NUG Magazine Issue 06

PUBLISHER’SLETTER master Kush grown in canna coco

MARCH 2010 VOL. 2 ISSUE #3 NUG Magazine Staff: Publisher: Ben G. Rowin

Associate Publisher: Brandon Lee Editor: Dion Markgraaff Associate Editor: M.J. Smith Administrative Assistant: Gio Blitz Copy Editor: Hashley Events Editor: Cletus “KRON” Greathouse Music Editors: Ras Mike Fashion Editor: Ready Rube Photographer: William West Calendar Editor: Courtney Pakalolo Videographer: Chris Gabriel Contributors: “The Guru”, Pat Hegarty, Terry Martinez, Dion Markgraaff, Fred Gardner, Mike DeBartolo, Kim Twolan, Darcy Stoddard, Terrie Best, William West, Eugene Davidovich, Donna Lambert, James Dean Stacy, Colby Benham, Ava Madison, Scott Whytsell, Rocky Neptun, Amelia Amore Green Reefer Comic by. Joshua Boulet Sales Director: Ben G. Rowin Advertising Sales Reps: Dion Markgraaff, Cletus Greathouse, Eugene Davidovich, Brom Richey, James Dean Stacy

Our March issue is a special one! It is our Arts Issue and we have a bunch of new stuff for our readers. One being our new Portal to the Performing Arts column, a guide to what is going on in the San Diego Performing Arts community.

We will be giving away tickets to local shows every month so make sure you check out www.nugmag.com to watch for contests. Speaking of nugmag.com, we have officially launched our new and improved website with a more user friendly format!

Log on and check it out. Also don’t forget to click on the NUG COMMUNITY tab and join our social network. One lucky new registrant will win 2 tickets to the THC Expose in April!

Also in this Arts Issue, we have a special feature on a local artist with HUGE talent! You may not have realized it but if you have driven anywhere in San Diego you have probably seen his art.

We are excited about our second official issue release party this month at U-31. Hope to see you out there! There is more information about the issue release party in the Sleeping Giants Part 2 article, written by our music editor Ras Mike.

For our activists, as always there is plenty of court support needed this month for different members of our community! Check out the ASA and NORML websites to find out where you are needed and get out there! The people that are in court fighting for the rights of the rest of us NEED our support! www.safeaccesssd.org and www.normlsc.org Stay tuned to our website for updates and thank you again for reading NUG Magazine, San Diego’s Original Cannabis Publication!

-Ben G. Rowin

Art Director: Ian Rie

CONTENTS

Finance Manager: M.J. Smith

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: dion@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. 2010

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\\:NUG TIMES

\\:MAKING CENTS

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\\:ACTIVISM

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\\:PATIENT PROFILE

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\\:MMJ TASK FORCE

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\\:CO-OPS

\\:LEGAL

\\:HEMP LOGS

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\\:CALEB AERO

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\\:COOKING

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\\:GROW

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\\:HEALTH & SCIENCE

\\:LEAVES OF GRASS

\\:SLEEPING GIANTS II

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\\:PEPPER

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\\:PERFORMING ARTS

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\\:TRAVEL

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nated by Thor of Mother Earth Co-op. It was truly an amazing evening enjoyed by all.

Photo: William West

2:15 Party Review

By Kim Twolan & Eugene Davidovich

In honor of Proposition 215 and National Medical Marijuana week, several parties were held during the month of February in San Diego including the ExtravaGanja Medical Marijuana Comedy Show on Tuesday the 9th, the Cannabis Resource Center / Movement in Action party on Saturday the 13th, as well as the Mother Earth Co-op Invitational on the 15th.

On the 9th, the San Diego Chapter of Americans for Safe Access (ASA) in partnership with the La Jolla Comedy Store and NUG Magazine hosted the Annual ExtravaGanja Medical Marijuana Comedy Show. Howard Dover, the lead comedian, brought together a very funny group of comics including: Mark Goffeny, Jeffrey Peterson, Jay London, former WWE World Champion Rob Van Dam, and others. The La Jolla Comedy Store was packed, and the community enjoyed a very needed and deserved night of comedy, relaxation, and fun that also managed to raise almost $500 dollars for the San Diego ASA Chapter.

On the 13th, San Diego ASA, NUG Magazine and Movement in Action held a combined 2:15 Birthday Party for James Stacy’s and Kim Twolan’s birthdays.

The music, provided by the SouthBay Wailers and Will Faber, was awesome. There were several raffles with the proceeds going to James Stacy’s federal defense fund. The cosmic part of the evening was when Will Faber announced that he had the winning raffle ticket for the big drawing and it ended up that he did! Will Faber won a custom beach cruiser bike, built and do-

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Mother Earth Co-op’s Annual 2:15 invitational this year was held at Lake Morena and hosted by Nikki, Bill and family of The Kind Cookery. The Kind Cookery is well known throughout San Diego County for their great edibles and huge hearts, making a perfect pairing with Mother Earth Co-op.

The restaurant is located about 40 miles east of San Diego in a peaceful laid back spot in Campo. The El Rancho Grande/The Kind Cookery excels in BBQ, and the ribs are to die for, hence the name “home of the famous Benny ribs”.

If you like BBQ and quaint country getaways, you will LOVE this spot. It reminds me of a Northern hunt camp with their huge rock fireplace that invites the guests. The outside patio has the most serene view of the local mountains, and makes you feel like you are miles away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Raffles were held for some awesome custom baskets filled with Mother Earth Co-op goodies; chocolate, candies, lotions, potions and massage oils. The final piece de resistance was another custom beach cruiser bike built and donated by Thor of Mother Earth Co-op. Anyone familiar with Thor’s detailed work and first-class custom bikes knows this was a remarkable day for Jesse, the winner of the bike. All in all, February was a fun month of celebration for those in the medical marijuana community.

Theft by Convenience

By James Stacy On February 19th, Jovan Jackson went to court to ask for the return of his property. He was found not guilty on the charges involving medical marijuana, and so it stands to reason that the court would return his property. The prosecutor had argued just the week before that the second set of charges were not related to the charges that Jovan was acquitted of earlier and that trying him again was therefore not double jeopardy. Yet on this day, Lindberg said that the evidence was needed for the second trial. Sounds like double jeopardy to me, but the more outrageous part was the fact that the Narcotics Task Force had given the evidence to the DEA. This was a case where the San Diego Police Department did the investigation, the charges were filed in state court and a state court tried him.

Lindberg went on to say that it was more convenient for them to give the evidence to the DEA for the trial.

The DEA will never return marijuana to anyone. So, the 14 places that were raided can never get back any of the medicine that was taken from them. The DA can continue to enforce her fierce fight against medical marijuana with her ever increasing budget of money and property she steals from collectives.

This means that she can continue to raid as many places as she wants and steal everything, and even when they are innocent, they can’t get anything back. A win-win for the DA’s fierce fight against law abiding people. Legal collectives lose their property, spend thousands on lawyers, and are cheated out of the protections of state law.

Bonnie Dumanis has come up with another way for the DA’s office to serve her wants over those of the voters of the State.

And to think she wants to be our next Mayor.

The Most Important Day of My Life

By James Stacy

stan would no longer make as much money bringing in all that heroin to the US. If we do not tell them to remove marijuana from the Schedule 1 list, we will keep going to prison to justify their budget.

So, if you happen to be at 940 Front St. San Diego court room 15 on March 26 8:30am, you can come out and see what our justice system is really about. If you pray, you can include me in your prayers, James Dean Stacy. For more info go to www. movementinaction.org Later that same day and place, from Noon to 2:00pm on March 26th 2010, there will be a National Day of Protest against the DEA raids on medical marijuana collectives and patients.

March 26, 2010 at 8:30am will be the most important day of my life, up to this point. This is the day that I will ask the Thank you San Diego judge to allow me a defense to the charges against me. It MMJ Community seems in federal court that you must first get permission to Red Cross Donations defend yourself before you go to trial. So, I will be asking the for Haiti judge to allow me to speak about the fact that the President and Attorney General said that they would not go after mediWe’d like to thank those of you who have reached inside your cal marijuana patients, and that the Supreme Court told San Diego to follow state law by refusing to hear their challenge to hearts, your wallets, and your collection jars to help those in need in Haiti as part of the San Diego Medical Marijuana SB 420.

Community’s Red Cross donation initiative for the earthquake victims. Currently, we’ve surpassed $2500 in donations, and HR 3939 ‘The Truth in Trials Act’ will change the federal that’s a great thing. position on medical marijuana and allow those of us following state law to present this fact in federal court. I was told This makes a statement to our fellow San Diegans that we, as a that my case is a test case. What are they testing? Whether community, are the caring, compassionate folks we say we are, Obama means what he says? On May 20th 2009, President and that many out there say we aren’t.

Obama wrote a memo directing the heads of the executive departments not to preempt state law. The DEA is an executive All participants will receive a personal thank-you letter they department, yet they do not care what the President said, as can proudly display from our local San Diego Chapter of the they continue to arrest people following state law.

American Red Cross.

I must ask once again for everyone to come out of the canIt all adds up in the end, and will go a long way to save and nabis closet. Until we make cannabis mainstream, we will improve lives in Port Au Prince and beyond. be arrested and put in prison. I hear a lot of people talk about November and the Tax and Regulate Cannabis 2010; they say it will make cannabis legal for everyone over 21. That sounds We came together to present a donation... an impact... we can ALL be proud of. great, but do you think the feds will let us have legal access to cannabis for everyone over 21? The DEA will never let Thanks so much for all you have done and all you continue to us have legal cannabis. They would stand to lose millions of do. dollars of their budget. They would have to actually go after the CIA to stop the flow of other drugs. The war in AfghaniWith warmest thanks and regards, Scott Roussel NUGMAG.COM | 11

MAKING:CENTS Tax Board Vice Chairperson Jerome Horton Proposes Taxing Marijuana Manufacturers

California State Board of Equalization Vice Chairperson Jerome E. Horton today proposed a state law that would require manufacturers and distributors of marijuana for sale to register with the Board of Equalization, pay a fee, pre-pay a portion of the sales tax and pay an excise tax. Senator Ron Calderon (D-Montebello) plans to introduce the legislation in the extraordinary budget session.

Although some dispensaries have obtained seller’s permits, according to the Board of Equalization there is widespread noncompliance resulting in millions of dollars of lost revenue.

“There is a clear indication that many dispensaries are intentionally evading their taxes, distributing illegal products and may be laundering illegally acquired money,” said Mr. Horton. Under the current California Revenue and Taxation Code and applicable regulations, medical marijuana dispensaries are treated the same as other businesses making sales of tangible personal property. The sales of marijuana are subject to sales tax.

“My legislation does not legalize the sale of marijuana beyond the currently legal medical marijuana dispensaries. But it will better control legal distribution and help law enforcement crack down on illegal sales while generating upwards of $1.8 billion for California, badly needed money to help relieve our $20 billion deficit and mitigate the impacts of illegal marijuana sales,” states Senator Calderon.

Vice Chairperson Jerome E. Horton is the 4th District Member of the State Board of Equalization, representing more than 8.5 million residents in Los Angeles County. He is also chairs the Board’s Legislative Committee. Mr. Horton is the first African American to serve on the BOE since its inception in 1879 and the third African American constitutional officer in California’s history. Mr. Horton was appointed by the Governor and confirmed by both the Assembly and the Senate in 2009. Mr. Horton previously served as an Assembly member from 2000-2006.

The five-member California State Board of Equalization is a publicly elected tax board. The BOE collects more than $53 billion annually in taxes and fees supporting state and local government services. It hears business tax appeals, acts as the appellate body for franchise and personal income tax appeals, and serves a significant role in the assessment and administration of property taxes. For more information on other taxes and fees in California, visit www.taxes.ca.gov.

State Board of Equalization News Release Vice Chairperson Jerome E. Horton 4th District – Los Angeles www.boe.ca.gov

As a member of the California State Assembly, Mr. Horton authored similar legislation to control the illegal sales of cigarettes. This legislation resulted in the removal of tons of illegal cigarettes from the streets and generated millions in new tax revenue. Mr. Horton’s legislation, the California Cigarette and Tobacco Products Licensing Act (AB 71, Ch 890 Stats 2003), also strengthened controls over sales to minors and established a fee for administration. His newest proposal also creates a sales tax pre-payment system is similar to the currently required tax prepayment on diesel fuel.

Horton has asked the Board of Equalization to enhance its current enforcement efforts to identify, register, and bring into compliance dispensaries of marijuana, both legal and illegal. His concerns relate to manufacturers and distributors selling the product illegally through the existing distribution mechanisms.

According to the Board of Equalization, ordinary tax enforcement methods are not sufficient to obtain compliance from illegal operations. Illegal marijuana operations are generally mobile with no fixed business location.

Operators of these businesses may also be involved in sales of other illegal drugs, have gang affiliations, and may be armed. Coordinating with law enforcement is key to any successful efforts at tax compliance.

Horton said, “We must create a system that distinguishes legal marijuana from illegal product, ensures sales and use tax compliance and protects consumers, particularly our youth. No one should be offended by our efforts to tax criminals and level the playing field for legitimate operators.”

The Board of Equalization has estimated total gross annual sales of marijuana to be $1.3 billion. This estimate does not include illegal sales. A report by a pro-legalization group issued in 2006, relying on 2005 U.S. State Department statistics, estimated the nation-wide market value of locally grown marijuana to be $35 billion, of which $13.8 billion was attributable to California.

NUGMAG.COM | 13

Spread the Herb, I Mean the Word…

By: Ava Madison

and marches. However, these are not the only ways to ensue activism.

Activists, although burdened with The approaches are inexhaustible, tumultuous tasks and roads, are the most effective change agents in history. Mahatma and you should do what works best Ghandi, attorney turned Indian rights spokes- for you. man, was the first to deploy civil disobedi Diligently researching subence, leading India to independence from jects will expand your confidence and England. Martin Luther King Jr., like Ghandi, strengthen your arguments.

Knowwas assassinated during one of his great works. King Jr., a clergyman and pastor, led ing the truth and getting the facts the civil rights movement in 1960’s America, is essential, so do not overlook this step. Once you have the information winning over 50 honors and awards, and you need, develop “talking points” furthering human rights in regards to racor the main highlights of the issue at ism, poverty, education, and more. People hand. Support these talking points involved with law aren’t the only activists. with facts. Argue and counter-argue John Lennon and Paul McCartney turned each talking point with yourself and their celebrity status from music into a others of like-mind. platform to deliver messages of peace and love throughout the world. Bob Marley lived

Make your message heard, through his music, affecting millions and even though communicating your spreading the Rasta culture. None of these views can be tricky. Recipients people were authorized to create change, to often meet you with cynicism, doubt have an opinion, or to take action. They did what they did because they believed in them- and apathy, and may not find your interests or concerns important. selves and in people.

Remember to deliver your mes Injustices against humanity, poverty, sage suited for the person receiving it. If speaking to politicians, dress and sickness along with war and greed like a politician, present documents are constant evils that need soldiers and generals alike to fight against them, to bring with statistics and citations, and awareness to the masses about these issues deliver your speech with authority and urge for alternative solutions. Everybody and confidence. When speaking to your grandmother, you may want to has an opinion, and furthermore, activists must seek to resolve these heinous and con- explain how the laws or policies of tentious problems. The point of activism is to an issue have affected her. Different create social, economic, and cultural change. people need to hear different things As such, activists carry the burden of initiat- and receive messages and informaing, crafting, and carrying out all steps of that tion in different ways. By tailoring change. Various tactics have been deployed, your messages, you increase your chances of being understood and such as the aforementioned civil disobediempathized with. ence and songs, boycotts, protests, rallies, 16 | NUGMAG.COM

2009

2009 was an unbelievable year in marijuana reform, especially for San Diegans. The Supreme Court ruled in our favor against the County Board of Supervisors, the City Council created a Medical Marijuana Task Force, and the Federal government promised to back off legal medical marijuana patients. The Tax, Regulate, and Control Act of 2010 gained more than enough signatures by December to put an initiative on the ballot in November 2010 that would legalize marijuana for all Californians over 21. Jovan Jackson of Answerdam, a medical marijuana dispensary, was acquitted by a jury when his case, the first medical marijuana dispensary case in San Diego, made it to trial. Mainstream media has covered positive American Medical Association statements, UK Drug Advisor’s pro-marijuana politics, and marijuana’s semi-legalization across 14 United States.

2010

What have marijuana activists done so far this year? Non-profit groups and activists have begun to fuel the fire even more in 2010, making marijuana one of the hottest issues in politics, and gearing it for sensible policy and regulation. In January, the Assembly Health Committee voted on and passed AB 390. Due to scheduling conflicts in legislature however, the bill won’t be able to proceed to its next step until 2011. San Diego’s Medical Marijuana Task Force is continuing their work to draft ordinances for collectives and cooperatives. Their meetings are open to the public and they encourage the general public’s participation. Attend a meeting and help positively influence marijuana reform.

Medical Marijuana Task Force meetings are the next critical step for safe access in San Diego. Take your ideas to the City Council Advisory Board and be heard. City Council Chambers are located at 202 W C St in Downtown San Diego, and the meetings are held on the 12th floor.

Contact the District Attorney’s office and urge them to stop ALL medical marijuana prosecutions and disengage in ALL medical marijuana investigations. Respect the will of the voters. Call 619-531-4040 or Email publicaffairs@ sdcda.org

Write a letter to your local paper. Express your views as a concerned citizen.

Simple things that you can do right now!

Join nugmag.ning.com to have marijuana news and updates sent straight to your inbox!

Contact your elected officials and tell them to respect medical marijuana.

The President oversees all Federal agencies. Got a problem with DEA policy? Want to put an end to Federal marijuana prohibition? Then tell them about it! Call (202) 456-1414 or Email president@whitehouse.gov

Write a letter to us at NUG Magazine! Let us know your story and what you’ve done to help foster change!

Talk to a stranger about marijuana laws, facts, and myths.

Share your story and experiences with others.

Give 5 people that you really care about a copy of NUG Magazine.

Support others in critical times. Whether they are going through financial hardships, emotional distress, or the burden of a court trial, the greatest thing you can do is be there for someone.

“We must fight the system with knowledge and vigor” -Nathan Archer.

As part of the ongoing war waged by District Attorney (DA) Bonnie Dumanis against medical marijuana in San Diego, Nathan Archer, a legitimate medical cannabis patient was arrested, charged, tried and convicted of cultivating ninety-eight plants, and possessing 1.7 pounds of dried cannabis. The plants and dried cannabis were seized from his house during a raid in 2006 by the San Diego County cross jurisdictional Narcotics Task Force (NTF).

Although pressured several times by the DA to take a plea bargain, and despite having faced multiple legal hurdles along the way, Nathan refused to take a deal and has taken his case all the way to the 4th District Court of Appeal.

Nathan Archer suffers from chronic pain as a result of a 1995 construction accident which permanently damaged his leg and left him with a lifetime of chronic pain. After years of prescribed painkillers and

all the side effects that came with their continued use, Nathan looked into medical marijuana as an alternative. He found the use of medical marijuana helped his chronic pain and allowed him to function normally without being in a constant ‘zombie like’ pharmaceutical state. In 2004, he obtained a recommendation for medical marijuana from Dr. Sterner in San Diego and started a small garden.

Rudy Reyes, who suffered burns to over 65% of his body during the 2003 San Diego Cedar fire, testified at Nathan’s trial. Rudy said he designated Nathan to be his primary caregiver for the purpose of cultivating medical marijuana as he could not cultivate it himself since the police had previously taken all of his plants, and the dispensary where he had been obtaining his medicine had been shut down by the NTF.

He was cultivating the medicine for himself as well as four other patients.

During his trial, Nathan testified that he used approximately a half pound of medical cannabis per month to alleviate his chronic pain. He medicated using a vaporizer and by consuming cannabis infused foods to alleviate his symptoms. These methods of consumption require larger amounts of the dried product than what was erroneously thought to be allowed under Senate Bill 420 (SB420). Nathan also testified that he cultivated cannabis for other patients who designated him as their caregiver.

The court also heard testimony from Scott Olson, another legitimate medical cannabis patient who suffers from chronic pain. Scott testified that Nathan provided him with cannabis plant cuttings at no cost and helped him start his own garden. Scott told the court that Nathan had given plants to him on two occasions, as well as provided advice and help in growing them.

At that time in 2006, everyone in the medical cannabis community was interpreting the law in a similar way; in order to grow for other qualified patients, the law seemed to require that the patients designate the per-

son growing for them as their primary caregiver for that limited purpose.

The idea wasn’t whether someone was officially called a caregiver or a collective, it was that patients could help other patients and work together towards the same goal of getting the medicine that helps them live a normal life. During that time, many people like Nathan took the extra step of having themselves designated as caregivers in an attempt to stay as incompliance with the then current interpretation of the law as they possibly could.

This was a couple of years prior to the California Supreme Court decision in People v. Mentch which outlined that cultivating medicine for the patient alone does not qualify one as their primary caregiver. After that, most dispensaries and patients organized into collectives and coops and began to operate as such.

The judge and jury in Nathan’s trial also heard testimony from expert witness Chris Conrad who explained that consuming dried marijuana in food uses four times more product NUGMAG.COM | 19

than if the dried plant is inhaled by smoking, thereby showing that the amount possessed by Nathan was not unreasonable based on what he has seen others use for their own medical needs. The expert was also allowed to view pictures of the plants seized from Nathan’s garden, and he concluded that they were at least three months away from being mature enough to harvest. This testimony completely disputed the prosecution’s assertion that Nathan possessed ninety-eight healthy and mature plants, when probably half of them were already dead and would have never yielded any medicine.

During Nathan’s trial in San Diego Superior Court, Judge Kerry Wells instructed the jurors to use SB420 numerical plant limits (eight ounces of dried bud and six mature or 12 immature plants) to decide on the case, as a result of which Nathan was convicted on both counts. Nathan knew the conviction was unjust, as the number of plants in his possession was in line with his own and the other patients’ medical needs. He decided to press on with his case and appealed his erroneous conviction to California’s 4th District Court of Appeals.

The decision by the Court of Appeal came back in November 2009 and reversed part of the original conviction.

The possession charge was thrown out. The appellate court found that limits set forth in SB420 unconstitutionally amended Proposition 215, an action which could not be taken without a statewide vote. This was prior to the recent California Supreme Court decision in People v. Kelley which confirmed the same thing.

Nathan’s cultivation charge still stands. The 4th District Court found that because Nathan admitted that he had patients designate him as a primary caregiver for the limited purpose of cultivating medical cannabis, he was not entitled to the primary caregiver defense and was therefore guilty of the cultivation charge.

A week before the partial reversal came out, Nathan’s probation officer called to tell him that he was in viola-

20 | NUGMAG.COM

Nathan Archer: tion of not having registered as a Narcotics Offender, and would have to go to court for a bail revocation hearing.

In December 2009, Nathan was back in San Diego Superior Court to defend against having his probation revoked as a result of not registering as a Narcotics Offender. He spoke on his own behalf to the judge in front of almost a dozen supporters and members of San Diego Americans for Safe Access, who organized the court support for Nathan.

He declared to the court “I am opposing the requirement that I register as a narcotics offender because I believe it is unconstitutional, punitive in nature, and will impose a social stigma that will forever mar the perception of my character. I believe this because I legally use marijuana for chronic pain, and not for any other reason. My conviction is directly related to that legal use.”

Nathan went on to request that the court continue the hearing so that he could seek adequate legal counsel to appear and effectively present his legal position. He explained that he

Photos By: William West

Cont.

did not have sufficient legal background to understand the procedural basis on which the arguments should be made, and therefore needed more time.

Judge Szumovski allowed Nathan to hold off on registering as a drug offender while he is appealing the cultivation charge and attempting to find counsel to appear and effectively present his legal position regarding the narcotics offender registration issue.

After the court hearing in December, NUG Magazine had a chance to speak with Nathan about his future plans. He explained “we must fight the system with knowledge and vigor… San Diego County courts, prominently displayed numerous violations of my rights to Due Process under the 6th and 14th amendments, and I intend to stand up to and expose the mechanistic usage of the system in order to get a guilty verdict, which we all have suffered from in San Diego County”.

Nathan can be reached through his email address: ndasummer@hotmail.com

Eugene Davidovich & Nathan Archer

MAR 2010 | NUGMAG.COM 13

Reporting from the City of San Diego Medical Marijuana (MMJ) Task Force

By Kim Twolan –Task Force Collective Director Representative | Photo: SGW MMJ TASK FORCE February 2010 Report The Medical Marijuana (MMJ) Task Force presented to the City Council our recommendations that were published in last month’s Nug Magazine. The City Council requested action is to accept the report and pass it to the Land Use and Housing (LU&H) Committee that is chaired by Council Member Todd Gloria. The LU&H Committee will have the opportunity to properly study the recommendations and report back to the City Council.

I would like to communicate an enormous appreciation and respect to the Assistant Chief of the San Diego Police Department (SDPD), Cesar Solis, and Narcotics Unit Captain, Guy Swanger, for their time and effort at the Task Force meeting in January 21, 2010. We sincerely appreciate all the hard work the SDPD is doing.

Assistant Chief Solis spoke about procedures and followed up to the Task Force with the SDPD Procedures for marijuana. The SDPD Procedures 3.28 Investigations Memo on Medical Marijuana Enforcement Procedures dated 6/19/2006 briefly describes that its purpose is to establish guidelines on the enforcement of narcotics violations related to medical marijuana use, and in scope it includes all sworn members of the Police Department.

The background describes the Compassionate Use Act (CUA) and how Proposition 215 was codified as Health & Safety Code Section 11362.5. It further describes a patient and a caregiver. Enforcement Procedures indicate that it is the detainee/arrestee’s obligation to assert the defense, not the officer’s duty to inquire. The officer is instructed after an affirmative medical defense is presented, to notify SDPD Narcotics Section. A Narcotics Section Sergeant will evaluate the information and determine the appropriate level of response.

SDPD uses the guidelines of one pound per Patient and 2 pounds per Primary Caregiver 22 | NUGMAG.COM

or the amount consistent with the physician’s recommendation, whichever is less. According to the memo, a medical patient can possess a maximum of 24 unharvested plants in a growing area no larger than 64 square feet. A Primary Caregiver may possess a total of 48 plants in a growing area not to exceed 94 square feet.

Officers are instructed that after discovering a person is eligible to use the affirmative defense, the officer should return any marijuana and release the person. Officers will complete a “Detention Only” report detailing the circumstance of the encounter, the amount found and the facts that led to the conclusion that the person was eligible to use a medical defense. The SDPD personnel will not knowingly participate in any federal operation or investigation that conflicts with established policies and procedures concerning medical marijuana.

The officer is instructed to fill out a questionnaire to assist in determining if the person qualifies for a medical defense. If a person being detained refuses to provide the information or the facts are not consistent with a medical defense, then the officer will proceed with a citation or arrest. The entire memo can be found on San Diego Americans for Safe Access website www.safeaccesssd.com.

At our meeting on February 5, 2010, the Task Force bantered around the People v. Kelly decision. There were three attorneys at the Task Force meeting and all three had diverse interpretations of the decision and its future. The California Supreme Court issued a unanimous published decision in People v. Kelly, striking down what it considered unconstitutional legislative limits on how much medical marijuana patients can possess and cultivate. The decision also affirms protection from arrest and prosecution for patients who both possess a state-issued identification card and comply with state or local personal use guidelines.

Even though the court affirmed that qualified patients and their primary caregivers retain “all the rights afforded by the Compassionate Use Act (CUA) of 1996”, law enforcement can still arrest and prosecute if probable cause exists. In keeping with the CUA, qualified patients and their primary caregivers will still have an affirmative defense

in court. A Department of Health and Safety state card, while intended to prevent arrest, will not necessarily achieve that result if you possess more than the 11362.77 limits or if the police suspect fraud.

It was decided that an ad hoc group comprising of four of the Task Force members (Doctor Rep, Patient Rep, Co-op Rep, and Police Rep) will review existing ordinances regarding limits and bring back recommendations to the group in two weeks.

The agenda item is to provide and verify evidence of a “non-profit/ not for profit” status which led to a rather lively discussion. However, the item was continued until our next meeting on 2/19. Several of us raised the fact that there are agencies already in place to evaluate these claims. The IRS conducts audits, and this determination is up to the business owner/ Director, CEO, CFO or accountant and the IRS. Too much time was spent on details that are business dependant and not safe access focused. The Attorney General’s guidelines for MMJ collectives offer no path to operating as a corporation, only as a nonprofit.

Alex Kreit, who is the Task Force chairman and a law professor, reviewed the Franchise Tax Board (FTB) interpretation and concluded, “The medical-marijuana law does not require collectives to obtain official nonprofit status, only that they do not turn a profit…. So, even if a collective does not have tax-exempt status, they can still operate within the law on a nonprofit basis and within the regulations the Task Force has recommended.”

Please come out and support the Medical Marijuana Task Force as we work together to provide safe access in San Diego. The next meetings are March 5th and March 19th on the 12th floor of City Hall, 202 C St., San Diego.

Cooperatives By: Ava Madison

More and more these days, we hear the term “cooperative”, whether it is in the national health care debate or in regards to medical marijuana dispensaries. Though the term is commonly known to mean “working together”, in business a cooperative refers to a specific structure, while still leaving mobility and wiggle-room to the entity itself. But what does this really mean? Mostly self-governing, a cooperative is intended to work out a cost-effective, social approach to new industries by entrepreneurs in that industry, and provide a product or service otherwise not available to people who would benefit from it. But isn’t that what any business does? Let’s take a closer look at cooperatives, their history, their structure, importance, and what makes them different from other businesses.

We’ll also check out what it takes to start your own cooperative.

What is a Cooperative?

A cooperative is defined as an autonomous association of persons united by their own will to meet their common economic, social, and cultural needs and aspirations through a jointly 24 | NUGMAG.COM

tive of which they are a part. owned, democratically controlled en There are a number of ways to terprise. Cooperatives adhere to a set govern cooperatives and utilize those of values and conduct that differs from member-classes; the most common usual businesses. Although cooperabeing retail, worker and consumer tives, like many other businesses, are cooperatives. Retailers’ cooperatives formed to fill a need, they are not are businesses that pool together to necessarily profit-driven. They are get bulk discounts for their patrons and often designed to encourage self-help, increase advertising opportunities. A training, education, self-responsibility, worker cooperative consists mainly of democracy, equality, equity and solidarproducers for their cooperative, and ity. In addition, cooperatives have should be funded by them, though other open ‘at will’ memberships. They rely classes must sometimes be involved for on members’ economic participation, feasibility. A consumers’ cooperative is are autonomous and independent, and run by its customers who vote on major generally cooperate with other cooperatives. In addition, there is the utmost decisions and elect the board. Aside concern for, and interest in, the comfrom governance structure, there are munity. industry-specific cooperatives such as

For cooperatives or any agricultural, banking, housing, building, entity to function, and utilities. there must be These indusMany of us probably benefit from a management tries formed structure to handle a cooperative right now and don’t cooperatives to daily activities and pool resources, even know it. Did you know that various elements utilize memACE Hardware, Land O’Lakes, to ensure success. bers’ expertise, The requirements MFA Oil Company, Sunkist, Navy concentrate of cooperative manstrengths, Federal Credit Union, and USA agement are clearly reduce costs, Federal Credit Union are all defined by law and or provide beninclude classes of cooperatives? efits otherwise members who form unknown. some sort of board, officers, adminisWhy a Cooperative? trators, and general members. More classes can be divided or added in

People have been working coorder to fulfill other jobs, tasks, responoperatively since the beginning of time, sibilities, or benefits. All classes share however, cooperatives as businesses the common purpose of the coopera-

are just a few hundred years old.

Cooperatives were set up by workers, broke and unemployed, who serviced their communities by providing quality goods at a great rate, thus benefiting the members themselves. Considered the first successful cooperative, the Rochdale Society of Equitable Pioneers formed in 1844 with 28 members, each of whom struggled four months to contribute one pound sterling to open shop.

They began with a little bit of butter, sugar, oatmeal, and a few candles; yet within months expanded to begin carrying tea and tobacco as well. Consumers quickly came to know the Rochdale Society of Pioneers as a cooperative with unadulterated goods of impeccable quality.

Setting up a Cooperative

Now that we know what a cooperative is, why they exist, and what they’re used for, let’s look at how to create one. The first thing to do when considering a cooperative is to identify what problem you will address.

Once accomplished, host a meeting

and invite like-minded individuals to pool ideas and resources. During this meeting discuss potential markets, outline tasks, and forecast an operating budget. At this point, determine the cooperative’s feasibility and implement a plan to meet the needs necessary to begin.

Capital for a cooperative should be gathered from the members or a cooperative can enter into agreements on behalf of its members for products, services, funds, and other things. Once a source of funding is recognized and capital is established, you may move forward with your plan.

Unlike collectives, cooperatives must be formal and conform to the laws that govern their creation. It may be best to consult an experienced attorney and do your own research before starting a collective.

Establishing a location or an avenue to conduct business is next.

This varies case by case depending on what exactly you’re doing. Your establishment should fit your cooperative and vice versa.

So you have a purpose, gathered initial members, raised money,

found a place, and have all your paperwork. Next you want to appoint or hire a manager to carry out the day-to-day activities of the cooperative. After that, it’s time for a membership drive to expand and create new opportunities.

Running a Cooperative

Your cooperative is up and running. Your producer class is doing great and your general consumer class is expanding. More members provide an avenue for offering more services.

Although day-to-day decisions and operating procedures can be tackled by a single person, company decisions must come from among the members.

Hold regular board meetings, establish voting procedures & policies, and implement actions consistent with cooperative values. To stay compliant, all businesses must adhere to all applicable local, state, and federal laws. Cooperatives especially must inform and engage their membership, as well as contribute back to the community.

18 NUGMAG.COM | MAR 2010

LEGAL UPDATE:

Legal News from a Medical Marijuana Lawyer

Victory at Last! The Supreme Court upholds the will of the people in People v. Kelly (2010) 47 Cal.4th 1008

-by Gerald Singleton, Esq.

Medical marijuana patients recently scored an important victory in the California Supreme Court. In January, the Court issued a unanimous decision in People v. Kelly, in which the Court rebuked prosecutors and judges for misinterpreting the laws related to possession.

The development of California law regarding possession of medical marijuana has a short yet complicated history following the enactment of Proposition 215, which permitted qualified patients 1 to possess marijuana for their personal medical use. Prop. 215 did not set any numerical limits on the amount of marijuana a qualified patient could possess. Instead, courts interpreting Prop. 215 took the logical position that the amount possessed must be “reasonably related” to the patient’s current medical needs. People v. Trippett (1997) 56 Cal.App.4th 1532, 1549.

The problem with Prop. 215 was that it only protected qualified patients from prosecution, not arrest. Accordingly,

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in the years following its passage, qualified patients who possessed small amounts of marijuana were still subject to arrest by overzealous police officers.

To correct this problem, the California Legislature passed the Medical Marijuana Program Act (the “MMPA”) in 2004. The MMPA established limits below which card-holders could not be arrested or prosecuted (e.g., if a patient has six mature plants and 8 ounces of marijuana, then he or she is protected from arrest and prosecution). (See California Health & Safety Code 2 §11362.77 for the MMPA’s numerical limits.)

Prior to the Kelly decision, prosecutors throughout the state argued that if a patient had more than the numerical limits contained in §11362.77, then the patient should be prohibited from even raising a medical marijuana defense in court.

The Kelly Court rejected this argument.

Instead, the Court found that the MMPA “… provides protection against arrest ...” for possession, cultivation, transportation and sales of marijuana when the amount of marijuana possessed is within the limits contained in §11362.77. Kelly, p. *7.

In plain English, the Kelly Court

was saying that the numerical limits were never intended to create an artificial “ceiling” regarding the amount of medical marijuana a qualified patient could possess. Rather, these limits were intended to create an amount which would function as a “safe harbor” for card-holders by establishing an amount of marijuana below which a patient who possessed a valid identification card could not be arrested. See §11362.71(e).

Thus, the Court gave medical marijuana patients a rare “win-win”.

For those patients who obtain a medical marijuana identification card and remain beneath the limits contained in §11362.77, the “safe harbor” provisions of §11362.71(e) apply and such patients are not subject to arrest. For qualified patients who elect not to obtain a voluntary identification card, or for card-holders who possess amounts in excess of the safe-harbor limits, the pre-MMPA rule applies. Such individuals, while subject to arrest, are entitled to immunity from prosecution if they can show (either at trial or through a pre-trial motion) that the amount of

marijuana they possessed is “…reasonably related to [their] current medical needs.” Kelly, p. *6 (quoting Trippett, 56 Cal.App.4th at 1549).

CAUTION: The Kelly decision does not mean that qualified patients are entitled to possess any amount they desire. It simply means that qualified patients who possess more than the “safe harbor” limits contained in §11362.77(a) can raise a medical marijuana defense if they are prosecuted in state court.3 Qualified patients should consult with their recommending physicians and always be sure not to possess an amount of marijuana that is in excess of the amount the patient’s doctor has authorized for the patient’s personal medical needs.

Bio: Gerald Singleton is a lawyer based in Encinitas, California. His practice focuses on civil rights (including medical marijuana) and representing individuals who have suffered severe injuries. He can be reached at geraldsingleton73@yahoo.com. Readers who have questions regarding the California medical marijuana laws are encouraged to contact him. ____________________________________________________________________________________ 1 A “qualified patient” is an individual who has a physician’s recommendation to use marijuana for his or her personal medical needs. This is distinct from a “cardholder”, which refers to a qualified patient who obtains a voluntary identification card pursuant to the program set forth in the MMPA. 2 All statutory references are to the California Health & Safety Code.

3 Despite President Obama’s campaign promises and U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder’s statements, the federal government does not recognize the medicinal properties of marijuana and the medical defenses available to qualified patients in California state court are not available to qualified patients charged with violating federal drug laws.

A joint project of Vote Hemp and the Hemp Industries Association, America’s leading hemp advocacy organizations, Hemp History Week is looking for patriotic Americans to anchor and organize events in their hometown as part of a national grassroots, media and public education campaign.

We hope to collect at least 50,000 signed post cards urging President Barack Obama and Attorney General Eric Holder asking them to end the status quo and let farmers grow versatile and profitable industrial hemp. Hemp History Week wants you to sign up ASAP to be contacted by our coordinators to begin planning for local Town Hall meetings to present historical data about hemp farming in your area prior to its prohibition.

You will be connected to other like minded hemp advocates who will plan the events with you and help get the word out its time for change and you will receive coupons for hemp products as a thank you for being part of this historic movement to resume hemp farming in the U.S. Save the Date: May 17 - 23 is Hemp History Week!

SIGN UP TODAY! http://www.votehemp.com/hempisourhistory.html

The world has many different problems for which cannabis hemp provides easy and economically sound solutions. More examples lie at the very heart of today’s biggest dilemma – environmentally safe and sustainable energy at a low cost.

In NUG Magazine’s January article “Hemp Houses: San Diego’s Best Fire Solution” we explored how cannabis hurds mixed with water and lime create fireproof building materials. This month, we show the energy benefits of using cannabis for fire. Cannabis, the life giving and versatile plant that is the wise man’s beast of burden, provides a cheap source of locally produced carbon neutral energy when burned.

Cannabis hemp as fuel is undisputed today and as a centuries old source for fire. Throughout human’s use of hemp for food and fiber, a locally valued by-product has been the large amounts of hurd stalks and miscellaneous plant particles called ‘fines’ that remain after processing. Farmers have commonly used these chunks of hurd stalks and fines for fuel.

Today, in one of the world’s largest hemp producers, China, many farmers heat their homes and cook with these by-products leftover after extracting the fibers and seeds.

By Dion Markgraaff

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As the cannabis agriculture revolution continues to expand around the world, one of the first and easiest economic avenues for marketing hemp is as a raw material for fueling fires. Selling cannabis hurd stalks and fines for fuel provides local farmers and producers an immediate additional source of revenue.

Ecologically Friendly Fuel – Hemp Logs – The British Example

In England, a pioneer in industrializing the hemp plant is the company Hemp Technology, which has developed a sustainable and easy-to-use compressed cannabis fire log.

The cannabis fire logs are made from fines processed into 4in x 6in solid cylinders, and cost between $5-$8 for a 10 kilo sack holding 20 logs (approximately 5lb). The heat generated burning cannabis logs matches or exceeds the heat produced by burning wellseasoned wood.

The hemp used to make the logs is grown sustainably on English farms, with no herbicides or pesticides being used during crop production. One of the biggest benefits of using hemp logs for fire is that the production process is very simple. The cannabis logs are made from hemp fines that are separated during the fiber extraction process and then gathered, dried, and pressed together to form a carbon neutral cylindrical log for energy and fire. No chemicals are needed due to the purely mechanical fiber extraction process, and using the fines for fire logs means truly 100% of the cannabis plant is used, there is no waste.

Burning releases carbon, and the carbon that is released into the atmosphere from burning cannabis is equivalent to the carbon absorbed by the plant during its growth. Consequently, hemp logs are carbon neutral, and unlike trees that take many years to grow, a cannabis crop grows to maturity in 90 days. Further emphasizing the superiority of cannabis, burned hemp produces cannabis ash

which contains soil-improving nutrients that can be spread in your garden.

Local Cannabis Cultivation Provides Low Cost Energy and Economic Growth

The British production of energy from hemp fire logs is a good example to the industrialized and non-industrialized world of the instant return available from using cannabis agriculturally on a massive but local scale.

Hemp Technology, with its $6 million dollar hemp processing facility, employs 35 people and processes 50,000 tons of hemp straw a year. It has taken the least appreciated part of the cannabis plant, the ‘floor litter’ fines, and turned them into logs, jobs, and money.

Since the cannabis fines are next to free, the biggest downside of using hemp for fire is transporting the product, because, other than producing the logs, the only cost is getting the logs to you, the consumer. Hence, the closer the cannabis is grown to the consumer the cheaper the costs get for everyone, the cannabis company, the consumer, and the environment. One of the first lessons in the new cannabis agro-economy is that growing, processing, and use WILL BE LOCAL.

If California farmers were allowed to grow cannabis on an industrial scale again, then we all would have a cheap economic and environmental source for our fires. Imagine bringing your 10 kilo sack of locally grown cannabis logs down to the beach to kick it, knowing your enjoyment of the fire is feeding into the global solution, not feeding off age-old trees.

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Hemp factory producing hemp fire logs. http://www.hemcore.co.uk

A British advertisement for the logs. <<<<<<<<<<<< Hemp fire logs can fuel millions of ecofriendly fires <<<<<<<<<<<<

>>>>>>>>>>>> Rastafire - a British Company selling hemp fire logs >>>>>>>>>>>>

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I have watched the attention surrounding Caleb Aero for years now. His art is an inspiration to all artists,

no matter what medium they choose for their expression. Personally I am amazed by the detail he gets out of an aerosol can of paint, that’s right spray paint! Aero’s chosen medium is a blank wall with no character, no feeling, and no love. Anything that is dull, dreary, and normal can be transformed into a beautiful piece of art. The fact is that his chosen art form is demonized, much like those who choose to medicate naturally. As strongly as the medical marijuana community feels we should not be criminalized for our choices, Aero feels the same way about his art! Some would say that graffiti is destruction of property and an eyesore; I say you’ve never seen graffiti art!

Caleb Aero was born in Hawaii and gives off that island laid back vibe, but don’t be fooled, this is one of the busiest people I have ever met. Besides spending his time creating art, Caleb designs for the Seedless Clothing Company and is involved in many other projects. His talent has taken him down many roads.

He is the owner of Blubber Colors, a complete line of spray paint colors with ECO friendly features like: recyclable packaging and labeling, organic pigmentation, natural gas, natural resins, acrylic based recyclable aerosol containers, and they contain no CFCs or lead.

Aero heads up and organizes a charity that teaches aerosol art to kids and keeps them off the street and out of trouble. He’s constantly giving back to the community and helping others develop their art in a safe environment. He teaches the world’s first online aerosol art workshop weekly on his website, and travels the globe doing live art shows and introducing Aerosol Art Parks. He endorses and assists companies that he believes in, like Photon Skate Boards.

Aero was dubbed the Tony Hawk of Spray Painted Murals in ‘05 by San Diego Magazine. He also just started doing some glass art, putting his unique designs and artistic flare on some really heady glass pieces.

NUGMAG.COM | 43

Photo: Caleb and the Cloud9 Staff We met up with Aero at the Cloud 9 Co-Operative in Ocean Beach where he had just completed a mural. Shout out to the guys at Cloud 9! Thanks for having the NUG crew in for a visit. Then we rolled over to the Seedless Outlet around the corner and sat down to chat. This was the perfect place to sit down with Aero; he seemed right at home, printing t-shirts by hand while we chatted. Everywhere you turned there was color, murals, skateboard decks, and Seedless gear everywhere! I felt like a kid in a candy store! This place is an artists dream. My favorite piece in the warehouse was the giant Ganesh that sits high above the warehouse looking down.

Massive and extremely detailed, it only took him two days to paint it!

NUG: Tell us a little about how you started, were you drawing on everything as a child?

How exactly did you come to choose spray paint as your favorite medium?

AERO: I was a very curious kid, spraying stencils or drawing on things. I was taught by my older friends who decorated or personalized everything like school book covers and surf boards with logos from companies like T&C, GOTCHA, and Quicksilver. There wasn’t much to draw on in Kauai, mostly just ditches and skate spots. When I hit the mainland, that’s when it took off; paint for days, walls for miles and public transportation. Those were the days! I can’t even begin to tell you what I’ve witnessed to give me the drive to get my name up. I’m seduced by aerosol in a way most will

never understand, but if you watch me paint I can show you. This love has brought me around the globe, allowed me to paint for kings and queens, and got me put in jail. I think it’s fair to say, and anyone who knows me will agree, that I’m just a regular dude, but when I get my hands on a spray can I become someone with a purpose and a message.

NUG: How did you get your first can?

AERO: My first can is something I will never forget! I found it laying around our apartment complex on Kauai; my first instinct was to paint card suits on the back of the apartments. I painted a club, a heart, and a spade in blue spray paint. My mother later busted me and made me try to scrub it off with Ajax and a sponge, (laughs) it didn’t work! The apartment manager eventually painted over it. What’s funny is my accomplice, and I’m glad she remembers this random experience, was Roxy surfer girl Sanoe Lake who starred in the blockbuster movie Blue Crush. I think we were like 8-10 years old then, huh, anyways that was my first connection.

NUG: The first time we met you were doing a Blubber Promo mural on the old Amplified Image building. We have all seen your many murals all over San Diego; my favorite is either

the Seedless building or Pokez downtown. I know each one is a different love for you but do you have a favorite mural in San Diego?

AERO: San Diego has become my interactive gallery, though other artists love to spot jock my locations for their own self promotion instead of enhancing the community’s spirit, I like to still think I run shit in this town.

One of my favorite pieces is hidden from all of San Diego; it is off of Washington Street and was commissioned in a garage back in ‘97. It’s where I started to expand into this dynamic way of seeing the city as an electric field of frequencies. It was during my laser experimenting phase. We would light up hotel rooms from a mile away and watch the reaction of the people in the room. Well, that mural in the garage was inspired by my curiosity with argon lasers.

NUG: It is amazing that you do so much for the community; can you tell us a little bit about what you are doing with your charity Aerosol Art Association?

AERO: Sure thing. The community efforts and planning behind the Aerosol Art Association

is finally gaining full momentum with the help of private and government assistance. Now being recognized as a non-profit in several states, the Aerosol Art Parks is closing in on its first real estate launch on the island of Oahu in Hawaii. Coming from the islands and achieving certain validations has granted access to land where we can host these creative hubs and events. Aerosol Art Parks is one of the many focused on relearning the aerosol art form in a new light for society to acknowledge. Raising awareness is always the challenge, right? Unfortunately, most organizations do not have a founder who is a street marketer, and a mother who is world renowned for marketing some of the largest fashion campaigns worldwide. AAA has and will continue to partner with global entities that provide the proper structure to flourish our concepts in communities. Aerosol Art workshops and paint tours have opened new doors for PR and charity fundraisers; like all visions this grand, it has become an ongoing project intended to create results years from now. My job is to lay the ground work and protocol so youths can transition into the real world utilizing their talents.

NUG: I know it is a tough subject and one you don’t like to talk about, but I know you get a lot of inspiration from your brother who passed away.

Can you tell us a little about what happened and how this affected you?

AERO: My younger brother, Emery Kauanui, passed due to a combination of alcohol and ignorance. I thought long and deep about unleashing my thoughts on the walls around the city and feeding off of seeing people’s reactions or sparks of interest. Instead I opened a way to communicate my thoughts through a more strategic vehicle, one

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noble enough to make my existence echo for eternity in the minds of generations to come. I call it BCE -Blubber Colors 2nd Edition, titled “Magic”.

It’s the world’s first ECO friendly spray paint. This way every aerosol artist will feel my pain and joy when they create their artwork without harming the environment. That is one demonstration of the many ways my brother’s death made me re-think my A.E.R.O. equation of being alive on this planet and my legacy.

NUG: Your murals are so massive. Is there any other way that people can purchase Caleb Aero art in smaller forms?

AERO: Thanks! Massive is why I fell in love with this artistic medium, when you’re a kid things are 10x larger and 10x more inspirational. I never thought about offering smaller prints until recently.

Small paintings require no body movement, I hate sitting still, secondly small paintings are painted in studios, I hate being indoors, so there are some reasons why I don’t paint small. Small paintings sit in homes for only homeowners and friends of the tenants to enjoy. The walls on the street welcome all race and cultures, public walls do not close after hours or open before hours, public walls will be seen 1,000,000 to 1 over a small painting if properly placed in a high traffic area. I didn’t become a well known artist by making small paintings that sit in a small room. I create paintings for everyone, and I still can’t find a wall big enough to get that message across. I’m sure I’ll break soon and create mini prints to entertain kids.

NUG: What’s up with your signature characters “The Grunts” I see them everywhere! Can you tell us a little about how they came to be?

AERO: The Grunts AKA Poop Squad is on hold till the script is complete, so for now, you’ll catch them popping up around as a pre-introduction to how we plan to release them as an animation. I had a lot of grunts in my life and in dealing with every negative situation, I decided to manifest a fun cartoon character to help reflect on those disgruntled moments. Life is art and we create grunts after every meal, so Grunts demonstrate the artist in everyone, whether we like it or not.

Gotta have a daily dosage of humor to keep the soul warmed up before starting a day.

NUG: How about the glass? Hand Blown pipes next? Tell us how you got into that!

AERO: Working on a limited edition of custom Sherlock standing bubblers with Washington glass blower DOC. Together we are designing five limited pieces to showcase at the Champs and A.G.E. trade show in Las Vegas this March 2nd-4th 2010. Available through HolyWatersstyle.com, who linked us up and gave me a chance to use my graffiti influence on some glass sculptures. The Aero Art Toobz was a medical marijuana collection concept for cancer patients to utilize the most sophisticated and artistically designed smoking tools to date. Glass itself is such a fun medium, and the chemistry is another fun aspect to research. There will be lots of time to be Aero the glass blower, for now, I’m still really learning what not to ignite.

NUG: Caleb, again I want to thank you for

your time. Please tell us about all the events you have coming up and where our readers can see you next. Also, give any shout outs you would like to and tell us what to look for next.

AERO: Thanks again for sharing my dream with your readers; I appreciate any feedback or concerns about the aerosol art movement. Feel free to visit our sites and get a feel of this movement weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got going.

Where to find more information on Caleb Aero and his ventures: www.aerosolarts.com www.blubbercolors.com www.seedlessclothing.com www.photonlightboards.com

PHOTO: Caleb in front of the Berlin Wall

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It’s almost springtime, meaning it’s time to wake up, get involved and spring back into action. The earth is coming back to life again and now is the time to renew, recharge and freshen up the world around us. Springtime brings a variety of new life to the earth, and food is high on the list. Although the diversity might not be as high as it is in the summer and fall, there are still an excellent number of selections that are most tasteful in the spring. Of course, with spring comes the celebration of St Patrick’s Day, which has a tendency for people to have tons of fun! Some patients are susceptible to the cough and flu season, and arthritic pain flares up. So we had to include a few remedies, fresh spring salads and a few traditional Irish dishes with our medicinal twist!

Continuing from last month on the benefits of adding hemp to your life, here are more benefits. Hemp seed has one of the maximum concentrations of polyunsaturated fats and an ultimate balance of Omega-6 and Omega-3 essential fatty acids. Hemp contains 54.4% linoleic acid (Omega-6), 18.3% linolenic acid (Omega-3), 3-4% gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and 1-2% stearidonic acid; and as such, is one of only 4 oils to do so and is the most economical one of these oils. Hemp’s ratio of Omega 6 to Omega 3 fatty acids is about 3.75:1, which mirrors the primitive diet man evolved on for 2.5 million years. This ratio of fatty acids has been shown to prevent and even reverse Alzheimer’s disease in animal models and humans (Yehuda et al, Int J Neurosci, vol 3, 141-9, 1996).

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Polyunsaturated fats have been shown to be beneficial for the prevention of heart disease, especially Omega-3 fatty acids. Hemp contains phytosterols (B-sitosterol, stigmasterol, campestrol) in concentrations which are known to decrease cholesterol. In fact, the US FDA allows the claim that plant sterol and stanol esters reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels.

Hemp contains chlorophyll which is anti-carcinogenic.

The phytosterols have been shown to be anticarcinogenic as well (Phytosterols as Anticancer Dietary Components, Awad and Fink, Recent Advances in Nutritional Sciences, 2000, pp 2127-2129). Hemp is a source of complete protein, offering 17 different amino acids including all of the essential ones. This protein is relatively high in cysteine and methionine, which are two sulfur bearing amino acids that are usually deficient in vegetable proteins.

Remember, hemp seed oil can be cooked with provided that the temperature does not go above 350 degrees F (180 F). NEVER use hemp seed oil for frying due to its high concentration of polyunsaturated fats.

Planting season is almost here as growers are getting ready to plant for the next season, and it is important to keep your energy level up.

The following recipes are taken from Mother Earth Coop’s “Special Medicinal Recipes – A Medical Cannabis Cookbook.” Kim Twolan © 2008

RELIEF FOR COLDS (Remedies) 2 medium ginger roots (sliced) 1/2 medium lemon (sliced) 13 whole cloves

2 tablespoons peppermint (chopped)

4 sticks cinnamon 4 cups water 2 grams of kief 1 tbsp honey

Place all ingredients except kief in a saucepan and bring to a boil.

Reduce to simmer, then add kief and honey and continue to simmer on low for about 13 to 20 minutes. Strain liquid with cheesecloth or a strainer and drink one cup of this hot brew every two hours and you will be feeling better!

Note: Use this herbal remedy when you first notice the beginning symptoms of a cold.

EASING ARTHRITIC PAIN (Remedies) 1 cup carrot 1 cup celery 1 tsp cannacoconut oil*

1 cup fresh beets 1 cup cucumbers 1 tsp shelled hemp seed

Blend well in juicer and drink up. When arthritis flares up try drinking one pint to one quart of this remedy daily divided in doses.

Note: Arthritic pain is caused by inorganic calcium deposits in the cartilage of the joints and consumption of too many carbohydrates. *Cannacoconut oil is coconut oil infused with high grade medical cannabis.

SALMON RIVER SPECIAL (Appetizers) 1/4 cup sour cream 1/4 cup cream cheese 1 tsp fennel seeds 1 tbsp shelled hemp seed 1/4 tsp kief

1/4 cup beets (pickled) 1/8 tsp pepper 1/8 tsp smoked salt 1/2 medium European cucumber 4 oz. smoked salmon

In a bowl combine the sour cream, cream cheese, kief, beets and fennel seeds and stir well. Place a cucumber round on a platter and top with a dollop of the beet mixture. Roll up a salmon strip and place on top of the beet mixture. Repeat with the remaining cucumber rounds. Makes 6 curative servings AVO CANNAOIL VINAIGRETTE (Dressings) 1/4 cup cannacoconut oil* 1/4 cup hemp seed oil 1/4 cup white wine vinegar 6 cloves garlic (crushed) 1 tbsp cannabis (finely ground) 1 tbsp fresh oregano (chopped) 1 tbsp fresh sweet basil (chopped)

1 tbsp fresh lemon juice 1 tbsp fresh rosemary 1 tsp dry mustard 1 tbsp Worcestershire 1/4 medium avocado 1/4 tsp lemon pepper 1/4 cup shelled hemp seed

Slightly heat up the cannacoconut oil so it is liquid. Blend fresh herbs and all ingredients together in food processor or blender and mix until smooth. Store in a tightly covered container. Allow vinaigrette to stand at least 24 hours for maximum flavor.

Note: Enjoy with a crisp green salad. A great salad mixture is fresh organic baby lettuces and all the fresh herbs. This special vinaigrette will keep in the fridge for up to 10 days.

K2â&#x20AC;&#x2122;S SPECIAL SHEPPARDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PIE (Casseroles) 1 lb. ground sirloin 1 medium onion (chopped) 4 cloves garlic (chopped) 4 tbsp cannabis (chopped)

7 medium red potatoes (mashed) 2 cups corn cut off the cob 1 (15-oz.) can cream corn 1 cup Cheddar cheese (grated)

Pre heat oven to 340 F (180 C) degrees. In a large saucepan over medium low heat brown onion, garlic and sirloin together until meat is no longer pink and onions are translucent. Mix in cannabis with meat mixture and pour into a greased casserole dish. Add corn and cream corn on top of meat and layer the top with mashed potatoes and sprinkle cheese on top of mashed potatoes. Bake at 340 degrees for 45 minutes to 55 minutes. Let sit for 5 minutes before cutting. Serves 6 to 8 patients.

Note: This is a great comfort food, easily digested and loved by most patients.

Please remember, be extra kind and respectful to each other, and do your part to promote peace and cultivate awareness in our community.

Wishing you a hempy journey to a healthier you!

Peace & Love Kim

What Type of Growing Medium Do You Grow With?

By: The Guru

Have you ever heard of or tried using coco coir or coco peat? Coco peat comes from the coconut.

It is left over raw material from the process of stripping the fibers off of the outer shell of the coconut. The first record of coco peat being used dates back to the 11th century when the Arabian Traders experimented with it. In 1290, Marco Polo described the process of extracting the fibers from coconuts.

The next uprising of coco peat for horticulture was in 1862 when John Lindeley, botanist, gardener and Secretary of the Royal Horticultural Society introduced coco peat into the English horticultural industry. But this time, they had serious problems with poor quality and harmful build ups in the coco. The EC levels and the harmful levels of salts and other contaminants made its use die off again in popularity.

Over 100 years later, and due to new technology, coco was once again turned into a valuable growing medium for horticulture. Canna was the first to introduce an RHP certified coco to the market.

Canna has become a pioneer in the coco growing method and has been using coco peat since about 1995. Canna Coco was first introduced to the German market place and it took off from there. It has also become really popular in the Netherlands. Canna Coco and their Coco A/B nutrients have made coco a big hit among growers and it has now reached markets worldwide.

Before coco was used for horticulture it was nothing but the waste from stripping the fibers from coconut shells. There were mountain size stock piles of this waste in countries like Sri Lanka and India. By developing methods to treat the coco, it has turned a waste product into a highly valuable horticultural growing medium. Canna has been a forerunner in this movement from the beginning. It has turned a negative into a positive and created thousands of jobs for these countries; creating a whole new industry while simultaneously helping the local economies.

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and advantages to us on earth. As natural filters for water, it is estimated that peatlands filter 10% of the earth’s freshwater. Also, the highly acidic conditions of peat moss result in very slow decay allowing scientists to use these bogs for scientific data on the earth’s past. They can tell what the climate was and how it has changed by observing vegetation and dead wildlife found in the peatlands.

Best of all coco is 100% natural and is an environmentally friendly product.

Coco has many favorable properties and qualities that make it an ideal choice for growing.

These characteristics include ease of rooting, the large water-retaining capacity, good drainage, and the high stability of the coco material. Root systems seem to love the coco medium, as they grow an abundance of fine hairy roots that appear to just burst into the coco.

Watering coco is a lot easier than most mediums. Water it well, with about a 10% run off out of the bottom of your container. This is important. It is like the saying goes “out with the old, in with the new”. Each watering pushes the old nutrients out and replaces it with the new nutrients. A 10% run off also ensures that there is no nutrient salt build up in the coco medium.

Often people water way too frequently. Let the coco dry out about 80% or so before you water again. They only need to be watered 1-2 times per day, but this can vary due to environmental conditions, nutrient uptake, and type of container or pot you’re using.

Another main characteristic of coco is that it has a high, but relative Cation-Exchange Capacity.

This means that the medium has the ability to hold and retain certain nutrients vigorously, and in turn has special nutrient requirements. The nutrients must be supplied in a special form that remains available to the plant. Due to these special characteristics and a special pre-buffering process, it is possible to combine vegetative and flowering nutrients into one nutrient mix. The medium and the plant control which nutrients are supplied to the plant, at what amounts, and what times. For growers it makes it nice to not have two different nutrients to switch from, grow to bloom.

Coco is about the only medium that this applies to and works with.

Not all coco is the same even though it all comes from the coconut. The process is what makes the difference, how it is treated and how it is cleaned.

Back in early 2000, there was a shortage of raw material coco due to the popularity and demand for it by soil companies using it as an additive in soil mix. This resulted in growers purchasing raw material from unknown sources and led to a lot of crop loss. The suppliers were taking raw material, collecting it off the dirt

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ground, and not properly washing or treating it.

Also, the salt in the ocean air can get into the coco and that can result in deadly high levels of salt in the coco, creating EC levels as high as 3.2 right out of the bag. By not controlling the harvesting and treatment of coco, it is susceptible to all sorts of contaminants that can cause crop damage.

Brands of coco vary in quality quite a bit, but Canna ensures their quality every time.

One way they do this is by controlling harvesting and having contracts with only select growers.

Also, they do not steam their coco like many others do. This kills off anything beneficial that naturally occurs in the coco. Canna ages the coco to a certain time, ensuring the Trichoderma fungi is still naturally in the coco, which is a great benefit to the plant and rooting cycles. This also helps fight off other molds and diseases. A high quality coco is essential for a good grow, and Canna Coco has always set the standard by offering the best quality coco on the market.

There are many other growing mediums that you can pick from, I prefer to use one that is simplest to use, with the least amount of maintenance, and most resistant to diseases and pests in the garden. From the first time I used coco, I did not want to use anything else. The results are great, the maintenance is easier, and overall it produces a very bountiful harvest.

Peat moss is another medium that can be used in hydroponics and as a soil amendment.

Many growers think that it is better simply because it is a bit cheaper than coco. But cheaper is usually not better, especially in quality and its effects on the environment. Peat moss develops in a “peat bog” or “peatland” which is a special type of wetland on which decomposing moss has accumulated to a depth of at least 16 inches. At a rate of 1/25th of an inch per year for peat to accumulate, it has taken a very long time for these peatlands to develop naturally. Only about 3% of the world’s surface is made up of peatlands.

By mining and stripping this natural resource, we are destroying an eco system that is considered by some scientists to be as important as our rain forests. Peatlands are the earth’s natural lungs, and filters our air quality and harmful gas emissions. They have many useful purposes

Perlite is another popular growing medium, as well as an amendment to soil and soilless mixes. Perlite is a generic name for ‘naturally occurring siliceous rock’. The unique characteristic of perlite is that when heated up to 1600F degrees and combined with water, this crude rock pops like popcorn; it forms thousands of tiny bubbles which create air pockets in the rock. It is very cheap to purchase perlite, and it is lightweight, making it easy to handle. But it is messy. When you are finished harvesting, you must dispose of perlite and it ends up everywhere, including our landfills. Over time, perlite will hold in harmful pathogens, as it is not an organic decomposing material. Also, the fuel that it takes to heat up this rock creates additional carbon dioxide in our atmosphere.

Rockwool is also a medium that works well for hydroponics. Rockwool is a generic name for ‘insulation’. It is made from heating and melting natural basalt rocks and chalk to 3000F degrees. The flowing lava is blown and spun by machines into chambers, and eventually into large slabs. Then it is cut to the required sizes. But once again, by using a large furnace you are releasing lots of harmful carbon gases into the atmosphere, and worst of all, if not recycled, it is going to end up in the ground and take a long time to breakdown.

Coco is a natural renewable resource and is a good amendment to the earth. It breaks down, decomposing into the earth naturally. The only harmful gases created from coco is in the transportation of it.

The harvesting of coconuts does not strip the earth of any natural resources that can’t be replenished. But the environmental benefits that coco offers is just part of it.

Plants are happy and grow very well in coco. From beginners to experts, coco is very easy to get accustomed to, and with great success. The rate of people using coco for gardening is increasing rapidly every year. I recommend that every grower at least TRY growing with coco. If you have the same success as I and many others have had, you may never use anything else again!

If you’re in San Diego, go see IGS (IGShydro.com) in Pacific Beach. They carry the only full line of Canna products in San Diego and they will also give you a free DVD on how to use Canna Coco.

UC Studies Show Marijuana Has Therapeutic Value, Reports to Legislature

By Debra Kain First results in United States in 20 years from clinical trials of smoked cannabis Researchers from the University of California’s Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research (CMCR) have found “reasonable evidence that cannabis is a promising treatment” for some specific, pain-related medical conditions. Their findings, presented today to the California legislature and public, are included in a report available on the CMCR web site at http://www.cmcr.ucsd.edu.

“We focused on illnesses where current medical treatment does not provide adequate relief or coverage of symptoms,” explained CMCR director, Igor Grant, MD, Executive Vice-Chair of the Department of Psychiatry at the UCSD School of Medicine. “These findings provide a strong, science-based context in which policy makers and the public can begin discussing the place of cannabis in medical care.”

Researchers have completed five scientific clinical trials, with more in progress. These studies showed that cannabis can be helpful in easing pain in selected syndromes caused by injury or diseases of the nervous system and possibly for painful muscle spasms due to multiple sclerosis.

“These scientists created an unparalleled program of systematic research, focused on science-based answers rather than political or social beliefs,” said Senator John Vasconcellos, original author of The Medical Marijuana Research Act of 1999 (SB847) which led to the creation of the CMCR. Study results have been published in high-impact medical journals, garnering national and international attention which prompted leading experts to come together and foster scientific dialog on the possible uses of cannabis as a therapeutic agent. More study will be necessary to figure out the mechanisms of action and the full therapeutic potential of cannabinoid compounds, according to the UC researchers.

About The Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research: The CMCR was created in 2000 (through the passage of SB847) to conduct clinical and pre-clinical trials of cannabinoids, including smoked marijuana, to provide evidence, one way or the other, to answer the question “Does marijuana have therapeutic value?” The program’s purpose is to oversee objective, highquality, medical research that would enhance understanding of the efficacy and adverse effects of marijuana as a pharmacological agent. The project was never to be construed as encouraging or sanctioning the social or recreational use of marijuana.

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http://www.cmcr.ucsd.edu

When Ivy League classics professor Bill Kincaid receives news of the murder of his estranged identical twin brother, Brady (both played by two-time Academy Award® nominee Edward Norton), in a pot deal gone bad, he leaves the world of Northeastern academia to travel back to his home state of Oklahoma. Upon arrival, he finds that reports of his brother’s death are greatly exaggerated, and he’s soon caught up in the dangerous and unpredictable world of drug commerce in the backwaters of the Southwest.

In the process, he reconnects with his eccentric mother (Academy Award® winner Susan Sarandon), meets a wise and educated young woman who has bypassed academia in favor of the gentler rhythms of life (Keri Russell), and unwittingly helps his troubled brother settle a score with a pernicious drug lord (Academy Award® winner Richard Dreyfuss) who uses Tulsa, Oklahoma’s small Jewish community for cover.

Leaves of Grass follows a twisting narrative path merging crime drama, drug comedy, classical philosophy and sudden violence in pursuit of answering one of humanity’s oldest questions: What does it truly mean to live a happy and constructive life?

Written and directed by Tim Blake Nelson, Leaves of Grass stars Edward Norton, Keri Russell, Tim Blake Nelson, Susan Sarandon, Richard Dreyfuss, Josh Pais, Pruitt Taylor Vince and Melanie Lynskey. The film is produced by William Migliore, Tim Blake Nelson, Edward Norton, Elie Cohn, John Langley and Kristina Dubin and executive produced by Avi Lerner, Boaz Davidson, Danny Dimbort, Trevor Short, David Koplan, Stuart Blumberg and Eric Gitter.

In addition to having this game of twins, Leaves of Grass is peppered with classical, literary and philosophical references. Scattered throughout are allusions not just to Whitman in the title, but to the works of Shake58 | NUGMAG.COM

speare, Catullus, Plautus, Sophocles, Sappho, and many others. We quote a number of philosophers including Epicurus, Aristotle and Socrates.

“I knew that I wanted to give the movie to Edward while I was writing it,” says Nelson. “I was certain that he was not only the actor to pull off both roles, but also the best actor to play each role individually.

At the time Edward was taking some time off, but I insisted that he read it, because I thought that this might be an exception. Luckily, he agreed.”

“It’s like a vacation for me to act in a movie. Directing isn’t always a good time. I wanted to up the stakes this time and try to do both.

I felt this was the right movie on which to do it because acting-wise, the script is kind of a love letter to the guy who was going to play the twins, and I thought it would be appropriate rhetorically for the director of the

movie to play the sidekick and be there in the frame in support of him.”

“This whole thing is very much an expression of who Tim Nelson is,” agrees Norton. “He’s dreamed up the unlikely interplay between classical philosophy and Oklahoma pot dealers.

“The challenge was, both technically and artistically, to blur that line you sense in these movies,” says Edward Norton on the challenge of bringing the Brothers Kincaid to life. “To really blur the line to where you can’t help but go ‘there’s no way those two people aren’t actually interacting with each other.’”

“We have beards, tattoos, eyebrow extensions - a whole gamut of things that make the two brothers different,” says Makeup Department Head Randy Westgate.

First Look Studios will release Leaves of Grass on April 2, 2010.

When I sat down with Monster Energy DJ Mikey Beats and LRG sponsored DJ Fresh One I knew it would be good. Mikey Beats, known for his high energy and fun atmosphere at shows, and Fresh One, hands down one of Dagos most recognized and sought after DJ’s, have played every major venue/club in San Diego and rocked it with the best.

NUG: Who have you performed with?

Mikey Beats: Countless artists Ras, but the three that stand out most are opening for Wu-Tang Clan (all of them), Z-Trip, and hip-hop legends De La Soul.

NUG: Fresh One same question.

Fresh One: It depends. Some of the places I’ve been blessed to DJ are CRAZY, like Vegas, or the MTV hit show Sweet 16, or the 20072008 winter music conference at the Clevelander for the Elevation Party; but I would say rocking a club with The late DJ AM or sharing the stage with the TEACHER (KRS-1) who always makes you step up your show, as you already know.

NUG: How long have you been DJing?

Fresh One: 10+ years Mikey Beats: 9 years or so NUG: How did you come up with the name Fresh One? Fresh One: I didn’t. I was in the studio with C L Smooth and he gave me that name.

NUG: What do you think of the music scene in San Diego?

Mikey Beats: As a veteran of the San Diego music scene, I have lived and breathed the industry since I was a teenager playing in my first local band and learning the importance of showmanship, crowd interaction and musical ability which I apply to DJing EVERY night I work.

NUG: Does Sleeping Giant Music as a whole have a serious grind?

Fresh One: Our work ethic and dedication to the game for nearly a decade has helped build solid relationships and expand our reputation for amazing work and originality.

NUG: So how did you link with LRG? Fresh One: Dedication and reputation, building positive relationship/alliances with people. We always had a good business relationship.

NUG: Who else are you working with?

Fresh One: We (SGM) have worked with countless companies but 62 | NUGMAG.COM

the two that I am personally aligned with are LRG (urban clothing) and DJhere (Event Production/Promotion), both respected in their industries.

NUG: Top 5 songs in the club?

Mikey Beats: The top 5 songs in the club are usually what’s cracking on the Billboard 100. People like to hear what they know and are familiar with in the club. I like to pop off a lot of Michael Jackson, Janet, Madonna, ATCBQ and De La Soul.

Fresh One: Anything by J Dilla, Reflection Eternal - The Train of Thought, The Avalanches - Since I Left You, anything by Treasure Fingers, anything by The Notorious B.I.G. NUG: Your favorite dispensary?

Mikey Beats: Ooh, that’s a tough one. I have to say Downtown Kush Lounge is pretty dope. In the beach area, PB Collective has great prerolls and an amazing Yerba Mate drink. Dr. Green’s is another one I frequent for edibles.

NUG: First song/record you bought?

Mikey Beats: Dr. Octagon - Earth People was my 1st record I bought as a DJ, but if you really want to go back, I bought a Blink 182, then it was just Blink, 7 inch back in ‘96. I have a bunch of other punk rock 7 inches somewhere too.

Mikey Beats: Shout out to my peeps… Jenny Beats, I love you more than beans! Much love to the Sleeping Giant Music Family, Black Heart Familia, DJhere Productions, Kevin Brown, and Craig Smoove, you all are my people. Thruster’s, Fire House, Dirty Birds, Barwest and Shore Club you all are my watering holes! Monster Energy Drink, Noho Hang Over Cure and hopefully one-day Sector Nine for sponsoring me and adding to my brand.

Fresh One: Shout out to my peeps… My family, the Sleeping Giant Crew, The LRG crew, all the fans that continue to support the music I put out.

As Always Support local MUSIC. We are only trying to wake the SLEEPING GIANT Be sure to check out Ludacris and the Black Eyed Peas APRIL 3 @ SD SPORTS ARENA For music content contact NUG Music Editor: rasmike@nugmag.com

SLEEPING GIANT DJ’S DJ ARTISTIC DJ BEATNICK

AGES 21+

@ U31 Cocktail Lounge

interview

By. Courtney Pakalolo

I’m here with the boys from the band PEPPER who are currently residing in sunny Southern California. Meet Pepper: Bret Bollinger, Kaleo Wasman, and Yesod Williams, three young innovative minds mixed with divine inspiration from the Hawaiian Islands.

NUG: How are you gentlemen doing tonight?

Kaleo: Just fine thank you.

NUG: Let me just say that I am super amped about the album you’re recording, tell me about it. Do you have a favorite song on the album? Can you give me a sneak peek at some lyrics? When can we expect to see it drop?

Kaleo: Excellent. We have been working on the new album and having a blast. This is the first time since Kona Town that we have actually recorded without touring during the process, so we are very happy with the outcome. As of now the songs are still in prep, so it’s a little early to pick faves, but we will be sharing the process of making an album on all of our multimedia outlets such as facebook, myspace, and bandcamp. The most current avenue, the Pepper app for the iphone, will let you see us doing our thing and get a sneak peek at some music and lyrics.

NUG: When and where can San Diegans see you play next?

Kaleo: Most likely this summer. We are in studio mode right now.

NUG: What do you hit up while you’re visiting Diego?

Kaleo: Ha!!! Great question. Well, always Nozomi in Carlsbad, best uni we’ve ever had. Also in Carlsbad, Hensley’s Pub, owned by Matt Hensley, a great friend of ours from Flogging Molly. After a cold surf, it is freezing for Hawaiians, we like to head to Johnny Manana’s for burritos in O-side and we also like the drinks at 3rd Corner in Encinitas.

NUG: You guys are from Hawaii. I’m planning on

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going soon. What is a must see?

Kaleo: ...Ummmm, too much to see. If you’re a chick, meet a local waiter or beach boy to take you around the aina (land). If you’re a guy, do a detailed background check before going anywhere with a local chick, you never know who her older brothers are! Na, Na, only a joke, but Na... really.

NUG: Where was the first show you played in San Diego? Do you have a favorite venue here?

Kaleo: Wow... first show? I would have to say Winston’s in O.B. with Slightly Stoopid or maybe Hana Sushi Bar? I’m not 100% sure. We were extra sauced back then.

NUG: How long have the three of you known each other? How did Pepper come to be?

Kaleo: We all grew up together with the same friends that we still hang with. A lot of us are in Hawaii but it doesn’t matter, the bond of our island and our friendship stays strong. It is pure magic on the islands. Everyone who gets it knows it, and if you don’t get it, get out. Even our friends who have moved on to pursue other ventures out of Hawaii, who grew up there, find local people to connect with.

Whether to talk, story or just to get some pidgin in rotation again. It is truly beautiful to know what we are from.

NUG: Who writes the songs?

Kaleo: Our writing process is unique for every song. Some ideas are complete, some half complete, just a string of chords with no direction. Sometimes there are lyrics, no music and vice-versa, and some are made on the spot at sound check. Music visits you; you can try to knock on her door but she most likely won’t answer. You wait until she is ready

to see you.

NUG: I want to know what you listen to, what’s played the most on your ipods?

Kaleo: In my ipod...currently in rotation is a collection of songs that Robbie Shakespeare put on a jump drive for me of different dancehall artists.

NUG: What is something most of your fans don’t know about you?

Kaleo: That we have a record label with some of the greatest bands we’ve seen in awhile...Supervillains, Passafire, and recently signed Iration. Be on the lookout for these kids, they are the next wave.

NUG: Alright let’s talk nugs. Do you have a favorite strand?

Kaleo: “NER CRON” or the “Don Wesley “ NUG: Sativa or Indica?

Kaleo: What time of day?

NUG: What is your marijuana word of choice, for example: pot, ganja, nug, weed?

Kaleo: There are certain things you need to call different names all the time, marijuana is one, another is money, cash, dough, quid, paper. Another example is girls, chicks, aunties, honey girl, and HOLY SHIT THAT CHICK IS MEAN BAH!!! So call everything by its right name at the right time.

NUG: What is your favorite way to enjoy Mary Jane?

Kaleo: Vapo all the way.

NUG: What are you’re views on wake and bake?

Kaleo: Coffee first.

NUG: Okay lets wrap this up, I could ask you questions for days. Is there anything you want to ask NUG? Kaleo: Did you bring any gifts for us?

Photo Ceredits: Left: Yvonne M.; Center: Joan Marcus; Right: Keith Wang

San Diego exudes a delicious buffet of performance art experiences to be had. I’m writing to shed some light on what I believe to be the choicest nugs of entertainment suitable for date nights, solo outings, co-worker excursions, and of course some emotive inspiration and multi-sensory enjoyment. We are a true arts melting pot with many genres to indulge in. From avant-garde to modern to classical, professional, semi-professional, community, and so on, there are no excuses for boredom!

Modern dance company The PGK Project has been producing top-grade dance events like San Diego Dances, 4x4xFloor, and The Movement. Peter Kalivas is the artistic director and entrepreneur behind these edgy shows that rove San Diego County, sometimes at neighborhood lounges or even hair salons. They will easily leave you rubbing your eyes, and it’s not because they’re bloodshot and red.

OMG… Broadway San Diego is bringing the funny and fabulous with Legally Blond The Musical at the Civic Sadly, the reality is that attendance Theatre starting March 21. More funny at arts events is down. This national can be found with John Leguizamotrend has left our creative communiDiary of a Madman at La Jolla Playties yearning for a grassroots renaishouse between March 4-14 and Night sance. People like you and I will of the Laughing Dead at Mystery Café simply have to start putting our enter- Theatre (every Fri & Sat) which occurs tainment dollars into live performance at the Imperial House Restaurant in art. The product is plentiful, there are Bankers Hill. Its dinner-theatre, so you plenty of seats to be filled, and you get get to be apart of an interactive zomimmersed in an industry dedicated to bie and werewolf film whilst nibbling creativity, community, and liberty for on your entree. all!

Two words: Puppet Festival! Get Let’s get our March previews started. whimsical with the San Diego Guild 66 | NUGMAG.COM

of Puppetry at their annual Puppetry Festival between March 18-20 & 26-27. Another magical treat is The Secret Garden at Patio Playhouse in Escondido showing until March 14.

If psychological thrillers and intimate venues are appealing, consider BlackBird at Compass Theatre in Hillcrest, showing all of March. Another intimate venue, Diversionary Theatre (the nations 3rd oldest LGBT theatre) presents the dark comedy Speech and Debate beginning March 28.

Did you enjoy the musical movie Sweeney Todd? Try catching it live on stage at Cygnet Theatre starting March 18. Surely you recall the murderous barber-ism, music, humor and visceral drama!

There is always something brewing on college campuses. I Love You Because is showing March 11-13 & 17-20 at Grossmont College. Presenting new works in dance-theatre is UC San Diego with winterWORKS! It’s one night only, so mark your

calendar for March 10. San Diego State University will be stoking us out with Tom and Huck and Jim starting March 14.

As for delicious music, SUSHI Performance & Visual Art presents more of their Fresh Sound Series on March 18 with Scott Amendola and Wil Blades performing everything from avant-garde to funk, bebop to rock.

Tickets costs are not that bad. You can even find discounted tickets for many of the shows I’ve mentioned.

More information about these shows and discounts can be found at www.

SDartstix.com. All the monies earned

by San Diego Arts Tix are invested back into the San Diego Arts community, so buy your tickets from them!

“Performance art is the ultimate in creativity. Since it has so many possibilities at creativity, its essence tends to become creativity.” Jack Bowman

Spring has sprung and many of us have been bitten by the travel bug, are suffering from “cabin fever” or just looking for a new adventure. They say in life you should learn from the mistakes of others…or better yet, your own mistakes! That being said, let me suggest some travel tips that I’ve learned over the past 20 years of traveling (and taken to heart!) to make any trek you venture out on be more enjoyable, less stressful and most importantly…SAFER! As Spring Breakers and families alike excitedly contemplate their week-long escape from school, the mundane or C-O-L-D weather, a little preplanning can make a world of difference. Popular destinations this season include Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Lake Tahoe, Palm Springs, Hawaii, South Florida (Miami & Ft. Lauderdale), Mexico, Costa Rica and the many BEAUTIFUL islands of the Caribbean.

recommend checking out the U.S. Department of State’s website (www.usembassy. gov), where you can select the desired country and investigate. The State Department recommends travelers to contact the U.S. Embassy in their country of destination upon arrival so they may provide services for American citizens when needed. *Remember it was the U.S. that imposed marijuana prohibition literally world-wide through the United Nations, so they have the “official” rules on the matter. For the “unofficial” scoop (practice

When it comes to travel planning, the Internet can be your best friend. Once you have an idea or have made a decision on where you wish to visit, I always suggest researching the local marijuana laws for that particular state or country. It is VERY wise to understand the laws and penalties before considering consumption, purchasing, possession, and transporting of buds. For travel within the US, the NORML website (www.norml.com) and the ASA “Americans for Safe Access website (www.safeaccess. org) are ideal resources and both provide links to get the information you need.

vs. theory), I recommend making contact with family or friends that have previously visited the region or contact a tour guide that will let you know how things are done there. A new website that I recently found (www.localytes.com) can put you in direct contact with a local expert for the region.

Befriending a local guide can protect you and reduce costs by offering discounts on hotels, tours, shopping, and dining.

For those truly adventurous souls that seek to explore a foreign land and culture, I

So, you chose your location, priced or purchased your tickets, and now it is

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time for packing. If you plan on taking the usual electronics and valuables you utilize on a daily basis, PLEASE remember there are “HUNGRY” people world-wide that will never have an opportunity to use or own a laptop, digital camera, Ipod or smart phone.

Locals who cannot operate the technology can sell them for quick cash if you leave the opportunity for them to be snatched. This is where travel insurance can be a sweet relief for you to protect your valuables.

Insuremytrip.com is a website that offers competitive comparison of insurance providers’ plans.

One last note on foreign travel… be aware of your surroundings and dress down! Showing off valuables like money and jewelry when home may make you feel better about yourself or get you a date or mate, but when abroad, this can certainly make you a target for crime. Use travelers’ checks or, if ATM’s are available, use them and keep only enough money on hand for a day or two. Wads of cash and “BLING” will get you THE WRONG kind of attention! Local police authorities are not even close to being efficient and tourist crime is an every-day occasion in many underdeveloped countries. Do yourself a BIG favor, leave the stress and unnecessary valuables behind and enjoy yourself!

If this little article can save just one of NUG Mag’s many readers the loss of possessions, freedom or peace of mind…then my job is done! Enjoy your trip and remember there is a BIG World out there…

GO EXPLORE IT! 1LOVE

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1. Joint Venture

2. Herb-Iron

3. Neva Clean

Lisa and Suzanne from Joint Venture in San Antonio TX sent NUG a bunch of products to sample. They have t-shirts, ganja games and much more! Their line of scented t-shirts are awesome, infused with hemp oil or patchouli oil and available in 4 styles in both men’s and women’s sizes. Their Interstate 420 shirts were also very popular with the NUG staff. We all really liked their apparel. I have to say my favorite item that came from these gals was the “Stoner City Board Game”! This is a MUST have for anyone who loves cannabis, and Joint Venture has the best price on the game (when you factor in shipping) so get it from them! This game is a lot of fun and their apparel is original and high quality. They are still a fairly new company, using social networks and EBay as their storefront until their website is developed, but check them out at:

The first local product this month is the Herb-Iron. This little gadget is perfect for smokers looking to get away from butane!

It has a ceramic heating element that heats up in 6-8 seconds. Made locally in Chula Vista, the owner of the company is a patient. He’d tried vaporizers but always found himself going back to a bong or other glass pieces and wanted to get away from using butane to ignite his medical herb. Trying every product out on the market and still left wanting, he decided to create a product that he felt outdid the rest. If you have trouble lighting a lighter due to a medical condition like arthritis, or if you just don’t want to inhale butane with your medical cannabis, I recommend checking out the Herb-Iron. Plug it in, press the button, and ENJOY! For more information or to order go to:

As always, I love to review products put out by local entrepreneurs! When we received products from two different San Diego companies this month, I was excited to say the least! The second comes to us from Neva-Clean, and if you hate cleaning your glass as much as I do, you will dig this product. Neva-Clean is an organic resin blocker that you simply add to your water pipe. Of course you have to add it to a clean pipe, it is not a cleaner!

But when added to a clean pipe it actually keeps the resins from sticking to your bong! It doesn’t have a flavor so it won’t change the taste of your herb and is non toxic, organic, and totally worth checking out! You can find them online at:

myspace.com/getyour420

www.herbiron.com

www.nevaclean.com

03.01 Lady Dottie & The Diamonds At U31 every Monday @ 8 03.04 Rebelution with Soja, Zion-I & High Tide At The House of Blues [all ages] @6 Project: Out of Bounds with Shoreline Rootz At Belly Up @ 9 Heavy Glow At The Stage @ 9 New Boys At Club Deco @ 9 03.05 Rebelution with Soja, Zion-I & High Tide At The House of Blues [21+] @ 7

Jet West, Up Root, & The Stir Crazies At Winston’s @ 9:30 Home & GARDEN Show At The Del Mar Fairgrounds from 5th-7th Without Papers with Unwritten Law, Rufio, Death by Stereo, Zen Robbie & more.

On the Queen Mary in Long Beach Cannabis Planet T.V. Show airs every Friday & Saturday @ 11 on Cox Ch.14 03.06 Reggae Brunch At The House of Blues Every Saturday from 10am2pm Cannabis Planet T.V. Viewing Party At 1050 S. Santa Fe Ave. Vista @7 Show airs every Friday & Saturday @ 11 on Cox Ch.14

Luckyiam At Winston’s @ 9 Dubluva At Jumping Turtle @ 8 03.12 E-40 At 4th & B @ 8 Bad Habit At The Tiki House @ 9 The Optimators At Beachside Grill @ 8

03.07 Tribe of Kings At U31 every Sunday @ 8

Mike Pinto with One Drop & Tommy Dubbs At Belly Up @ 930

The Devastators At RT’s Longboard Grill every Sunday @ 10

03.13 Ray at Night Art Walk In North Park @ 6

High Tide & Higher Minds At Cabo Cantina @ 8

03.14 The Ambassador & The Chosen Few At Cabo Cantina in P.B. @ 7

03.09 San Diego ASA Meeting Info @ www.safeaccesssd.org 74 | NUGMAG.COM

03.11 NUG March Issue Release Party Featuring: D.J. Artistic & Beatnick from Sleeping Giants At U31 @ 9

03.17 St. Patrick’s Day

03.21 Without Papers At Dream Street @ 9

91x Presents Pennywise, The Aggrolites & The Darlings At The House of Blues @ 7

Natural Incense At 710 Club @ 9

03.18 Natural Incense with Stone Senses At Boar Cross’n @ 9

03.26 Indie Film Fest V In North Park on 26th & 27th

03.19 Big Boi At 4th & B @ 8

Andre Nikatina At 4th and B @ 8

Junior Reid with Stranger & DJ Carlos Culture At Belly Up @8:30 619 At Second Wind Santee @ 9 03.20 Raiz Muzik At R.O. Sullivans @ 9

National Day of Protest DEA Raids 03.27 Mike Pinto, The Lifters & The Skains At Soma @ 7 Stick Figure At Beachside Grill @ 8 Volcom Entertainment Presents: Year Long Disaster with CKY At The Casbah @ 10

03.31 Stick Figure At The O.B. Farmers Market On Bacon St. @ 5:30 04.01 Flo Rida, The Dream & Soulja Boy At San Diego Sports Arena @ 7 04.02 Pierce the Veil At Soma @ 6:30 04.03 The Black Eyed Peas At The San Diego Sports Arena @ 7:30 Send all your 4.20 events to submit@nugmag.com.

Happy Mustache March!!