March 2012 — Issue #21

NORTHWEST LEAF THE PATIENT’S VOICE

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March 2012

Issue #21

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contents march 2012 Nwleaf@gmail.com Facebook.com/nwleaf

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PROFILE

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I QUOTE (politics version) 23 AND What do the candidates think about marijuana?

edible reviews 41 cannabis Pulled Pork, Apple Sauce and Fruit Krispies

the cover artist 26 About See her other interesting paintings

of the month 48 Device Hash oil utensil works ultra-efficiently

news...........10 bham..........16 pot talk...... 20 cali cup........24 TASTY............43 recipes........ 45 reviewed.... 46 the strain......57

of the month 30 strain Another beautiful bud close-up.

TO HYDROPONICs 50 INTRO A look at two popular growing systems

ON THE COVER:

seattle Holistic health 38 West Taking a tour of this experienced access point

marijuana can help adhd 58 why Longtime contributor Dr. Scott D. Rose talks the facts.

CONTENTS PHOTO BY:

iN A SMALL TOWN ON WHIDBEY ISLAND, PATIENT LUCAS JUSHINSKI wants to open up the area’s first medical marijuana co-op, for which he is willing to pay more taxes and face increased regulation, so long as he can help fellow veterans and patients get access to the medicine they need — but will the city play ball?

Painting by Teddy Daniel Berman/Northwest Leaf

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about us Thanks for picking up Northwest Leaf.

In doing so, you are helping to spread the cause of a natural plant that has more uses than any single plant in the world.

Founded in 2010, Northwest Leaf reaches 20,000 patients authorized for medical marijuana across Washington State and the greater community.

We are committed to serving as a source of information and education, and covering relevant cultural events in the greater I-5 corridor area.

Our goal is to reverse the stigma associated with marijuana from decades of misinformation and fear — and replace it with truth.

Marijuana is a growing solution to many medical issues and should be viewed as a source of inspiration and hope for patients worldwide.

the truth about the plant you thought you knew, every issue. founder & editor-in-chief

Wes Abney photographer & designer

Daniel Berman issue contributors

BONNIE FONG kyle ryder Steve Sarich DR. Scanderson DR. SCOTT D. ROSE

PHOTO BY DANIEL BERMAN

8/MAR. 2012 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

For advertising CONTACT founder Wes Abney at 206.235.6721 or email nwleaf@gmail.com

Legitimate, legal medical marijuana patients should not be persecuted, and we stand by our reporting of law enforcement misdeeds.

We also support the overall cause for hemp, which is a viable resource for a variety of commercial applications.

Hemp is a clean, carbon neutral fiber source that is used all over the world, and can lessen dependency on strained resources.

Look for Northwest Leaf at

your local MMJ access point, authorization clinic and select glass shops across the state.

You may find a digital version of this magazine at www.issuu.com/nwleaf. And be sure to like us on Facebook for expanded content and free giveaways!

Remember, it takes all of us to make the medical marijuana community strong , so do your part & support patient’s rights!

Thanks for reading!

OPINION

>> I-502 destroys the rights of patients under the guise of state regulation. Together, we cannot support it.

I-502 makes criminals of medical marijuana patients, takes away our right to drive and guts protections we already hold today. It will be on the November general election ballot, and it’s important that readers understand just how bad this bill would be to the people involved in medical marijuana on a patient and a provider level. Just say no!

Just say no!

1. THE RISK OF DUI Currently there is no ng/ml level of THC to legally determine “intoxication” under the State law.

I-502 adds a per se limit, and adds one so low that every medical cannabis patient in the state will be illegal when they get behind the wheel.

4. DISTRIBUTION Distribution, while defined in the law, is still one of the issues that has yet to be clarified by the bill’s sponsors. According to the latest figures released last week by New Approach Washington, the state licensed pot stores will have to sell at least 700,000 ounces (43,750 pounds) of cannabis in order to provide the state with the $210 million dollars in tax revenues promised by the initiative’s sponsors. That said, the initiative doesn’t appear to establish any mechanism, either state or privately operated, that would be responsible for the safe storage and distribution of three quarters of a million ounces of cannabis.

If a distribution chain is added to the legislation, will that add yet another 25% in state taxes, and yet another increase in the final retail cost of cannabis? Is this really the future we hoped for?

2. FELONY POSSESSION Any amount of cannabis under 40 grams is a misdemeanor. That increases to a felony for any amount over 28 grams. This is what “legalization” will be bringing us? Increased penalties for pot possession should never be a goal of a legalization initiative.

5. CURRENT ACCESS According to Alison Holcom in a recent posting on the NORML blog, “anyone who is growing and/or selling marijuana in Washington right now — as, say, one of our gray-market dispensaries — can continue to operate after I-502 passes as long as he or she is willing to get a license and comply with the regulations.” We really just don’t believe it.

If you think you can still continue to operate as you are now, helping patients with affordable medicine, guess again. You’ll be required to get a Liquor Control Board license and sell $600 an ounce pot to everyone who walks in your door. The only problem is that there won’t be anyone walking in.

It is incredibly critical that medical marijuana access points remain in place, since they can better serve patients by ensuring standards of quality and will know their products better than a state employee.

I find it hard to believe that anyone in Washington, whether they are a patient or a recreational user, will be willing to shell out $600 per ounce for marijuana, no matter how good it is.

DON’T SUPPORT I-502: THE WORST THING FOR PATIENTS IN YEARS!

BY STEVE SARICH FOR NORTHWEST LEAF

3. THE 21+ RESTRICTION Leaving out protection for the youngest of our community who will suffer the most, is not the legacy to leave behind. Under this initiative, patients under 21 years will no longer be able to “legally” buy their medication. We have no idea if their “designated provider” (usually their parents) will be able to buy their medication for them.

6. PRICING PROBLEM New Approach Washington released figures a couple of weeks ago that indicate the cost of “legal” marijuana from the state licensed pot stores will be approximately $444 per ounce. To get to this $444/oz retail price they made some rather astonishing assumptions.

First they based they all of their figures on the rather dubious assumption that state licensed growers would sell high quality, indoor grown, cannabis at the rather remarkable price of only $68 an ounce ($1100 per pound). In my personal experience, this is less than half the current market price for quality indoor cannabis here in Washington.

This is even falls below the price level of low quality outdoor cannabis brought in from California, which would be outlawed under I-502.

The second truly remarkable flaw in formula is that they failed to include in any profit margin for the processors and the retailers in their calculations to determine an end user price. Will anyone go through the expense of setting up a wholesale or retail cannabis business without expecting to make a profit? When you start adding in profit margins for the licensees, it’s easy to prices could easily rise to $600-$700 an ounce What’s the likelihood that growers will be willing to sell their “state licensed” cannabis for $68 an ounce, only to see it sold for $600-$700 per ounce? I find it hard to believe anyone in Washington, whether they are a patient or a recreational user will be willing to shell out $600 per ounce for marijuana, no matter how good it is. If no one is willing to pay those prices, and patients certainly can’t, how does that support NAW’s contention that “legal pot” will wipe out the black market for marijuana? If I were a street dealer, I’d absolutely love this new initiative. I could raise my prices a modest $50 an ounce and still be hundreds of dollars cheaper than the state licensed retailers.

MAR. 2012 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

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National

fake hs students entrap teens >> In Florida, undercover police “investigations” yield pot busts and felony charges

police officers enrolled at three FL high schools. The cops attended classes, added people U ndercover on Facebook and flirted with other students. An 18-year-old honor student, Justin, began seeing “an

attractive 25-year-old undercover cop after spending weeks sharing stories about their lives, texting and flirting with each other,” This American Life reports. The cop asked Justin if he knew where to get pot, and after weeks of nudging, finally scored. She tried to give him $25, but he refused, saying it was a present for her. Later, police made a sweep of the area, arresting 31 students, including Justin. The lovestruck teen now faces a felony drug charge. It’s reminiscent of the Mass. teen who served two years in jail after offering a joint to another undercover high school student-cop. Looks like they’ll all get an A+ in Entrapment 101.

Tomato trouble >> Mistaken identity for one teen

A

15-year-old boy was charged with unarmed burglary from an occupied building after making off with what he thought was a pot plant from a woman’s kitchen window. The only problem: it was a tomato plant. The fruity crime took place around 7 a.m., in a moment when Angela Cartwright, the home owner, had left to drop her kid off at the school bus stop. She returned home to find the suspect halfway inside her kitchen window, and the other half of his body hanging outside, according to the police report.

“I chased him and I yelled out, “You stupid little brat, it’s a tomato plant!” she said. Cartwright managed to spot the teen five days later, wearing the same clothes as that day — she proceeded to lecture him, then called police. The tomato taking was the teen’s first offense, police said.

The teen told police that he thought he was taking a pot plant. “It wasn’t pot, it was just Walmart tomatoes,” Cartwright said with a laugh.

TOMATO PHOTO BY FLICKR/EBENOZER

10/mar. 2012 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

air force scrambles for pot plane >> Cessna enters restricted airspace and local police make a shocking discovery on the ground

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resident Obama was never in danger, Secret Service agents said, when a single passenger Cessna airplane entered restricted airspace around the Marine 1 helicopter as it traveled between stops in Southern California. Air Force F-16 pilots, which were scrambled from March Air Reserve Base in Riverside, intercepted and escorted the plane to the ground at Long Beach Airport. Local police interrogated the suspect. But where things get really hazy is what the police found onboard the aircraft.

A search of the Cessna revealed 40 pounds in pot, and the pilot was arrested without police arrested incident.“The occupants were held by local authorities until agents could respond to the pilot after interview them, and it was determined that there was no threat to Obama, said Edwin Donovan, a spokesman for the United States Secret Service. Obama was in Southern finding 40 lbs. of pot onboard. California for a short fundraiser in ritzy Newport Beach, before moving on to another event in San Francisco. The pilot will face local prosecution, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement spokeswoman Virginia Kice said. According to the Associated Press, an eightmile radius around Los Angeles International Airport was set up by the FAA, which had notified pilots in advance of the President’s arrival. NORAD spokesman Michael Kucharek declined to disclose how close the Cessna came to Marine One. That’s good advice: always watch where you fly high.

STORIES BY NORTHWEST LEAF STAFF

plane photo by creative commons

Quick Hits!

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percentage of British Columbians, in a recent poll, that oppose marijuana being a criminal offense. 78 percent said that they are not satisfied with the current political response from elected officials.

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age that a Forth Worth, CO initiative would allow citizens to legally possess small amounts of marijuana. The group needed about 2,500 more signatures as of press time.

18 CITIES want MARIJUANA MONEY >> Oakland one of a number of cities using millions in tax dollars to restore slashed budgets

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ith cities slashing programs left and right under plummeting budgets, some municipalities are looking to this country’s largest cash crop to raise funds. And money certainly talks.

Oakland collected more than $1.4 million dollars from sales tax and licensing fees for the city’s four dispensaries. Next year, officials said they will add four more, hoping ro raise revenue. “This is general fund revenue — it all goes into the melting pot,” said David McPherson, the city’s tax admin.

“When you’re making decisions about what to continue keeping or

not, it goes into that decision process.

If you don’t have that money, then you’re making other decisions about ‘Are we going to close the libraries on Monday?’ ‘Are you going to end up cutting a cop?’ ‘Are you not giving funds to our arts and things that help our kids?,’ he said poignantly.

In Colorado, Denver collected more than $3.4 million last year from fees, taxes and applications.

Maine officials levied a 5 percent tax on all medical marijuana sales — but a 7% tax on marijuana edibles.

And in Oregon, about $6.7 million per year is being raised for the state’s health programs by charging

Quoted

$200 per year to remain medical marijuana patients. Even with all the money destined for cities, the IRS refuses to allow medical marijuana dispensaries to deduct normal business expenses, a case highlighted by Harborside Health Center’s, which has 100 employees.

For McPherson, the city’s view comes down to industry spending power. “You’ve got accountants that are working for them, you’ve got all the security companies that are working for them, you have labs that are working for them, you have bakeries that are baking all the edibles, you have union employees that are getting great benefits, you have delivery services, hydroponic stores, doctors get some benefit,” he said. “It’s the secondary market that gains from this, and all of those pay business taxes to us.” Well said.

length in months of an investigation into an Oregon home containing 1,000+ pot plants, believed to be for a criminal operation. The plants, a car and $6,500 cash were confiscated by police.

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number of times a marijuana legalization question has been ignored, in a monthly online forum by the Obama Administration on YouTube.

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millions of dollars that Colorado collected in sales tax from medical marijuana businesses last year, a figure that has doubled since the year before that.

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pounds of marijuana found in a campus apartment at (Portland’s) Reed College last month. The two 20-year-old students were evicted from their building but may continue attending classes, at the drug-tolerant school.

Vermonters know it is better to provide education than prosecute criminal marijuana cases.

-Vermont State House Rep. Jason Lorber, a Democrat, on a proposed marijuana decriminalization measure. “Our resources could be better realized, working on opiate and prescription drug-related crimes,” Lorber added. Vermont spent over $700k prosecuting marijuana in 2008.

NATIONAL the DEA and its law enforcement partners say they’re committed to holding these drug traffickers accountable

el paso official accused of drug trafficking >> County commissioner running for Texas Legislature comes from a well-known political family DEPT. OF DEFENSE PHOTO BY GLENN FAWCETT

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uillermo Gandara, Jr., 37, along with an associate, Juan Canales, 50, have been indicted on a count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute the 50 kilograms or more of marijuana and another count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana, according to CNN. Gandara is running for Texas state representative of District 75, the

12/MAR. 2012 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

Texas Democratic Party reported.

Gandara’s brother and father have all served on the city council or school board in the El Paso County town of Socorro; population: a hair over 32,000. The official was known by the alias, “Godfather,” according to documents, and authorities are seeking criminal forfeiture of the three properties in the area he

allegedly maintained for distributing marijuana, since November 2010.

Gandara’s attorney, Joe A. Spencer, said his client was “shocked” at the allegations. “He has no knowledge of what the government is accusing him of,” Spencer said.

“I have not seen any of the evidence. We’re not privy to the discovery yet.” Gandara was

identified and apprehended during a routine U.S. Border Patrol stop.

His children, home on semester break, were in the car when he was arrested near San Antoniovv.

If convicted, Gandara and the other defendant face up to 20 years in federal prison on each count, authorities said. “Elected officials who engage in drug trafficking violate the public trust,” Joseph M. Arabit, special agent in charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s El Paso Division, said in a statement.

“As this lengthy investigation attests, DEA and its law enforcement partners are committed to holding these drug traffickers accountable for their illegal activity, regardless of their position, and we will not allow the actions of a few to tarnish the honorable work that other government officials perform each day. The residents of El Paso County deserve no less.”

Gandara made his first appearance in federal court last month — and so far officials said he will remain on the county commission as they look at the facts.

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BHAM RALLIES FOR ACCESS JUST FOUR DAYS AFTER NORTHERN CROSS COLLECTIVE GOT A LETTER TELLING THEM THEIR BUSINESS LICENSE WAS REVOKED, PATIENTS FROM ACROSS THE CITY GATHERED IN THE COLD AND THE RAIN DEMANDING THEIR RIGHT TO ACCESS MEDICINE.

14/MAR. 2012 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

BY WES ABNEY | PHOTOS BY DANIEL BERMAN

rehashed

patients voice support for established access point NORTHERN CROSS COLLECTIVE in downtown Bellingham remains open and operating as they await appeal

BY WES ABNEY | PHOTOS BY DANIEL BERMAN

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ore than 50 Bellingham patients braved the rain and cold in a show of support for Northern Cross Collective and medical marijuana access in their beloved city.

The so-called city of “Subdued Excitement.”

“I believe in my medicine and I hope you do to!” local mmj patient Brian proclaimed on the steps of City Hall with the aid of a loudspeaker.

“This is the only thing keeping me alive!”

The rally is a response to the city revoking previously issued business licenses to local collectives. In the case of Northern Cross, which possessed a city license for almost a year, the license was revoked and returned on February 18th along with a city tax check they had sent.

“It came as a letter in the mail. The letter stated the city ‘didn’t know what we were’ and returned our tax check in the mail,” owner Martin Nickerson said. “It was disturbing. Even more so for our patients than me.”

The Feb. 24th rally was organized and staged within six days of the letter’s arrival. With no prep time and a lot on the line, Martin’s patients and staff joined together as a collective voice.

“This was our first rally ever, and we had very little time to get the message to the city,” Nickerson said. “And we had a great turnout! This is a big deal for both the patients and the city.”

In an unusual show of acceptance or, perhaps, apathy, the local police department didn’t even show up to the rally, which lasted over an hour.

“

We’ve had a lot of crying and emotional patients,” Nickerson said. “They are unable to physically or financially make the trip to Seattle for medicine. They shouldn’t have to.”

Instead, Northern Cross provided its own security, ensuring that everyone had a safe display of their emotions. “We are tired of hiding,” a patient yelled near the start of the rally. “It’s time for the city to step up and keep us off the streets!”

For Martin and his staff, the city’s flip-flop is unnerving. They’ve been operating a legal and registered non-profit collective without any legal problems. The storefront location is in the heart of downtown, and local business and residents have welcomed the collective openly.

“We’re very strict on the regulations. That’s why they exist. And we want to follow them,” he said in a meeting after the rally.

With their future pending a decision by the council, both the employees and the patients who depend on them are extremely nervous about this unknown future they face.

“We’ve had a lot of crying and emotional patients,” Nickerson said. “They are unable to physically or financially make the trip to Seattle for medicine. And they shouldn’t have to.”

For now, Northern Cross is still open and helping patients. They’re wrapping up a remodel, and have added enhanced security measures.

From all appearances, they aren’t going anywhere.

“We can go even further than this, further than we’ve ever gone,” Nickerson said to the crowd, still standing beneath umbrellas. “This battle? They will not win this. It will not happen. There’s too much science and public support.”

To support Northern Cross and other area access points call the Bellingham City Council at (360) 778-8200 or email ccmail@cob.org

16/MAR. 2012 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

“I don’t want them to take this away. it’s a good, fair, safe thing. It really, really helps.”

-BHAM RESIDENT LORRIE IRESON, ABOVE, A PATIENT

OF 1 YEAR, WHO SAYS MARIJUANA HELPS WITH HER PTSD.

NORTHERN CROSS COLLECTIVE OWNER MARTIN NICKERSON

MAR. 2012 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

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rehashed

POT TALK Hearing the straight truth about Cannabis law and taxes from four industry experts

BY BONNIE FONG FOR NORTHWEST LEAF | PHOTOS BY DANIEL BERMAN

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erious questions pertinent to all patients were answered at Pot Talk, an open forum for all of Washington’s cannabis enthusiasts to hear a panel of legal experts. The panel consisted of CPA Rob Braach, attorneys Aaron Pelley and Hilary Bricken and State Representative Roger Goodman. Together, the panel was able to present a comprehensive evaluation of the state of medical cannabis in Washington.

The forum started with a introduction from each of the panelists. Aaron Pelley discussed his work as a criminal defense lawyer, and experience setting up access points in accordance to the state’s collective garden model and Section 403. Pelley also acknowledged the difficulty in addressing taxation questions. “It is really hard to be a criminal defense attorney and being able to advise people on the law,” Pelley said. “With taxes, I’m in this interesting catch 22.” Then he punted the questions to Hilary Bricken and Rob Braach.

Hilary Bricken is a medical cannabis business attorney who handles the business structuring and filing for Washington’s cannabis businesses. Her legal goal, she said, is to create strong businesses in the cannabis community. “We want you to have a good business, we want you to last for a long time,” Bricken said. “How do we accomplish that?”

Bricken discussed her involvement with cities in Washington and their dialogue on allowing medical cannabis establishments. “Let’s get you in, let’s get you open and let’s do it right,” she said.

Rob Braach is a Montana-based CPA focusing on medical cannabis businesses. Rob’s message to the forum was to pay all of your taxes.

He discussed the different local, state and federal taxes that cannabis businesses are subject to.

20/MAR. 2012 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

Locally, businesses are subject to the Business and Occupancy tax and the retail sales tax. Even if an establishment is donation or barter based, tax code still mandatesa sales tax to be collected. He read aloud the Department of Revenue’s statement on medical cannabis sales tax. “Clearly, the Dept. of Revenue wants your taxes.”

The fourth panelist was Washington State Representative Roger Goodman (D-45). Goodman spoke on cannabis policy reform at the political level. He pointed to three different parts that could lead to policy reform: politicians, the system and the community all need strength to bring about any semblance of cannabis policy reform.

After an introduction from the panelists, the forum was open to questions from the audience. They brought up a wide array of questions including everything from underground growers to Initiative 502 to rescheduling cannabis. Between the two attorneys, the CPA and State Rep. Goodman, the panel was able to answer every question without difficulty. Braach addressed the tax concerns, Bricken examined business questions, Pelley tackled compliance questions and Goodman helped explain political process.

Many of the issues raised at the forum revolved around access points. Goodman touched on the business liability of carrying poorly labeled edibles. Bricken discussed the benefits of registering businesses as nonprofits. Braach talked about vertical integration with access points to accommodate tax code 280E. Remarked J.K. Honeywell, a patient and gardener, “I wish they talked more about taxes from a provider stand point.” Still, the panel succeeded in providing a comprehensive review of the Cannabis scene in Washington State in only a couple of hours. A week could be spent on the same topics. Yet collectively, the panel was able to answer all of the audience’s questions without hesitation. “You have been so helpful in answering all of our question,” said an attendee at the end of the session. “You guys did a great job.”

Indeed, the audience was satisfied with the panel’s answers. Said Honeywell, “Everyone handled the questions well. I especially enjoyed the parts about Roger’s action on legislation.”

TOP 5 THINGS WE LEARNED IN 2 HOURS BRACH: “For those businesses that haven’t been paying sales tax I would expect audits.

PELLEY: “I can’t tell you not to pay taxes - but if you do, it would certainly be exhibit A in a federal case.”

BRICKEN: “Moratorium vs. litigation is not a good option. Smart regulation is good for the city and for you too!”

BRACH: “If you aren’t cognitive of tax issues [as an access point owner] your business result will be death.”

GOODMAN: “At the salad bars and in the hallways, I’m doing my job trying to create change and reform.”

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Spartan attendance didn’t deter from the information sharing Rep. Roger Goodman speaks out against I-502 as part of his campaign for Congress; Attorney Hilary Breckin discusses how to stay legal as an access point owner today; Criminal defense attorney Aaron Pelley urged phrasing questions as hypotheticals.

We want you to have a good business, we want you to last for a long time,” attorney hilary Bricken said. “so How do we accomplish that?”

” MAR. 2012 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

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and i quote

Candidates on Cannabis

2012 REPUBLICAN PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES MITT ROMNEY, NEWT GINGRICH, RICK SANTORUM AND RON PAUL

Mitt

Rick

People talk about medicinal marijuana. And you know, you hear that story that people who are sick need medicinal marijuana.

Well, yeah, I admitted you know, back when I was running

But marijuana is the entry drug for people trying to get kids hooked on drugs. I don’t want medicinal marijuana; there are synthetic forms of marijuana that are available for people who need it for prescription. Don’t open the doorway to medicinal marijuana.

July 25, 2007, Town Hall, Bedford, NH

Newt I have made the decision that I love our children enough that we will kill you if you do this.

On proposed 1996 Drug Importer Death Penalty Act

See, when I smoked pot it was illegal, but not immoral.

Now, it is illegal and immoral. The law didn’t change, only the morality.

That’s why you get to go to jail and I don’t.

Aug. 8, 1996, Wall Street Journal

for the Senate, that when I was in college that I smoked pot and that was something that I did when I was in college. It was something that I’m not proud of, but I did. And said it was something that I wish I hadn’t done. But I did and I admitted it. I would encourage people not to do so. It was not all it’s made up to be.

Aug. 31, 2011, Piers Morgan Tonight

Ron I’d stop them. I wouldn’t do them because it’s unconstitutional.

On ending federal raids of marijuana clinics Aug. 10, 2007, Wired Magazine

If a question comes up, I can very easily get into the insanity of letting a cancer patient die without allowing them access to medical marijuana and into the insanity of abolishing the right to grow hemp - an industrial product!

2007 Interview, Austin Chronicle

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REHASHING

HIGH TIMES MEDICAL CANNABIS CUP

BY BONNIE FONG FOR NORTHWEST LEAF

IF THERE IS ONE PLACE TO HOST AN OUTDOOR CANNABIS EVENT in the middle of winter, its gotta be Los Angeles. The sun was shining and there­was not a single cloud in the sky. Which makes the first annual High Times Medicinal Cup, last February, at the LA Center Film Studios, one very interesting trip, indeed.

Y

ou had to be 18 years or older to enter the twoday event at the LA Center Studios, a film production studio based in West Los Angeles. Tickets went for between $40 and $100 depending on the number of days you spent there — and how much schwag you wanted.

What distinguishes the LA Cannabis cup from its Euro counterpart, the Amsterdam Cup (see the December 2011 issue at issuu.com/nwleaf ), was the patrons’ inability to vote in the cup. The medical cannabis was judged by an undisclosed panel of expert and celebrity judges

— so our ticket price was solely for the expo experience.

The expo consisted of four main areas, including “nonprofit alley,” which had CA NORML, the Silver Tour area, and all four 2012 California marijuana initiatives. The pleasant, almost alien message among the nonprofit section was to sign all four initiatives. “You don’t have to choose one initiative to sign” said Debby Goldsberry of Sensible California. “Sign them all!”

The main section of the expo had several food trucks and about twenty non-medical cannabis related booths.

24/MAR. 2012 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

PHOTOS COURTESY HEMP PRESS

Grassroots California sold their official High Times Cannabis Cup merchandise.

There was even a medical recommendations booth where patrons could obtain their medical marijuana recommendation right there at the event.

The medication area had surprises: Ganja Juice had their medicated smoothie product to sample out. Hitman glass had their revolutionary dabbing “borsch” pieces on display to test out (and to be sold for upwards of only $6,000).

Several dispensaries offered patients $40 eighths and $5 dabs. This was a different feature from other cannabis events I’ve been to. Most expos strictly prohibit the sale of cannabis.

A crowd formed around the Steephill’s lab booth inside the medication area. With their Quantacann machine onsite, Steephill was conducting free cannabis testing on the spot.

The Quantacann cannabis

analysis machine is known for delivering rapid results, taking just 80 seconds. They tested over 140 samples brought by patrons of the Cup. “Its been exciting to see the different types of cannabis that are available in the Los Angeles region,” said Steephill’s Wilson Linker. The average for the weekend was 15.44% THC. The highest was 20.20% THC, he said.

High Times presented an array of informational panels at the event. I was fortunate enough to attend the legal panel and the cultivation panel.

Debby Goldsberry from United Cannabis Collective, 280E specialist Liana Held from Liana Limited, and Los Angeles lawyers James Devine and Jay Leiderman participated in a discussion of the current legal environment of the cannabis industry in California and the nation.

They also broke down California’s competing cannabis initiatives, state vs. federal law, and dispensary taxation with

280E. The main message of the panel was if you choose to enter the cannabis business, consult an attorney to fully comprehend the risks, and retain a lawyer before you get in trouble.

The cultivation panel had Swerve from the Cali Connection, Rick Pfrommer from Harborside Health Center and was facilitated by Danny Danko of High Times. They discussed everything from best growing practices and methods, to watering techniques and buying appeal. Pfrommer discussed his affinity for outdoor grown cannabis. “I don’t smoke anything else, personally. What is a better source of light than the sun?” It was an interesting assertion to this Seattle smoker.

The indoor panels were a nice break to the outdoor medication area. Everyone was dabbing hash oil with glass pieces or borsches.

It seemed as if no one was smoking joints or bowls. While I was at the expo, I must have smoked at least a gram of oil a day, and I passed half the time! California is known for its hash oil scene, and it was apparent at the Cup. Many of the dispensaries in the medication area were only selling hash oil. One offered over a dozen varieties of BHO at the event for $30/gram.

“We have over 25 different oils at A2C2,” said Dave Hodges, founder of A2C2.

“We’re trying to get to 31 flavors like Baskin-Robbins.”

Harborside’s Pfommer differed in his opinion of the oil scene, during the cultivation panel talk that day.

“All of the hash oil is out of control. God made cannabis to

While I was at the expo, I must have smoked at least a gram of oil a day, and still passed on it half the time! be used as a plant,” Pfommer said.

“We should use it as such. It’s like cocaine. Coca leaves can be used responsibly. It becomes dangerous when you concentrate it into cocaine,” he added.

MAPS (Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies) had an art gallery on the second floor of LA Studios.

The art gallery was a nice space to sit after taking one too many

dabs and enjoy some beautiful, psychedelic art pieces. MAPS also offered a tea service for a small fee to wishing to spend a little more time upstairs.

Fronting the gallery was a wide outdoor deck for people to enjoy a smoke and the LA sunset. There I found several of Seattle Hempfest’s organizers.

Kevin Black, Eve Lentz and Alison Bigelow all enjoyed a

good Seattle Hempfest smoke with me. It was a great time for patients from across the region.

Overall, the Los Angeles Cannabis Cup was a well-run, well-attended, beautiful outdoor event in the middle of winter.

It was classic California: lots of people, lots of concentrates and some really expensive smoking devices to examine and hold (carefully). What. A. Trip. mar. 2012 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

/25

COVER ARTIST

Budding Painter

BY WES ABNEY

TALKING WITH TEDDY, THE ARTIST RESPONSIBLE for these insanely detailed marijuana portraits that capture a flower’s unique color, structure and personality. n the world of classic art there’s Monet, Picasso, and Da Vinci.

But the world of cannabis art has been missing an icon, a centerpiece of impressionist art. Until now.

We are delighted to introduce the work of Teddy, our cover artist and featured patient of the month. “I believe that the plant is beautiful.

Not an old hippie illusion,” she said, explaining the basis of her art.

“This is a positive thing and tasteful beyond red eyes and tie-die.”

Though she admits to painting a mean tie-die, the focus is on the imagery and natural wonder of the cannabis plant. For the last four years, she has only painted Cannabis. Each piece is based on an individual strain, which she studies in-person or through research and photographs. This ensures that each painting is one of a kind, she said.

“I think of my art as expressionism. It’s a feeling I’m putting onto the canvas.” Indeed, each cannabis plant has it’s own personality, it’s own energy. Just as our cover shows three uneven, bending colas, a wild cannabis plant will stretch and lean as it climbs towards life-giving light.

Naturally, Teddy medicates,

I

and has a deep understanding of the plant as medicine and tool for her art. “I don’t think that cannabis is the creative inspiration, but each time I medicate it allows the creativity to come out,” she explained. Whatever her inspiration, it works. Teddy is set to bring a new type of art to access points.

“The whole world turns to art to look where we are moving as a society, and where we’ve been. I want this for collectives,” she said.

“I want (collectives) to have a fine art option for display that gives older patients a sense of confirmation.”

Her art inspires a sense of wonder. With more than 40 paintings of this style completed, Teddy’s art is developing in ways she never thought possible. “Before I was doing nature and psychedelic rock art. And things like jazz guitars and huge landscapes. One day, guitars got boring, and I decided to start drawing pot.”

Teddy’s unique artwork is perfect for any professional access point waiting room, and fits well in any home or office. Each piece is handmade, and comes available in a variety of secondary prints too.

26/MAR. 2012 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

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This locally cultivated strain

is a Permafrost crossbred with Blamo mixed into Blueberry and White Widow.

It’s a dank bud, one crossed for more than six years, trying 15 different setups until satisfied with finding this combination.

Now it’s consistently dialed in, says owner Andre Mapp, and the results show in the smoke. Smooth and manageable, with a nice taste and a quick head-high onset.

We like the Cali for pain management. Its indica roots should help, along with a high CBD count that had us nicely medicated for just the right length — no couch lock at all. Hmm, we really like that connection.

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Cali Connection 30/MAR. 2012 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

PROFILE

“

I just want to prove myself.

LUCAS JUSHINSKI, an iraq war veteran,

is looking to open whidbey island’s first medical marijuana co-op in small town langley. he says he is willing to face whatever it takes to gain access for patients, whether it’s increased taxes, stiffer regulations or enhanced security — BUT wHAT does THE CITY THINK?

32/MAR. 2012 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAf

BY WES ABNEY| PHOTOS BY DANIEL BERMAN

LUCAS, AT THE PROPOSED SITE FOR ISLAND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE IN LANGLEY

PROFILE Island Alternative Medicine is planned for a site behind a SMALL laundromat and a store NAMED living green, selling organic foods and natural medicines.

The location has a separate entrance, private parking, and a planned secure front door and waiting room. There would be a minimalist sign out front, nothing flashy like a pot leaf in the window. Each patient would have to be verified and brought through a secure door before accessing medicine. These are all things other access points around the country do, but for the city council, it’s still all new information.

“I want to set the bar high,” Lucas Jushinski said, standing outside the building he has proposed renting for this purpose. “I think the story behind me gives the community something to stand behind. Something real.” But the fight isn’t about Lucas. It’s about his medicine.

Enlisted Experience

L

ucas enlisted in the US Navy in 2002 when he said he was looking for something to belong to, something bigger than he was. The Navy also offered medical training, a personal goal he had when enlisting.

Training started with hospital medicine, then moved to combat treatments.

“I went through ‘Field Medical Service School’ where I learned to think like, and become a Marine,” he said. “Essentially, I learned how to treat any type of battle injury.” Following training, Lucas was sent to Iraq. The next four years saw the bloodiest offensive in the Iraq war, including the Second Battle of Fallujah. The U.S. military called it “some of the heaviest urban

combat U.S. Marines have been involved in... since Vietnam.” It’s a little known fact among civilians that the Marines do not have their own medical team. Instead, Navy combat corpsman deploy with them. With each advance the Marines made, men like Lucas were the first line of medical defense. He spent four years as a combat corpsman with the Marine Infantry.

“When I was in Iraq I was on the ground with the grunts. I was 24 years old and the first and only option for a soldier shot or hit.” While some corpsmen opted to stay in the rear, Lucas never backed down from his fellow soldiers.

“I was always on the front line,” he said, casting his eyes downward. “It was like being on-call in Hell.” For self defense he was given the option to carry an M-16, which he declined.

His focus was on caring for his fallen brothers in arms. During his tour, 40 percent of the men in his unit were injured or killed in action. Lucas was hit by the concussion from an explosion, a scarring experience that affects him to this day. He is left with Traumatic Brain Injury and severe back and bad neck pain. He served four years as a Hospital Corpsman in various Navy

This is about helping patients get their medicine without leaving the island.

34/MAR. 2012 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

hospitals around the world and, after almost eight years of service, Lucas was medically discharged from the Navy.

Returning home would prove difficult.

“Coming back to civilian life was almost harder than combat. It’s a challenge to go from life or death situations back to a please and thank you society. You can’t just flip a switch mentally.”

Lucas said he was also battling depression and anxiety related to PTSD. Worse yet, he had serious physical pain.

Immediately, Veterans Affairs doctors prescribed 10 different medications. Included were narcotic painkillers, and pills for depression and anxiety.

At the time, he was enrolled at Evergreen State University finishing a Bachelor’s Degree. Classes were going well, but the prescriptions interfered.

“The drugs just made me numb. I think the VA tries to help, but that’s all they know how to do,” he said of the heavy dosages of prescriptions.

“I had to come up with my own treatment plan.” That’s when he said he turned to medical marijuana. “If you look and listen the sideeffects of the government approved prescription drugs, they are worse than those of the ‘unsafe pot.’ I clearly know that’s not the truth and it’s upsetting.” He said he feels stuck.

Fearing losing medical benefits and a pension, Lucas can’t talk to VA doctors or counselors about his medical marijuana. But he’s tired of hiding. “There’s no logic in this,” Lucas said. “The US Government gave me the authority and responsibility to both kill and save lives, but I can’t choose my own medicine.”

Langley, wash.

A

fter finishing his degree, Lucas moved to Langley.

Here, he found solace.

His mother has lived on the island for the last 20 years, owning a small business there for ten. Now, Lucas too, calls Langley home.

Over the last few years, Lucas has volunteered his time at several local organizations, including Good Cheer Garden in Bayview, a program that grows fresh foods for the Good Cheer Food Bank.

The experience of volunteering helped Lucas recover, and provided motivation to reintegrate into civilian life. He also volunteered for a program helping children with HIV/AIDS, called Rise N' Shine, served as a Big Brother for a 14-year-old Seattle youth, and put in time with Hearts and Hammers.

“Volunteering gave me that feeling again of being part of something bigger than me. The work takes my mind off the pain and depression,” he said, ensured.

Lucas followed his medication plan during this time. He would smoke about a gram of dried cannabis a day, and supplement medibles for narcotics in instances of heavy pain.

“Medical marijuana eliminates my pain and allows me to focus.

When I'm in pain it's all I think about. But MMJ works.”

He prefers to medicate primarily with Indica strains and has an affinity for Kushes. With the volunteer experience and good medicine, Lucas found success and encouragement from the community around him.

The U.S. Govt. gave me the authority and responsibility to both kill and save lives, but I can’t choose my own medicine.”

Everything was good, except for one problem. The ferry. “There are so many Island patients forced to drive/ferry off the island to access their medicine. That includes me,” he said. “It's either Bellingham or Mukilteo and into Seattle. Both are very long and expensive trips.

Taking the ferry with a vehicle full of marijuana is also not recommended, since, even with an authorization, it's against posted regulations regarding drugs onboard. These are a few of the limitations that have led Lucas to his current mission. He is poised to open the first medical cannabis access point on Whidbey Island.

I want the city to understand and see what I'm doing and be part of establishing good regulations.

Access point plans

I

sland Alternative Medicine is a registered non-profit with the State of Washington, has a UBI number and a full legal structure. The only item they lack currently is a city business license. That application has been temporarily held up pending a decision by the city council.

Ultimately, it boils down to a simple yes or no. But getting there has proven to be more complex than anyone thought. “My goal the entire time has been transparency,” Lucas said. “I want the city to understand and see what I’m doing and be part of establishing good regulations. I want them to tell me what to do.

I want to make this the best model possible,” he said at the meeting.

To understand the issue better you have to look at Langley. The geographical area of the city is only .8 square miles. The overall zip code measures roughly 26 miles and has a population of 4,878 people.

Whidbey boasts beautiful views, great local shops and restaurants and a thriving, tightknit community.

Within this group are a surprising number of medical cannabis patients, and a large demographic of potential patients. As more and more of our older generations turn to alternative medicine, medical

cannabis is the prevalent choice over unhealthy pharmaceuticals.

This dedicated community was present and passionate at a special city council meeting Feb. 18, 2012.

Too many people were expected to attend than city hall could manage, so officials moved it to the fellowship hall of the local church.

On the warm, sunny day, about 70 people filed in — eager to hear the council’s thoughts on medical cannabis. After a presentation from the city planner, officials outlined their basic concerns. Zoning, number of gardens, separation requirements, licensing fees/taxes, and security were all addressed.

“I support the intent of the medical marijuana law, and I also support access points... and that qualified patients have access points for meds,” said Langley Mayor Larry Kwarsick. Even so, the question of how Island Alternative fits into the city remains. “I just want to prove myself,” Lucas said, scanning the crowd and Council.

“What I’m doing is policing myself.

I want to show the community respect and that I belong here.”

Lucas’s legal team also spoke

to the council. He is represented by Aaron Pelley and Hilary Bricken, two attorneys specializing in marijuana criminal defense, and cannabis business law, respectively.

“This business must be regulated.

I don’t know if a moratorium is on the table. But friendly and reasonable licensing and regulations should be,” Bricken told the council.

To the casual observer, the council had a positive response to Lucas’s business plan. The crowd was certainly in favor. Mayor Larry Kwarsick said a moratorium was not expected, and that an answer would be coming sometime soon in the future. While the city works out a plan for regulation, Lucas is stuck in limbo as the fate of his business hangs in the balance.

“Each day you guys wait there are people who are suffering... including myself,” he said in a final plea to the council. At that point, Mayor Kwarsick took time to remind Lucas that “we all have people in our lives who are suffering.” For now, Lucas waits.

Waiting to help patients. Waiting, planning and hoping for the chance to bring access to little Langley.

If you believe in medical marijuana, let Council@langleywa.org and Mayor Karwsick (360) 221-4246 x12 know that they should support safe access for Langley patients.

MAR. 2012 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

/35

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bridge is an access point committed to Tproviding a quality patient experience.

The subtle but easily accessed location makes it perfect for patients interested in privacy. You wouldn’t know it’s there unless you know it’s there, and many patients feel that is the way that medicine should always be.

Once inside, everything is clean and organized, giving a feeling of professionalism and friendliness at the same time. “It’s been a really positive

38/MAR. 2012 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

experience,” said Ted Woodward, on owning and running WSHH. “We feel like we’re working hard to establish our own best practices, and follow the other best practices from the industry.”

The collective serves only one patient at a time, which ensures individual customer service and a more comprehensive approach to providing medicine. Nobody’s made to feel rushed or embarrassed for asking questions, and privacy is protected for every patient.

“It’s wonderful working here,”

budtender Blaise Jewell said. “I love seeing the patients each day. It’s good to know we’re helping here. It’s one thing I didn’t realize before working in the industry — how much the medicine helps people.”

With all their medicine available for donations of $10 or less, patients will get a good value. For medible lovers, there’s a solid selection, including the delectable “medical marinara.” They also have BHO gummy packs for a $5 donation, and delicious homemade cookies and brownies. The snicker-doodle cookie balls

WE ENJOYED THE UW PURPLE WITH ITS NOTABLY SMOOTH SMOKE AND HEAVY BODY BUZZ

are especially potent and tasty, see the picture above.

“All of our top shelf is quality and we won’t charge more than $10,” WSHH Manager Octavia Woodard said. “And when it comes from one of our collective gardens, we mark it down to eight or nine dollars. We want to offer a fair value to patients.” That is commendable.

The rate includes their Taste Budz 4 award-winning Papaya strain, and others like the aromatic

UW Purp pictured. With their one year anniversary approaching on April 20th, a lot has changed and grown with WSHH. There’s new patient-based art in the glass area, and local glass blowers have interesting custom glass on display.

There’s also a large selection of smoking accessories and carrying cases just off the waiting room.

“We are all about customer service, and making sure we have everything a patient needs,” Blaise

said. “That’s the one-on-one model.”

They’ve also expanded to open another access point location in Wenatchee, called Wenatchee Valley Holistic Health. It opened in September of 2011, and is helping patients on the Eastside of the mountains. Next door is Best Piece of Glass, a smoking accessory shop owned by Pam Woodard.

She also has a indoor garden shop at a different location in Wenatchee called Urban Garden

Specialty. “Ted owns the Holistic access points, and I own my two businesses,” Pam explained. “Together we are here to help patients. It’s all about integrity- either you’re about the sale or creating a positive influence.

It’s what we’re here for.”

Have some fun and join the staff on 4/20 for their anniversary patient party. It will feature giveaways, good food and medicated treats. Until then, take a trip under the bridge to WSHH. You won’t be disappointed.

mar. 2012 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

/39

TASTY

Reviews

Medicated Pulled Pork

REVIEW BY NORTHWEST LEAF STAFF PHOTO BY DANIEL BERMAN

After heating up the pulled pork low and slow in the oven (microwaving for 30-45 seconds max would work fine too) we were warmly

greeted with a deliciously tender, full flavored sandwich. This would go great in a taco too. There is not much of an herby taste, but this is no cause for concern. We were feeling a noticeable body buzz within a half hour — and that was with one sandwich — while the container easily serves two.

You can’t go wrong with this solid medicating alternative. We were impressed by the spices and potency level and would definitely recommend this as a good meal replacement option for patients. The only problem might be limiting yourself to a single helping. You do want leftovers, right?

Mad Scientist Meds, by Fish >> $15, two servings AVAILABLE AT: Urban Medicinals — Olympia, Wash. www.urbanmedicinalscg.com (360) 915 - 7102

MAR. 2012 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

/41

Reviews TASTY

cinnamon apple sauce REVIEWS BY NORTHWEST LEAF STAFF PHOTOS BY DANIEL BERMAN

The first thing we noticed about the apple sauce was its balanced flavor — the combination of cinnamon and chunky apples, mixed with just the right amount of herb taste, was really enjoyable.

The sauce is not overly sweetened, like most commercial apple sauces, making it a good snack option. We haven’t seen a cannabis-infused apple sauce in many other places, so check this out for easy medicating. Serving wise, about a third to a half of the container would be enough for the average medible consumer, but as with all medibles, try a little, and wait a half hour before consuming more for best results & proper dosing.

Mad Scientist Meds, by Fish >> $10, 3 servings AVAILABLE AT: Urban Medicinals — Olympia, Wash. www.urbanmedicinalscg.com (360) 915 - 7102

fruity krispy treat This fruity rice krispy treat is made with six ounces of cannabis butter per bar, which is considered a medium-potency level, suitable for a snack — so you get nicely medicated without getting too knocked out.

M’s Medibles tracks the amount of Cannabutter in their products, and are consistent enough to use regularly at similar doses. They also make a chocolatey cocoa pebbles-style bar that had a nice herbal flavor as well. Also notable: M’s offers stronger 8 and 10-ounce medicated varieties of other baked goods. We like that M’s is giving patients some different options with all these colorful cannabis crispies.

BY M’S MEDIBLES >> $5, two servings AVAILABLE AT: The Medicine Jar & Conscious Care Cooperative www.themedicinejar.com www.medicalmarijuana.coop MAR. 2012 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

/43

recipes

Carrot-Ginger Dip This tasty recipe is perfect for patients because it can incorporate Cannabisinfused olive oil without heating it!

ESTIMATED PREP TIME: 15 MINUTES RECIPE MAKES ABOUT 3/4 CUP DIP

Ingredients 2 TABLESPOONS CANNABIS OLIVE OIL 2 MEDIUM-SIZE CARROTS, SLICED 1/2-INCH PIECE GINGER, SLICED 1/4 TO 1/2 TSP. CURRY POWDER 1/4 CUP PLAIN YOGURT 1/2 TSP. KOSHER SALT 1/2 TSP. WHITE VINEGAR 1/2 TSP. HONEY OR SUGAR

Instructions 1. STEAM THE CARROTS and ginger over boiling water until the carrots are tender, about 10 minutes.

2. BLEND THEM WITH

the remaining ingredients in a food processor until smooth.

3. SERVE IT WITH whole-

grain bagels or grilled veggies for the hipster crowd, while others might enjoy carrot sticks and cucumber slices.

Photo by Flickr/Kevandy

mar. 2012 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

/43

Reviews adhd Generation for the

BECAUSE SOME HAVE THE ATTENTION SPAN OF A GOLDFISH, AND WE UNDERSTAND. BY KYLE RYDER FOR NORTHWEST LEAF

y

rANT

Movies

Bringing tiny dogs everywhere

Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance

Y

C

ou know what else really irritates the ever living crap out of me? Dogs. Not big dogs, those are cool, I mean the tinny shitty little purse dogs people keep carrying around everywhere. Do you really need to carry that it everywhere? Yeah, you couldn’t just leave that piss dispenser at home alone while you went and got yourself a double latte could you.

What would the dog do all by itself while you were gone? It’s a dog, not an accessory.

Do you know what I do when I go to the grocery store? I make sure there’s no food on the counter so the dog doesn’t eat it, and then I go buy more food. And guess what, the dog is still there when I get home, and he is happy to see me. You know why? Because I brought home more food and it’s like a surprise. Maybe people with purse dogs are afraid that their dogs will disappear between the cushions of the couch, I don’t know. Labradoodle? Really?

onsidering how much the first one sucked (yes, this a sequel even if they didn’t put a 2 after the title), are you as shocked that they made a second one? Whose lap did Cage have to dance in to get this approved? But do you know what the most shocking thing about this film was? I almost liked it.

Granted I had to put on my hipster glasses and take the movie as ironically as possible, but still, once you stop taking it seriously and see it for the farce it is, it was ok. Hah! He pees like a flamethrower!

GAME

Movies

Gotham City Imposters (PC, Xbox 360, PS3)

Chronicle

Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning (PC, Xbox 360, PS3)

t

N

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his is a great multi-player first person shooter for people tired of the same old crap that keeps getting regurgitated year after year in the Call of Duty series. Classes! Customizations! It’s a 6-on-6 brawl in either team Batman or Team Joker where you fight in mostly objective type matches.

Some people have compared it to Team Fortress 2 as if that’s a bad thing. TF will forever be the game other multiplayer should strive to be. Minus the hats.

46/mar. 2012 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

ot a lot of movies are based out of Seattle.

Sleepless in Seattle was a sappy borefest and Singles feels so dated it’s not even funny anymore.

Chronicle however offers a cast of rebel teenage no-names who all get super powers before shit hits the fan. They never really come to terms with what the hell getting these powers mean or how they got them in the first place, but the execution is well done and the movie is solid. Now to go find that weird hole in the ground to get me some of those telekinetic powers.

GAMES

here something special about a game with a world so immersive that you sit down at noon and barely notice 5 p.m. KOA:R is a delicious blend of Fable, Dragon Age and Skyrim. Shit goes to hell and it’s up to you to save the world from the forces of darkness in the East. Speed running the game may take up to 30 hours, but if you’re like me and want to do all the side quests, get ready for about 200 hours of your life gone and well wasted.

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The result is an intense experience that can leave people breathless — but still, very, very medicated.

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growtech

Diving Into

Hydroponics

BY DR. SCANDERSON FOR NORTHWEST LEAF

I

n today’s world of hydroponics gardening the number of systems and methods available to choose from can be overwhelming. The resounding question that comes up over and over again is “which system is best?”

For starters, I prefer the question “which system is best….for you?”

So many new gardeners including this author begin their search for the “best” garden systems by trying to figure out which one is superior.

After trying to figure out the answer through many, many (unsuccessful) crops, I realized the answer comes down to two factors: What are your goals for gardening, and what are the static characteristics of the gardening area? Things like room size, equipment or budget you have available, location in the building of your room and so forth.

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FIRST IN A TWO-PART SERIES DISCUSSING FOUR POPULAR GROWING METHODS, WITH HELPFUL TIPS FOR CREATING HIGH YIELDS, HEALTHY CROPS AND LITTLE WASTE THIS ISSUE: UNDERSTANDING NUTRIENT FILM TECHNOLOGY AND TOP DRIP SYSTEMS NEXT MONTH: EBB AND FLOW, RECIRCULATING DEEP WATER CULTURE SYSTEMS Your goals could range from your reason for growing, the strains you are interested in running, the size of the yield you want to achieve and the number of plants you intend on growing, etc. Lastly, I think it’s important to point out that one of the joys of gardening, for me, has always been infusing my personal touch on my plants. This is where your all important opinion comes in. Don’t think for a second that your experience level will entirely dictate your accuracy in knowing the gardening style that will be best for you. At the end of so many streams

of logic amongst various gardening controversies, I’ve often found two or more well supported, tested and reasonable answers — highlighting just how important your opinion is in the mix on this decision.

NUTRIENT FILM TECHNOLOGY Nutrient Film Technology or NFT is one of the easiest and originally most popular forms of hydroponics gardening. There are many ways to set up a successful NFT system.

Principle to all of them is that your plants sit in an extremely

thin stream of constantly moving nutrient solution. A simple way to set one up would be to use a long, thin propagation channel (1x4) with a single drain drilled on each side.

Ideally, the channel would sit above the reservoir on an angle, with one end of the channel slightly higher.

That’s easily accomplished by inserting a 2 x 4 under one end.

A fairly small pump is placed in the reservoir that pumps nutrient solution from the reservoir up a tube into a spout on the elevated end of the tray. The pump constantly pumps nutrient solution into the elevated end of the tray, which flows into the tray then down the incline created by the 2 x 4. At the other end of the tray is a drain which flows directly back into the reservoir.

In healthy systems, the plants will produce massive roots that grow

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into the nutrient film. For that and several other reasons, many prefab systems enclose the grow channel by essentially using large 8-inch PVCtype material that the solutions flows through like a drain pipe. The pipe has holes drilled into it, which fit baskets for your plants and a small amount of grow medium.

The benefits of a NFT system is that they are automated and require little maintenance. Once you adjust your pump’s output levels to provide a flow rate that creates the correct depth of nutrient film, the system is nearly self-sufficient. Because these systems generally run off one central reservoir that is easy to drain, reservoir changes, flushing, and making adjustments to what your plants are eating is very easy.

Another benefit to NFT systems is that because the solutions are allowed to flow freely through your plants these system provide ample options for nutrient choice as they can handle high levels of suspensions and more viscous mixtures than other systems. NFT systems were originally designed for high production food hydroponics gardening and still excels in that area.

Some Cannabis growers feel the limitations of the NFT system when attempting to create large yields from a small number of plants, as many of us do, to accommodate the laws here in Washington. Depending on your set-up, your nutrient solutions and roots may be exposed to your growing environment, putting an even greater emphasis on cleanliness.

That is to say if it’s even possible to emphasize cleanliness any more in hydroponics gardening). At any rate, it’s important to ensure that your lights are not heating the solutions you’re feeding your plants with, since it may be getting constantly exposed to the heat of your bulbs.

THE TOP DRIP SYSTEM Top drip can be created in a variety of ways too. Intrinsic to these systems is that nutrient solution is dripped — you guessed it — from the top. This can be accomplished in a variety of ways. Some sort of drip emitter is placed at each plant

52/MAR. 2012 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

site just above the medium. A simple small water line or a more advanced drip halo ring are examples of drip emitters that are used to receive pumped water from a central reservoir, and then deliver it to the top of the plant.

The water is pumped at a very slow rate. This way, the emitter steadily provides a slow drip of solution above the plant which flows down the medium through the root system and is then either drained to waste or recirculated.

Because top drip can be effectively added to almost any type of growing site, they are extremely versatile. Coco growers can have drip lines irrigated to each growing site in their garden and deliver precise amounts of nutrients at specific intervals and times throughout the plants’ day and life cycle.

Hydro growers looking to grow the monsters (1.5 lb-2.5 lb/plant) enjoy the reliability and simplicity of irrigating larger growing sites while ensuring adequate plant nutrition — even for the largest, most demanding

The benefit of a NFT system is that they are automated and require little maintenance. top drip is very efficient. strains. The gardener has more options when using top drip systems to customize their own touch. One can choose the timing, duration and frequency of the your top drip system by setting the pump to run at the intervals of your choosing, using a simple and cheap multiprogram timer. These are usually available at any big box hardware store for under $20. Some gardeners see the benefit of dialing in their own “formula” for how often plants are fed and for how long. Then they alter and experiment with the formula throughout different times of day and throughout the various stages of the plants’ life cycle.

One of the huge advantages of top drip is that it’s one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to create a drain-to-waste system in hydroponics. Depending on the medium you choose, the amount of

nutrient solution used to feed your plants with this method is extremely efficient and creates very little waste.

This gives hydroponics gardeners the opportunity to use perfectly balanced nutrient solution with properly balanced spectrum of N, P, and K at each feeding. Never again will they be left to wonder if the recirculating nutrient solution your plants are eating is deficient or in excess of some element because of what your plants have or have not taken from it.

It also provides opportunity to introduce some organic nutrients with little issue.

A central reservoir is used in all circumstances, again making nutrient changes and flushes a breeze. Because the drip emitters involve small lines and drip emitters themselves have small holes from which solution is emitted from, they do require regular maintenance to ensure the lines stay clean and clog-free. Without weekly or at least bi-monthly cleaning of the lines, they will often get caked with salts — adding unwanted residual chemicals to your solution — sometimes preventing any solution to pass through the lines at all. This would be a potentially damaging or deadly circumstance for your plants.

This characteristic of small lines and holes also tends to lead these systems to using nutrient solutions with lower levels of suspended particles and viscosity with greater success.

COMING NEXT MONTH: ABOVE: NUTRIENT FILM SYSTEM | BELOW: TOP DRIP

Don’t miss the April 4/20 issue when we review the benefits and deficits of Ebb and Flow, as well as recirculating deep water culture systems. Until then, take some time to think about these two systems, ask questions, think critically and be prepared to learn more about two other systems next month. As always, I’m here to answer your questions and welcome your feedback. Happy Gardening!

Got a growing question? thegreengardengroup@gmail.com

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Op

-S M n e

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behind the strain The Original Indiana Bubble Gum was bred in Indiana in the mid 1970’s and is of unknown origin. However it is believed to be an indica-dominant skunk cross. The strain was thought to be lost until Serious Seeds released bubble gum in seed form in the early 90’s comprised of: landrace Acapulco Gold x (landrace Mexican x landrace Afghani) Indica/ Sativa 50/50.

ONLINE: www.youtube.com/user/drscandersongt provides a detailed look at the full flower & harvest cycle of this strain in 24 episodes

INDIANA BUBBLE GUM NORTHWEST LEAF CONTRIBUTOR DR. SCANDERSON REPORTS ON A POTENT 60-40 INDICA-SATIVA HYBRID

How it grows:

The original IBG is known for its instability

in phenotype. With many years of patience, a few growers report maintaing a stable version of the original, pre- ’92 Bubble Gum. Washington’s access points today are largely dominated

by Serious Seeds’ version of the IBG. Two primary pheno’s exist. One is a fast starting, large central stem with limited side branching. This pheno is generally best suited for Sea of Green gardening methods or environments where plants are groomed to produce a single, beautiful main kola.

The other pheno is slower starting, coming from either germination or from clone, but is still generally more desirable. Expect prolonged germination times and longer veg. times for this strain. The transition from clone to veg. can take up to a week for the plant to regain a vigorous growth pattern, but when it does, watch out!

This plant grows best untopped, producing an impressive center Kola and presents a perfectly spaced conical growth pattern well suited for gardeners with less experience pruning or thinning. 30-45 days in veg without LST is generally enough time to produce large plants capable of ¾-1 lb. yield per plant, with no training. It’s a medium to heavy feeder that grows well in organic and hydroponic environments.

The Genetics: Landrace Acapulco Gold Landrace Mexican x landrace Afghani

Smoke Report:

A super sweet smell emanates

from the jar that tickles the nostrils the way thoughts of your favorite foods tickle your tongue when you’re really hungry.

The syrupy scent is matched only by the sticky sweet layer of gritty, almost sandy looking trichomes that covers the calyx’s and twist and curls any leaves with a thick layer of crystals. The taste on inhale explodes onto the palate with a bouquet of Bazooka Joe flavor. The smoke is smooth with little lung expansion. The exhale intensifies to an even stronger level of sweetness leaving an ear to ear grin on my face.

The Effect:

High levels of beta-myrcene, a

type of terpene, is evident in the smoke and provides an instant head change. We have reached our cruising altitude and you are now free to roam about the cabin.

My temples feel instantaneous pressure relief as I enjoy the relaxingly sweet exhale.

The body high sets in immediately with a head relaxing, hand tingling experience.

My thoughts slowly melt down to a slower rate such that writing this review has taken many, many attempts at completing while medicating with this strain.

Without shackling me to the couch, Bubble Gum provides the relief of the stronger indicas without eye drooping, hunger-inducing effects.

Bottom Line:

nicely balanced & “jack of all trades” type of medicinal effect delivered in a Ferris wheel of pink flavor matched with an “auto structure” growing pattern makes Bubble Gum an appealing selection for PATIENTS LOOKING FOR A NEW STRAIN EVERYWHERE. mar. 2012 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

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health & science

Fighting

ADHD with the use of medical cannabis

By Dr. Scott D. Rose/Northwest Leaf Special Contributor PHOTO BY FLICKR/KURT FALER

T

he symptoms are all too familiar in our culture. Individuals may be labeled as dreamers, slackers or goof-offs. Those who are dysfunctional suffer from lack of attention, hyperactivity, and often, impulsive behaviors. Adults may have difficulty completing tasks, change jobs frequently and experience turbulent interpersonal relationships. Some may even experience periods of agitation or restlessness. More than seven million kids are on meds — and many adults are encouraged to alter their mental states with pharmaceuticals as well.

Some are improved and many suffer a range of harsh side effects.

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are being diagnosed at near-epidemic proportions in this country. Although best known as childhood disorders,

they are increasingly being recognized in adolescents and adults. Nearly 10 percent of kids ages 4-to-17 are affected, and 60 percent continue to see symptoms into adulthood — that’s about five percent of the adult population in the U.S. suffering from the symptoms of AADD. Adult Attention Deficit Disorder. Roughly eight million adults are affected.

Many remain undiagnosed. Many find relief as they turn to Cannabis to self-medicate their disorder.

The powers that be in Washington state are still deciding on whether to add these conditions to the list of recognized conditions qualified for the use of medical Cannabis.

Methylphenidate, or Ritalin, has been the drug of choice for ADD/ ADHD in childhood. But the drug comes with a long list of possible side effects: psychosis (abnormal thinking or hallucinations), difficulty sleeping, stomach aches, diarrhea, headaches,

they get the benefit of being able to focus, without being impulsive or getting angry.

-Dr. Claudia Jensen, USC Clinical Instructor, on using medical marijuana to treat ADHD

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lack of hunger (leading to weight loss) and dry mouth (Here Kids!) In some cases, the use of Ritalin has even led to death. Ritalin can have a calming effect in kids and a paradoxical, or stimulating effect in adults, but in all users, Ritalin is to be closely monitored. Adderall is another one of the stimulating types of medication prescribed. Substance abusers have found ways to use the drug for recreation, which gives an effect similar to cocaine or amphetamine.

As a result, prescription choices these days are often made from the class of non-stimulating drugs, for adolescents and adults alike. With vague names like Straterra, Intuniv, and Provigil, these drugs, too, come with side effects. Everything from decreased appetite, weight loss, sexual problems, liver damage and increased suicidal ideation are possible. There are many ways to approach the patient suffering from ADD/ADHD. The pharmaceuticals are but one, and cannabis could be another.

Many individuals admit success results by self-medicating their symptoms with Cannabis. However there has been little research to date that substantiate their claims.

One researcher has shown that cannabinoid activity can help

to reduce hyperactivity and normalize behavioral impassivity in ADHD rats. (Side note: ADHD rats??) It has also been shown that by increasing the production of a maternal rat’s own endocannabinoids, there is a correction of chemical imbalance and an improvement in hyperactivity of the offspring rats.

Dr. Claudia Jensen is a practicing pediatrician and a clinical instructor at the University of Southern California. She advocates the use of medicinal marijuana for the treatment of ADD and ADHD

Washington State is considering a petition to allow medical Cannabis for patients suffering with ADD/ADHD (and OCD), nearly two years after denying the drug to depressed and bipolar patients.

GETTING INVOLVED! A hearing was held Jan. 2012 in regard to the ADD/ADHD and OCD petition in WA state. The decision will be announced at a “later date” since the Medical Commission and the Osteopathic Board need to discuss the hearing panel’s recommendation. This is promising perhaps for adding ADD/ADHD and OCD to the list of qualifying conditions for the use of medical Cannabis in WA state.

Anyone may petition the commission to add a condition to the list. By law, the commission will consult with the Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery. For more information about this process, you may contact the commission at: Medical Quality Assurance Commission PO Box 47866 Olympia WA 98504

Ritalin is one of the most commonly prescribed drugs for treating ADHD.

in children. “They don‘t have to get stoned. It’s dose-related,” Jensen said. “They get the benefit of being able to focus and pay attention, not be impulsive, not be angry, but be peaceful and relaxed — which helps them get better grades. It’s an important issue.” Compelling to say the least, but there is much more work to be done here.

To study Cannabis in human subjects in this country, researchers must apply for licenses and permits from a long list of governmental agencies. If permission is actually granted, then acquiring the goods to

conduct the research proves difficult with Cannabis’ current status as a Federal Schedule I drug.

This prohibition restricts sale, distribution, importation, possession and use of any drug on the list.

Non-pharmaceutical research money is scarce, and competition is intense for those few research dollars. The vast majority of money for research on Cannabis has come from the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

But even so, it has been done under a Congressional mandate to only study Schedule I substances as substances of abuse — and not ever as possibly

therapeutic agents doing good.

This leaves patients in a bind.

Especially as Washington State is currently considering a petition to allow medical Cannabis for patients suffering with ADD/ADHD (and OCD), nearly two years after denying the drug to depressed and bipolar patients. Other recent petitions, all for mental health disorders, have been denied.

The Medical Quality Assurance Commission, in consultation with the Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery has the authority to add qualifying conditions to the current list for the use of medical Cannabis in this state. The commission stated that it failed to find sufficient scientific evidence that showed Cannabis helped patients with those conditions it denied. They found that no rigorous, controlled, randomized, peerreviewed or published trials had been done on the issues — however there is an abundance of anecdotal

data. The last successful petition in Washington state was chronic renal failure. It was added in 2010.

As the number of individuals turning to Cannabis for relief of their symptoms continues to climb, we need to put the hows and whys of science in place to change policy. Without solid research on the therapeutic benefits of Cannabis use for the state officials to base their acceptance, this may be the next petition to fail. With many regulatory hurdles, it is incredibly difficult to study the effect of smoked, vaporized, or ingested Cannabis in humans in the U.S. So as states continue to legalize medical Cannabis, it will remain necessary to continue to prove the safety and medical efficacy of Cannabis. For self-medicating Cannabis users who feel their use is justified and beneficial, each voice our representatives hear will help further shift the paradigm away from the “smoking of pot” to the rightful use of Cannabis as medicine.

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