ELECTION SPECIAL FREE Center Spread Prop 19 Poster www.WestCoastLeaf.com ISSN 1945-221X • Volume 3 No. 3 Autumn 2010 ALL EYES ON CALIFORNIA VOTERS Important measures on state and local ballots across USA VA shifts course By Mary Jane Borden Media Awareness Project Dawn of a New Era? Voters will be deciding on a number of on cannabis use ground-breaking initiatives this Nov. 2. The most prominent is Proposition 19, to Directive protects vets’ use allow Californians 21 and over to tend a By Eugene Davidovich San Diego ASA small cannabis garden, possess up to one Undersecretary of Health for the Dept. of ounce, and give state and local govern- Veterans Affairs (VA) Robert E. Petzel, MD, ments the authority to control its sale. issued a July 27, 2010 directive to provide Other states and communities are con- Coverage of Prop 19 clarification and guidance on the use of and the November sidering cannabis initiatives. election inside and access to cannabis by veteran patients. Similarly to Prop 19, voters in Detroit, this issue. It states, “Patients participating in state Michigan may decide whether to allow medical marijuana programs must not be those 21 and older to legally possess less denied VA services.” than an ounce on private property. Although Directive 2010-035 prohibits However, as of this writing, the Detroit VA doctors from actually prescribing or Election Commission has rejected this pro- West Coast Leaf photo from recommending cannabis, veterans who use Seattle Hempfest 2010. posal, and the matter is back in Court. cannabis can now participate in VA sub- By approving Measure 74, Oregon state stance-abuse, pain-control, and other clini- voters could authorize opening state- cal programs where cannabis might other- licensed cannabis dispensaries. wise be considered inconsistent with treat- ment goals, without being denied services. Arizona (Prop 203) and South Dakota Hundreds of LA dispensaries fighting closures (Measure 13) have medical-marijuana ini- Prosecutor Cooley’s bid for attorney general worries patients The directive follows a letter sent to tiatives on their ballots. Michael Kravitz, executive director of Veterans for Medical Marijuana Access At the local level, proposals to permit By Jessica Gwyn Gelay, CannAssist.com 18 of 23 collectives are still open, in defi- (VMMA), in which Dr. Petzel wrote, “lf a or ban dispensaries will be voted on in the The glory days of dispensing medical ance of city law. These clubs began operat- veteran obtains and uses medical marijua- Colorado cities of Fraser, Granby, Loveland cannabis in Los Angeles are over. That’s a ing after the city declared a moratorium, na in a manner consistent with state law, and Paonia, as well as Colorado counties of get-tough theme that GOP candidate Steve and are dubbed the “post-ICO” clubs. testing positive for marijuana would not Alamosa, Garfield, Grand and Windsor. Cooley is running on in his bid for Some of the post-ICO groups have filed suit against the city. A first move failed preclude the veteran from receiving opi- An advisory referendum will ask Dane California state attorney general. when a District Court judge denied an oids for pain management in a Dept. of County, WI voters whether they think the The streets of LA tell a different story. In injunction preventing the law from taking Please turn to page 11 Please turn to page 21 one central-city neighborhood patients say effect. This decision has been appealed. The day after the ruling, June 7, LA Feds raid THC Ministry Few emergency room visits related to marijuana Municipal Code Ch. IV, Art. 5.1 governing cannabis collectives went into effect; since Christie arrested, denied bail New national study released use and injury risk, finding, “Self-reported marijuana use in the previous seven days then any entity in the city that is not part of By Don E Wirtshafter By Paul Armentano, NORML was associated … with a substantially the pre-ICO collectives is in violation of the Rev. Roger Christie, leader of the THC Lifetime use of marijuana is rarely associat- decreased risk of injury.” ordinance and may face stiff penalties. Ministry based in Hawai’i, is in jail without ed with emergency room visits, according Most recently, a RAND study pub- In late August, the city halted the entire bond. In the last issue of West Coast Leaf, an to an analysis of epidemiologic survey data lished in July reported that fewer than 200 process after only 41 collectives were found optimistic Christie said he had been raided published online by the American Journal of total patients were admitted to California eligible during pre-registration, and but not charged and felt safe. Early on the Emergency Medicine. hospitals in 2008 for “marijuana abuse or requested a judicial opinion on the consti- morning of July 8, agents from the Drug Investigators at the University of dependence.” By contrast, an estimated tutionality of the ordinance. City Attorney Enforcement Admin. stormed the THC Michigan reviewed the overall prevalence 73,000 annual hospitalizations in California Carmen Trutanich filed a complaint seek- Ministry and the homes of many of its of drug-related emergency department are related to the use of alcohol. ing a temporary restraining order and per- practitioners, and 14 were arrested. (ED) visits among lifetime users of illicit manent injunction to close 125 collectives These findings belie the myth that The Ministry, Roger and others had substances. Researchers analyzed national listed as ineligible on a “Preliminary adult cannabis use is a primary cause of sued in federal court in 2004 to establish data from the National Epidemiologic Priority List” published by the City Clerk’s hospitalizations or ED visits. The reality is their legal right as sincere believers to use Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions, office Aug 25. Judge Anthony Mohr set a that few if any therapeutic or psychoactive their chosen sacrament. a representative survey of 43,093 residents hearing date for Sept. 21. substances possess a safety profile compa- age 18 or older. The government responded by arguing rable to that of cannabis. Please turn to page 8 that even though the Ministry was The study is the first to use nationally engaged in the production and distribution representative data to examine patterns of marijuana, it was not under federal and correlates of drug-related ED visits. Oakland mega-medical gardens plan approved investigation or prosecution. Since the Among those surveyed, subjects who Size worries small growers large corporate interests. Aside from the ministry could not prove that arrest and reported using cannabis were the least like- four licensed mega-grows, the ordinance prosecution for use of their sacrament was By Dale Gieringer California NORML ly to report an ED visit (1.71 percent). prohibits any other collective grows over imminent, the court ruled Christie did not Respondents who reported lifetime use of The Oakland City Council approved an 96 square feet indoors. have standing to pursue the suit. heroin, tranquilizers, and inhalants were ambitious ordinance July 20 to license four The plan calls for licensing four foot- Six years later, the government pulled most likely (18.5 percent, 6.3 percent, and commercial medical cannabis cultivation ball-field sized indoor grows, large enough out the big guns to bust Christie and his 6.2 percent respectively) to report experi- facilities of unprece- to supply up to 20 percent of the flock. Over a period of two years, countless encing one or more ED visits related to dented size. Licensed state’s medicinal pot, by January agent-hours were spent on round-the-clock their drug use. collectives will still be 2011. Each facility would pay a surveillance and wiretaps that captured able to buy from mem- Investigators concluded, “[M]arijuana $211,000 annual licensing fee plus a more than 17,000 telephone calls. The bust bers and do not have to was by far the most commonly used (illicit) business tax currently set at 1.8 per- was conceived as a big publicity stunt and rely on the large pro- drug, but individuals who used [it] had a cent of revenues, but likely to show of government power. The govern- ducers for a supply. low prevalence of drug-related ED visits.” increase to 5 percent under a pro- ment even used a huge Coast Guard C-130 A 2009 Swiss study published in the The proposal, co- posed November ballot measure. military plane to transport the 14 arrestees authored by Council journal BMC Public Health previously Councilmember Kaplan Proponents saw the proposal as a to their hearings in Honolulu. members Rebecca reported that the use of cannabis was progressive measure to keep Oakland on Now Christie’s prosecutors are using Kaplan and Larry Reid, sparked heated inversely associated with injuries requiring the forefront of the cannabis industry and their power to prevent his release on bond. debate among marijuana proponents, hospitalization. generate much-needed employment and Christie is a military veteran with a perfect- many of whom complained that it froze A prior case-control study conducted revenue for the city. “This is an industry ly clean criminal record. There are no alle- out small- and medium-sized growers by the University of Missouri also reported that’s going to grow,” said Councilwoman gations of violence at all in this case. while granting a monopoly to selected an inverse relationship between cannabis Please turn to page 6 Please turn to page 21 Autumn 2010 Page 2 West Coast Leaf Washington moves closer to collective model Evergreen State update two other employees for operating the West Coasterdam Report Tacoma Hemp Company dispensary. A By Martin Martinez Lifevine Foundation high-ranking officer allegedly told Prince, Even though Washington’s medical mari- “We aren’t going to have marijuana dis- juana law allows patients to possess up to pensaries here in Tacoma.” That same 15 plants and 24 ounces of processed med- week, three other Tacoma dispensaries icine, there is as yet no allowance for group were told to close. All complied, but two cultivation. reopened the next day. As of this writing, But group gardens may soon become police have not returned and no criminal legitimate, based on the ‘Lifevine collective charges are pending. Jeremy Miller, model.’ Some patient advocates already are founder of the Olympia Hempfest and drafting proposed dispensary rules for the owner of Sacred Plant Patient Coop in fall legislative session. Tacoma, said, “It’s much like what hap- While multiple-patient gardens have pened in California. Police here are trying been frequently and willfully ignored in to create confusion and scare patients Seattle, that tolerance is not secure under away. Cops are robbing cooperatives to try law. Roughly half the state’s population to force them out of business.” resides in other counties, and Seattle’s pro- Washington’s Medical Use Act was gressive attitude is not shared in even its amended in 2008, but wording that would closest neighboring cities. have allowed dispensaries was removed Tacoma followed the example of from the final bill. Three years later, state Spokane in May, going after cannabis legislators and Seattle civic leaders under- Josh Howard uses chopsticks to weigh medicine at Apothecary Assistantʼs Collective in Long patient groups. Westnet officers served stand that the majority of patients are Beach, where roughly half of the estimated 90 collectives currently open are scheduled to close when the new municipal code takes effect Aug. 29. As part of the new code, collectives are no warrants at the North End 420 Club and at physically unable to manage production of longer allowed to offer medicine not cultivated within the city of Long Beach, and consumables the home of club owner Guy Casey. Forty this life-saving herb. Instead of criminaliz- other than plant matter are to be made in a licensed facility within city limits as well. mature plants were seized. The federally ing and harassing legitimate patients who Photo courtesy of Sam Sabzehzar from MedicalMarijuana411.com. funded multi-jurisdictional task force grow medicine en masse, authorities are included police investigators from now seeking to legitimatize responsible Cal Athletic Commsn still doesn’t get medical cannabis rights Poulsbo, Bremerton, Port Orchard and groups. There is hope that Washington By Bill Murrow Shelton, sheriff’s deputies from Kitsap patients will find themselves on the right County, Mason County and Pierce County, side of the law for once, and for good. Despite its demonstrated benefits, California college and professional athletes still get into the State Patrol and the Naval Criminal trouble for using legal medicinal marijuana. The state medical-use laws are designed to For more info, see medmj-wa.com. Investigative Service. When agents first prevent criminal charges, yet athletes who use it are not protected. Amateur and profes- encountered Casey’s 14-year-old son, they sional boxers, mixed martial arts fighters, and combat athletes must be approved under pointed a gun at the boy’s head, told him West Coast Leaf the State Athletic Commission (CSAC) before fighting in its events. his father was going to prison, and left the Current Strikeforce welterweight champion Nick Diaz had one of the biggest wins of Don’t miss a single issue! teen in handcuffs for two hours while ran- his career changed into a no-contest decision after testing positive for medical marijuana. sacking the home. Officers took cash from Subscribe today: A mandatory CSAC rule bans illegal narcotics, banned substances and performance- the room of Casey’s 9-year-old daughter — Place your ad today! enhancing drugs. Marijuana is not a performance-enhancing drug, CSAC rules state, but $80 from a Mickey Mouse wallet. it “could slow a fighter’s reflexes and endanger his or her health or safety.” The CSAC pol- westcoastleaf.com Two months later, Tacoma Hempfest icy is unlikely to change unless California passes Prop 19 this November. If that fails, it will founder Justin Prince was arrested with or 510-215-8326 be much more difficult to protect athlete patients. 10% off for new Mon-Sun 10am-9pm Don’t burn down your home! members I E Happy Hour Have us inspect and install the V M M-F 4-5pm proper electrical system for you A M 100% X All work guaranteed L Your privacy is a priority M e v e CONSTANT POWER ELECTRIC dic ati al er State-licensed contractor, #835043 Mar oop i j u a n a C SB 420 COMPLIANT 408-573-7123 Email: [email protected] 707-426-5199 FREE PHONE CONSULTATION 2081 Bering Dr, Suite Y, San Jose CA 95131 Serving the Greater SF Bay & Sacramento Areas

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West Coast Leaf Page 3 Autumn 2010 Oregon heads to polls after mixed legislative year San Francisco regulating edible products By Sandee Burbank Patients flying out of airports with sim- By Mickey Martin, T-Comp Consulting use certain sanitary standards in their Mothers Against Misuse and Abuse mamas.org ilar policies should be cautious. Most San Francisco’s Dept. of Public Health has kitchens, and to adhere to the rules set Oregon’s political situation is a patchwork states, even those with similar programs, become the first to provide proper regula- forth for food preparation in California. of good and bad outcomes. There are cur- do not recognize medical cannabis tion on how edible forms of cannabis The regulations clearly state that these are rently no legal sales of medical cannabis approvals from other states. It is important should be prepared, packaged and stored. advisory standards and that DPH does not allowed in Oregon. to know the local airport rules and guide- The groundbreaking “Medical Cannabis plan to conduct home inspections of pro- Measure 74, to authorize state-regulat- lines or patients could find themselves in Dispensary (MCD) Regulations for ducers. The final regulations preserve the ed cannabis dispensaries run by non-profit jail. Patients may wish to call before they Preparation of Edible Cannabis Products” ‘mom and pop’ providers’ ability to pro- organizations, is on the November ballot. travel. A plane with a terrorist scare or that are sure to be a model for other cities of duce small-batch medical foods, a con- Dispensaries and growers would pay a is diverted to another location may require sensible and safe guidelines for food-based tentious point for cannabis advocates in the $1000 fee to produce and sell to registered passengers to disembark and re-board, cannabis medicines. local community. patients. Registered patients would still be which could cause legal trouble. Since California collectives are private To prevent food-borne illness, the regu- able to grow their own cannabis. The ACMM is also actively pursuing membership organizations, “this is some- lations do not allow for cannabis products A separate initiative to allow sales to factual data from claims made by law what like regulating an ongoing bake sale,” that require refrigeration or hot-holding anyone over 21 fell far short of enough sig- enforcement. In letters written to a variety said DPH’s Larry Kessler. Because the facilities. They do permit cannabis-dis- natures to qualify for the ballot. of law enforcement officials and agencies, products are not distributed publicly the pensing collectives to apply for an “exemp- A recent effort to add five qualifying ACMM is asking for documentation of regulations allow for cannabis foods to be tion” for some products, such as ice cream, medical conditions to the Oregon Medical statements made by law enforcement offi- prepared at private homes under strict con- but the city may require a HACCP (Hazard Marijuana Program also failed. Retired cials about abuses of the OMMP. ditions, as long as certain professional stan- Analysis and Critical Control Points) plan. nurse Ed Glick petitioned the OMMP to Responses have been slow in coming. dards are maintained. The proposal also clearly states that add anxiety, depression, insomnia, severe For more information visit the Home-based providers of cannabis baked medicinal products (i.e. brownies, agitation and PTSS. Through three hear- Coalition for Patients’ Rights at coalition- foods are advised that children and pets bars, cookies, cakes), tinctures and other ings it became obvious that this effort was forpatientsrights2010.com. should not be in the preparation area, to non-refrigerated items are acceptable for stymied by an ‘expert panel’ that included manufacture and sale at MCDs. Just a few people who were biased against medical years back, many municipalities were con- cannabis. The one hearing that took public OR M-74 initiative would license dispensaries sidering banning edibles, and Alameda testimony was crowded and attended by By Russ Bellville NORML Outreach Coordinator Both producers and dispensaries County did ban distribution at collectives many veterans who were eloquent in stat- Oregon voters will decide this November would be subject to the same limits the in unincorporated areas of the county. ing the need to add these conditions, espe- whether to establish a state-regulated non- Oregon Medical Marijuana Act sets for cur- Another issue the regulations cover is cially PTSS, but to no avail. Efforts are profit dispensary program for the state’s rent ‘person responsible for a marijuana the packaging and labeling aspects of food- underway to require that in the future the more than 36,000 cannabis patients. grow site’ cardholders (or ‘growers’) who based medicines. They require that edibles members of an ‘expert panel’ must under- Measure 74 would create a system of tend to gardens for four or more registered be individually packaged at the point of stand the therapeutic value of cannabis. dispensaries and licensed producers to patients. This means a limit of 96 plants, 24 preparation and that certain information The Advisory Committee on Medical supply the dispensaries, which would be of which could be “mature” (greater than be clearly printed on labels. Other labeling Marijuana (ACMM) has been aggressively non-profit but would be reimbursed by 12 inches in height or diameter), and six requirements include prominent warnings, seeking clarification on policies that affect cardholders for the costs of producing and pounds of dried, usable medicine. known allergens, the total weight of registrants in the OMMP. A request for an dispensing the medicine, including labor. Measure 74 explicitly protects the cannabis used in the product (grams or explanation about the Port of Portland air- These dispensaries could serve any card- rights of patients, caregivers and designat- ounces), and the date of manufacture. It port policy resulted in a letter from Wendy holder, without limits; no ‘caregiver’ rela- ed growers to produce their own medicine also forbids packaging that makes the Hain, Assistant General Counsel, Port of tionship is implied or required. The annual if they choose not to use the dispensary product attractive to children or imitates Portland, with the following statement. fee for a license would be $2,000. system. Nothing prevents an individual candy. These requirements generally ensure that sound standards are met by all “Marijuana is not seized from a passen- The producers would pay an annual from obtaining several OMMP cards: a producers and legitimize their efforts. ger who holds a valid Oregon Medical fee of $1,000 for the right to supply the dis- patient also could be a caregiver, grower, Although it is unclear what indicating the Marijuana card when boarding aircraft at pensaries and be reimbursed by dispen- producer, and dispensary owner. dry weight of cannabis in a product can the Portland International Airport as long saries for the costs of production. The initiative mandates the creation of really tell about its strength, given that as the passenger is not carrying a quantity Producers could also, for no consideration, a program to supply medicine for indigent cannabis can vary greatly, it would provide that exceeds an amount that he or she is donate medicine to cardholders and non- patients, ensuring that the entire supply a baseline amount and placate fears of lawfully authorized to possess.” profit organizations that assist patients in system is self-funded through its fees. overdose. need. Dispensaries could become their Scientific research to evaluate the efficacy own producers, and producers would not of cannabis for medical purposes is to be The SF edible regulations also require ASSET PROTECTION have to be qualified patients or be desig- funded by funds from dispensary sales. that if one produces edibles for more than BUSINESS LAW • TAX nated by any dispensary or patient. The last effort in Oregon to establish a one collective there must be an owner or staff member who has completed state -cer- ESTATE PLANNING • PROBATE Both producers and dispensaries dispensary system, Measure 33 in 2004, tified food-handler classes. would pay 10 percent of gross revenues to was defeated 57–43 percent. It would have the state in the form of quarterly fees. mandated that counties establish dispen- The regulations provide that produc- Producers and dispensaries would be saries if no other entity did so. tion collectives may serve more than one owned and operated only by Oregon resi- Supporters of M–74 now hope that a patient base, thus affording further protec- tion to providers of all products. The San LAW OFFICE OF dents and all employees would be over 21. new requirement that government create Francisco proposals respect its patient pop- JEROME D. HANDLEY Employees of producers and dispensaries, dispensaries, along with other new provi- as well as producers and dispensary princi- sions, the passage of time and the success ulation by considering the need for 1-800-517-5166 pals themselves, would be subject to crimi- of the OMMP, will stimulate the support cannabis foods and creating reasonable nal-records checks by the state. Producers needed to win in 2010. regulations. This effort will be looked at by www.jeromehandley.com communities grappling with this issue for [email protected] and dispensaries would file quarterly For info on M-74, coalitionforpatientsrights2010.com reports on sales and donations. years to come.

MEDICAL MARIJUANA PATIENT COLLECTIVE FORMING IN GARBERVILLE AREA HS 11362.775 Compliant. Patient members and providers welcome.* * Must have current and verifiable Prop 215 physician’s recommendation or qualify as a caregiver in order to associate. [email protected] 707-218-0005 • Danny “Z”

PROVIDING ACCOUNTING SERVICES TO THE CANNABIS INDUSTRY Autumn 2010 Page 4 West Coast Leaf Drug War POW updates; several recent releases From Prince of Pot to Prince of Pot POWs By Vanessa Nelson, supplied dispensaries with a wide array of By Vanessa Nelson Medical MarijuanaofAmerica.com medicinal edibles. A tripped burglar alarm Medicalmarijuanaofamerica.com Several notable medical marijuana at an Oakland warehouse in 2006 led to a For 13 years, the world has known providers have been released from federal raid and federal charges for Affolter and Canadian political activist Marc Emery as prisons recently. One was Kenneth ‘Kena’ his employees. All the defendants took the Prince of Pot. Now that he’s locked up Affolter, whose company, Beyond Bomb, plea deals, but Affolter’s 70-month prison in the US, Emery may also be the Prince of sentence was the longest by far. A naturally POWs. Fighting Santa Barbara ban deep thinker, he spent much of his incar- Both titles naturally come to the former ceration reading, writing and meditating. seed seller. Emery has a knack for inspiring By Ethan Kravitz* He finished serving hard time this spring. the fascination and devotion that’s usually Santa Barbara, often considered a leading Former medical grower David reserved for royalty. city on progressive health and environ- Davidson also finished off a federal sen- The camera loves him, and Emery mental issues in Southern California, is at tence this spring, ending a seven-year attracts positive press coverage like a risk of losing the safe access to medical ordeal. Davidson was initially busted by super-charged magnet. His life has been cannabis that its citizens have been afford- local Tehama County authorities in 2003 the subject of an award-winning stage play ed for the last 10 years. The City Council but disappeared after they turned his case and the focus of numerous documentary voted Jun. 29 to approve a revised dispen- over to federal prosecutors. He was cap- films. His worldwide fan base includes sary ordinance and to place a proposed tured in New Mexico in 2007, after his co- friends who carry “Free Marc” signs wher- outright ban on the November ballot. The defendant revealed his whereabouts in ever they go, die-hard allies who get arrest- ordinance, which went into effect at the exchange for leniency in her sentence. With ed while promoting his cause, and even a Marc and Jodie Emery on visiting day, July 4, 2010. Emery endorsed Prop 19 from his end of July, is one of the strictest in the remarkable fortitude, Davidson waited in class of students at a Cambodian universi- state, limiting the city to three tightly regu- prison cell and admonished everyone to sup- Sacramento County Jail for three years for ty who study him as a model of political port it. Photo by inmate photographer. lated non-profit collectives. his case to be resolved. When he finally action. The city enacted an ordinance in March accepted a plea deal for a 41-month sen- After helping overturn laws against Canadian co-defendants, Greg Williams of 2008, and met at least 22 times to discuss tence, he had already served all but a few selling drug-related publications in and Michelle Rainey. the current ordinance before coming to an days of that time. Davidson was released Canada, Emery set up a cannabis seed Such heroism is princely stuff, but the agreement that was able to garner enough this spring and is now living happily with shop in Vancouver in 1994. He withstood a US prison system didn’t exactly give him a votes to pass. A group known as the Red his girlfriend in Iowa. series of raids by local police and the prince’s welcome. Just days after he Shirts and conservative councilmember After serving time in prisons across the resulting fines, but eventually made the arrived, Emery was put in solitary confine- Dale Francisco have led the calls for a ban. country, former San Diego dispensary seed business mail-order only. He used the ment because his wife Jodie made record- Francisco, who drafted the current reg- operator John Sullivan was released to a profits to publish Cannabis Culture maga- ings of their phone calls to post on the ulations from the city Ordinance halfway house this summer. Two of zine and to fund the Marijuana Party and Internet. Emery says there aren’t any rules Committee, still publicly claims that dis- Sullivan’s dispensaries were hit during countless pro-cannabis efforts. barring this, but the prison claims it vio- pensaries are not legal. Eventually, in a massive federal raids on San Diego’s med- The US Drug Enforcement Admin. had lates rules against third-party calls. less-than-ideal compromise, he agreed to ical marijuana facilities in 2006. Sullivan Emery arrested in Canada on July 29, 2005 During his three weeks in ‘the hole,’ vote for an ordinance limiting the city to was then indicted on federal charges for for extradition to the US to face charges for Emery lost over 15 pounds and suffered three dispensaries, but only if the proposed cultivation and distribution, and he ulti- sending cannabis seeds here. Emery asserts sanity-testing isolation. He was released ban, titled Measure T, was placed on the mately accepted a plea deal for five years that this has never happened to any other from solitary confinement at the end of November ballot. in prison. He served that sentence in Canadian seed merchant, and he was sin- June, but Jodie reports he is prohibited Concerned citizens have formed Santa Oregon and in Florida, but is now glad to gled out because of his politics. “Drug from using the word “demonstration” in Barbara Voters for Sensible Regulations finally be back with his wife and two legalization lobbyists now have one less any communications and from contact (VSR) to defeat Measure T. daughters in southern California. pot of money to rely on,” DEA with members of his own political party Enlisting the assistance of prominent Sadly, many medical marijuana Administrator Karen Tandy concluded in a (the British Columbia Marijuana Party). attorneys, political consultants, and med- providers remain in federal prison, and public statement about Emery on the day Each hardship strengthens Emery’s ical professionals, with volunteer support still more are being sent there. This past of his arrest. resolve to be repatriated to Canada to serve from many cannabis patients, the VSR is May, former San Diego dispensary opera- Emery remained out on bail for four his sentence. He has this right, based on a confident that Measure T will not succeed. tor Joseph Nunes began serving a year- years while negotiating a plea deal, but in treaty agreement between the US and It is not, however, taking its task lightly. long sentence at a federal detention center. May 2010 Emery was finally extradited to Canada, but it’s a multi-phased process, so Thousands of patients in the city and Two dispensaries associated with Nunes the US. He made the trip having already he relies on citizens of both countries to surrounding areas rely on safe access to were raided during a crackdown in San agreed with US prosecutors to accept a lobby the appropriate authorities. To help, dispensaries to obtain medicine. If the ban Diego in September 2009, leaving him with five-year prison sentence in exchange for please visit freemarc.ca. “Free Marc” rallies is passed, dispensaries in neighboring a long list of federal charges. the dropping of charges against his will be held worldwide Sept. 18, 2010. Goleta and unincorporated Santa Barbara Nunes County could face increased hostility. accepted a Santa Barbara is a trendsetter in Central plea deal and Southern California, so this is an and was important battle for the whole state and taken into people who support medical rights every- custody at where. his sentenc- Visit NoOnMeasureT.com for more on ing hearing. the campaign and how you can help. Please turn * Ethan Kravitz was co-founder of Sensible Santa Barbara, to page. 14 which passed the city lowest police priority Measure P in 2006, making adult cannabis offenses. He is currently the campaign manager for No on Measure T. 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By Mickey Martin, T-Comp Consulting rifle” at officers, prompting them to shoot; By Pebbles Trippet, MMMAB.net attempting to comply with local and state law, and suggests the Covelo A series of unrelated deaths relating to he died a short time later. The DEA raid of Joy Greenfield’s raid was not based on any- cannabis gardens and dispensaries has tar- A recurring narrative in the main- Light the Way collective spot- thing that happened in San nished the normally peaceful cannabis stream media is that many of the larger lights the crossroads where states’ Diego. The record was markets and has all sides questioning the gardens being eradicated are allegedly run legal medical marijuana provisions sealed, hiding the source of current legal and political climate. by Mexican drug gangs, because the few run up against the federal ban. the complaint. A DEA agent workers found are of Hispanic descent, or Joy ‘Grandma Grower’ Police point to murders stemming from asked Greenfield about rations left at nearby campsites contain tor- Greenfield, 69, was the first robberies at two LA dispensing collectives other grow sites. “I told him tillas, beans, and other remnants suggest- patient-grower applicant to be and the killing of rogue gardeners in Napa, there weren’t any.” Last Santa Clara, Lake and Mendocino counties ing this. Little evidence linking the gardens approved by Mendocino County, CA Dr. Doo: “Thugs, by Fred Sternkopf week, the DEA again to any particular cartel or organized crime Sheriff Allman’s zip-tie program for as evidence that pot causes crimes. Re- on the raid contacted her, this time outfit has ever been found or reported. patient collectives, which can exempt gar- formers see these tragedies as proof that offering to return her cash and computer, Given the large Hispanic population native dens of up to 99 plants from Nuisance Ord. prohibition and the black market fuel vio- no longer evidence of “crime.” They added to California, it is unclear whether the gar- 9.31’s limit of 25 plants per parcel. lence and put cannabis users at risk from they were looking for someone else, Jake dens are cartel operations or merely grows Shortly before the raid, a sheriff’s heli- police raids, robberies and needless deaths. Anderson, whom they raided on July 23. tended by citizens of Latin descent. copter hovered over Greenfield’s Covelo Every year there are incidents of No charges have been filed against On a single day in June, two people lost property. She met with Lt. Rusty Noe of cannabis-eradication efforts by narcotics Greenfield, who felt she had complied with their lives and another was injured in unre- COMMET, exclaiming, “I thought you agents going horribly wrong, and people Obama’s policy memo to leave medical lated shootings that occurred just hours guys were supposed to protect me.” Noe losing their lives because of prohibition. patients alone who are in “clear and unam- apart during robberies at Los Angeles dis- said the Sheriff had merely leased the Napa County officers raided a remote biguous compliance” with state law. pensing collectives. planes to the DEA; her application was garden and killed a 38-year-old Fresno res- Perhaps it was a big mistake, or maybe “There’s a matter for us having to be on approved. This raises the spectre of county- ident. Sheriff Captain Tracey Stuart stated the DEA’s plan was to break Mendocino full alert as to what the reasons were for federal complicity. The next week, DEA the suspect “pulled out a gun and did not County’s 99-plant policy, fearing that an such brutal murders. It’s one thing to go in agents raided the property when drop it and did not run away,” prompting entrenched medical marijuana program and put a gun in the face of a person whose Greenfield wasn’t home and seized her officers to shoot and kill him. taking hold in a producer county might set running a commercial establishment and entire garden. One agent scoffed, “We A similar incident occurred in July in don’t care about Allman’s ordinance.” a standard for the entire state. Santa Clara County when officers killed a ask him for the money. It’s totally different Supervisor John McCowen, author of The raid certainly added a new level of person tending to a large garden in than assassinating the person that you’re NO 9.31, said he was “appalled by the mis- mistrust to existing skepticism about the “rugged terrain” near the Alameda County robbing; that, to me, is very cartelish in its treatment.” Sheriff Allman went on local zip-tie program. It regulates cultivation border. The man killed was reported to be style,” speculated LA Sheriff Lee Baca. KZYX-FM radio, stating he would refund while reducing patients’ constitutional Latino, prompting officers to speculate “To me, that’s the scariest thing in the Greenfield’s zip-tie fees, at $25 each. rights under administrative law, allowing about Mexican cartels. world,” said GLACA president Yamileth Meanwhile, the dispensing end of law-enforcement searches of growers’ Lake County deputies shot and killed a Bolanos. “We’re just sitting ducks, and Greenfield’s Light the Way collective asso- properties without warrants or corroborat- “middle-aged Hispanic male” in a garden everybody says that.” ciation, managed by family members in ing evidence, using civil law to pre-empt when officers said he “raised a rifle” at Advocates point out that, because the San Diego, was not raided, despite that the right to jury trial and negate the pre- them. “Deputies ordered the man to put black market inflates the value of cannabis, city’s hostility to all dispensaries. sumption of innocence. Those concessions down the firearm,” LCSO Sgt. Brian Martin its quasi-legal status poses dangers to were made in exchange for what presum- Light the Way pays sales tax under an said. “The man instead raised his rifle cannabis businesses. They say that treating ably was to have been protected status. towards the law enforcement officials.” cannabis as an illegal commodity is the approved business license with Willits as the official address connecting the farm Two Mendocino lawsuits have been An eerily similar incident happened in root of the problem. with the San Diego collective. That sug- filed challenging NO 9.31’s constitutionali- Mendocino County when a 20-year-old Once the laws change, cannabis will gests the collective is above-board, ty, and the Anaheim Appeals Court ruling cannabis farmer allegedly “leveled his find its place in the controlled market. left the issue undecided and vague.

Sorry, HMOs Call Now to Find Out if You Qualify: Do Not Qualify

REFER 3 PATIENTS AND CRIMINAL ALL OUR RECOMMENDATIONS ARE DEFENSE HAND SIGNED BY A CALIFORNIA GET A CANNABIS PHOTO LICENSED M.D., AND NOT STAMPED All Felonies & Misdemeanors ID CARD FOR FREE! All Federal & State Cases • All Drug-related Cases * Identity Theft / Fraud • Burglary / Robbery • Weapons Charges GET LEGAL, WHY NOT DO IT THE RIGHT WAY?! • Homicide • Parole / Probation • Juvenile Cases • Prostitution Mon - Sat 12 pm - 7 pm • D.U.Is TIMES MAY BE TOUGH RIGHT NOW, 2050 W. Chapman Ave., Suite 117, Orange CA 92869 BUT FELONIES ARE FOR LIFE. www.LAsDopestAttorney.com CALL NOW [email protected] PRACTICE YOUR RIGHT TO REMAIN SILENT! TOLL FREE Allison B. Margolin Attorney at Law Se habla español Toll Free • 24 hrs • 7 days Wir sprechen Deutsch 1-888-DOPE-LAW• 323-653-1850 We speak Farsi Autumn 2010 Page 6 West Coast Leaf Oakland mega-grows stir fears of big business AIDS patient group tackles health, legal, access issues Continued from page 1 nance. Property owner Jeff Wilcox present- By Victor Michel Jean Quan. “I’d like to see it grow here.” ed plans for making Oakland the “Silicon A patient support group has been formed Critics complained that the ordinance Valley of cannabis” by converting commer- in Riverside to help AIDS/HIV patients does nothing to legalize the hundreds of cial buildings into what could be the who use or are interested in using cannabis smaller growers currently operating in the world’s largest indoor pot farm, capable of to treat their symptoms. producing 58 pounds per day, three times city. “It’s not providing a pathway for folks Sponsored by the THCF Medical Clinic, Oakland’s estimated consumption. Wilcox to become more legitimate,” complained the group meets weekly and provides offered to rent out space for smaller grow- Dan Grace, owner of Dark Heart Nursery, patients with information on cannabis’ ers as well. However, experienced growers one of many small growers to speak. health benefits, getting a doctor’s objected that this would leave their crops Arguing that unregulated small grows approval, methods of ingestion, obtaining vulnerable to infestations from neighbors. are a fire hazard, Councilman Reid spon- medicine, and how to navigate the tortur- sored a resolution to crack down on illegal Dhar Mann, owner of Oakland’s iGrow ous and potentially life-threatening briar grows, which the council adopted along hydroponics superstore, said he is working patch of laws, regulations and licensing with the ordinance. on plans for an energy-efficient super-grow requirements. of 57,000 square feet, beginning with a “What they’re doing is eviscerating a The Inland Empire AIDS Medical smaller grow of 10,000 square feet. whole cottage industry here in Oakland,” Marijuana Patient Group was formed by Tom Place examines a bottle of cannabis tinc- ture at the THCF clinic. Photo by Lanny Swerdlow said medical cannabis attorney Robert Skeptics warn that such ambitious AIDS patient Tom Place, whose health was Raich. Oakland’s largest dispensary, the plans could founder due to opposition restored by using cannabis in conjunction Harborside Collective, voiced strong oppo- from the DEA and other legal barriers. with other medications. Place said, out it they would be ‘zombies,’ support sition to the ordinance, noting that it relies Oakland City Attorney John Russo has “Marijuana use is still controversial and organizations often turn their backs on the on a decentralized network of hundreds of reportedly advised the council that the patients find its use problematic due to a this remedy. Many patients cannot meet patient-gardeners to supply medicine to its plan is incompatible with state law, which society that still does not understand its the high price of cannabis. Indeed, some membership. is based on patient collectives, not large- immense benefits. Many patients find that cannot afford any amount when they must scale commercial wholesalers. DEA offi- In response to their protests, Kaplan cannabis use can cause friction with family choose between purchasing cannabis or cials have reportedly contacted the city to promised to sponsor an ordinance later this members, doctors and social workers and paying for food and housing. discuss the situation. year to legitimize and regulate smaller this group helps them deal with it.” The group is turning to the patient growers. In the meantime, prospective The upcoming year promises to be Lanny Swerdlow, RN, is the group’s community, and the collectives that supply applicants lined up to support the ordi- interesting in Oaksterdam. facilitator. Nurse Swerdlow is a strong them, for help in providing low-income advocate for the use of cannabis to treat the and destitute AIDS patients with cannabis. myriad ailments associated with AIDS. It is asking collectives to provide regular “Both anecdotal and peer-reviewed donations of free and low-cost cannabis to research have shown incredible benefits for patients by issuing certificates that could AIDS patients for everything from neu- be redeemed at participating collectives. ropathy to appetite stimulation,” said One of the first to join in the effort is the Swerdlow. “Due to fear of funds getting cut Inland Empire Patients Health and by the federal government, AIDS organiza- Wellness Center, which supplies cannabis tions generally will not provide such infor- for a tincture developed by leader Tom mation to their clients. It is the purpose of Place. As more collectives join in, the group this AIDS-patient medical-marijuana sup- hopes to be able to supply more AIDS port group to provide this life-saving and patients. life-affirming information.” The IE Aids Medical Marijuana Patient Group meets www.budlawyers.com • [email protected] every Monday at 7:30 pm at the THCF Medical Clinic, 647 While many AIDS patients maintain Main Street, #1B, Riverside 92501. All AIDS/HIV patients and PO BOX 130, APPLEGATE CA 95703 that cannabis keeps them alive and with- caregivers are invited to attend. 951-782-9898. West Coast Leaf Page 7 Autumn 2010 Anaheim court: State law allows dispensaries San Jose seeks a high profit at patients’ expense By Kris Hermes Americans for Safe Access filed briefs in the Anaheim case and argued By Dave Hodges, SJCBC addition to the 9.25-percent sales tax More than two years after an appeal was before the Court of Appeal last September. Since San Jose Councilman Pierluigi required by the State Board of filed challenging a citywide ban on med- Perhaps most importantly, patients have Oliverio submitted his Oct. 27, 2009 memo Equalization. The verbiage is so vague that ical marijuana dispensaries, California’s maintained their right to obtain medication to the rules committee calling for an ordi- the 10-percent tax could apply to a patient Fourth District Court of Appeal issued a from local distribution facilities that are in nance regulating medical marijuana, San caregiver. The initiative states that “trans- ruling in the case of Qualified Patients compliance with state law. The MMPA, Jose has exploded with collectives—more porting cannabis or any ancillary products Association v. City of Anaheim. The appellate which laid the foundation for the state’s than 75 are within city limits. The Council in the City, whether or not carried on for court was expected to decide whether distribution laws, is unaffected by the rul- has yet to adopt an ordinance regulating gain or profit” will be subject to this tax. localities could ignore state law by banning ing. Similarly, the 2008 State Attorney collectives, but it is moving forward with The immediate questions that arise are: cannabis distribution. While the clear line General guidelines, which recognize and both an ordinance and a tax initiative. What is to be put on the business tax appli- that both sides were hoping for was not set out compliance requirements for store- City staff separated the ordinance into cation? Would this be one of the 10 permits carved in the sand, the court did say the front dispensaries, also remain in effect. two parts. As presented in June, both the proposed in the “Title 6 Urgency case should proceed to trial. The Anaheim case stemmed from a “Land Use Urgency Ordinance” and the Ordinance, the City has stated that “simply Notably, the unanimous decision, lawsuit filed shortly after the city voted to “Title 6 Urgency Ordinance” drew heavy because you’re operating as a business in authored by Judge Richard Aronson, ban dispensaries in July of 2007. Qualified opposition from the patient community. the City of San Jose and you pay your busi- reversed part of the lower court’s ruling Patients Assn. was a local dispensary that “Title 6” was called one of the most dracon- ness tax that doesn’t mean you’re legal.” and found that federal law did not pre- had been in operation for five months prior ian ordinances in the state. Fortunately the Requiring businesses to get a permit is a empt the state’s distribution laws. The rul- to the ban. An appeal was filed in March of Council did not approve either ordinance good idea, but only if they are treated as ing stated that because Prop 215 and the 2008 after the Orange County Superior and decided to table both until after legal enterprises. Medical Marijuana Program Act (MMPA) Court ruled that Anaheim could prohibit November. One stated reason for delay Council voted 7–4 to put it on the bal- “do not mandate conduct that federal law dispensaries from operating within its city was to see the fate of Prop.19. The Council lot. The only modification was to add the prohibits, nor pose an obstacle to federal limits. As more cities were forced to con- approved a memo by Mayor Chuck Reed words “up to” in front of the 10- percent enforcement of federal law, the enact- front the issue of medical access, the case and Oliverio giving staff guidelines on rate. The good news is, if this passes the ments’ decriminalization provisions are drew a lot of attention across the political zoning and sensitive use, and directing council will have to vote to set a rate. The not preempted by federal law.” spectrum. Nearly three dozen cities and staff to draft a tax initiative for November. bad news is, it could be up to 9.99 percent “For the first time, a court decision has multiple statewide law enforcement associ- The tax initiative was presented at the on both storefront and cultivator/supplier. held that local officials can no longer hide ations filed briefs in support of Anaheim’s Aug. 3 council meeting. Staff proposed a “All medical patients and concerned behind federal law in prohibiting dispen- ban. Then, Senator Mark Leno (D-San 10-percent rate on anyone involved “more citizens in San Jose should vote no on the saries in their communities,” said Joe Francisco), one of the original co-authors of than five (5) working days per year, tax measure,” urged one patient, “and be Elford, Chief Counsel with Americans for the MMPA, filed a brief at the behest of the whether operating from a fixed location in prepared to make their voices heard at the Safe Access (ASA), the country’s leading court explaining the legislative intent. the City or coming into the City from an Council meetings in November.” cannabis patient advocacy group, which Please turn to page 14 outside location.” The tax would be in For the ordinances text see SanJoseCannabis.com

“We care about your healthcare”

Our clinic is operated by a California licensed M.D., which is regulated by the Medical Board or California. Autumn 2010 Page 8 West Coast Leaf fied from the regulation process, one can- LA ordinance fiasco threatens patients’ access not re-apply. Happy birthday, Continued from page 1 location. Due to stringent and capricious All pre-ICO collectives must have CB1 receptor site However, there is no enforcement zoning requirements, only four collectives passed the initial employee Live-Scan budget in the regulations and no proce- are in approved areas. This zoning war has requirement as of Aug. 10 and now await By Jahan Marcu dures for shutting down the post-ICO col- fomented greed and confusion as realtors issuance of the ‘Priority List,’ which should The 2010 Inter - lectives. The LAPD has not made a public and lawyers have put outrageous finders’ be published any day. national Canna - fees on the small number of properties that statement regarding this matter. However, With that, the process of pre-registra- binoid Research fit the zoning requirements. in the days immediately following, the tion begins in Priority Order. At that point Society meeting LAPD sent officers to close down some In Chatsworth there is a lot of industri- collectives must be ready to provide and marked the 20th facilities, and some shut down on their al real estate. Some 13 collectives, all in the accomplish everything required when the anniversary of the discovery of the human own. For the “pre-ICO” collectives recog- pre-ICO group, have seperately leased City Clerk comes calling. cannabinoid receptor and the founding of nized by the city, June 7 began a six month space in the area. Only one of them has the society itself, and was held in Lund, This first round is to be completed by timeline. been in Chatsworth from the start. Sweden July 23-27. Dec. 7, at which point all collectives that Collectives currently located in Eagle Rock Now LA’s pre-ICO collectives are have not made it through the regulating In order to present research at the ICRS, and other more central areas have leased preparing for a rigorous regulation process must shut their doors. the data must be unpublished, so new process. Eligible collectives must: (1) have space in Chatsworth, because that is where ideas and cutting-edge research are pre- A source close to the process estimates been open prior to Sept. 14, 2007; (2) have they can find zoning-compliant space. The sented. Most of the findings are conducted only 40 or so collectives will be legally original ownership; (3) have operated con- LA regulations permit one collective for and presented by students. The combina- sanctioned by the City to dispense medical tinuously since that time; (4) not have every 57,000 people. Unfortunately, tion of new research and youthful energy marijuana. If only 40 make it, the regula- moved locations more than once; (5) not according to the latest census data, the makes ICRS meetings distinct from those tions dictate that the City Clerk will hold a have responsible parties that have been population in the Chatsworth-Porterville of most research societies. community plan area is 84,734, which lottery for the 30 remaining licenses – but convicted of a felony; and (6) not have had Research topics range from the treat- would permit only two collectives. Thus, only if need is demonstrated by the popu- any community complaints against them. ment of diseases to the evolution of THC there is no way that all 13 collectives in that lation size of a given community plan and One absurd example of the hoops col- synthase in Sativas and Indicas. A few area can be city-sanctioned. Once disquali- space is available under the zoning rules. lectives must jump through is forced re- highlights from the meeting were: • THCV delayed the progression of Parkinson’s disease. • CB2 receptor activation inhibited cocaine self-administration in mice. • The CB1 and CB2 receptors appear to have a therapeutic role in bone health and metabolism. • Cannabinoid Acids from the cannabis plant inhibit breast cancer cells. • Characterization of endocannabinoids in stem cells. The great debate: ‘CB or not CB’ The meeting sponsored a debate followed by a vote to determine if the term cannabi- noid should be changed to something “politically neutral” which would better describe all the components of the endo- cannabinoid system. A move like this would change the name of the ICRS and the terms used in research publications. Two teams were assembled to debate. Dr. Raphael Mechoulam led the team in favor of changing the term. He suggested, for instance, that the term ‘Type 1 cannabi- noid receptor’ could be changed to some- thing like Human Receptor 184. Another member of his team argued to change the term because, of 100-plus plant cannabi- noids, only THC is known to bind efficient- ly to the CB1 receptor. The other team rallied to preserve cannabinoid, arguing that changing the term would cause confusion and headaches for decades to come. One scientist jokingly argued that we are lucky to call these mol- ecules cannabinoids, because the CB1 gene easily could have been dubbed the ‘pot- ROBERTS & ELLIOTT head’ gene. It was also stated that the term ATTORNEYS AT LAW tells a beautiful story about how this recep- tor system was discovered. In the end, the attendees voted overwhelmingly to keep cannabinoid as the official term. The program with summaries is posted at cannabinoidsoci- ety.org/SYMPOSIUM.2010/ICRS2010.Programme.html OMAR FIGUEROA ATTORNEY AT LAW COMPLIMENTARY CASE CONSULTATION. Years of experience defending growers, patients, caregivers and members of collectives / coops in CA & Fed courts. Graduate of Yale University, Stanford Law School and Trial Lawyers College. 707-829-0215 415-489-0420 [email protected] • [email protected] 7770 Healdsburg Av. # A www.omarfigueroa.com Sebastopol, CA 95472 West Coast Leaf Page 9 Autumn 2010 forms used, hundreds of dispensaries felony child abuse charges for legally culti- Colorado dispensers must waive basic rights scrambled to collect the information and vating medical cannabis in the basement of By Laura Kriho, Cannabis Therapy Institute only for maintaining the patient Registry. file applications. On Aug 2, the state said it the house that he lived in with his three cannabistherapyinstitute.com The DoR will have enforcement and rule- had received applications for 717 “medical children. The Denver DA says that current Colorado’s new medical marijuana statutes making authority over everything else. marijuana centers,” 271 “medical marijua- statutes allow prosecution for child abuse governing retail sales of medical cannabis The state has also shifted the status of na-infused products manufacturers” and if a controlled substance is manufactured went into effect this summer. In a clear shift medical marijuana from a constitutionally 1,071 “optional premises cultivation” facil- in the same place children live. Because the from a health-based approach to a criminal protected industry to one protected only by ities, and collected $7.34 million in fees. cultivation area was legal under state law, approach, the state’s program will be run statutes, which can be changed at the whim The Dept. of Revenue will now begin the police did not confiscate any of the by the Dept. of Revenue (DoR) and of a hostile state legislature. Colorado’s its rulemaking process, creating hundreds plants or medicine; they just took the kids. enforced by agents from its newly formed cannabis patients and caregivers had been of new rules to implement the program. Patients and caregivers are experienc- Medical Marijuana Enforcement Division receiving constitutional protection under This will include requiring extensive track- ing so many problems in Colorado because (MMED). The Dept. of Public Health and the Medical Marijuana Amendment ing procedures to follow everything from the original constitutional amendment was Environment (CDPHE) will be responsible (MMA) since 2000. However, the new “seed to sale,” including Web cameras poorly written. statutes actually require citizens to surren- accessible to MMED agents. The Cannabis Therapy Institute is coor- Butte County coop raids der their constitutional right to be a “care- Meanwhile, the state medical marijua- dinating a campaign to repeal this amend- By Kevin Gorman* giver” for the “privilege” of operating a na patient Registry, run by the CDPHE, ment and replace it with a full relegaliza- Law enforcement agencies raided and state-licensed “medical marijuana center.” does not have an efficient method to tion ballot initiative in 2012 that will solve closed down eight storefront collectives in Many attorneys have promised to bring process the two-page patient applications. the problems patients and caregivers are Butte County June 30. Agents destroyed suit against the unconstitutional provisions The CDPHE currently has a backlog of facing under the current regime. and confiscated property, clones, comput- in the new statutes, specifically the limit of over 100,000 patient applications waiting For more information, see: www.Legalize2012.com. ers and expensive CCTV equipment. This five patients per caregiver, but no lawsuits to be processed with over $9 million in followed a visit by zoning enforcement have yet been filed. uncashed patient checks. Many patients NORML Daily Audio Stash with host officials, who had said that notices of code The state application for a medical mar- ‘Radical’ Russ Belville, stash.norml.org/ current report that they had their application podcasts, news, interviews, etc. RadicalRuss.com violations would be received in the mail. ijuana “center” demand unprecedented rejected because their check expired while Collectives’ assets were also frozen. scrutiny, requiring volumes of personal sitting on the shelf at the CDPHE. Time 4 Hemp Radio Show with Casper Leitch/ The Butte County District Attorney was information, including all bank records, tax Patients are also under attack in Time4Hemp.com, live shows heard Mon.-Fri., 9 PM PST americanfreedomradio.com. investigating possible crimes in the way returns, diplomas, divorce decrees, name Colorado in other ways. In June, patient Hear the Prop 19 Debate Series the associations were operating. A press and addresses of all children, details of all Joseph Lightfoot was arrested in Denver on release from Chico Police Chief Mike assets and debts, and fingerprints. The Maloney said officials are particularly con- application also requires the applicant to From small spaces to large warehouses — Weʼve done it all. cerned about the way marijuana was sold surrender all rights to confidentiality and to walk-in customers, many of whom were privacy; give the DoR power of attorney undercover officers participating in the for two years to perform any “act for inves- investigation. tigative purposes;” allow the sharing of all There were no arrests in direct connec- information with state and federal law tion with the dispensaries. Some of the col- enforcement; and require the applicant to lectives are going to court to seek return of hold the state harmless if the it should acci- dentally misuse the information. their medicine. The High Sierra NORML Over 30 years experience in electrical contracting. Chico branch office was closed in the The application was released July 6 and Weʼll work with you to provide creative solutions to help your business thrive. process, as it was housed at the California due back on Aug 1. Fees range from $7,500 Serving the greater Bay Area, Central Valley & Northern California Coast. Harm Reduction Cooperative, one of the to $18,000, with an additional $1,250 for closed collectives. every grow facility operated by a medical (925) 640-9714 • [email protected] License # 938776 • Bonded • Insured For information or to donate to the cause, please contact High use center. Despite misgivings about the Sierra NORML, PO Box 1953 Paradise CA 95967 Autumn 2010 Page 10 West Coast Leaf West Coast Leaf Page 11 Autumn 2010 ‘History Week’ digs up hemp roots at Pentagon Improvements for patients in OR case law

By Ryan Fletcher, VoteHemp.com By Leland R. Berger NORML Legal Commitee so they also said that the list of required The first annual nationwide Hemp History Although there has been much litigation identification to apply was ambiguous, Week featured nearly 200 events in 33 here, three areas have been especially sig- and they could have applied for protection states from May 17-23, 2010. The week nificant: The ability of out-of-state patients under the Oregon Medical Marijuana Act. highlights a grassroots educational cam- to travel with medicine, and for Oregon The state OMMP program at first paign organized by Vote Hemp and The patients to have seized medicine returned declined to issue registry cards to out-of- Hemp Industries Assn. to stimulate sup- and obtain concealed handgun licenses. state patients, but when the attorney gener- port for hemp farming in the US. Joel Berringer, a Nevada County, CA al issued an opinion agreeing with the rul- Thousands of hand-signed postcards patient, was taking his friend Jeremy Fox to ing, the office issued emergency temporary addressed to President Barack Obama and Ft. Lewis, Washington to deploy to Iraq, rules allowing this. Subse quently, however, Attorney General Eric Holder were collect- when he was stopped for speeding on I- OMMP proposed permanent rules which ed, seeking to end the ban on hemp farm- 205, near Oregon City, Southeast of require the applicant to state an intent to ing in the US and permit farmers to grow Portland. Michael Syvertson, also a remain in Oregon. As of press time, the the versatile and profitable crop. California patient, had traveled to public hearing on these proposed rules has In Washington, DC, 6-year-old Horning’s Hideout, a popular outdoor not yet occurred. Arundhati Eidinger, whose father owns music venue by Portland. Each was con- Three Washington County patients and two hemp clothing stores, delivered a stack victed for possessing cannabis. Each chal- one Jackson County patient had court vic- of postcards signed by hemp farming sup- lenged his conviction on appeal and lost. tories both at the trial (Circuit Court) level porters to Michelle Obama while the First Berringer and Syvertson argued that and in the Court of Appeals. The trial Lady visited the girl’s kindergarten. Oregon has to give ‘full faith and credit’ to Appeals courts all held that Oregon Lyster Dewey measures US-government their California recommendations and that Sheriffs must issue and can’t revoke con- Political momentum for hemp farming hemp bred to help American farmers profit. grew during the lead-up to Hemp History the failure to do so violated the federal con- cealed handgun licenses to patients. stitutional right to travel. The Court of The reason is simple; Oregon law Week, with six new Congressional co- ing by the US from the 1890s to the 1940s. Appeals ruled to the contrary, but in doing Please turn to page 23 sponsors for HR 1866, the Industrial Hemp Additional research was presented at Farming Act of 2009. With 25 co-sponsors, dozens of events across the country. the bill has yet to be heard in the Judiciary Hemp supporter Congressman Ron Veterans Admin accepts cannabis therapeutics Sub-Committee on Crime, Terrorism and Paul (R-TX) submitted a statement to Continued from page 1 cannabis therapeutics. Homeland Security, which handles legisla- Congress. “Hemp was an important crop Veterans Affairs (VA) facility. The veteran “The directive shows clearly that there tion affecting drug laws. for George Washington, Thomas Jefferson would need to inform his provider of the is no federal rule, law or policy requiring Volunteers across the country and thousands of American farmers until it use of marijuana, and of any other non-VA doctors to cut off patients from prescrip- researched their regions’ history of hemp was outlawed completely in 1970 by the prescribed medications he or she is taking tion pain killers should the patient also use farming and manufacturing. Remarkable Controlled Substances Act. I know many to ensure that all medications, including cannabis,” said Kravitz. “The directive also among this re-discovered history are the farmers in my district could benefit greatly opioids, are prescribed in a safe manner.” shows that the federal government does diaries of US Dept. of Agriculture Chief from the renewed freedom to rotate indus- Kravitz has been at the forefront of the know something about the medical attrib- Botanist Lyster Dewey, who bred hemp trial hemp into their growing seasons,” struggle for veterans’ access to medical utes of cannabis and that may have some cultivars extensively in the Washington, wrote Paul. “Hemp History Week will help cannabis and is on the board of Patients direct implications on its current federal DC area during the early 20th century, pri- other elected officials learn about Out of Time. The VMMA veteransformed- illegal classification.” marily at Arlington Farms (on which the America’s rich hemp heritage along with icalmarijuana.org is an advocacy group This directive is a first step that may Pentagon now stands). The diaries and the tremendous benefits of growing hemp committed to protecting the rights of veter- lead to a serious and lasting change in our personal photos of the USDA’s top expert in America once again.” an health care professionals and cannabis federal medical marijuana policy, one that on fiber production for over 45 years reveal A full listing of events and information on the 2011 Hemp patients for all appropriate therapeutic actually protects patients’ rights and a treasure trove of research on hemp farm- History Week is online at hemphistoryweek.com/events. uses and to encourage research on ensures safe access. Autumn 2010 Page 12 West Coast Leaf were 2-3 times per day (46 percent), and 3- about use and dependence is likely to con- Cannabis dependence: Addressing the taboo 5 grams per week (46 percent). tinue, health professionals must educate By Amanda Reiman, PhD that cannabis dependence does not exist, Importantly, 69 percent reported no change themselves on the relative safety, efficacy Many health professionals, including those while opponents claim that it is a real and in use over the last six months. Use escala- and risks of cannabis so they can make who practice ‘mainstream medicine,’ are certain danger. tion is a common sign of substance informed treatment recommendations. intrigued by the therapeutic potential of Agrawal et al. (2008) found that 29 per- dependence. Although misinformation cannabis. The relative safety of cannabis as cent of those who used cannabis during the compared to other pharmacotherapies is past year reported at least two cannabis- Small mistake leads to mighty mite invasion, crop damage hard to ignore. Unfortunately, years of withdrawal symptoms, such as irritability, propaganda and fear mongering around anger/aggression, anxiety, sleep difficulty, By Samuel Janovici grower needed help. The crop was infested cannabis have left health professionals in a decreased appetite, and restlessness. It started as a minor violation of one of the to a point that webs were going to appear quandary. Many of them are understand- However, assessment is difficult golden rules of indoor growing: Don’t in the next three days, but he still needed ably wary of recommending cannabis. because standard measures of cannabis introduce a new plant into the garden three weeks for Urkle and at least five for However, as more patients look to the consumption do not exist. Research has without a reasonable quarantine period the new strain, Headband. He sought an plant as a source of healing, medical pro- suggested the existence of ‘diagnostic and a healthy dose of Azatrol. The new organic solution to save as much medicine fessionals are expected to have evidence- orphans’ among regular users. That is, strain was from a friend, a respected grow- as possible without using a miticide-insec- based answers about the risks and benefits users who meet only one or two of the cur- er, so he put the clones of a new variety ticide like Avid that would toxify his med- of cannabis use. rent DMS-IV dependence criteria for straight into the main clone room for a few icine. Avid is for ornamental plants only. When looking at the safety of cannabis cannabis – not enough to be labeled as days before moving them to the veg-room. Since the crop was in its third week of relative to other commonly prescribed abusers or dependent – may exhibit similar That was the last chance to notice the flowering it was impossible to use a horti- medications, it is easy to see why cannabis patterns of use to those with an abuse or spider mites before they traveled into his cultural soap. Instead, the grower used might be a better choice. dependence diagnosis, but lack the elevat- healthy, bug-free environment to breed in large doses of CO2 lasting up to five hours Table 1 ed rates of other drug use, mental health near-perfect conditions. a day for two weeks, dropping the temper- atures and the humidity as low as was Drug Examples Used Negative Can be symptoms, and social and behavioral con- Spider mites are usually less than 1 mm for Effects fatal sequences to qualify for an abuse or in size and they produce small, spherical healthy for the plants. He released Opioids Oxycontin, Pain Severe YES dependence diagnosis. Even daily eggs. The hot, dry conditions of an indoor Pyrethrin Bombs and increased the air cir- Morphine respiratory cannabis use might not be indicative of culation. The plants flourished, but so did depression or operation are the perfect breeding ground death following abuse or dependence, based on the user’s for a population of spider mites. The two- the mites. The CO2 and the cold did slow large, single dose individual circumstance and use of other them down and the Pyrethrin would have CNS Barbiturates Anxiety Seizures after YES spotted spider mite that infested this crop Depressants Benzo’s a rebound in drugs (Degenhardt at al., 2002; Looby and been more effective sprayed directly on the brain activity can hatch in as few as three days, and after reducing or Earleywine, 2007; Alexander, 2003). become sexually mature in as few as five. invaders, but that could have created a discontinuing use Currently, no assessment of cannabis One female can produce up to 20 eggs per mold cycle in the maturing buds. Stimulants Ritalin ADHD Dangerously YES Adderall high body temp- dependence exists in the US. The Cannabis day and live for 2 to 4 weeks, laying hun- In the final week of the Urkle the webs erature or irregular Use Disorders Inventory Test (CUDIT), began to appear. They were removed with heart beat after dreds of eggs. taking a large dose developed by Adamson and Sellman of the Mites inhabit the underside of the leaf the help of a low-volume vacuum cleaner Cannabis Flowers All the Potential NO National Addiction Centre, Christchurch that wouldn’t harm the buds, but the Tincture above for anxiety, and are not easily seen. The first indication Edibles, etc. and especially in School of Medicine (2003), has yet to be is tiny brown spots circled by small yellow plants were weakening. Pyrethrin spray then new users, used in a US sample. Adapted from the was the last resort for the Urkle. The com- some drowsiness patches. That’s where mites have punc- Alcohol Use Disorders Inventory Test, the tured the leaf surface and sucked the bination helped save that half of the crop. Although there is little debate about the CUDIT attempts to transfer the AUDIT’s plant’s sweet juices. As the population Unfortunately, the Headband was a total addictive properties of medications like method of assessing alcohol problems to grows they begin to build webs and can be loss, but it was a valuable lesson in humil- Oxycontin and morphine, cannabis cannabis use. seen migrating from one feeding area to ity and a reminder to always follow good, dependence continues to be a controversial In a sample of 350 medical-cannabis the next. safe gardening practices. subject. Cannabis proponents often claim patients, the most common use patterns Three weeks into the flower cycle, the Stay safe out there. The nation’s legal authority on medical cannabis. www.MedicalCannabisCounsel.com Our attorneys and staff have 30 years of experience assisting patients, caregivers and cooperatives in California — and now in Colorado. Offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco and Denver

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• Non-profit Counseling (CA only) The attorneys of Medical Cannabis Counsel offer varying options of legal Go to www.MedicalCannabisCounsel.com for more information. representation that range from private one-time legal consultations, through a simple incorporation package to a 415-434-4500 • 303-831-8188 broad-based, multi-year representation. West Coast Leaf Page 13 Autumn 2010 Election Special Report on Proposition 19: Regulate, Control and Tax Cannabis Act of 2010 Official Title and Summary: Changes California law to legalize marijuana and allow it to be regulated and taxed. Initiative statute. Allows people 21 years old or older to possess, cultivate, or transport marijuana for per- sonal use. Permits local governments to regulate and tax commercial production and sale of marijuana to people 21 years old or older. Prohibits people from possessing marijuana on school grounds, using it in public, smoking it while minors are present, or providing it to anyone under 21 years old. Maintains current prohibitions against driving while impaired. Summary of estimate by Legislative Analyst and Director of Finance of fiscal impact on state and local governments: Savings of up to several tens of millions of dollars annually Latino endorsement: “The so called war on drugs has been a gigantic failure....approving Prop to state and local governments on the costs of incarcerating and supervising certain mari- 19 will strike a blow to violent gangs and Mexican cartels that prey on our communities by juana offenders. Unknown but potentially major tax, fee, and benefit assessment revenues removing their profit incentive,” said Antonio Gonzalez (center), coordinator of the Latino Voters League (LVL) at an Aug 13 press conference with Prop 19 spokesperson Dale Sky Jones (l) to to state and local government related to the production and sale of marijuana products. announce the LVL endorsement. “At a time when our state is laying off firemen, teachers, and police officers, we must pursue common sense, revenue-generating policies. Thatʼs why I sup- Excerpts from the initiative (ii) Cultivate, on private property by the port Prop. 19,” said Hector De La Torre (r), California Assemblyman (50th AD). owner, lawful occupant, or other lawful Proposition 19, Part B. Purposes resident or guest of the private property of cannabis on any public lands. but is not limited to possession and con- 1. Reform California’s cannabis laws in a owner or lawful occupant, cannabis plants (iii) Possess on the premises where grown sumption, in any form, of cannabis in a res- way that will benefit our state. for personal consumption only, in an area the living and harvested plants and results idence or other non-public place, and shall 2. Regulate cannabis like we do alcohol: of not more than twenty-five square feet of any harvest and processing of plants include licensed premises open to the pub- Allow adults to possess and consume per private residence or, in the absence of lawfully cultivated pursuant to section lic authorized to permit on-premises con- small amounts of cannabis. any residence, the parcel. Cultivation on 11300(a)(ii), for personal consumption. sumption of cannabis by a local govern- ment pursuant to section 11301. 3. Implement a legal regulatory frame- leased or rented property may be subject to (iv) Possess objects, items, tools, equipment, work to give California more control over approval from the owner of the property. products and materials associated with (c) “Personal consumption” shall not the cultivation, processing, transportation, Provided that, nothing in this section shall activities permitted under this subsection. include, and nothing in this Act shall per- mit cannabis: distribution, and sales of cannabis. ... permit unlawful or unlicensed cultivation (b) “Personal consumption” shall include (i) possession for sale regardless of 6. Provide easier, safer access for patients amount, except by a person who is licensed who need cannabis for medical purposes. or permitted to do so under the terms of an 7. Ensure that if a city decides not to tax All hands on deck for Prop 19 ordinance adopted pursuant to section 11301; and regulate the sale of cannabis, that buy- untruths and disinformation from now to 2010 Election commentary (ii) consumption in public or a public place; ing and selling cannabis within that city’s Election Day. The defenders of prohibition By Norm Stamper, (iii) consumption by the operator of any limits remain illegal, but that the city’s citi- Law Enforcement Against Prohibition know they are vulnerable, and they can be vehicle, boat or aircraft while it is being zens still have the right to possess and con- This is the home stretch of the Prop.19 cam- expected to be aggressive in spreading fear operated, or that impairs the operator; sume small amounts, except as permitted paign. If California is going to make an his- about Prop. 19. (iv) smoking cannabis in any space while under Health and Safety (HS) Sections toric decision to legalize marijuana for • Mid-term elections typically draw minors are present. 11362.5 and 11362.7 through 11362.9.* adults, every West Coast Leaf reader needs lower overall voter turnout and more vot- 8. Ensure that if a city decides it does want to help inform people, to vote, and to get ers whose demographic profiles suggest Effect of Act and Definitions to tax and regulate the buying and selling others to vote Yes on 19 on Nov 2. lower support for legalizing marijuana. 11304(d) (d) Definitions(iv)(c) in a criminal of cannabis (to and from adults only), that As a 34-year veteran police officer who I encourage every West Coast Leaf read- proceeding a person accused of violating a a strictly controlled legal system is imple- speaks out against marijuana prohibition, I er to inform himself or herself about Prop. limitation in this Act shall have the right to mented to oversee and regulate cultivation, know how tough it can be to talk to people 19; talk to friends and family about why to an affirmative defense that the cannabis distribution, and sales, and that the city – even family and close friends – about vote Yes on 19; read several newspapers was reasonably related to his or her per- will have control over how and how much why we need to regulate marijuana. and write letters to the editor; and get sonal consumption. cannabis can be bought and sold, except as involved in the campaign. Cannabis is a topic that evokes strong feel- Section 5: Amendment permitted under HS Sections 11362.5 and ings, and what many understand as the To get volunteer and started, check out 11362.7 through 11362.9.* overwhelming case for regulation can at YesOn19.com, facebook.com/taxcanna bis, Pursuant to Article 2, section 10(c) of the * Statutory citations for Prop 215 and SB 420, the first seem radical or threatening to others. or twitter.com /taxcannabis. California Constitution, this Act may be amended either by a subsequent measure medical marijuana laws When people have the courage to raise Imagine, for a moment, how great it submitted to a vote of the People at a Section 3: Lawful Activities a tough topic, the rewards can be great. My will feel to wake up on Nov. 3 to read head- statewide election; or by statute validly Article 5 of Chapter 5 of Division 10 of the colleagues and I in LEAP (Law En force - lines and see broadcasts about the historic passed by the Legislature and signed by Health and Safety Code, commencing with ment Against Prohibition) have heard from vote in California to legalize marijuana for the Governor, but only to further the pur- section 11300 is added to read: thousands of people who appreciate our adults. We can make that happen, but we poses of the Act. Such permitted amend- message on how prohibition has failed and have a lot of work to do. Complacency or Section 11300: Personal Regulation and ments include but are not limited to: why we need to change course. over-confidence about the outcome will Controls (a) Amendments to the limitations in sec- Talking about Prop. 19 with family, sink us for sure. Let’s act with confidence (a) Notwithstanding any other provision of tion 11300, which limitations are minimum friends, and strangers is not just okay – it’s in the knowledge that Yes on Prop. 19 is law, it is lawful and shall not be a public thresholds and the Legislature may adopt essential. Here’s why we need “all hands right and can win – and then let’s each act offense under California law for any per- less restrictive limitations. son 21 years of age or older to: on deck” right now: like we personally had to get every ‘yes’ voter to the polls ourselves. (b) Statutes and authorize regulations to (i) Personally possess, process, share, or • The vote is likely to be very close. The further the purposes of the Act to establish The whole world is watching this transport not more than one ounce of polls are encouraging, but victory is far a statewide regulatory system for a com- California election. Let’s show them it’s cannabis, solely for that individual’s per- from certain. mercial cannabis industry that addresses possible for people to work together to take sonal consumption, and not for sale. • Our opponents will spread plenty of some or all of the items referenced in a big step toward ending the long national Sections 11301 and 11302. nightmare of marijuana prohibition. (c) Laws to authorize the production of When it comes to California medical * Stamper, a member of Law Enforcement Against Prohibition, was a police officer in San Diego for 28 years and hemp or non-active cannabis for horticul- marijuana defense you need an attorney Seattle’s police chief for six. See CopsSayLegalizeDrugs.com tural and industrial purposes. experienced with handling these cases, knowledgeable about the rapidly evolv- ing law; someone who likes to win and doesn’t mind taking the time to do it.

EUGENE DENSON, ATTORNEY AT LAW PO Box 158, Alderpoint, CA 95511 • Free initial consultations. • I have lived in Humboldt County for 28 years, and was a leader in the fight against the Campaign Against Marijuana Planting abuses. • I’m willing to travel to Northern California counties to defend you. (I’ve been in Del Norte, Siskiyou, Plumas, Shasta, Trinity, Humboldt, Mendocino, Sonoma, Marin, Colusa, Contra Costa, Lake, Glenn, Nevada; even Los Angeles). Phone 707-923-4764 for an appointment email: [email protected] • http://marijuanadefenselawyer.com/ Autumn 2010 Page 14 West Coast Leaf Just Say Now Emerald ordinances seek the green from legalization By Jon Perri, SSDP By Ellen Komp California NORML taxes and licensing fees for Humboldt Students for Sensible county could add up to $76 million yearly. Drug Policy has Northern California residents are begin- teamed up with pro- ning to look at local legalization options to Labeling requirements in the cannabis gressive political protect their livelihoods and values, and to proposal include its grade; certification blog and activist hub overcome fears of legalization and Prop. that the product is organic and/or free of Firedoglake to help 19. A proposed ordinance to protect rural pesticides; whether grown indoors or out- build momentum for farmers’ rights was presented at a series of doors; and whether water conservation legalization with a Humboldt County public meetings in measures such as catchment tanks were newly launched ‘Just recent months. Local officials attended the used in its cultivation. Say Now’ campaign. meetings, expressing support and asking A new group, HuMMAP (Humboldt Students are working for guidance from the public. Medical Marijuana Advisory Panel) has Evan Nison and John Perri of SSDP register Prop. 19 would allow cities, counties drafted its own version of the ordinance, on building an effective online effort to voters, who have until Oct. 18 to register for promote the November reform ballot ini- Californiaʼs Nov. 2 election. Photo by Mikki Norris and the state to implement cannabis taxa- leaving taxes and licensing fees up to a tiatives. tion and regulation, but most proposals for ‘cannabis council’ (which would be Just Say Now is a transpartisan coali- doing so are urban-based and impose retail appointed by the Board of Supervisors), all over the country, SSDP is poised to col- taxes. Starting from California’s wine and with some other provisions left to the tion of organizations with a diverse adviso- lect hundreds of thousands of signatures ry board that includes police, drug policy industry regulations and a proposed state. There is much interest in securing a for Just Say Now petitions, calling on Massachusetts bill, a rural-based proposal “Humboldt-Grown” brand for the region, reformers, philanthropists and former President Obama to end the war on mari- political advisors. At least one former for public input was first introduced at a which is known around the world for pro- juana. The petition effort aims at rescinding 707 Cannabis College event in July. ducing high-quality cannabis. Although member of the Reagan administration language in the Office of National Drug The proposed ordinance would license the group is working under the medical agrees that marijuana prohibition is a fail- Control Policy Reauthorization Act requir- cultivators, processors, wholesalers, retail- banner, it is looking toward the day when ure and must be ended. Bruce Fein, former ing the drug czar’s office to “take such ers, nurseries and researchers, and provide recreational use will be legalized. General Counsel to the FCC under actions as necessary to oppose any attempt for a combined farmer/processor/retailer A separate group has hired Sacramento President Ronald Reagan, is a member of to legalize.” The signed documents will be license. In contrast, the proposed lobbyist Max Del Real to promote a the advisory board and appeared on hand delivered to the White House. MSNBC to discuss the campaign. Ammiano bill (AB2254) is based on the Humboldt ordinance that he says would Visitors to JustSayNow.com can sign hard-liquor model and allows a cultivator also protect farmers. Another group, Grow Only one week after its launch, Just Say the petition and learn of other ways to help Now had garnered international media to sell only to a wholesaler, who sells to a It in the Sun, is disseminating information end marijuana prohibition. The site fea- retailer, who sells to the end user. about the carbon footprint of indoor versus coverage with SSDP Executive Director tures an online action center where it is The proposal blends state business outdoor-grown cannabis. A preliminary Aaron Houston debating Calvina Faye, easy to write a letter to the editor and codes that require a 20-cent-per-gallon study published in O’Shaughnessy’s head of the Drug Free America request a campus organizing kit. A $10 excise tax on wine with the ‘CHI’ initiative showed a strain rich in CBD had 50 percent Foundation, and Bishop Ron Allen, who donation gets a very cool Just Say Now model promoted by the late Jack Herer, more of the anti-inflammatory cannabi- has spread misinformation about sticker and the online store has lots of other which would have capped taxes on noid when grown outdoors. California’s Proposition 19. cool swag to help spread the word through cannabis at $10/ounce. The model ordi- The proposal is posted online at With 150 chapters on college campuses hemp tee shirts, tote bags and more. nance proposes a two-tiered tax of canorml.org/emerald.html. An activist $5/ounce on low-grade cannabis (1–5 per- center is being created at The Hemp cent THC) or $10/ounce on high grade Connection in Garberville, with literature Anaheim ruling keeps dispensaries in gray zone (over 5 percent THC). At the high end, available from all local groups. Continued from page 7 committed to the fight. Today, nearly four dozen California “We will not be deterred by this delay,” localities – including some of the most pop- said Elford. “We will eventually overcome Some localities not waiting for Prop 19 to tax ulous cities, like Los Angeles, Long Beach, the tragedy that thousands of patients Some plans are prohibitive Sacramento: 4 percent medical, 10 per- cent non-medical; Oakland and San Francisco – regulate and remain without access to their medication By Dale Gieringer California NORML tax the sale of cannabis at more than 1,200 simply because of hostile jurisdictions.” Richmond: 5 percent medical, 5 percent Regardless of whether Prop 19 passes, a dispensaries across the state. By contrast, For information, AmericansForSafeAccess.org/regulations non-medical; growing list of cities are proposing ballot more than 130 cities have imposed bans measures to tax medical marijuana sales at Long Beach: 5 percent medical, 10 per- like Anaheim’s. Scarmazzo, Montes appeal ever-escalating rates, as cities look to cash cent non-medical; After the ruling, ASA sent letters to all Continued from page 6 in on revenues from marijuana. Stockton: 2.5 percent medical, 10 per- of the cities with bans to update local offi- Former dispensary operators Luke In San Jose, the city council has pro- cent non-medical. cials on the status of the law and urge them Scarmazzo and Ricardo Montes both posed a ballot measure to impose up to a A few cities, including Redding and to promptly adopt local ordinances regu- turned 30 in separate prisons this summer. 10-percent tax on medical marijuana. If Sebastopol, turned down tax proposals. lating medical access. While it is unclear They’ve been locked up since May 2008, approved by voters, that means the city’s At the other extreme, Rancho Cordova whether the Anaheim case will remain the when a federal jury convicted them on dispensaries would be taxed at a whop- proposed a prohibitive $600-per-square- best vehicle for challenging local dispensa- charges related to the California Healthcare ping 19.25 percent including sales tax. foot tax on cannabis cultivation of any ry bans, the patient community remains Collective in Modesto. One of those Oakland began the tax stampede last kind –- even patients growing for personal charges, a continuing criminal enterprise, year by approving a modest 1.8 percent use. If approved, the measure is certain to carries a mandatory minimum 20 year sen- business tax on cannabis. The idea was ini- be challenged as an unconstitutional viola- Psychic tence, so the judge had little choice but to tiated by the city’s dispensaries, who had tion of patients’ rights under Prop. 215. Life Coach sentence them to decades in prison. They proposed a 1.4-percent rate. That was Regardless of the wishes of patients filed their appeal this summer, and hope hiked by the city council before being who feel prices are too high, the bandwag- Energist for a ruling that will change their fate and passed along to the voters, who approved on seems destined to gain momentum. From India reunite them with their young children. If it by a lopsided 4–1 margin. This year, State Senator Ronald Calderon not, it’s likely they will spend their birth- The Berkeley City Council voted to (D-Montebello) proposed a bill to tax med- days in prison for the next fifteen years. Control Your Destiny leapfrog Oakland by putting a 2.5 percent ical marijuana like cigarettes. The bill was- Another option is a campaign for medical marijuana tax on the ballot, reject- n’t heard, but the idea is expected to return Leave your worry, pain and loneliness President Obama to issue clemencies for ing patient advocates’ pleas for a more next year regardless of the outcome of this behind. people who qualify under his 2009 policy modest rate. The measure also proposes a election. Change your luck and improve your memo on medical marijuana. 10-percent tax on non-medical sales in the love and future by consulting with a For information on medical marijuana prisoners, visit event that Prop 19 passes, plus a tax of up caring professional psychic who truly MedicalMarijuanaOfAmerica.com understands your needs. to $25 per square foot on medical cannabis Whatever your dreams may be, find DON’T BE production facilities that would be licensed out how to achieve success and hap- A VICTIM OF by the city. piness. Not to be outdone, the Oakland city DRUG TESTING! For control and council approved a ballot measure to hike the city’s tax to 5 percent on medical mari- protection over your juana and 10 percent on non-medical business, I can help. cannabis, plus an additional 5 percent on I specialize in love reunion... the city’s four proposed licensed cultiva- and can help you tion facilities. Critics warned that such high even though miles away. Protect your human rights! taxes would encourage patients to shop — Clear Test — elsewhere, such as in San Francisco, where Readings by phone. there is no cannabis tax. 1.800.248.5655 Other proposed Nov. 2 ballot tax meas- cleartest.com 707-539-9844 ures include: West Coast Leaf Page 15 Autumn 2010 Fears of social cost are unfounded, studies show

By Mary Jane Borden Drugwarfacts.org Use: Examination of the Gateway Fears of increased marijuana use and abuse Hypothesis,” in the American Journal of of other, more harmful, illicit substances Psychiatry, wrote that, “Evidence support- are often used to rationalize criminalizing ing ‘causal linkages between stages,’ as Photo courtesy of Sam Sabzehzar, MedicalMarijuana411.com. cannabis. However, research suggests that specified by the gateway hypothesis, was What Prop 19 will do if passed by voters: these fears are hardly justified. not obtained.” • California’s Proposition 19 preserves the current state medical marijuana laws, as The abstract of an April 2010 study in According to a 2009 report from the mentioned three times in its purposes and also in the ballot argument. Congressional Research Service, “Medical the journal Drug and Alcohol Dependence • It makes it lawful for only adults 21 and above to possess, carry or share up to one Marijuana: Review and Analysis of Federal states a similar conclusion: “These results ounce of marijuana and grow a very small personal garden without a doctor’s note. and State Policies,” the prevalence of mari- suggest the ‘gateway’ pattern at least par- juana use has actually dropped in states tially reflects unmeasured common causes • It eliminates three misdemeanor penalties and one felony penalty from the Health that have medical-marijuana laws. rather than causal effects of specific drugs and Safety Code for engaging in the conduct described above. The report states, “California, the state on subsequent use of others.” • It adds a new affirmative defense for adults age 21 and above for any quantity of with the largest and longest-running med- Finally, consider numbers from the marijuana intended for personal adult use, as defined in the text. ical marijuana program, ranked 34th in the 2008 National Survey on Drug Use and • It increases the misdemeanor penalty for adults selling or furnishing to people age percentage of persons age 12-17 reporting Health. In 2008, 102 million Americans were 18 to 21 by increasing the fine and including the possiblity of jail time. marijuana use in the past month during the estimated to have tried marijuana once in • It retains the existing felony penalties for selling or furnishing to minors below 18. period 2002-2003,” and “Clearly, more their lifetimes; 15.2 million of them were • Prop 19 enables local government to permit, license, tax and regulate non-medical important factors are at work in determin- said to be “past-month” users. cannabis sales and commercial production, possibly including hemp farming. ing a state’s prevalence of recreational mar- There were an estimated 3.8 million • It keeps in place other current marijuana laws including state public safety laws, fed- ijuana use than whether the state has a “lifetime” and 213,000 “past-month” users eral laws and drug-free workplace requirements. medical marijuana program.” of heroin. By simple math, “lifetime” hero- • It allows the legislature to reduce penalties, create statewide regulations for commer- in users were only 3.7 percent of “lifetime” The concept that cannabis leads to the cial cultivation and distribution of marijuana, and allow industrial hemp farming. abuse of dangerous illicit substances like marijuana users,” with “past-month” hero- heroin is commonly called the “gateway in users a mere 1.4 percent of “past-month” What Prop 19 will not do: theory.” marijuana users. If cannabis were a gate- • Proposition 19 does not change the existing state medical marijuana laws. way to heroin, wouldn’t these percentages It was questioned in the 1999 Institute • It does not overturn federal laws. be significantly closer? of Medicine report Marijuana and Medicine: • It does not allow driving under the influence, diversion to minors, unlicensed sales, These facts come from the “Gateway Assessing the Science Base, which found that, or smoking around kids. “There is no conclusive evidence that the Theory and Drug Usage” chapters of Drug • It does not create any special arrangements or benefits for corporations. drug effects of marijuana are causally War Facts at drugwarfacts.org. This website linked to the subsequent abuse of other contains direct quotes from government • It does not force communities to allow marijuana sales, it allows them to do so. illicit drugs.” reports, peer-reviewed journals, think-tank • It does not create a special, tax-exempt status for marijuana, although it allows peo- In 2002, the British Home Office analyses, and other authoritative sources, ple aged 21 and above to grow their own and share with other adults. along with bibliographic citations and Research Study 253 looked at the pre- Partial list of Prop 19 endorsements: sumed progression of drug use through links to the source documents. With so many important policy and CA NAACP; ACLU of Northern CA, Southern CA, and San Diego; United States Surgeon General Dr. Joycelyn defined sequences and came to the same Elders, MD (Ret.); Dr. Lester Grinspoon; Latino Voters League; National Black Police Association; United Food conclusion: “There is very little remaining research developments concerning and Commercial Workers, Western States Council; International Longshore and Warehouse Union Northern evidence of any causal gateway effect.” cannabis, it is important to understand the CA District Council; City Councils of Oakland, West Hollywood and Berkeley; Congressman Pete Stark; California State Senate President Pro Tem Don Perata (Ret.), Sen. Mark Leno; Assemblymember Tom Ammiano; Researchers for the 2006 article, facts. This will encourage the crafting and adoption of sensible, compassionate, and Assemblymember Hector De La Torre; CA Young Democrats and various Democratic Party clubs; CA “Predictors of Marijuana Use in Libertarian Party; CA Green Party; Republican Liberty Caucus; Harvard Economist Jeffrey Miron; Interfaith Adolescents Before and After Licit Drug effective policies. Drug Policy Initiative. For a listing of more endorsements, see yeson19.com Autumn 2010 Page 16 West Coast Leaf Paid Adve ertisement West Coast Leaf Page 17 Autumn 2010 Autumn 2010 Page 18 West Coast Leaf West Coast Leaf Page 19 Autumn 2010 Prop 19ʼs centrist approach draws critics, In the midst of this, Oakland’s unrelat- own false rumors claiming that the initia- ed plan to license so-called ‘mega-grows’ tive will make it impossible to enforce drug rumors from both ends of Drug War debate for medical use is based on current laws, free workplace standards or have a nega- but it fanned fears of a corporate takeover tive effect on landlords, when in fact they By Chris Conrad juana to persons aged 18–21. It retains two and a host of conspiracy theories. In fact, are protected in Prop 19 Intent #2 and California’s Prop 19 has vocal opposition felonies (section 11361) that are already on Prop 19 sets up a system of local controls 11300(a)[2]. They also stir up strong fears of from two extremes, both the expected the books for furnishing to minors, but where ‘mom and pop’ or medium-size stoned drivers, despite all evidence that attacks from drug warriors and career Section 5(a) allows the legislature to “adopt growers can better organize to keep big cannabis consumers tend to be safe drivers. politicians, on the one hand, and on the less restrictive limitations” and create a business in check and hold officials The fact that Prop 19 is mischaracter- other are self-proclaimed “Stoners” and “statewide regulatory system.” accountable than at the state level. ized and attacked by both extremes shows other critics who say they want legalization Likewise, marijuana remains illegal in Meanwhile, the official opposition to how modest and conservative an approach but not certain provisions of the initiative, California with a limited, qualified immu- Prop 19 has also been busy spreading its the authors have taken. feel it does not go far enough, or fear it nity for patients with a prior physician’s reduces patients’ current rights. approval. Prop 19, on the other hand, adds Regarding the latter group, once it is a list of “Lawful Activities” that “shall not understood that Prop 19 only affects non- be a public offense” and do not require medical use, most of the resulting concerns medical qualification, only proof of age. for patients disappear. Some issues remain, Prop 19 Purpose #6 calls for “easier, safer however. It toughens a penalty for furnish- access for patients who need cannabis for ing to minors. Parents smoking around medical purposes;” it protects medical use, kids would face the same risk as in current possession, cultivation and collectives by law, cities can set high fees and taxes, and statute number in Purposes #7 and #8 and the state attorney general can challenge preserves them in the ballot argument. Prop 215 and SB420 laws or Prop 19 if it Unfortunately, once the “new felonies” Mark, River, Chanci, and Dan Herer(l-r) gathered around a passes, just as they can challenge any law. rumor got planted, an entire blogosphere- portrait of their father at the Those worries are weighed against the spawned rumor mill took root. 2010 Seattle HempFest. This political shift of legalizing cannabis. yearʼs event was dedicated to For example, a claim that the initiative his legacy. Unfortunately, a trove of misinforma- adds a mandatory tax of $50 per ounce is Photo by Mikki Norris tion stems from a YouTube video in circula- not true. That’s taken out of context from tion in which a Prop 215 sponsor, Dennis Tom Ammiano’s bill in the state Assembly. Jack Herer family endorses Prop 19, wants more Peron, mistakenly claims that the initiative Prop 19 allows untaxed personal cultiva- “creates new felonies” for cannabis. He tion and gifts and allows localities to regu- Open letter from the Jack Herer family believe that, and we ask that everyone stop incorrectly states that marijuana “is late and tax commercial operations. Author, The Emperor Wears No Clothes, claiming he would cling to that position as proponent, California Hemp & Health Init. we move toward the Nov. 2 vote. already legal” because “all use is medical,” A typical anti-Prop 19 rumor takes a that the initiative replaces current medical compelling phrase from the initiative out Dear Friends of Hemp and Cannabis, As his family, we want the world to know that the last thing Jack Herer would use laws, and that as an initiative it could of context, such as to point to its felonies Our father, Jack Herer, was a man of lead- want is for Californians to vote to keep not be amended to fix its perceived flaws. but not mention that they already exist. ership, compassion and idealism. He cannabis illegal. He was smart and had the Our investigation found that none of One rumor notes that Purpose #7 does not worked relentlessly for decades to achieve political savvy to know that once a measure those claims are accurate. Starting with his list cultivation but fails to note that it is in his dream of legalizing cannabis hemp in is on the ballot, the time for bickering has first error, Prop 19 does not add any #8. One hits the low quantities allowed but all its forms, personal, medical and indus- passed. That is why he campaigned for Prop felonies – it eliminates one felony as well as ignores the new affirmative defense for trial. He wanted cannabis to be free and 215 despite its shortcomings. That is why, three misdemeanor level offenses. It does larger amounts (11304[d](4)[c]). Another open, and to be given full respect for its were he able, he would now be telling vot- increase one misdemeanor penalty by says that a requirement that businesses enormous economic, environmental and ers to rally around and Vote Yes on Prop 19. adding the possibility of up to six months must keep certain records means all canna - cultural benefits. Does that mean he would want every- jail time for furnishing non-medical mari- bis will need a receipt to be legal. Wrong. As an idealist, Jack was adverse to half one to stop and be happy with the modest measures. He originally opposed Prop 215 changes that Prop 19 affords? Absolutely because it permits only medical use. He Data show marijuana no big factor in highway safety not! What Jack would want us to do right initially opposed Senate Bill 420 because it now is to support Prop 19 and, come Nov. By Dale Gieringer, California NORML this could be offset if there were more com- set limited quantities as a safe harbor. Over 3, he would be advocating for renewed Although Prop 19 would do nothing to bined use of the two by drivers. time, however, he came to appreciate the commitment to bringing a comprehensive change current laws against driving under The highway risks are dramatically freedoms they created, and took pride in California Hemp and Health Initiative to the influence, its opponents speculate that overstated in a report by retired NHTSA the role he played in inspiring those the voters in 2012 or some future date. Jack it could result in a flood of accidents from researcher Al Crancer. Citing data from the changes. Jack’s great fear about Prop 215 Herer would ask — no, he would demand ‘stoned’ drivers. Fortunately, there is ample federal government’s FARS accident and SB 420 was that people would accept — your ‘yes’ vote on Prop 19, along with a scientific evidence that marijuana is not reporting system, he points to a doubling those limits, become complacent and stop pledge to continue fighting for the plant, like alcohol, and cannabis has remarkably in the incidence of marijuana in fatal driv- working for full legalization. He feared we the people and the planet. little impact on highway safety. ers in California since 2004. Crancer attach- would be stuck with medical use forever. It is true that Prop 19 does not fulfill Eleven different studies of fatal acci- es this to the legalization of medical use, Likewise, Jack railed against Tax our father’s dream; but it takes us much dents involving 50,000 drivers have found which he misdates to 2004. Cannabis 2010, now Prop 19, and its plan closer to achieving it, and for that reason that drivers with marijuana-only in their In fact, California legalized medical for limited legalization and local authority we, his family, endorse Prop 19 today. blood are on average no more dangerous marijuana in 1996, and highway accident to tax and regulate marijuana sales to Please vote yes on Prop 19 Nov 2, but do it than drivers with low levels of alcohol – rates have since declined. US accident rates adults 21 and above. It falls far short of with the intention to keep working toward beneath the legal threshold for DUI. The declined steadily throughout the 1960s and what he wanted. Jack ‘wanted it all,’ and complete legalization in Jack’s honor. major exception is when it is combined 70s, at a time when millions of Americans Prop 19 is just a part of that dream. with alcohol, which tends to be highly dan- began using cannabis. Unfortunately, Jack passed away before Sincerely, Dan Herer, on behalf of the gerous: pot does not sober up a drunk. Crancer’s data shows that California Prop 19 made the 2010 ballot; many people Herer family, Van Nuys CA, August, 2010 In contrast, several studies have found ranks 14th in the nation in the rate of mar- think he would still oppose it. We don’t Visit jackherermedicalandmemorialfund.org marijuana-only drivers to be no more dan- ijuana-involved fatal accidents, well below gerous than those with no drugs at all. To other states with tougher laws, like South Subscribe to West Coast Leaf the extent that legalization encourages the Carolina, Indiana and Missouri. A unique newspaper, delivered quarterly in a discreet, plain envelope. substitution of cannabis for alcohol, Prop. For a summary of scientific studies on marijuana and driving $ 19 might improve traffic safety, although safety: canorml.org/healthfacts/drugtestguide/drugtestde- Annual subscription (1 copy per issue for a year) 20 tection.html#accidents. Buddy pack (20 copies per issue for a year) $50 $ The Healing Center of San Francisco • thcsanfrancisco.com Activist stack (50 copies per issue for a year) 75 Distributor bundle (100 copies per issue for a year) $100 Check website for our calendar of upcoming events, classes, workshops and locations For larger quantities: Call 510-215-8326 to make arrangements. All Classes limited to 25 students & require Prop 215 Recommendation ! NO EXCEPTIONS PayPal payments accepted at WestCoastLeaf.com ... or ~ Cannabis Horticulture101 ~ ~ Edibles and Beyond SB 420 ~ Indoor, Outdoor, Organic & Green House Dosages & Concentrate values Call 510-215-TEAM (8326) for Visa / other Credit Card payments ... or All phases of plant Cultivation Cannabis cooking classes and Concentrate prod- Fill-out and mail-in this handy coupon with check or MO to Creative Xpressions ~ Know Your 215 Rights Workshops ~ uct workshops Avoiding police interactions & getting busted Vaporizer demonstrations ❏ Subscriber $20 ❏ 20 copies / $50 ❏ 50 / $75 ❏ 100 / $100 Alternative methods of medicating Staying compliant while growing Name: ______Begin: ❏ Autumn 2010 ❏ Winter 2011 Role playing classes 1st & 3rd Sundays 6:30-8:30pm Attend our other fun monthly events and exhibits Address: ______Cost $15 • please RSVP today • 415-684-0789 • 510-761-6015 City, State, Zip Code ______In the ʻSoma distʼ, SF, CA. • Volunteers welcome and donations kindly accepted Phone or Email ______ON SITE MEDICATING ALLOWED • Free advice and monthly chair massage Make check or MO payable to ‘Creative Xpressions’ and mail it with this form to: thcsanfrancisco.com Creative Xpressions Subscriptions, PO Box 1716, El Cerrito CA 94530 Autumn 2010 Page 20 West Coast Leaf

Editorials and Commentary Please vote Yes on Prop 19 If you smoke cannabis or know someone who does and you live in California, this may be the vote you most remember in your life. It is pivotal to the future legal and social status of cannabis consumers everywhere — a mark of where we stand in society, communities, workplaces, and our families. Will we continue to be subject to arrest, incarceration, asset forfeiture, discriminatory drug testing, loss of jobs, benefits and custody rights, the dan- gers of the illicit market, and the stigma that marijuana prohibition perpetuates? Is this the next positive step towards exercising our rights as equal partners in society with a grow- ing acceptance and tolerance that common sense cannabis policy holds in store? Vote for ʻNot Whitmanʼ and ʻNot Cooleyʼ This is our historic opportunity to shift a paradigm that has been operating since at least 1937, when the US outlawed marijuana. Prohibition is a scourge wreaking havoc on By William Dolphin, Americans for Safe Access exceptions” to enforcing the law as attor- our lives, devastating our Constitution, and wasting billions of dollars and resources crim- As they consider the major candidates for ney general. No surprise, since Cooley par- inalizing a plant and good people who use it. It clogs our courts and our prisons. It has statewide office, California patient activists ticipated in a “training” for the California crippled our hemp industries and devastated family farms and forests alike. can rightly feel frustrated. Not one candi- Narcotics Officers Assn. aimed at “eradi- cating” dispensaries around the state. The enormity of this moment should not be understated. It has been 38 years since date has stood up against federal raids on non-medical marijuana legalization was last on the California ballot – which, coincidental- patients and providers. In word and in deed, Cooley has ly also was numbered Prop 19. It’s been 14 years since voters passed the Compassionate But make no mistake – there are big dif- revealed himself to be the sort of lawman Use Act, Prop 215. No one knows how long it will be until we have another chance, but ferences that will have great impact. who enforces laws that suit his agenda and we do know that every day people are arrested for marijuana in California. Americans for Safe Access urges everyone ignores those that don’t. That approach is what is truly dangerous for our society. For We are therefore surprised to hear some ‘legalizers’ oppose Prop 19 to wait for ‘some- to vote for candidates who will respect the more on Steve Cooley and what you can do thing better.’ There is only one marijuana legalization initiative on the ballot this year, and will of the people and uphold the laws to stop him, check out NotCooley.com. there is no guarantee this opportunity will come again anytime soon. So the choice is clear. we’ve fought so hard to pass. That means We urge an enthusiastic vote: “Yes’ on Prop 19. Jerry Brown for governor and, more impor- tantly, Kamala Harris for attorney general. When personal use and cultivation are “lawful activities,” it changes everything. No Mom-and-pop growers longer will an odor of cannabis be automatic probable cause to search your home or per- Those of us who work to ensure safe son. No longer will you be labeled a ‘criminal,’ ticketed and fined over a small bag in your access to medical cannabis have seen that need to organize now trunk or purse. No longer will you face the inflated prices that prohibition and the illicit passage of a law is only the first step. By David Harris Convincing officials to respect and imple- market command for cannabis, as prices drop and adults grow their own and share. Growing quality cannabis for medical or ment the law can be an even greater chal- If it passes, Prop 19 will make it easier to protect patients’ rights and the gains we’ve personal use requires skill, capital and hard lenge than winning at the ballot box. ASA made with medical marijuana. Doctors will still need to approve patients’ larger dosages work. Lower prices are good for the con- takes no position on Prop 19 because it and patient collectives will continue to play their unique role in providing access. But no sumer, but they threaten the traditional does not directly address medical access, longer will cannabis be an illegal medicine, so both stigma and skepticism will soon fall economics of a cottage industry. but what the candidates say about it does away. Passing Prop. 19 will send a message to law enforcement and to the cities and coun- tell us how they would likely implement Often people invest valuable personal ties currently banning and clamping down on medical cannabis dispensaries that voters our medical use laws. labor and hard-earned savings to build want legal outlets. Prop 19 will allow for profit as well as non-profit activity, which makes small community gardens, creating rev- Both Jerry Brown and Meg Whitman, it clear that cities can permit retail sales of medical marijuana as well. enue streams that support families and the Democratic and Republican candidates Change of this magnitude cannot always be smooth. The challenge for many of our local businesses in areas where cannabis is for governor, say they oppose Prop 19. But readers will be to start planning now for how to engage with a safe, legal, regulated, and grown. This has offered small farmers Brown has said he will respect the will of commercial market in California localities. That may be as consumer, producer, product modest livelihoods for generations. the people and not undermine the law. This development, employee, business operator, or entrepreneur in an emerging industry that mirrors his position on medical cannabis. Small growers all over California are will bring jobs and new revenue streams to our cash-strapped state. It’s not too early to He may not promote safe access, but the now seeing a drop in the value of their har- start organizing and lobbying for regulations that benefit and sustain your communities. guidelines he produced as attorney general vests, as mom-and-pop farmers compete We may stand on the dawn of a new era, have helped implement state law. And, as with more of their own neighbors and where all adults 21 and over can use, pos- West Coast Leaf governor in 1975, he signed California’s more large-scale commercial crops. sess, grow, and share small amounts of The West Coast Leaf™ is a free speech publication decriminalization bill. Small- to medium-sized gardens, hav- cannabis with other adults if they just fol- owned and operated by Creative Xpressions. ISSN In contrast, Meg Whitman falls back on ing a total canopy space under 5000 square low a few simple rules. The whole world is 1945-211X. Business license EC08-0002765. The Leaf feet (indoor or outdoor), typically bring in supports tolerance and maintains that cannabis Drug War rhetoric exaggerating how “dan- watching and waiting for California to sales and cultivation should and will be legal for gerous” cannabis is and has even said she just enough money to pay the bills, with a make the first move towards legalization. adult consumption. We invite your submissions would refuse to sign Prop 19 (The governor little extra to reinvest into the next cycle. Tell your friends and family. Register to and advertising. WCL fosters a socio-political com- The concern facing many mom-and- munity by providing photos, news, directories, does not sign voter initiatives, only legisla- vote, volunteer, donate and phone bank for features, and regional information for our readers. tion.), and will do everything possible to pop gardens is how to survive the process the campaign to help get-out-the-vote. Go Special thanks to Jackie G. Wilson and John block it. And PayPal, a subsidiary of the of coming above-ground and facing the to YesOn19.com to see what you can do to Thomas Ellis for their editorial assistance. company Whitman founded, has a policy regulatory bureaucracies. Increased costs get involved. Make this the vote you Chris Conrad, executive editor of blackballing legal medical-use business- and taxes will bring down profit margins remember for advancing the rights of Mikki Norris, managing editor es. This suggests a politician who gives and endanger the stability of these small cannabis consumers the world over. PO Box 1716, El Cerrito CA 94530 only lip service to compassion as she but important businesses. This is our time. This is our moment. On WestCoastLeaf.com • 510-215-TEAM (8326) undermines safe access. This will be especially dangerous as Nov. 2, please vote Yes on Prop. 19. Vol 3 No 3. Print run: 175,000 copies. Even more important to medical access massive business interests are legally per- Autumn Issue. © 2010. All rights reserved. is the race for state attorney general. mitted to overtake established communi- Whoever occupies the office will have ties and begin farming industrial spaces enormous influence over the state medical over 10,000 square feet. cannabis program. And the contrast Should there be restrictions on size? A Upcoming Quarterly Schedule and Submission Deadlines between Kamala Harris and Steve Cooley lottery for growers’ licenses? Allotted com- Your ad in this newspaper helps build our community in California and could not be more stark. While both candi- munity gardens? Will brokers act inde- dates signed the No on 19 ballot argument, pendently? Will the model be like farmers’ the West, and will be seen around the world. Harris defended San Francisco’s dispen- markets? These are just some of the ques- Winter 2011 • Deadline Nov. 6, 2010 saries and has said she favors statewide tions that must be addressed. Cannabis Circulated December 2010 — February 2011 regulations for dispensaries. gardeners of all sizes will need to come Spring 2011 • Deadline Feb. 12, 2011 As LA District Attorney, Cooley has together and appeal to local governments for clear ordinances that will support cur- Circulated September — November 2010 systematically undermined elected officials attempts to implement medical use laws. rent supply networks and ensure that ADVERTISERS AND SUBSCRIBERS HELP GROW THE LEAF When LA City Council was creating regu- small cannabis growers won’t be muscled West Coast Leaf provides free copies of our newspapers at locations lations for dispensaries, Cooley claimed all out by big farming interests. and events throughout California and the West Coast. “sales” were illegal and denounced the CanKare is an advocacy group promot- We are an advertiser, subscriber and donor supported community newspaper. council as “irrelevant,” saying he would ing policies to develop small garden spaces To subscribe, you can use the handy coupon in this issue or visit us online. ignore anything they passed, and prose- under 5000 square feet as a sustainable cot- cute anyone operating a dispensary. tage-industry business model for local www.WestCoastLeaf.com Place your Ad at or call: Cooley calls Prop 19 a “foolish and danger- communities. People who wish to offer West Coast Leaf • 510-215-Team (8326) ous initiative that endangers our society.” support are invited to contact CanKare of For bulk distribution, contact us at [email protected] His spokesman says Cooley may find “rare California at [email protected] West Coast Leaf Page 21 Autumn 2010 Cannabis reform on the national voting agenda Pot arrests fuel drug treatment gravy train

Continued from page 1 By Paul Armentano, NORML sole criterion for admission is that they ran state should legalize med- Marijuana prohibition continues to be a afoul of marijuana laws. ical marijuana. windfall for drug treatment providers. Yet, since 1998, the percentage of indi- In anticipation of Prop According to the most recent figures viduals in drug treatment primarily for 19’s passage, voters in sev- published by the US Department of Health cannabis has risen approximately 25 per- eral California cities will and Human Services, nearly six out of ten cent — even though the proportion of also consider measures to persons (57 percent) referred to treatment cannabis admissions from all sources other tax the sale of cannabis. The for marijuana as their ‘primary substance than the criminal justice system has been Sacramento City Council of abuse’ were referred by the criminal jus- declining since the mid-1990s. has placed a companion tice system. In fact, some 37 percent of the estimat- measure on the November By contrast, criminal justice referrals ed 288,000 thousand people who entered ballot for a 5–10 percent accounted for just 37 percent of all drug treatment for cannabis in 2007 (the most local tax on retail marijuana treatment admissions in 2008. recent data available) had not reported sales. Sacramento is asking “Primary marijuana admissions were using it in the 30 days previous to their voters to decide whether to admission. Another 16 percent said they impose a 2–4 percent tax on less likely than all admissions combined to be self-referred to treatment,” the study had used it three or fewer times in the gross receipts at existing month prior to their admission. medical marijuana dispen- found. Only 15 percent of these admissions ʻUncle Samʼ Miko Sloper came to El Cerrito, CA, July 4 to Are these people addicts? Hardly. saries. Similarly, Long remind California voters that people all around the world are were self-referred (a category that includes watching their vote. West Coast Leaf photo by Mikki Norris. Beach voters will consider individual self-referrals and referrals by The latest federal statistics make it clear whether to charge medical cannabis collec- initiative-focused articles at friends and family). This is less than half that it is not cannabis use per se that is driv- tives a 5 percent gross receipts tax. The mapinc.org/props.htm. At the Media the percentage of self-referrals for alcohol ing these treatment admission rates; it is Long Beach measure would also permit the Activism Center, mapinc.org/resource/, and cocaine, and about one-quarter the marijuana prohibition that is driving the city to levy a tax of 0.75 cents per square there is even more information and a list of number of self-referrals reported for heroin drug ‘treatment’ gravy train. More often foot on sites used exclusively to cultivate ways to get involved. abuse (56 percent). than not, ordinary (and typically young — the average admission age is 24) cannabis. The Richmond City Council also Please remember to vote Nov. 2 or vote Given the longstanding criticism that Americans are being busted for cannabis placed a 5 percent marijuana tax proposal absentee in advance, particularly if you America’s drug treatment resources are and then forced to choose between rehab or on the ballot. reside in one of the cities or states fielding woefully underfunded and unable to meet jail. It’s a dirty little secret that’s been a Two Berkeley ballot proposals will ballot initiatives. That’s the best way to ini- demand, it is shocking and shameful that boon for treatment clinics, and a bust for allow up to 11 large-scale growing facilities tiate the end of cannabis prohibition and so many of these facilities are used to ware- everyone else. in the city’s manufacturing zone. The the beginning of legal regulation. house minor cannabis offenders whose measures would also reduce the buffer zone between dispensaries and schools from 1,000 feet to 600 feet. If approved, the new law would permit growers to bake cannabis brownies, cookies and cakes. DrugSense and its Media Awareness Project have established a number of ways to track these initiatives right up to election day. The best place to start is at the “Ballot Initiative” Focal Point on the MAP home page, mapinc.org, that leads to numerous

Cannabis church raided in HI Continued from page 1 Several of his co-defendants were indicted on even more serious charges. All others got bond, yet Christie remains caged. The government argued that the soft-spoken minister is too dangerous to release, even under house arrest with random drug test- ing and electronic monitoring. The government says Christie is a “danger to the community” and that no conditions or combination of conditions could “assure the safety of the communi- ty.” He remains locked up behind the bars of the Hawaii Federal Detention Center with limited access to telephone, Internet or legal help. The prosecution says the earliest it can be ready to hold the trial is April 2011. The government, with all its agents and attor- neys, cannot put its case together with less than six months of preparation. How is Christie supposed to prepare for this from the isolation of a prison cell? He wants to take full responsibility and fight his case as vigorously as possible. Lack of bail denies him that right. Hopefully, his lawyers can get the court to reconsider and grant him a reasonable bail in the coming weeks. All fair-minded people who support religious freedom, justice and personal choice of spiritual sacraments need to rally for this cause. Please support the-last-mar- ijuana-trial.com and spread the word. We need your positive prayers and your dona- tions to win this case for Christie, for the ‘Green 14’ and for all the people of the US who value religious liberty and basic Constitutional rights. To contact Roger Christie, write to him at: Roger Christie 99279-022, Federal Detention Center P O Box 30080 Code FBOP #DC, Honolulu HI 96820 Autumn 2010 Page 22 West Coast Leaf Harborside hosts its first Red Cross blood drive Oregon Board of Pharmacy reclassifies cannabis

By Linda Stokely facility. Harborside Oakland hopes to By Sandee Burbank MAMA does not compel anybody to violate federal Harborside Health Center in San Jose sponsor its first blood drive in the near The 2009 Oregon legislature directed the law or to participate in any way in the cul- became the first cannabis dispensary to future. state Board of Pharmacy to remove tivation, manufacture or distribution of sponsor a blood drive with the American cannabis from its list of Schedule 1 marijuana. However, Oregon pharmacy Red Cross Northern Cal Blood Services Controlled Substances (C-I) and place it laws do require pharmacists to comply Region. As a non-profit community service into one of the four remaining schedules. with all applicable state and federal laws. organization, Harborside reached out to After hearing invited testimony*, writ- ... [F]ederal officials have full authority to the Red Cross for the June 15 drive. ten testimony and holding a public hear- enforce federal laws in Oregon”. Twenty-two patients and staff mem- ing, the Board adopted permanent rules Oregon Medical Marijuana Program bers donated blood, yielding 66 total June 16, 2010, rescheduling cannabis into (OMMP) supporters are disappointed that patient treatments, as each blood donation Schedule II, effective June 29. it wasn’t put into Schedule C-III, C-IV or C- is separated into three products: red blood This corrected a technical conflict in V. A 1978 review by the Board of Pharmacy cells, platelets, and plasma. Red Cross local state law, which allows cannabis for med- recommended that cannabis be listed as account manager Mona Helmhold thanked ical use, yet had it listed as a C-I drug with Schedule C-V. A loud outcry from law Harborside’s management for allowing no accepted medical use. The Board said, enforcement prevented the finding from employees to donate blood “on the clock.” “By moving marijuana from C-I to C-II, the being filed, thus leaving the Federal sched- Plans are underway for another blood board intended only to comply with ORS uling in place. drive at Harborside’s 2106 Ringwood Ave. Adriana Ramirez was first in line to donate. * Testimony is posted at oregon.gov/Pharmacy/Marijuana- 475.059 (SB 728) to correct the technical Rescheduling.shtml; Sandee Burbank [email protected] conflict in the law and in no way intended pharmacy.state.or.us/ to infer or imply that it is or should be THC may slow progression of Alzheimer’s symptoms available by prescription. In fact, it will not By Marion Fry and Dale Schafer the amount of plaque formation in be available by prescription.” Privacy victory in RI Alzheimer’s disease, characterized by a Alzheimer’s patients, and may slow the “The Controlled Substances Act is a By Jesse Stout, RIpatients.org decrease in brain cells and formation of disease’s progression. THC has been federal law passed by the US Congress and Rhode Island law now protects the confi- inflammatory plaques in brain tissue, caus- shown to be more effective at increasing is administered by the Drug Enforcement dentiality of doctors who recommend es loss of memory and inability to care for the levels of AcTH than are the FDA- Administration (DEA). The Oregon cannabis to their patients. one’s self. Currently FDA-approved drugs approved drugs. Uniform Controlled Substances Act is a In June, both the RI Senate and House such as Aricept and Cognex are designed These findings require more research to state law passed by the Oregon Legislature. of Representatives passed H8172, and the to slow the enzyme responsible for the determine if THC can prevent or slow the ... The Board of Pharmacy’s action to law became effective June 22 without degradation of AcTH, one of the brain’s progression of Alzheimer’s disease. More reschedule marijuana on the state list does Governor Carcieri’s signature. This marks important neurotransmitters. These drugs research is also needed to find out if more not supersede federal law or create a direct the first time the state legislature has enact- are increasingly prescribed but have had effective Alzheimer’s medications can be conflict with federal law. ed a medical marijuana law without over- limited success. derived from cannabis. “Marijuana is not ‘prescribed’ in riding a gubernatorial veto. A study performed at the Scripps To contact Mollie Fry (also known as “DocFry” or Marion Fry, Oregon, it may be ‘recommended’ by a This new law amends the Medical MD) or Dale Schafer see bodymindsoulandlife.info. Research Institute found that THC reduced physician in compliance with the OMMP. It Please turn to page 27 just simply does not address federal law. It

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California 1-888-420-BUDS 1-888-420-2837 [email protected] West Coast Leaf Page 23 Autumn 2010 DEA raids show need for binding federal policy New hand-held vaporizer a pleasure to sip on By Kris Hermes, Americans for Safe Access icine, money and supplies, as well as finan- The Vapir NO2 The Vapir NO2’s thermostat is conven- In the span of less than a week in July, the cial and private patient records. ient. Just turn it on, press a couple buttons By Mikki Norris with the MontyPats, federal Drug Enforcement Admin. (DEA) The raids drew protests in both states, to set the temperature, wait for the green A recent three-day trial of the new, raided medical marijuana patients and with renewed calls by patients and advo- light, and start drawing on the plastic portable, digital, cordless Vapir NO2, providers in California and Michigan. The cates for an end to federal enforcement in straw-like tube that attaches to the shows that vaporizers have indeed California raids were similar to those car- medical-use states, and for a binding feder- top. At 325 degrees, excellent herbal come a long way. Health-conscious ried out under the Bush Administration, al policy that goes beyond criminal flavors linger and expand in the consumers who switch from smoke to but President Obama was supposed to take enforcement. However, there have been mouth. The very best flavors are vapor will be instantly impressed a different stance on medical marijuana well over 20 DEA raids just in the last year. produced at lower temperatures. with its comfortable-in-the-hand size. than his predecessor. Or, so it seemed. While advocates condemn all the raids, Higher temperatures are recom- It is an attractive, nicely made, light- After Obama’s Dept. of Justice issued a two in particular have raised serious ques- mended for a thicker vapor and a weight product that works quickly and 2009 directive to US Attorneys discourag- tions about the federal government’s moti- more recognizable effect. efficiently for under $200. ing federal prosecution of “individuals vations. DEA raids early this year at labora- The NO2 comes with a few tools whose actions are in clear and unambigu- tories in Denver and Colorado Springs that that make it easy to use and clean. It ous compliance with existing state laws tested for contaminants, like mold and Oregon courts lend a hand loads from the top using the pro- providing for the medical use of marijua- insects, appeared to undermine the effec- vided scoop, sized for just the right na,” DEA raids have significantly dropped tiveness and safety of Colorado’s medical Continued from page 11 amount of product. A tool is pro- off, but aggressive federal enforcement use program. So troubling were these raids requires Oregon Sheriffs to issue a con- vided to loosen any matter that remains in actions are still taking place. that a Colorado member of Congress and cealed handgun license (and prohibits the chamber after a gentle tapping. A small Two licensed medical cultivators were four state lawmakers all urged the federal them from revoking it) unless the applicant brush is also included. A rechargeable bat- raided July 6 in Michigan, a state that has government to stop interfering with the meets a specific statutory exclusion. Even tery and car adapter are optional from had little-to-no federal enforcement on this implementation of state law. though the Sheriffs argued that patients’ vapir.com. issue. The next day, DEA raided the first Even more upsetting than the ongoing use of therapeutic cannabis is unprotected This portable vaporizer could use a car- collective to apply for the Mendocino raids to some is Obama’s nomination of under federal law, judges have agreed that rying case, as you will want to take it with County, CA sheriff’s cultivation permit Michele Leonhart, a Bush appointee, to Oregon Sheriffs must follow state law. The you. It’s a welcome advancement in vapor- program, and seized plants that had been head DEA. As Deputy Administrator Sheriffs have petitioned the Oregon izing technology, a healthier alternative to marked by county-issued ‘zip-ties.’ Then under Karen Tandy she was responsible for Supreme Court to review these decisions; combusting cannabis, and it’s fun to hold DEA conducted multiple raids July 9 on more than 200 federal raids as well as other their petitions have not yet been ruled on. and use – kind of like sipping something dispensaries in the San Diego area, arrest- tactics to undermine state laws. Oregon Sheriffs are also resisting wonderful and delicious tasting from a ing 12 people. As usual, the DEA took med- “President Obama is sending mixed returning cannabis to patients. The favorite bottle. signals with Leonhart’s Douglas County Sheriff, for Grow Your Medical Cannabis With Confidence! nomination,” said Caren example, both appealed the trial court’s order requiring Huge yields ... Full Flavor Woodson of Ameri cans for …BIG STICKY BUDS! 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495 Gate 5 Rd (at Harbor Dr.) Sausalito • Just 2 min. from the 101 South on Bridgeway, Then take first light to left: Youʼre on Gate 5 Rd. Ph: 415-289-1111 Fax 415-289-1115 Donʼt forget your Doctorʼs Note to apply. Autumn 2010 Page 24 West Coast Leaf Medical marijuana may help people quit tobacco Growing scientific consensus against Drug War By David G Ostrow, cies and would allow for the redirection of By Jennifer Janichek, MA Another states, “I ate a cannabis edible Conference Delegate and Signer of Vienna Declaration vast financial resources towards where When people quit or try to quit cigarettes, every morning and early evening and that In a sharply worded statement by dele- they are needed most: implementing and cigars, or chewing tobacco, they are hit really helped me quit.” gates to the XVIII Int. Conference on AIDS evaluating evidence-based prevention, reg- with cravings and powerful withdrawal Patient descriptions highlight various July 18-23 in Vienna, Austria, scientists, ulatory, treatment and harm reduction symptoms such as headaches, interruption strategies such as, “I bought a bag of shake caregivers and persons living with HIV interventions.” of sleep and eating habits, irritability, ten- and chained-smoked cannabis instead of declared the Drug War is not only an The Vienna Declaration calls on gov- sion, stress and the desire for a break, for cigarettes. After a week, it got old and I cut abysmal failure but counterproductive to ernments and international organizations, routines, and for comfort. way down on the cannabis. It especially efforts to halt the spread of HIV. While rel- including the UN, to take steps, including: helped me to get through the first cranky atively specific in its request to the UN Considering the misery of quitting • transparently review the effectiveness of week of quitting.” Or, “At first I would use Global Commission on Drugs to re-exam- tobacco, a short-term cannabis replacement current drug policies; may make sense for certain individuals try- a one-hitter that looked just like a cigarette ine both the direct and collateral harms of • use a science-based public health ing to change their behavior. Cannabis can to smoke cannabis whenever I craved a cig- prohibition, the Declaration also recom- approach to harms from illicit drugs; and provide them with feelings of relaxation. arette. After a few weeks, just holding the mended that all governments discontinue Users report that it helps reduce stress and one-hitter in my mouth and hand and act- their disinformation programs about sub- • to abolish compulsory treatment that improves mood, can help with sleep issues ing like I was going to smoke helped. The stances such as cannabis, which are sched- violates the UN Declaration on Human and irritability, and may reduce the thing I liked about the one-hitter is that I uled as highly addictive narcotics with no Rights; thoughts that lead to cravings. used less cannabis than a joint, so it was possible value, and instead apply scientifi- To sign on, visit viennadeclaration.com for full text of decla- ration and list of authors. The 2-page declaration references 28 In addition, the act of consumption — more feasible for me to use it more fre- cally valid criteria to redraw the politically scientific reports on effective public-health ap proaches to the behavior ‘ritual’ of holding or rolling a quently.” motivated policies and practices that pre- drug policy and the negative effect of criminizing. tobacco cigarette — can be replaced with a Medical-cannabis patients can enroll in vent their therapeutic uses. much less harmful substance. a clinical service that utilizes the therapeu- “The criminalisation of illicit drug Cannabis metabolite is not a There are plenty of anecdotes of people tic benefits of cannabis and combines users is fuelling the HIV epidemic and has MI-controlled substance using cannabis to help them reduce or quit harm-reduction strategies, peer support, resulted in overwhelmingly negative By Matthew Abel Attorney at Law the use of tobacco. One patient reports, “I one-on-one counseling, cognitive- behav- health and social consequences. ... Re- used low-grade pot to help me when I got ioral techniques, and skill building. This orienting drug policies towards evidence- The Michigan Supreme Court issued a an urge. I found that if I took a hit or two service is now available in Oakland and based approaches that respect, protect and landmark opinion June 8 that 11-carboxy- off a joint it really helped with cravings.” San Jose at Harborside Health Center. fulfill human rights has the potential to THC, a byproduct of THC, is not a sched- reduce harms deriving from current poli- ule 1 controlled substance under state law. People v Feezel* reversed the Court of Appeals, vacated the convictions, and sent the case back to the trial court by overturn- ing the 2006 Derror ruling. Feezel was charged with driving a motor vehicle that struck and killed an intoxicated person walking down the mid- dle of a street in Ann Arbor, MI on a dark and rainy night. He was convicted at a trial where other drivers testified that only moments earlier they had driven by and almost hit the victim. Feezel’s blood was examined and the lab reports admitted at trial. Per the Derror decision, Feezel’s jury had been instructed that any amount of even a metabolite byproduct was sufficient evidence of impairment. The new ruling has caused a sea change in cannabis DUI cases in Michigan. It may prevent convictions for driving under the influence when only byproduct is present. Active THC in a driver’s blood is still suffi- cient evidence for a conviction, except for those with a Michigan medical-use card, or its equivalent from another state or district. For patients charged with DUI in which active THC is present in driver blood sam- ples from shortly after a traffic stop, there is no set amount of THC that automatically proves a patient was “under the influence” or their ability to operate a vehicle, airplane or motorboat impaired. This may well result in a battle of experts, where both sides will list and call expert toxicologists to testify about the amount of THC in the blood sample that proves impairment by use of cannabis. The data on this is nearly non-existent, and in the absence of new, double-blind studies finding clear impairment, a prosecutor may have substantial issues proving this essential element of a case. In the meantime, an operator of a motor vehicle is not allowed to smoke while driving (although the law does not address vaporization or medibles). At some point, the legislature may set a presumptive level of intoxication. In the meantime, the best evidence in cases may be recordings of driving and traffic stops and any field sobriety tests at the scene. Of the three roadside sobriety tests approved by the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Admin.), one (the nystagmus gaze test) is specific for alcohol, and of no use in cannabis cases. * See coa.courts.mi.gov/documents/OPINIONS/FINAL/ SCT/20100608_S138031_71_feezel-op.pdf West Coast Leaf Page 25 Autumn 2010 plants. Keeping the roads damp can help, ically be dipped in a light bleach or hydro- are used throughout the food sector. Ending outdoor but this uses water resources. Driving gen peroxide solution, followed by a fresh- These are just a few ways that a grower slowly and parking far away can help. water rinse. Workers should wash and can raise the quality and safety of their contamination Areas surrounding the grow should be rinse their hands and, if desired, latex medical cannabis to meet the standards of By Chris Van Hook Clean Green Certified Program covered in either native vegetation or gloves worn. Long hair should be pulled the new market. mowed grasses. This stabilizes the soil, back. Hair and beard nets are common and As the 2010 outdoor medical cannabis Attorney Van Hook works in cannabis compliance law. reducing erosion, and thus reducing dust. growing season progresses, two things If tree-bottom branches and leaves touch should be on the minds of outdoor grow- the ground, lift them up by trimming until Reliable dosage, effect key to edibles insurability ers. First, this looks as if it is going to be they are 4-6 inches off the ground. This bot- ry. By analyzing the infused raw material, another bumper crop – perhaps larger then Cannabis lab goes statewide tom section is often soiled during watering; CW will provide Bhang with the informa- 2009. Second, if outdoor cannabis is going with a Bhang lifting the plant will promote beneficial air tion it needs to deliver a consistent quanti- to remain a primary product in the modern circulation. By John Oram, Ph.D., ty of active cannabinoids in each individ- medical market, the overall quality stan- Principle Scientist, CW Analytical When dust is already a problem, plants ual chocolate. dards must rise to meet the perceived mar- The pot brownie is ubiquitous. Once the can be rinsed off with a fine spray head This collaboration is providing safe, ket advantages of indoor cannabis, often darling of gritty, resin-flavored dorm- attached to a garden hose. Strong outdoor consistent edibles and also paving the way presumed to be a cleaner and fresher prod- room experiments or studio-apartment plants can take a good shower, provided for a more mature industry, one in which uct, as crops come up throughout the year. kitchens, this edible creation has become a plants can dry off completely before molds standards for production, testing, labeling As I travel the state doing crop inspec- fine culinary staple. Today, formally take hold. This may not be easy in damp and distribution are followed. With such tions, I see two reccurring issues that could trained chefs, many of whom have studied coastal areas, but can be effective in dryer be easily remedied by outdoor growers: at internationally renowned institutions, inland climates. dust contamination and poor quality con- are entering the marketplace. trol during on-farm processing. With regard to on-farm processing, These ‘canna-chefs’ are creating new, medical cannabis is easily contaminated When dust has settled onto plants, it gourmet, cannabis-infused edibles such as with molds, mildews, e-coli, or other con- causes problems in the vegetation stage, pasta sauces, chocolates, sodas, and beers. taminants in the processing room and dur- but is worse during flowering, as the leaves They bring more than refined, consistent ing the handling process. The entire year’s get stickier each week. Worse yet is dust flavor profiles; many are producing their crop is put in a confined area to be dried. that contains manure from the family’s products in health department-approved The seal of acceptance from Bhang. As plants are handled, they come in con- horses, chickens and other barnyard ani- commercial kitchens and adhering to man- tact with other plants, and contaminants mals. During the vegetation stage, dust can ufacturing practices that ensure clean, safe may be spread. standards, insurance carriers can develop reduce the leaves’ efficiency and serve as a products. Some are even adding policies to protect the industry from prod- Some easy steps can reduce the risk of vector for molds and mildews. In the bud- Nutritional Labeling and Education Act uct-liability claims. ding stage, it can ruin otherwise nice buds. contamination for indoor as well as out- (NLEA)-compliant labels with accurate Statewide Insurance Services was the They may still be salable, but the healthful- door growers. First: no animals in the pro- ingredient statements to their packaging. first to offer comprehensive coverage to the ness of the product is compromised. cessing room or area. People like their fam- With these measures, based on current ily pets, but birds, dogs, and cats are medical cannabis industry and is now Dust is created by ranch roads or barn- food industry standards, canna-chefs are sources of hair and fecal contamination. looking to extend coverage to include yards close to the growing area. Workers mitigating the risk of food-borne illness. Second: wash down the entire room with a food-product liability. Statewide is work- pulling up for the day’s work stop on a But the most difficult challenge still light bleach solution or a hydrogen perox- ing with Bhang and CW to provide leader- dusty road, and a curtain of dust is sent remains: delivering consistent dosages of ide solution to clean and disinfect. In a ship in setting underwriting standards for into the air and across the plants. Winds active cannabinoids in every batch. larger room a small backpack sprayer can the evolving medical-cannabis industry. move dust across growing areas. Areas of Enter Bhang Cannabis Chocolates and be used on walls. Tables and chairs should Statewide has developed the first Products bare dirt surrounding the grow sites can CW Analytical Laboratories. This new ven- be washed off and rinsed with fresh water, Liability with Health Hazard policies for create dust even if no roads are present. ture is the first in the cannabis industry to then allowed to air dry. the infused-foods industry. Dust can be greatly reduced by keeping combine commercial food preparation Links: www.cwanalytical.com, www.bhangchocolate.com, All scissors and utensils should period- ranch roads downwind and away from the with an on-site quality assurance laborato- www.mmdinsurance.com

The Inland Empire’s No. 1 “420 Lawyer” • Collective Incorporation Services • SB 420 Legal Advice • Zoning Issues • Criminal Defense • Felonies and Misdemeanors • All State Courts Allen Bartleman, Attorney at Law

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National and International Reports

‘Ganja Queen’ Schapelle Corby deteriorating in Bali prison Five years into her 20-year sentence for bringing cannabis to Indonesia, Schapelle Corby is reportedly suffering clinical depression and psychosis in a squalid Balinese prison. The subject of HBO’s documentary, “Ganja Queen,” this young Australian woman’s horror story got worldwide media attention as she claimed to be an innocent victim of a smug- gling scheme when 4.2 kilos of cannabis were found in her boogie board bag upon arrival for a 2005 Bali vacation. Support groups are organizing a clemency campaign to try to free Corby and save her from further deterioration in prison. Supporters hope that Indonesia’s president, who has vowed not to grant clemency for drug crimes but has granted clemen- cy to people based on permanent ill health, will show mercy to Corby. She may be eligible for release in five years due to remissions that reduce her sentence by eight months per Ken Wolski and CMMNJ supporters protest the delay in implementing the medical marijuana law at a press conference at City Hall in Jersey City, NJ on June 17. year if her petition is denied – and she lasts that long. For more info, see Women for Schapelle Corby on Facebook and saveschapellecorby.blogspot.com . — Mikki Norris Implementing NJ medical marijuana law

Court eases deportation for minor drug offenses By Ken Wolski, RN, MP, CMMNJ cannabis is some time in 2011. The US Supreme Court has put some limits on deportations of legal aliens for misde- The New Jersey Compassionate Use The NJ program is to be run by the meanor drug offenses. A recent case involved a legal alien, Jose Angel Carachuri-Rosendo, Medical Marijuana Act was signed into law Dept. of Health and Senior Services a permanent resident since 1983 who was arrested in 2004, convicted of misdemeanor in January, recognizing cannabis as medi- (DHSS), which will establish a patient reg- cannabis possession, and later got a misdemeanor conviction for having medication with- cine for a number of debilitating health istry, issue ID cards, and approve permits out a prescription, the second charge leading to a federal enhancement. Immigration and conditions. Implementing the measure has to operate alternative treatment centers Nationality Act (INA) 237(B)(i) provides that a charge other than a single misdemeanor been no easy task. (ATCs). These ATCs will be the only cannabis possession (30 grams or less) may lead to deportation after one conviction. The state law was to take effect in July, sources of legal cannabis in the state. The ruling permits judges to look at individual cases and decide jail sentence and but Governor Chris Christie asked for a The DHSS Commissioner, Dr. Poonam deportation options, even with aggravated felony charges. Thousands of aliens similarly delay of up to a year. In June, the legisla- Alaigh, said in a June interview that she entangled could be allowed to return, while others will avoid deportation under similar ture granted a 90-day delay, making the understood the scientific basis and clinical circumstances in the future. — Bill Murrow effective date Oct. 1, but the earliest need for cannabis therapy. Under the NJ patients can expect to actually receive legal law, initially only six ATCs will be allowed to open. DHSS will grant ATC permits, and it has the power to revoke them. The agency will monitor, oversee and investi- gate all activities of these ATCs, including cannabis production, processing, distribu- tion, record-keeping and pricing. There appears to be no need to fear an uncontrolled proliferation in the state since DHSS has control over when, and if, addi- tional ATCs may open. Nevertheless, Alaigh supported the delay, expressing fears that New Jersey would become like the “wild, wild West of California.” More threatening to the program was a proposal floated by the Christie adminis- tration to amend the law to allow Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, to be the sole producer of medical cannabis. This is an unprecedented and, advo- cates believe, an unworkable proposal. No university in the country is involved in the production of cannabis as part of a state medical program. A university would undoubtedly seek approval from the feder- al DEA, which has never before granted such approval. The law would have to be amended for this change to take place, creating further delay. Since all hospice patients, who by definition have less than one year to live, are qualified to receive medical cannabis, even a 90-day delay could see the death of 25 percent of this population. In July, Rutgers declined the request to be the sole producer of medical marijuana, saying that violating the Controlled Substances Act would jeopardize their federal funding. Patient advocates urge that the law be implemented as it is currently written. The DHSS should issue permits to operate the ATCs based on proposals that will get affordable, high-quality medicine to patients in a timely manner while provid- ing adequate security. * Executive Director, Coalition for Medical Marijuana, NJ, Inc, cmmnj.org

West Coast Leaf Don’t miss a single issue! Subscribe today: Place your ad today! westcoastleaf.com or 510-215-8326 West Coast Leaf Page 27 Autumn 2010 National outcry as cops shoot dog in MO raid Reform coalition opposes Obama DEA nominee By Angela Bacca, Green Aid law, whether there had been probable By Steve Fox Marijuana Policy Project -marijuana laws. The DEA recently flouted Police served a routine search warrant at a cause to issue the warrant, whether a A coalition of drug policy reform groups a pioneering Mendocino County (CA) Columbia, Missouri home, turning up less SWAT team should have served it, whether including Marijuana Policy Project (MPP), ordinance regulating medical cannabis cul- than a gram of cannabis and some para- weapons should have been fired, or tactics NORML, California NORML, the Drug tivation when agents raided the very first phernalia; the suspect was charged with used by the officers. However, the depart- Policy Alliance, Law Enforcement Against grower to register with the sheriff. Joy child endangerment. That is where this ment admitted it has both the knowledge Prohibition, and Students for Sensible Greenfield, 69, had paid more than $1,000 story begins. and means to deal with animals in non- Drug Policy has publicly challenged the for a permit to cultivate 99 plants in a col- In a now-infamous 4.5-minute video of lethal ways. nomination of Michele Leonhart to be lective garden that had been inspected and the Feb. 11 incident, police are seen enter- Green Aid worked closely with U of administrator of the Drug Enforcement approved by the local sheriff for compli- ing the home, unloading seven rounds into Missouri NORML, Keep Columbia Free, Admin. Leonhart served in the Bush ance with state law. the family dog and manhandling the com- Americans for Forfeiture Reform, and administration, and is currently the DEA’s Informed that Greenfield had the sup- pliant suspect in front of his wife and 7- CoMo Citizens, a group created in acting administrator. port of the sheriff, the DEA agent in charge year-old son. The mother leads her crying response to the incident. Attorney Dan In a joint statement in August, the coali- responded by saying, “I don’t care what child out of the hallway as police follow the Viets filed a separate appeal on their tion called on President Obama to with- the sheriff says,” according to the Press wounded and retreating dog into the behalf. draw the nomination of Leonhart, who Democrat. This defied an October 2009 Dept kitchen to kill it. At the Aug. 4 appeal in Columbia, oversaw a series of DEA raids on state legal of Justice (DOJ) policy memo directing that The organization Green Aid publicized CPRB member Susan Smith prefaced her cannabis collectives, and blocked much- individuals “whose actions are in clear and the video and encouraged people to file recommendation for handling the appeal needed FDA-level research into the thera- unambiguous compliance with existing official complaints with the Columbia by comparing cannabis cultivation and dis- peutic benefits of cannabis. In the follow- state laws providing for the medical use of Police Dept. That video has gotten more tribution to the Oklahoma City Bombing, ing days, that call was echoed by two ideo- marijuana” not be prosecuted. than 2 million views on YouTube. rape, methamphetamine, the Times Square logically diverse voices—the Tenth The next DEA administrator will likely In June, Executive Director of Green bomber and 9/11. She added that although Amendment Center, a states-rights advoca- influence the outcome of a cannabis- Aid Ed Rosenthal and the other 94 official Whitworth was charged with misde- cy group, and Jane Hamsher, the publisher rescheduling petition currently before the complainants received a letter from Police meanor possession, there was suspicion of the political blog FireDogLake.com and agency. It is critical that an administrator Chief Ken Burton, whose investigation that he was running a drug “enterprise.” co-chair of the recently launched “Just Say with an unbiased mind toward science and concluded that officers had done nothing Her proposal was to throw out the appeal, Now” campaign. research is at the helm. With Leonhart’s wrong or outside the bounds of standard accept Chief Burton’s report and move on. Leonhart has shown an inability to nomination pending, one would expect her procedure. The letter closed with a para- The board voted 4-3 against reinvesti- carry out the duties of DEA administrator to be more — not less — respectful of the graph outlining the appeals process gating the complaints, with board member as related to medical research. In January DOJ and the rights of individuals in med- through a newly created Civilian Police Steve Weinberg voting against it, “with a 2009, she refused to issue to the U of ical-marijuana states. Her behavior bodes Review Board (CPRB). troubled mind.” The appellants and public Massachusetts a license to cultivate badly for the future of the DEA under her Green Aid immediately filed its appeal, comment were heard after the board voted. cannabis for FDA-approved research, leadership. The Obama administration has the first party to do so, and grabbed head- The second appeal was heard the fol- despite a DEA administrative law judge’s reversed many Bush administration poli- lines in mid-Missouri —not because of the lowing week with the same outcome. Both ruling that it would be “in the public inter- cies over the past 18 months, and it is time raid, but because the staff are Californians. groups plan to appeal to a higher authority. est” to do so. This single act has blocked all to transform the culture at the DEA by either withdrawing Leonhart’s nomination A meeting was held July 23 with resi- For more information, see EdRosenthal.com, privately funded medical cannabis Twitter.com/EdRosenthal and Facebook.com/EdRosenthal. or directing her to change her attitude dents, law enforcement and local media, to research in the US. toward medical cannabis. further research the options. Under Leonhart, the DEA has also staged medical-marijuana raids in appar- To send a letter to President Obama asking him to with- It was clear from the police file that Drug Truth Network (DTN), drugtruth.net/cms/ draw Leonhart’s nomination visit mpp.org/leonhart. there was no way their investigation could 4:20 Drug War News, Cultural Baggage ent disregard of Attorney (interviews), live shows, archives General Eric Holder’s direc- be fair. Excluded from the investigation: Privacy victory in RI Continued from page 22 Columbia’s ‘lowest priority’ marijuana tive to respect state medical Marijuana Act (MMA) to restore confidentiality. The Find a physician who meets your needs! Providence Journal published a March 12 article naming all Free referrals 21 doctors who had written more than 10 recommenda- tions, 38 percent of the total issued. Some doctors were so The easiest software solution for doctors who recommend Marijuana upset that their private medical counsel is now public record that they said they would cease recommending. The bill was introduced by Sen. Rhoda Perry and Rep. Scott Slater. It exempts “information contained in applica- tions and supporting information under the MMA from provisions of the RI Access to Public Information Act.” Oakland, San Francisco, San Jose, Bakersfield, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Riverside, Orange, San Diego + + + US Patent Pending 2006-2010 + + + Names of patients, caregivers, and doctors are already kept confidential by the Dept. of Health under HIPAA, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, but the new measure adds protection under state law. In 2009 the legislature authorized three ‘compassion centers,’ independent, non-profit, retail dispensaries to be licensed and regulated by the Dept. of Health. Since then, the agency has set up a licensing process, issued applica- tion guidelines and received 15 applications. Patients testi- fied in favor of some applications at a June 29 public hear- ing in Providence. A decision is expected Sept. 6. Meanwhile, the department has licensed over 2,000 patients and over 1,300 caregivers. Autumn 2010 Page 28 West Coast Leaf receive some form of health-care assis- DC law delayed, restricted tance. By Mike Meno, Marijuana Policy Project, mpp.org While the DC health department will The medical marijuana law that was first have authority over patient registration, passed by Washington, DC voters in 1998 there will also be an unprecedented role for finally cleared the last remaining the local liquor board, which will be tasked Congressional hurdle in July, allowing with overseeing and licensing cultivation local officials to begin establishing regula- centers and dispensaries. tions for what is designed to be one of the most narrow medical marijuana laws in the Day of women’s action for 19 country. By Mason Tvert SAFER Director Under regulations proposed by Mayor As early voting begins in California, Adrian Fenty in August, the agencies women across the state – and the nation – tasked with overseeing the program will will stand up to speak out in support of not begin licensing providers or accepting Proposition 19. patient applications until Jan. 1, 2011. Polling has found significantly less After a series of amendments passed by An all female cannabis art show, ʻJusta Space Queen,ʼ is on display through September at support for Prop 19 among women than Oaksterdam Student Union, 1915 Broadway, Oakland, hosted by muralists Monika of Time is Art the DC Council, the District’s law will among men. The Women’s Marijuana and Smokie of Guns and Brushes Studio. Monikaʼs work focuses on the cannabis plant itself license between five and eight cannabis and portrays the strains in unique plant portraits, the most popular being Purple Kush and the Movement (WMM) is organizing a spray art piece “Sweet Tooth.” Smokieʼs paintings speak to the social aspects of cannabis dispensaries in the nation’s capital. statewide effort to foster discussion of the culture. Her titles include “Pot Head,” “Puff Puff,” “420 Moment,” and a popular collage piece However, patients are barred from grow- issue and the initiative among women and entitled “Grandmaʼs Medicine.” See TimeisArt.org, GunsandBrushesStudio.org. Photo by MOJO 2010. ing their own medicine, will be allowed to build support for the measure. legally use cannabis only from a licensed SAFER Outreach Director Eva Enns, Former Mexican President wants legalization on policy table dispensary, and will be able to qualify for who is coordinating the WMM project, said By Daniel Robledo, Drug Policy Alliance “We should consider legalizing the pro- the District’s program only if they suffer “It’s imperative that we get more women duction, distribution and sale of drugs,” from one of four conditions: HIV/AIDS, The question of whether legalizing drugs speaking to one another, discussing the rel- wrote President Fox on his blog on Aug. 8. cancer, multiple sclerosis or glaucoma. would help reduce the killings in Mexico ative safety of cannabis compared to alco- “Radical prohibition strategies have never made front page news this summer, and The proposed delay means that hol, and encouraging each other to vote.” triggered unprecedented debate around worked.” patients who have waited nearly 12 years The WMM day of action for Prop 19 the world, when former Mexican President “Legalizing in this sense does not mean while the US Congress blocked the locally will be held on Oct. 5, the day voters across Vicente Fox proposed legalizing drugs and drugs are good and don’t harm those who supported mandate will be forced need- the state will begin receiving mail-in bal- current President Calderon said he is open consume them,” he wrote. “Rather we lessly to endure five more months of prohi- lots for the Nov. 2 election. to the debate. should look at it as a strategy to strike at bition. However, patients will benefit from News conferences and rallies will be Drug prohibition bloodshed is rocket- and break the economic structure that provisions that forbid cultivation centers held in major cities across California, as ing Mexico, and California will vote on an allows gangs to generate huge profits in from using pesticides or contaminants, and well as on several college campuses. initiative to legalize cannabis in November. their trade, which feeds corruption and require detailed labeling of products. More than 28,000 Mexicans have been increases their areas of power.” The District’s program also includes a “These women truly believe that mak- killed in the three-plus years since Fox’s nod for legalization came just first-in-the-nation provision that gives low- ing marijuana available as a legal alterna- Calderon made the drug war his signature days after President Calderon, for the first income patients a discount on registration tive to alcohol could make our society a issue. Despite many gruesome deaths tak- time, said he is open to a debate on drug fees and allows medicine to be purchased safer, and all-around better, place to live,” ing place on a daily basis, there has been no legalization. “You have to analyze carefully on a sliding scale. This could be a life-sav- Enns said. “And they could make all the impact on drug availability in Mexico or the pros and cons and key arguments on ing provision for many patients in DC, difference this November.” To attend or help organize an event in California else- the US, and the drug cartels appear to be as both sides,” said Calderon at an Aug. 3 with one of the highest poverty rates in the where, see WomensMarijuanaMovement.org or e-mail WMM powerful as ever. Continued on page 30 nation. About a third of DC residents at [email protected]. M.C.N.C. Medical Cannabis of Northern California Medical Cannabis Evaluations Dr. Nate Pettinger 916-333-3831 2222 Watt Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95825 Cell 760-954-4987 Fax 530-205-9638 License# G29874

Consulting & human resources services for employers: Liana including hiring, employee Limited manuals & trainings, EDD hearings, bookkeeping, & LF (510) 423-0420 inventory management. E [email protected] Liana Held Principal (510) 423-0415 West Coast Leaf Page 29 Autumn 2010 Sept. 25-26, Plant Medicine Expo & women healers, scholars, activists and Healthcare Provider Conference, Denver, artists who study psychoactive substances CO. Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel. and altered states. For info and to register, Calendar and Community Directory plantmedicineexpo.com see noetic.org/retreat.cfm. Sept. 30, 10th Annual High Times Stony Oct. 29-31, The International Holistic Sept. 9-11, National NORML Conference, Sept. 18, Boston Freedom Rally, Boston. Awards, Los Angeles, CA. 8 PM to 2 AM, Health Cannabis Convention 2010 Portland, OR. see norml.org Noon, Boston Commons. Music, speak- at thee Music Box. 21+. hightimes.com. Halloween Harmony & Harvest Festival, Pontiac , MI. At the Pontiac Silverdome. Sept. 11-12, Hempstalk 2010, Portland, ers,vendors. bostonfreedomrally.com Oct. 1-3, 40th Annual Midwestern Harvest For info, see harmonyharvestfest.com OR. Kelley Point Park. Sat. 10 AM -10 PM, Sept. 25, WAMMfest 2010, the Life in Festival, Madison, WI. winorml.org Sun. 10 AM -7 PM. A celebration of Green, Santa Cruz, CA. 12 -5 PM. Duck Oct.5, Women’s Marijuana Movement Nov. 2. Election Day, Nationally. cannabis culture. hempstalk.org Island, San Lorenzo Park. wammfest.org National Day of Action, Nationwide. Remember to vote for all the reform meas- Sept. 11, Missoula Hempfest, MT. Caras Sept. 25-26, International Cannabis and Organized events for women to speak in ures on the ballot and for candidates that Park. Noon. missoulahempfest.com Hemp Expo, San Francisco, CA. Cow support of legalization, including Prop. support cannabis freedom. 19, timed for the first day mail-in ballots Sept. 18, Free Marc Emery Rallies, Palace, Daly City. Public education event. Nov. 5-7, 12th Annual Harvest Dance and are received. womensmarijuanamove- Worldwide. For info, see www.freemarc.ca Exhibitors, speakers, vendors. intche.org Celebration, Sebastopol, CA. Sebastopol ment.org Community Center and Youth Annex, 390 Oct. 13, Moms United to End the War on Morris St. Evening concert on Fri. eve., all- Maine conference tackles logistics of dispensaries Drugs Rally, Sacramento, CA. 11 AM - 1 day expo on Sat., youth panel, Sun. PM. West Steps, State Capitol Building. Benefit. For info, peaceinmedicine.org By John Dvorak hempology.org Sheriff Dion. It was recently reported that Rally to stop violence, incarceration, over- Nov. 7-8, 17th Annual Hemp Industries Maine voters passed an initiative in 2009 when Dion’s term as sheriff ends, he will dose deaths related to current, punitive Assn. Convention and Annual General creating a regulated system of medical become a non-paid board member of the drug policy. For info, contact 619-670-1184, Meeting, San Francisco, CA. Holiday Inn - marijuana distribution. Not-for-profit dis- Northeast Patients Group (NPG), which [email protected] Civic Center. For details, see thehia.org pensaries are licensed and regulated by the will be one of Maine’s licensed distributors Oct. 17, LA AIDS Walk/Pot is Hot Mod Nov. 13, 20th Humboldt Hempfest, state Dept. of Health and Human Services. of medicinal cannabis. Squad, Los Angeles, CA. 8:30 AM. The Redway, CA. 11 AM on. Mateel To encourage implementation of the law, It was refreshing and a little discom- walk begins at West Hollywood Park, Community Center. Artists, vendors, the first Maine Medical Marijuana bobulating to see a law enforcement officer Melrose Ave. /La Cienega Blvd. Register speakers, performers. $20 suggested dona- Conference was held in June at the and politician working forthrightly to voters to vote for Prop. 19. potishot.org tion. University of Southern Maine in Portland. implement the law, instead of the common Oct. 17, Howard Dover’s Medical Nov. 14, 4th Annual Medical Cannabis Maine has taken a logical and open- establishment knee-jerk reaction of creat- Marijuana Comedy ExtravaGANJA, Los Competition, San Francisco, CA. 2 PM -10 minded approach to this issue, although ing obstacles for patients. Angeles, CA. 9 PM. The Comdey Store, PM, Cafe Cocomo. Benefit for Americans many are confused by the new rules and Throughout the day, a range of topics 8433 Sunset Bl, LA. Register voters and for Safe Access, SF chapter. For details, regulations. The conference featured a vari- was covered, including the therapeutic get out the vote for Prop. 19. potishot.org. thegreencross.org, 415-648-4420. ety of knowledgeable speakers who did applications of cannabis, operating a dis- Oct. 18, Last day to register to vote, CA. Nov. 20, 4th Annual OGF Harvest Fest, their best to allay concerns and describe pensary, the role of a caregiver and changes Oct. 22-24, Women’s Visionary Congress, Portland, OR. 3 PM to 10 PM. Fun, enter- how the new program would work. in law enforcement. Petaluma, CA. Featuring visionary tainment. For tickets, oregongreenfree.net During opening remarks, Maine Rep. In a panel for health care workers, Dr. Anne Haskell, a long-time proponent of Dustin Sulak noted that many patients use cannabis therapeutics, re-read the testimo- cannabis to reduce their intake of other Marijuana Grower’s Handbook is a good resource ny she gave in the 1990s detailing how her powerful pharmaceuticals that have dele- By John Thomas Ellis (Quick American Publishing, 2010. $29.95) daughter used cannabis to increase her terious side effects. Dr. Sulak is part of a Ed Rosenthal’s latest, Marijuana Grower’s Handbook, should be appetite and withstand effects of vanguard of physician visionaries to not considered mandatory reading for anyone who grows cannabis chemotherapy during her cancer treat- only recognize the numerous beneficial or is thinking about it. This encyclopedia of cannabis growing ment. Haskell is actively involved with aspects of cannabis but to actively research offers a clear, easy guide to every aspect of the craft. His com- ensuring that the new law is appropriately its capabilities and advocate for its re- prehensive yet accessible style enables the reader to comfort- implemented. acceptance into the medical pharma- ably learn the science and history of Mary Jane. Keynote speaker and MS sufferer copoeia. Tommy Chong writes a loving dedication in the forward. Montel Williams began his talk in tears Berkeley Patients Group Director Rosenthal promotes his ‘tomato model’ before sketching out a because his feet were in so much pain. Debbie Goldsberry was present to share patchy history of the movement, but he does better as he writes From the audience, Cumberland County her enthusiasm and experience with about the science. He explains THC, CBD, cannabinoid recep- Sheriff Mark Dion told Williams it was OK Maine’s fledgling dispensaries. Her organ- tors, the many ways cannabis is consumed, and how the brain processes various cannabis- to self-medicate. As Williams took a quick ization is providing advisory services to produced compounds. Accompanied by breathtaking photos, the narrative provides an puff, the audience rose in unison to the NPG, hoping to help avert some of the exploration of Indica, Sativa, Ruderalis and Kush, drawing clear distinctions among the vari- applaud the bravery of both him and difficulties encountered in California. eties available today. Expounding on light, nutrition, soil, growth mediums, hydration and pests, the book educates the novice and reminds the expe- rienced of the many decisions a gardener must face, filter- ing through the countless solutions available. There’s no single way to grow a good crop, and Rosenthal navigates the choices with his experience, strength and hope for the future of cannabis. Indoors or out, his level of detail makes the journey a pleasure. Rosenthal focuses on soil composition, humidity, ventila- tion, lighting alternatives, CO2, pH, water, nutrients and fertilizers. He outlines garden sizes, lamp densities, space and yield. He walks the reader through designing a space and choosing a growing style. He mixes and matches tech- nologies that a newcomer might not consider, including LED lighting and trimming machines. With the ease of a man who has done it all before, he reassures as he encour- ages experimentation. Rosenthal’s decades of experience have imbued this tome with spirit and verve. Available at quicktrading.com.

Collective and Cooperative Farming Compliance Consultations Custom Built Legal Binders • Better Farming Practices Collective Certification Program Garden Yield and Probable Cost Analysis Asset Management-Crop Protection Autumn 2010 Page 30 West Coast Leaf Community Announcements Local and regional meetings

East Bay NORML, third Thurs/mo., 7:30 PM (after Riverside, CA 92501. Also hosts Friday evening seminars Measure Z Oversight Comm.), OU Student Union, 1915 on Anti-aging and medical benefits of cannabis, 8 PM. Broadway, Oakland. [email protected] 951-782-9898 El Dorado Co. American Alliance for Medical High Desert Area MAPP/ ASA, third Wed/mo. 6:30 PM Cannabis, 4th Sat/mo., 2:15-4:20, Garden Valley Grange, Castle Inn, 1388 N. Golden Slipper in Landers 92285. 4940 Marshall Rd. Garden Valley, CA, 530-621-2874 Lanny 760-799-2055 El Centro/Imperial County Marijuana Anti-Prohibition Medical Cannabis Safety Council /East Bay, third Project (MAPP), third Tue/mo. 7:30 PM at Imperail Valley Tues/mo. 12-2 PM, OU Student Union, 1915 Broadway, Collective, 119 N. 5th St., El Centro 92243. 760-799-2055 Oakland. North Bay, 2nd Mon./mo. 6-7:30 PM, Peace in Palm Springs/ Coachella Valley Area MAPP, first Sat/ Medicine, 6771 Sebastopol Ave., Sebastopol. Re safety mo. 3 PM, 266 N. Palm Canyon Dr., PS. 760-799-2055 and quality control issues. [email protected] Phelan/Victorville MAPP, third Thurs./mo. 7 PM, Oakland Measure Z Oversight Committee, third Thurs/ Freedom Law School, 9582 Buttemere Rd., Phelan, mo. 6 PM, City Hall 92371.760-799-2055 Orange County NORML, third Fri./mo. 7 PM. OC ASA, 8 Western Inland Empire Area MAPP/ASA, first Wed / PM.Giovanni’s Pizza, 922 W. Williamson, in Fullerton. Free pizza. ocnorml.org Wedding bells and a mo., 7:30 PM, THCF Medical Clinic, 647 Main St. chocolate fountain Local and regional Americans for Safe Access meetings for the happy couple Central CA ASA, second Tue/mo., 6 PM, C.A.F.E., 935F [email protected] Street, Fresno. [email protected] San Diego North County ASA, first Fri./mo., 7 PM, Reform activists from around the East Bay ASA, third Tues/mo., 6:30 PM, Oaksterdam Academy of World Martial Arts, 1050 S. Santa Fe Ave., state converged on Oaksterdam Student U, 1915 Broadway, Oakland. Vista, [email protected], 760-500-8868 for the marriage ceremony. [email protected] San Francisco ASA, second & fourth Tues/mo., 7:30 PM, Photo by Mikki Norris. Humboldt County ASA, third Thurs/mo., 6 PM, Bayview Bowers Pizza, 371 11th St, SF. [email protected] Courtyard Senior Housing, Rec. Room 550 Union St., San Joaquin ASA, first Mon./mo., 6 PM, Valley Brew, Arcata. 707-407-8522. [email protected] 157 W. Adams St., Stockton. LA ASA, 3rd Sat/mo., 1 PM, 7100 Santa Monica Blvd. Santa Cruz County ASA, 7 PM, Greenway #152, West Hollywood. [email protected] Dale Sky Clare and Jeff Jones were joined in marriage in Oakland, CA July 31. The tradi- Compassionate Relief, 140 Dubois St., SC. mentch@sbc- Marin ASA, second Wed./mo., 7:30 PM, Whistlestop, 930 global.net tional wedding setting held a few unconventional touches, such as the hint of special Tamalpias Ave., San Rafael. [email protected] Solano ASA, first Tue/mo., 8:30 PM, 650 Benecia Rd., greens in the bride’s bouquet and a vow stating,”I promise to be true to you, and cherish Napa ASA, third Tue./mo., 6 PM, Round Table Pizza, Vallejo. [email protected] you through whatever the future may bring – taxation, regulation or decriminalization.” 3331 Solano Ave., Napa. [email protected] Sonoma ASA, first Thurs/mo. 5 PM, Dept. of Health, So. San Diego ASA second Tue. / mo., 7 PM, International City View Rm., 625 5th St, Santa Rosa, knock loudly. The focus of the bride and groom was readily apparent once the reception started. Dale Cannabis U, 6070 Mt. Alifan Suite 202 San Diego. Contact [email protected] and Jeff dedicated their wedding reception to the ‘Yes on Prop 19’ Campaign. Dale is the Executive Chancellor for Oaksterdam University, Spokesperson for Prop 19. Jeff is Director Reform organizations of interest for the Patient ID Center and Co-Proponent for Prop 19. “The friends, family and supporters provided an amazing environment for the wed- Americans for Safe Access hempindustries.org/ The HIA is a non-profit trade group representing hemp companies, researchers, supporters. ding and reception, which served as a fund raiser in support of Prop 19,” said Dale Sky safeaccessnow.org / A patient advocacy and support net- work. 510-251-1856 Human Rights and the Drug War Jones. “The energy and enthusiasm of our guests in support of our union, as well as gen- Axis of Love SF/ Activist Resource Center hr95.org/ Photo display of Drug War POWs, analyzes erous contributions from those who did or could not attend, made the night very reward- Patients organizing for their rights, 415-240-5247 human rights abuses. ing, both personally and professionally. We are committed to making an important change California NORML Interfaith Drug Policy Intiative in our world through the Prop 19 campaign, and we have dedicated our lives, and our canorml.org/ Advocacy, directories, lobbying, research, idpi.us / Organizing people of faith to promote reform. 301-270-4473 wedding, to the campaign.” To make your donation, visit taxcannabis.org/jeffanddale” news, alerts. 415-563-5858 Cannabis Action Network Law Enforcement Against Prohibition Chris Conrad, who officiated the ceremony, and his wife Mikki Norris welcomed Mr. cannabisactionnetwork.org/ 1605 Ashby Ave, Berkeley. leap.cc/ Current and former members of law enforcement and Mrs. Jones as a new ‘Power Couple of Pot.” 510-486-8083 who support drug regulation rather than prohibition. Cannabis Consumers Campaign Legal Services for Prisoners w/ Children cannabisconsumers.org/ Come out of the closet to stand prisonerswithchildren.org/ Advocates for the human rights up for equal rights. and empowerment of incarcerated parents, children, fami- Hempire Expo events promote community ly members and people at risk for incarceration Civil Liberties Monitoring Project Marijuana Anti-Prohibition Project MAPP By Ellen Dagley relationships with many of the key non- civilliberties.org/ Monitors police eradication abuses, etc, mpp.org/ national membership profit organizations to make these shows a to protect civil rights in the CA northcoast. 707-923-4646 Todd McCormick relied on his deep con- Drug Reform Coordination Network Marijuana Policy Project MPP wonderful tool to deliver top-notch educa- nections to the people, organizations and stopthedrugwar.org/ drcnet.org, Global support network mpp.org/ national membership org. Focuses on removing high-profile celebrities of this growing tion to their constituents in each of the local for drug policy reformers with weekly analysis. criminal penalties through initiatives and legislation. industry when he produced the June 2009 communities where Hempire Expo will be Drug Policy Alliance Mendo Medical Marijuana Advisory Board THC Expo in Los Angeles. It was a held,” said McCormick, a cannabis activist drugpolicy.org/ DPA works on drug policies based on sci- mmmab.net/ [email protected] ence, compassion, health, human rights and a just society Medical Marijuana of America resounding success, with some 300 exhibit for most of his adult life. “These groups free from prohibition. medicalmarijuanaofamerica.com/ directory, court reports, booths and 30,000 attendees. have a lot to share with the community. Drug Policy Forum of CA POW stories and contacts. In addition to his role as executive The non-profits will get classrooms in Listserve for Cal cannabis/drug war issues. Sign up at Medical Marijuana Patients Union drugsense.org/dpfca/list.htm director of Hempire Expo, McCormick which to run their curriculums in coopera- Patients’ Rights Network. 707-964-9377. DrugSense [email protected] recently volunteered to edit a newly updat- tion with Hempire Expo, in addition to get- ting marketing and publicity support from drugsense.org/ Daily compilation of news excerpts. Web Media Awareness Project ed edition of Jack Herer’s The Emperor site dev. and hosting. 501(c)3 tax exempt fiscal sponsor. mapinc.org/ MAP has generated millions of letters to the Wears No Clothes. “I’m so proud to carry on the shows. Community education helps Drug War Facts editor. Help gather news for their clearing house. the torch first lifted by Jack,” McCormick speed passage of supportive legislation.” drugwarfacts.org/ Just the facts. Mothers Against Misuse and Abuse said. “We’ve built a community for the Hempire Expo will also benefit from Families Against Mandatory Minimums mamas.org/ responsible drug education famm.org/ Advocates an end to harsh, unjust sentencing book at ahemp.org, and I urge everyone the support of many celebrities whom MAPS laws affecting prisoners and their families. maps.org/ Multidis ciplinary Association on Psychedelic who has been touched by the book to join McCormick is proud to have as friends. Family Council on Drug Awareness Studies, studies on cannabis, psychedelics. 831-429-6362 and share their story.” “The 2009 event hosted Tommy Chong and fcda.org/ Accurate information on effects of drugs and NORML drug policies. Down loadable PDFs to print and hand out. His next project is a series of three his Electric Hot-Rod, the Kottonmouth norml.org/ National Organization for the Reform of Kings were signing autographs, as were Green Aid Marijuana Legal Def. & Education Fund, Marijuana Laws. 202-483-5500 Hempire Expos, slated for the Los Angeles Inc. green-aid.com/ November Coalition Sports Arena Dec. 10-11, 2010; Seattle’s Aaron McGruder, Woody Harrelson, Bill Harm Reduction Coalition november.org/ National support group for Drug War Qwest Field Exhibition Center March 4-6, Maher, Julia Butterfly and others,” he harmreduction.org/ Works to reduce drug-related harm by POWs. Publishes The Razor Wire. programs such as clean needle exchange. Oregon Green Free 2011; and the Colorado Convention Center added. “Expect to see that level of luminar- ies at our future events.” Hemp Industries Association oregongreenfree.net. Free OMMP info. in Denver Aug. 5-7, 2011. Oregon NORML For info visit hempiremedia.com and JackHerer.com “Our events will build on my deep ornorml.org / or email [email protected]. Patient Advocacy Network cannabissaveslives.com Former Mexican President wants legalization on table Safer saferchoice.org/ Safer Alternative For From page 28 The openness and frankness of Fox and Enjoyable Recreation. [email protected] event with business leaders, security Calderon are in stark contrast to the Sensible Colorado Obama Administration, which is currently sensiblecolorado.org / Non-profit resource for experts and civil groups. The remarks were patients and those interested in reforming laws. part of a larger talk wherein he expressed opposed to any debate on cannabis legal- 720-890-4247 concern about the stability of Mexico. “The ization. Obama’s drug czar, Gil Southern Oregon NORML Kerlikowske, has repeatedly said that not so-norml.org/ Reform activities and OMMP behavior of the criminals has changed and support. Medford. 541-779-1448 only are he and Obama opposed to legal- become a defiance to the state, an attempt Students for a Sensible Drug Policy to replace the state.” ization, but that the word legalization is ssdp.org/ Students for reducing the harms caused by drug abuse and drug policies. “What’s going on in Mexico today is not even in their vocabulary. VoteHemp like Chicago during the days of Prohibition “It’s time for Drug Czar Kerlikowske to votehemp.com/ Industrial, horticultural hemp. and Al Capone – times 50,” said Ethan stop saying marijuana legalization is not in Voter Power, Oregon Nadelmann, executive director of the Drug his vocabulary,” added Nadelmann. “At voterpower.org/ Advocating for fair, cannabis laws and policies. OMMP registration. 503-224- Policy Alliance. “All drug policy alterna- this point he has a moral obligation – to 3051, 541-245-6634 tives, including various types and degrees both US and Mexican citizens – to make it To get listed, please email of legalization, need to be on the table.” part of his vocabulary.” [email protected] West Coast Leaf Page 31 Autumn 2010 Fact and fiction about women and their marijuana Have “safe sux” By Ellen Komp VeryImportantPotheads.com her by bringing her weed. This will be a wel- with a bong “The Party Drug That Can Make You Fat & come female version of the pot-laced “bro- By E.G. Ace Ugly” shouted the cover of July’s Seventeen mances” that are so popular. A California student at magazine. Which drug? Sugar? Beer? You Television icon Betty White, who was quite Santa Barbara City guessed it: marijuana. the looker in her day, debuted on TV Land’s College noticed in 2009 The truth as demonstrated by recent news, new sitcom “Hot in Cleveland” on June 16 as a that even though the however, is somewhat different. caretaker who smells of pot. White, 88, has had highly contagious The ultra-slim Paris Hilton was twice a career resurgence since her brilliant “You’re H1N1 virus was run- detained for cannabis possession this summer. playing like Betty White” Snickers ads debuted ning rampant, people First, she and her friend, former Playboy during the Superbowl. She’s appeared in a were still taking hits upon a personal sanitary mouthpiece Playmate Jennifer Rovero, were caught smok- series of skits on “The Late Late Show With from shared mouthpieces on water for water pipes that he calls ing a joint outside a World Cup soccer match in Craig Ferguson,” once as a Salvation Army bell- pipes. He watched in horror as people “Badabeez.” Its compact size and South Africa. Hilton walked on the charge, ringer joking about her high medical-marijuana tried to burn or wipe off germs, leav- easy use make it the safer way to while Rovero was fined and deported. Then, bills. ing a cloud of doubt hovering over share a smoke among friends. arriving on the French island of Corsica on July Polls have shown that women, especially the pipe for the next person. So Elliott 16, Hilton was again detained without charge married women, are generally less supportive of Bush decided to invent something to “Seriously, it takes two seconds to for less than a gram of cannabis that police said cannabis legalization in California. But even allow people to share a bong without put on,” says one happy user. “And was in her handbag. ‘Mama Grizzly’ and former pot smoker Sarah sharing diseases, illnesses or germs. it’s small enough to fit in my pocket. Sometimes, you don’t get to choose Dior perfume has announced the new face Palin said in June that, although she wasn’t for Bush was determined to make the who shows up around the table. I’d of its advertising campaign will be the not-ugly full legalization, she thinks law enforcement device in the USA, and better yet, in rather not risk it . . .” actress Natalie Portman, who recently told should not focus its energy on the “minimal his home state of California, using Marie Claire, “I didn’t touch pot till I was in my problem” of marijuana. FDA-approved silicone material that Bush hopes to make Badabeez a 20s. I didn’t get flat-out drunk until I went to Two prominent African-American women could be thrown in the dishwasher or smoking necessity, like condoms for college. But I think that’s a good thing in many have come out in favor of Proposition 19: retired disinfected in boiling water, with a sex. For info, see badabeez.com ways.” (Presumably not because she feared it US Surgeon General Joycelyn Elders and Alice tight fit to ensure would make her fat and ugly.) Huffman, President of the California NAACP, every hit is maxi- Dior seems to have a penchant for pretty who wrote, “We can make it harder for kids to mized and clean. potheads when picking their public face. get marijuana, or we can accept the status quo, He also wanted it Charlize Theron was once photographed smok- where marijuana is easier for kids to get than to be free of ing pot through an apple, and Milla Jovovich alcohol.” bisphenol A appeared on the cover of High Times magazine “The thing that really makes you fat and (BPA), a toxic in 1994. Both have been Dior models. lazy is alcohol,” one reader at Pandora.com chemical com- monly used in Portman is set to produce a road-trip come- commented on the Seventeen article. Others commercial plas- dy, “Best Buds,” about two best friends travel- wrote about themselves and women they know tics. Then he hit ing to their friend’s wedding, in order to save as pot smokers who are successful … and svelte. Babá KEN OKULOLO and His BANDS Live AFRICAN Music for All Occasions AFROBEAT – HIGHLIFE ACOUSTIC – SOLO - LESSONS New CD “We Are All from Africa” at www.CDBaby.com www.AfricanMusicSource.com 510-778-1885

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The Law Offices of Edward A Smith (800) 404-5400 www.AutoAccident.com Autumn 2010 Page 32 West Coast Leaf