened to him? Not only do I think about him, but I still see him every once in a while. He’s an adult now, back then he was a teenager. I haven’t really spoken with him in depth. Just hellos and goodbyes, but he still always has a smile on his face. What has been your most memorable career moment, so far? We’ve been fortunate to live a life that most people only dream of, and it’s still going. We’ve traveled the world and drank beers with people that most only see in magazines; people who we consider our idols. We have done so much cool stuff. Being in this band has been half of my life. It’s been a huge catalyst in bringing me the group of friends I have and also in the way that I view life. Since we are still doing it, I can’t really say what has been the best moment. Fortunately, we are still going and don’t have to look back and think about what it was because it still is. I will say that we were very blessed and fortunate to win a lot of San Diego Music Awards. That was very cool.

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All of Sprung Monkey’s past albums are very unique in style and sound. Was that done on purpose or was it due to the natural progression and growth of the band? Well, I think it’s like you said, just a natural progression. There were small compromises here and there, but we back everything we have ever done. We are proud of it all. As you get older, you mellow out some. Maybe that means we are having a midlife crisis right now, trying to go back to our youth and thrash again! Expect this next release to be gnarly; it’s definitely going back to our roots. Speaking of gnarly things, tell me about your craziest experience while on tour. Well, we never listen to The Doors while we’re driving and this is why: we were headed home after a tour with Pennywise. We had all of their gear with us because they had to fly out for another show, so we were taking it back home for them. We were driving through Little Rock, on our way back home from Florida. It was probably three or four in the morning, so everyone was asleep in the back of the bus. For some reason, I woke up and went up front to talk to the driver. He was telling me how he wanted to make a photo collage of all the artists who have passed away. You know, Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Jim Morrison. Actually, it was the song ‘Riders on the Storm’ playing on the radio that brought the subject up. Right at that moment, we heard the loudest BANG. The front axel of the bus had broken and buckled while we were flying down the freeway. We slid across all the lanes and into the muddy grass (back there, there are no freeway dividers, just a grass ditch). We skidded through that and onto the other side of the freeway. By that time, everyone was wide-awake and in a panic. When the bus finally came to a stop, we were in the path of oncoming traffic. Fortunately, it

Photo by Phil Calvin, SCR Photos

was late, so there weren’t many cars on the road. Cars were swerving to miss hitting the bus and crashing on the side of the road to avoid hitting those of us who had gotten off of the bus. And then, I saw a big diesel truck headed straight at the bus with its brakes locked up, trying to stop. I heard my brother let out the most eerie, bloodcurdling scream I have ever heard. It still sends shivers up my spine when I think about it. Then it happened. BAM! That truck T-boned our bus. It was a truck full of pigs, by the way. It was pure chaos. Gear was flying everywhere. Everything was flying everywhere. It was surreal. After all the cars were stopped, we ran to the bus. I still think it was a miracle. Every one of us made it out unharmed, even the ones who had not made it off the bus before the truck had hit it. Later, Ernie told me that they had heard the truck’s tires screeching and coming towards them, but it was difficult to move because of the things that had fallen on them. He told me that something inside him said to stay put. Just stay put and everything will be fine. Pat was under there with him. They both felt the impact. Through divine intervention, they both made it out unharmed. We gathered up the gear that was salvageable, went to the airport and flew home. That experience really solidified our band and crew as a family. We went through a near-death experience together and that’s the kind of thing that keeps people bonded forever. That happened right before Christmas and I remember really appreciating being home that year. There’d been years in the past when we were stoked to be playing shows out in Vegas for Christmas, but that year was different. We were all truly grateful to be at home. What’s next for Sprung Monkey? We’re wrapping up the writing of the new record and then we’ll get in the studio to record it. We are all ready to commit to it full-time and get back to rockin’ again. We have some shows coming up too. We’re playing at Qualcomm Stadium for America’s Finest Beer Festival on July 23rd with some other shows to be announced.

Writers note: Unfortunately, there was not enough room to include the entire interview, but trust me; you will want to read the rest of it! Go to www.nugmag. com to check it out. You can also check out additional, never before seen photos of the band. For more info on the band, as well as upcoming releases and shows, check out: www.myspace.com/sprungmonkey http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sprung-Monkey/189401744405629?ref=ts www.afbfest.com/music.html http://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/sprung-monkey/id7402782 www.sprungmonkey.com

Photos by Phil Calvin, SCR Photos

Just one more question. What is your opinion of medical cannabis? I’ll be honest. I didn’t know what to think until my friend Hopper opened a collective over on Adams Avenue. We have been friends, best friends, for years. I’ve always known how compassionate and caring he is, but now, through the collective he runs, everyone gets to see it. Doing it for the right reason is at the forefront of his agenda. I recently had the opportunity to go in and work a few days with him at The Green Door Collective to see how it all works. I got to talk to the patients and I know they truly need their medicine. I can see it in their eyes and hear it in their voices how appreciative they are for the service that Hopper provides. They tell me their stories of how nothing but cannabis has worked for them. It’s amazing. I can tell you about a situation that hit close to home. Hopper and I have a friend who is very straight-laced. His father had brain cancer and our friend was watching him deteriorate right before his eyes. He couldn’t eat; he was constantly in severe pain and everything else that goes with having end stage cancer. He had his father try medical cannabis and it worked on his symptoms. He did pass away, but at least his final days were spent in comfort. Medical cannabis is legit; it’s not just a loophole for people who want to get high. To see how it is being demonized is really disturbing. It just seems cruel to me that people are using this to further their political careers and feed their own egos, knowing that the health and well-being of sick people hangs in the balance. I’ll say it until I cannot say it anymore: alcohol is far worse than marijuana. The fact that one of them is so socially acceptable while the other is so demonized speaks volumes about our society.

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Babylon Saints: Island Rock Reggae By R.J. Villa

he steel drum melodies of Joseph “Panhead” Peck, the bass lines from Tyler Drake, and the guitar riffs and vocal styling of Matt Gerovac create the island reggae/rock sound that is Babylon Saints. Playing their music out of Los Angeles, CA, their style is more than just reggae/rock. It is the result of the musicians’ varying upbringings and musical backgrounds. The origin of the band name Babylon Saints comes from the band’s observations and experiences of being submerged in the Southern California lifestyle. “We were talking about the whole concept of Los Angeles as sort of a modern-day Babylon,” says Gerovac. “With so much drama in Southern California, it can be easy to be a relative Saint.”

Their debut album, the self-titled Babylon Saints, was released by Citation Records in 2010. Tracks like “Positive Vibration,” “Day to Day” and “Goldmine” exhibit the wide range these musicians have behind their instruments, and their live performances show their ability to read off each others’ sounds and rhythms. In support of their debut record, Babylon Saints have been building up their tour dates; heading up and down the West Coast and eastward state to state with even a few international tour stops. Babylon Saints are on a mission to get their sound heard. Panhead paints the picture of their music to be, “Authentic. Soulful. Funk. Honest. Caribbean. American. African. Brazilian. Spicy. Danceable.” Their music comes from their roots, their exposure to music and reggae, but ultimately where they each came from. The schools, streets, and music venues they were all exposed to growing up in various cities (Anaheim, CA, Pittsburgh, PA, the Virgin Islands, Cleveland, OH, Boca Raton, FL, Wichita, KS, and Trinidad, WI) are a big part of where they pull their inspiration from. Music found each of them at various times in their lives. Panhead had been playing pots and pans from the get go. Drake was exposed to and grew up in a very musical environment. Gerovac found his musical calling after the vacuum that was created when he quit playing baseball. Though they grew up in different corners of the country, it was their love for music that pulled these musicians together. “I think that God put us together as a band because we met in such a random way,” Drake recalled, regarding the band’s origin. “Babylon Saints came from brainstorming and Jah.” “Yeah, it was really cool how we all got together,” remembers Gerovac. “I met Panhead through a mutual musical friend named Xela, who was from Cleveland. Tyler answered a ‘bassist wanted’ ad. We auditioned a few guys, but Tyler was our guy. He’s got such a great pocket and feel.” Babylon Saints released their self-titled album in April 2010 through Citation Records. It was recorded by Ben Eggehorn, mixed by Rocco Guarino at PanRoc Studios, and mastered by Gene Grimaldi at Oasis Mastering.

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“Citation Records provided us with a lot of things that indie bands don’t normally get,” says Gerovac. “They sent our music out to hundreds of radio stations, got us some good press, and helped us a lot with our public relations. Eggehorn is a good guy and has a real knack for recording drums. Ben has been a drummer his entire life and had a unique way of recording drums that really got all the little nuances and sounds that we wanted. Rocco has a really great ear and brought some ideas to the table I never would have gotten on my own. He is a joy to work with.” Since their self-titled release, Babylon Saints have already toured across the United States a few times. They have shared the stage with the likes of Pato Banton, Beyond I Sight, Carlos Jones and the Plus Band, The Divine Crime, Dirty Heads with Rome, Ease Up, Eek-a-Mouse, The Floaters, Fortunate Youth, Inhale, Mifune, Mystic Roots, Nada Rasta, The Originalites, Seedless, Too Rude, and Xela. Their fan base has been quickly budding in California, Oregon, Nevada, Ohio, and Kansas. “The Central Coast has been really great for us. San Luis Obispo, Avila Beach, Pismo, Grover, and down into Orcutt and Ventura; there are so many cool places to play where people just come out and want to hear good music,” adds Gerovac. “When you are out on the road, you never know what to expect, especially when you’re rolling up to some strange venue. We have been up and down the West Coast a bunch and have been across the country a couple of times. It has been a real learning experience playing for a bunch of people we don’t know. We are bringing positive vibrations, so people have been very open-hearted and give a lot of love, even if they don’t know who we are.” Babylon Saints are plugged in and on the road. They have aspirations of maybe one day sharing the stage with major acts such as Ziggy Marley or even U2; but for now, they are happy bringing their positive vibrations and rockin’ reggae to all whom are willing to listen. “I’ll play with anybody,” declares Gerovac. “I mean, it has to make sense. I don’t think we will be hitting the road with Iron Maiden any time soon, but that would be pretty Rock n’ Roll!” For more information on Babylon Saints, check them out at www.babylonsaints.com For more information on Citation Records, visit their website at www.citationmusicgroup.com

TRIBAL SEEDS

How’d The Show Go?

Article By: sandieganliz | Photos By: Ashley Parda

San Diego’s own Tribal Seeds was at Soundwave in Mission Beach on April 16th. They performed a SOLD-OUT show with The Divine Crime and Through The Roots supporting them. Tribal Seeds are well-loved for their strong tribal-sounding reggae; and with emphasis in politics and cannabis, it is understandable why their seeds keep growing and growing. They also express a romantic side with songs like “Beautiful Mysterious,” “Love Psalm,” and “Island Girl.” NUG Magazine was there to catch the show and its rowdy crowd. The Divine Crime came down from Los Angeles. With nine members on stage, this band blew the crowd away with their female-led music. Vocalist Amee Divine and two backup singers carry a strong, sultry sound; and having a girl keyboardist adds more to the heavy female influence. There is no doubt that this band can rock their roots reggae out too! The vocals, however, are the band’s strongest point because not only are they rich, but Amee’s vocals add a captivating R&B flavor. This combination makes for their rich reggae sound. Through The Roots and back again; NUG Magazine was lucky enough to run into these California guys again with their popular Cali-reggae sound and that “freeze” they do. I gotta give them credit for it because they do it well, even with a photographer on stage this time! I state “this time” because NUG Magazine just caught the band with The Green (featured in last month’s issue). This was back on March 24th at another sold-out show in San Diego where the band opened prior to The Green and did their “freeze.” Their music is enjoyable, progressive, and appears contagious because their music is spreading, especially with being on tour with Tribal Seeds. 74 | NUGMAG.COM

While I was waiting for Tribal Seeds to come on stage, I decided to hit the packed dance floor. I ran into someone named Nez and asked if he wanted to tell the magazine something about the show so far. He said, “This show is off the hook, off the hinges; put it right back, so the door can hang. We got all the different kinds of strains, but Tribal Seeds…grow it, get it, and inhale it.” Obviously, he was a Tribal Seeds fan among many. A sold-out show means the venue is packed with fans – duh! However, when one observes the crowd and takes a good look at how they react to the music, they’ll notice there is no place to stray – so keep your place and make it a good one. Second, the dance floor is the best spot because you’re up close and personal; however, it’s not the best spot to dance. And third, everyone is having a good time or should be. This show was precisely that, people were everywhere doing all kinds of things – dancing, cheering, standing, crowd-watching, and even sitting. The latter always surprises me because as a music fanatic, music moves me too much to be sitting; though at times, I have sat to watch a show, but only because I was really tired. I was up the whole time at this show, watching the crowd and finding spots to dance. Fans were jumping up and down, cheering, and singing along. Others were simply standing or sitting the whole time and watching. Then some people appeared to just be watching the crowd. Tribal Seeds hit the stage and the crowd roared as they started singing, “She says she wants to ride in my car / Girl you must mistaken me for a rock star / I’m just a simple man who loves the roots, ah.” Of course this is their song, “Love Psalm” – one of the best tracks on their latest CD, The Harvest. This song demonstrates their raw style, which is like a declaration that they are here to stay. Other great songs, which got a high crowd reaction, were “All I Know,” “Beautiful Mysterious,” “Away,” and “Vampire” – with the latter having the singer of Through The Roots join in and freestyle. While Tribal Seeds was on stage, I tried navigating through the dance floor. It was so packed that it took minutes to cross from one area to the next. Tribal Seeds fans are serious when it comes to packing the floor, singing along, throwing hands up in the air, and cheering. One of the best crowds I have seen! And for you NUG Magazine readers who are hardcore Tribal Seeds fans, you should know they sang their song, “Herby.”

Tribal Seeds are a much-loved San Diego band that brings their music hard. Their fans are a force to be reckoned with. They take their shows seriously, making sure to get the best spot and stay there. And theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll show you no mercy when it comes to them jumping up and down, singing along, and cheering. Perhaps this was because Tribal Seeds was in their hometown or because the band brings it out with their hard roots style. Either way, plan on Tribal Seeds to keep growing! Make sure to check out Tribal Seeds at their next ALL AGES show on July 9th at SOMA!

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Popped Culture By: Robert Stinson When you think of cross dressers, what images come to mind? How about over the top lip-synching numbers performed by drag queens in outrageously gaudy attire and make up in every shade of the rainbow? Female impersonators have received a majority of the attention from the media while their counterparts, drag kings, have received much less exposure. The phenomenon of male impersonation was born out of the women’s liberation movement of the 1960s when women burned their bras, marched through the streets of Manhattan like their predecessors, the suffragettes, and rejected the images of femininity that dominated women throughout the ages. In recent years, drag kings have become an essential part of the LGBT community, performing in chapters throughout the country and abroad. NUG had the pleasure of meeting with Tu Bebe, Chikillo, and Jesse Boi of Rompe Corazones (Heart Breakers), a troupe of ultra talented local performers, as they gave us an exclusive look behind the Snoop glasses, mustaches, cornrows and rough dispositions before they gear up for Pride 2011. How long have you been performing as a group? What spurred you to take this direction in your professional life? Tu Bebe: Rompe Corazones has been around for a year and a half. It started as a duet with my drag brother Johnny Dangerously at Bacchus House for a contest they were having. We ended up winning and, after a month, she ended up moving to England. So that is why I decided to bring a few more members into the group, which is how Nena, Jesse Boi and Chikillo got involved. You guys really know how to work a crowd. What do you guys like best about performing as Rompe Corazones? Chikillo: I think the best part is trans78 | NUGMAG.COM

forming into the characters or artists we are performing as. We really try to look exactly like the people we are emulating. This includes wearing wigs, makeup, wardrobes and really getting into the essence of the character, so when the audience looks at us, they say wow. Why do you think drag kings are not as represented in our community? How do you plan on bringing more visibility to this art form?

us a great opportunity, and so has Sally Hall from That’s So Gay Live. It’s just amazing how we’ve all come together to support each other. We really thank them a lot for supporting us and getting our name out there. I love the artistic renderings of the group on your Facebook page. Who does your illustrations? Tu Bebe: Our friend Claire Berry from England does all of our fliers, logos and illustrations. You can see her artwork at www.ohmyapplepie.co.uk Growing up in San Diego and coming out at an early age, I always felt there was a lack of minority representation in the media, especially in the gay community. So I can really appreciate you guys for stepping up to the plate and being positive role models for the next generation of gay Latinos. Chikillo: You know it’s great because we have the opportunity to perform both Spanish and English-speaking songs. We want to show the world what Latinos can do. We rarely repeat a number; Bebe is constantly on the computer looking up new ideas and people are always wondering what we’re going to do next. Tu Bebe: We don’t necessarily want to be tagged as just Latin drag kings because we don’t exclusively perform Latin numbers. We like to switch it up with all different kinds of music. We want to bring fresh ideas to the stage because people get tired of seeing the same thing over and over again. You have to switch it up and keep things interesting for the audiences.

Tu Bebe: The Latino community is well-known for having a lot of drag kings, but we hear very little about them. So that’s why Rompe Corazones is taking the art form to a whole new level by getting as much exposure as possible and just putting ourselves out there. We are down for anything that will promote our message. We’ve performed at clubs, quinceañeras, parties and a bunch of other events. We do this out of love. It’s funny to say, but sometimes we are appreciated more in the straight community than in the LGBT community. We’ve done straight events where we’ve received stand up applauses. Can you tell us about your appearances on Out of the Closet with Isaac Siqueiros and That’s So Gay Live? Chikillo: We love Isaac Siqueiros. He’s given

How long does it take you guys to get ready for a performance? Chikillo: There have been times when we’ve had to change things at the last minute. It’s not like we just get an outfit from the store and go on stage. All of our outfits are originals designed and sewn by Nena, and Ruby does our makeup. We come very close to looking like the artists we are performing as. Tu Bebe: I just wanted to say that if Jesse Boi choreographed our dance steps, we would be here all year because that dude can’t dance. Considering that we are a cannabis publication, how do you guys feel about the controversy surrounding the whole medical marijuana issue in San Diego? Do you believe it should be legalized? Tu Bebe: My adopted mother Rhonda had cancer and the chemo she was taking made her whole digestive system shut down. So after her cancer went into remission, she started smoking and I really think

it helped her. I say if it works for you, go for it. I actually have a funny story. I was at a friend’s house and I got really hungry, so I went to the fridge and grabbed some milk and brownies – not knowing they were loaded. My brother had painted the solar system on the ceiling of the room I was staying in, so I remember waking up in the middle of the night, calling my best friend and saying, ‘Hey, the sky is falling.’ He told me, ‘What’s wrong with you? Did you watch Chicken Little or something?’

Tu Bebe: Whoever you are, no matter if you’re gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgendered, you have to love and accept yourself first before you can expect others to do the same. So I think we need to lead by example and show people out there that we’re like everybody else. I don’t think change is going to come easy, but I know we will get there someday.

I bet you guys are really stoked about being asked to perform at San Diego Gay Pride this year! Tu Bebe: We will have Issac Siqueiros as an MC with Sally Hall from That’s So Jesse Boi: I don’t think it’s bad because it’s herbal and from a Gay Live. We’ll also have Catastrophic on stage performing a great closing number. plant that is not made out of chemicals you use to clean up the There’s smoke coming out of my ears because I have so many ideas for pride and restroom of a house. we’re really, really excited and honored that they asked us to perform. I know you guys are big supporters of the NOH8 Make sure to check out Rompe Corazones on Facebook for up-to-date performance (No Hate) campaign. How long do you think it will schedules and live video footage. take before discrimination against gays becomes a thing of the past?

Performing Arts Portal

By: Marc Emmelmann

Who is

Jon Block? That question has a nice ring to it. No thanks to Ayn Rand’s famously mysterious fictional character, Jon Galt, in Atlas Shrugged. Although Block has never read the 1,000+ page novel, he’s fascinated by the concepts therein. “Who is Jon Galt?” was the hot question emphasized throughout the entire book. Galt was a philosopher, a mover and a shaker, an inventor, and a man who symbolized the glory of man’s ability to think and reason; and in essence, be a “producer” in society or even a “productive genius.” Galt was all about artists, businessmen and inventors who were productive. He was also very much about individual rights and making life better. But, so is Jon Block. You can’t answer the question “Who is Jon Block?” in one brief statement, so the entire sentiment of the performing arts portal this month is dedicated to San Diego’s very own Jon Block.

Stories, just to name a few! Block especially relishes his experiences of working with Anjela Piccard, Danielle LoPresti & Alicia Champion, Alan Ziter, Ann Berchtold, Jim Yuran, and Gregory Page. Block recently shared, “When I’m putting a production together, I have a vision I’m passionate about. Then I cast the best people in the roles. It’s very exciting to see it come together.” Over the past three years, Jon would admit it’s been an arduous journey and that change has been the only consistency for him, his business, and his vision. Now, more confident, Jon shares, “Many promoters try so hard to control their circumstances: ‘If I book x band and pay them x dollars, they will draw x heads and I will make x at the door.’ I think you lose something by being that calculated. It’s kind of soulless and the public can smell that, particularly with arts events; which, like art, are about touching lives.” Jon weaves together performing arts, visual arts, film, music and other playful experiential events. HERE & NOW is an event Jon birthed last year and round two is coming up again at the Lafayette Hotel on Sunday, June 26, 2011. This year’s HERE & NOW formula is “A Convention on Capitalism, Spirituality, and Other Playful Endeavors.” The intriguing HERE & NOW will feature a massive exhibitor hall and four break-out areas where attendees can experience interactive exhibitions and seminars sharing new approaches to careers, romance, health, fitness, religion, and anything else that matters. Music, circus acrobatics and an art show will accompany. Visit www.jbcreationsonline.com for the latest details.

When I say “Who is Jon Block?” in a drama-enthused theatrical way, goose bumps may arise, but table subjective feelings contemplate this guy’s recent contributions to the performing arts, visual arts, and fashion and music industries. You may have heard already: Jon Block prides himself on the values of creating community and blazing a trail of creativity. His aspiration is to be the Steven Spielberg of Last year, Jon executed an impressive outdoor fashion and art event themed around La events. That’s a tall order, but he is well underway. Jolla Playhouse’s theatre production, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” His event, LOVE STRUCK, was an official extension of LJP’s Performance + Cocktails series. He also As for creating community, he has collaborated with Roar produced ICONS in 2010, a fundraiser for Jeans4Justice at Horton Plaza next to Arts Tix, Theatre, La Jolla Playhouse, Queen Bee’s, Kava Lounge, which ran during Comic Con and featured film screenings, panels and performances, Radio Room, Birch North Park Theatre, San Diego Music and a “geek-inspired runway fashion show.” Foundation, Art Month SD, JeansforJustice, and Traveling 80 | NUGMAG.COM

More recently, Jon Block has taken the position of resident manager at the new ArtLab in Normal Heights. ArtLab is a place for artists’ activity -- networking, studio space, and galleries, all on the same block in Normal Heights. It got started when three businesses (Andrea Rushing Art Academy, Visual Art Supply Store and Ego Id Medial Printing & Design) wanted to integrate a strong arts presence into their community. Search “ArtLab Tour for ccMixter” on YouTube to see a video showcasing the space. Jon is also producing VOICES, a “second Fridays” event showcasing underground talent in performing and visual arts. Get more details at his website. His flagship event has been SIGHT & SOUND, which he co-produces with Adam Rosen. Both are excited for May 21st since the event has been on hiatus since July 2010. The May event is featuring Roar Theatre, Republic of Letters, Kevin Martin, Todo Mundo, Hip Hop from Destructo Bunny, Group Art, Interactive Drum Circles and more. S&S is all about live music, art, film, theatre, dance and comedy. The next S&S is happening August 20, 2011. San Diego has somewhat of a clean and pliable cultural canvass and it needs more Jon Blocks. In Atlas Shrugged, Jon Galt wanted to make things better. Jon Block loves improving things and improving things he has! He not only brings the collaborative creative genius to the table, but he has the personality and integrity to back up his business. Add him on Facebook; he’s got about 1,359 friend vacancies left. At least you’ll have his events conveniently located on your events link for those days where you actually check your event invites. You can also “Like” Jon Block Creations too! What do you think about the future of San Diego and its ability to be a thriving cultural hive? Many people are not aware of our city’s powerful music and arts scene, and also the rising consciousness scene. In both cases, the awareness is growing and that’s something JBCreations is catapulting to the forefront. They’ve been overshadowed long enough by our weather and beaches. What’s at the core of your vision for San Diego? Igniting passion. When we’re living from our passion, that’s when the people around us benefit the most. And living in passion does NOT equal living in squalor. On the contrary, live from your passion, accept smart feedback, and be fiscally responsible; the world around you will become much more exciting. What do you think about the local vs. national marijuana/ hemp movement and controversy? I stand up for any lifestyle choice; anything as long as it doesn’t hurt others. The anti-marijuana faction is not much different from the antihomosexuality faction. They’re projecting their views on what a person’s life “should be,” and are not interested in listening to the other side and actually getting their world. It’s annoying in most cases and very damaging in others.

JUNE 2011 Events 2. Top Shelf CD Release Party Feat. Mystic Roots & Ease Up At Winston’s @ 9 Adam Carolla (Live Pod Recording) At The House of Blues @ 8 (All Ages)

New World Border At The Roots Factory @ 9 5. The Devastators At RT’s Longboard Grill @ 10

Generations Party w/ DJ Eleven At U31 @ 9 10. Sleeping Giant’s 7-Year Anniversary At Fluxx @ 9 Voices Art Show At Art Lab @ 7

Silence Betrayed At Boar Cross’n @ 8

6. The Dope Show Artist Collective At House of Blues @ 7 (FREE)

11. KORA w/ E.N. Young At Arterra, Marriott Del Mar @ 7 (All Ages)

3. Vokab Kompany & Friends At Winston’s @ 9:30

8. Sunny Rude At Typhoon Saloon @ 9

Bad Neighborz At The Royal Dive @ 9

4. SATURDAZE Pool Party Feat. ABLAZE & West Swell At Arterra, Marriott Del Mar @ 12pm (All Ages)

Armory Reunion Show At 4th & B @ 9

Rock Hill and Seedless Present Don Carlos & Junior Reid At 4th & B @ 7 Exodus Studios Presents Art Around Adams @ 3 Fiesta Del Sol At Fletcher Cove, Solana Beach @ All Day (FREE) Tribal Theory At SOMA @ 7

Sleeping Giant’s 7-Year Anniversary At SideBar @ 9 9. The Roosters, North West Sons & Natural Heights At Winston’s @ 9

Bruno Mars & Janelle Monae At San Diego County Fair in Del Mar @ 7 12. Jethro Tull At Harrah’s Rincon @ 8 Tribe of Kings At U31 @ 9

Bad Neighborz At Boar Cross’n @ 9

14. Bad Neighborz At Davina’s Cabo Grill @ 8

Stephen Marley At House of Blues @ 8

San Diego ASA Meeting At The La Jolla Brew House @ 7

Bad Neighborz At The Civic Center Plaza @ 6

15. TECH N9NE At 4th & B @ 8

SATURDAZE Pool Party Feat. Haleamano At Arterra, Marriott Del Mar @ 12pm (All Ages)

16. Tattoo Town-Culture & History At The Museum of Photographic Art @ 7

20. The Dope Show Artist Collective At House of Blues @ 7 (FREE)

South Bay ASA Meeting At 1233 Palm Ave Imperial Beach @ 6

22. Wine Rave At FLUXX @ 7

Silence Betrayed At Jumping Turtle @ 8

23. The Ambassador and The Chosen Few At Gallagher’s @ 9

26. Here & Now Produced by John Block At Lafayette Hotel @ 11am

17. Stranger & Thrive At Winston’s @ 9:30 E-40 At 4th & B @ 8 One Drop & The Devastators At Belly Up @ 9 A New Path-Moms United Rally At Pioneer Park @ 5 18. 2nd Annual SD OysterFest Pepper, Vokab Kompany and more… At Marina Embarcadero North @ 11am Mike Pinto & Special Guest At Arterra, Marriott Del Mar @ 7 (All Ages) POWER ANIMALS- Art Showing At Voz Alta Project Gallery @ 6

Bad Neighborz At House of Blues @ 8 Rock to Stop Violence At House of Blues @ 7 Willie Nelson At San Diego County Fair, Del Mar @ 2 24. Bad Neighborz At Ramona Mainstage @ 7 25. SATURDAZE Pool Party Feat. John Wayne & The Pain At Arterra, Marriott Del Mar @ 12pm (All Ages)

San Diego Irie Revolution 3 At 4th & B @ 8 East County ASA Meeting At The Press Box @ 2

Cali Invasion At Club Lydias @ 9 28. Musiq Soulchild At Belly Up @ 8 91X Presents: Face to Face At House of Blues @ 7:30 (All Ages) North County ASA Meeting At The Fish Joint @ 7

To add your events to our monthly calendar listings send us an email to submit@ nugmag.com.

By: Ben G. Rowin We got a call from a local rep for Khronic Kitchen, asking us if we would like to do a review on their edibles…Well, of course we do! We set up a meeting with them and picked up a 6-pack sampler of their products. They specialize in cupcakes, so we got 5 cupcakes and a rice crispy treat. I have to say that the flavor of their products is off the hook. The cupcakes were DELICIOUS! –Like the kind you get from a “Cupcakery,” which is a cupcake bakery if you didn’t know. Red Velvet was my favorite, but they were all really good. I asked them to send me a little bio about their company, so I could tell you, the NUG readers, a little bit more about them and where patients can find their products. Khronic Kitchen was established in 2010 and has some of the best tasting edibles around. Khronic Kitchen is known for its delicious baked goods and custom orders. The company works out of a certified kitchen in San Diego, CA. Cupcakes are their specialty, but many other baked goods are available, including brownies, cookies, cakes, pies, and donut holes. Their goal is to supply the medical community with the finest edibles available. All of their products are prepared with only the highest quality kief and are made to order. Khronic Kitchen can accommodate sugar, dairy and gluten free diets, as well as substituting ingredients to accommodate food allergies. Most orders are available within 48 hours or sooner. Khronic Kitchen’s delicious cupcakes are currently featured at the Connoisseurs Club in Vista, Kush Valley in Oceanside, and One-on-One Patients Association in downtown San Diego. Khronic Kitchen offers endless possibilities when it comes to custom orders. They offer a wide variety of Khronic Favorites to tantalize your taste buds, from the traditional Cinnamon Streusel, Blueberry Muffin, Banana Nut, Carrot Cake, Strawberry, Vanilla Bean, Chocolate, and Red Velvet cupcakes to their more adventurous flavors like the Rasta Rehab, Absurd Nerd, Trail Mix Trio, Heath Fudge Brownie, Snicker Doodle, Peanut Butter Carmel Cups, and PB & J cupcakes. There’s something for everyone. If you want to see them in your local dispensary, send them a message on Facebook or send an email to KhronicKitchen@hotmail.com. Include the name and city of your favorite dispensary and leave it to the team at Khronic Kitchen to make it happen. Interested in your own label looking this KHRONIC??? Your private label is just around the corner. Meet with one of their consultants at Khronic Kitchen to customize your own private label. They can make, bake, box, label, and bag their custom baked goods to look like yours. In compliance with H&S 11362.5(b) (1)(A)11362.7(h) & Prop 215, ratified under SB 420

By: Ben G. Rowin Dragon’s Breath Personal Air Filter One of our photographers, Eric Fowler, brought in a product that he found at a local event, the Dragon’s Breath Personal Air Filter. These things are great for undercover smoking. They are as small as a tube of ChapStick, so they can go with you wherever you go. You simply blow your hit through the tube and the smoke comes out smelling like whatever scent you purchased. They are super convenient and effective. It’s great for any occasion where you don’t want the smell of your herb to be noticed. We didn’t find their website, but we did find a site where you can buy one for yourself: www.blazedonline.com

Sessionz Glass The boys over at Sessionz Glass contacted us and sent over a few custom frosted jars, including a sick NUG custom. Sessionz Glass is a local San Diego company that is making some really cool jars. The best thing is that you can design your own and buy just one or two! Not having to order customs by the dozen or more is a really cool option! Plus, being local, the turn around time is super quick! Get your name or logo on one, or give one as a gift. They also have loads of predesigned jars to choose from. We at NUG love highlighting entrepreneurs that are doing things for themselves, and the guys at Sessionz really impressed us with their professionalism and the quality of their product. Check them out online at: www.sessionz.biz

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Ninja Vape-or-Smoke Another product brought to us by a NUG staffer was the Ninja Vape-or-Smoke pipe. This product is really cool. It was originally designed for the slopes, so you can hit your herb with no worries about the wind. As a simple device that works in two ways, you can vape your hits or adjust the flame to smoke it. We were surprised at how well it worked. You can tell that a lot of research and development went into making it. I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait to try it out in heavy wind or rain like their videos on YouTube show, which are no match for the Vape-or-Smoke. Check them out online at: www.vaporsmoke.com

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Hemp History Week Fashion Show

Photos By Gio Blitz

GETS ERIC NUG Photographer, Eric Fowler, hit the road on 4/20 and accompanied hometown boys Slightly Stoopid on their tour bus headed straight to The Greek Theater in LA for a legendary show!

Photos By Eric Fowler

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ASTROLIGICAL PERSONALITY OF GEMINI – THE TWINS RULING PLANET – GEMINI It’s fitting that the last day of days is the beginning day of this month’s party sign. If all goes as some have planned, you will never read this; it just ends up like that tree in the forest that falls. If you are reading this, then you can see how different people see the same thing in different ways. For some, this day might be the beginning of the end; but for our Gemini, it’s just another excuse to have a party.

May 21 – June 21 Lucky Numbers 3, 8, 18, 27, 33, 42 By. Zodiac Mama

The Gemini Female

The Gemini woman is a fast walker and thinker, and is adaptable to many situations. She has a truly contagious kind of enthusiasm with a rapid, logical mind combined with charisma; mix in a mischievous streak, a bit of sarcasm, and you’ve got it! The Gemini woman is open-minded and quick witted. No one can deny that she is a delight to be around. She is a people person and party lover. She is a true party girl! The Gemini woman is extremely changeable and loves anything new. She makes an elegant hostess and is a perfectionist in her personal expression. She has a keen sense of style. Her home and clothing are always up-to-date. The Gemini woman loves to travel, whether it’s across town or the country. However, it seems that she is always 10 minutes late wherever she goes. In a relationship, she is honest and charming. She is a free thinker and attracted to people who communicate easily and intelligently. This gal is a real treasure. Honest, fun loving, and a real joy to be around. If she is a smoker, you can be sure that she has tried all the best new strains with the newest pipes on the block. Don’t ever count her out, nothing gets her going faster than the sound of a Bic click.

The Gemini Male

The Gemini male is highly intelligent with a super personality that charms many. His dynamic enthusiasm can take him anywhere; a new adventure is always in his future. He has a mind that is restless and eager, and a personality that is adaptable and interested in many subjects. His knowledge of how to get the most out of every plant makes his harvest time very special for all of his friends. His keen sense of humor makes him the center of attention, and his choice of smoke can’t be beat. Women love to be around him because he is so fun-loving. The Gemini male has always been popular. Basically, people love to be around this man because he loves people. He is enthusiastic, curious, and comfortable with all types. The Gemini man is capable of solving complex problems when he is really interested in doing so. He often loves to read into the night as he has a problem with insomnia. It seems to be a lifelong problem with an easy cure if you know what I mean. In a relationship, he is loving, witty and insightful. He will keep the fun alive. So if you believe the end of days is near, grab onto a Gemini male – the party has just begun.