PUBLISHER’SLETTER

CONTENTS6\\:NUG TIMES

8\\:ACTIVISM

10\\:PATIENT PROFILE

12\\:ARTIST PROFILE

14\\:COOKING

16\\:ASA RALLY

18\\:THE CHRONISSEUR

20\\:PERPETUAL MOTION

22\\:OUTLAW NATION

25\\:NUG LIFE

26\\:BIZ SPOTLIGHT

29\\:EVENTS

JANUARY 2012 VOL. 4 ISSUE #1

NUG Magazine Staff:

Publisher: Ben G. Rowin Associate Publisher: M.J. Smith

Editor: Dion Markgraaff Associate Editor: George Alberts

Copy Editor: Marco Alvarez

Events Calendar: Gio Blitz

Photographers: Eric Fowler, SCR Photos, Aaron Evans

Videographer: Chris Gabriel

Contributors: “SD OG Grower”, Dion Markgraaff, Canna Chef Kim, Marc Emmelmann, Pamela Jayne, Tiffany Janay, Jed Sanders, George Alberts, R.J. Villa, SD Liz, Bahareh, Esther Rubio-Sheffrey, Aaron Evans, Brom Richey, Marco Alvarez, Jon Block, Rachel Anders, Scott Whytsell, Medicinal Michael Boris.

Comics: Joshua Boulet, Georgia Peschel

Sales Director: Ben G. Rowin

Advertising Sales Reps: Dion Markgraaff, Brom Richey, Kirk L.

Art Director: Ian Rie Finance Manager: M.J. Smith

Marketing Manager: Marc Emmelmann Distribution/Subscriptions: Print Media Resourcesinformation@printmediaresources.com

NUG Magazine Staff Contact Information:9880 N. Magnolia Ave #168

Santee, Ca 92071(619) 616-4961

For general information or to reach our Publisher: info@nugmag.comFor all art/design information: art@nugmag.comFor all editorial related information: info@nugmag.comFor submissions: submit@nugmag.com

NUG Magazine is published and distributed by NUG Magazine LLC. All contents are for entertainment and educational purposes only and are intended for mature audiences. We are not responsible for any actions taken by our readers nor do we condone any illegal activity. Advertisers are responsible for their own ads and content. Only patients with legally recognized medical cannabis ID cards may obtain cannabis from medi-cal cannabis collectives/dispensaries. In strict compliance with Prop215 and SB420 HS11362.5 & HS11362.7” All opinions expressed are those

of the writers and not necessarily of the magazine. All submissions become our property and may be used for publication. At times we may use materials placed in the public domain. If you own it let us know and we will acknowledge you. Reproduction of any content is encouraged if

you get permission from our Publisher. All contents copyright. 2011

HAPPY NEW YEAR! Thanks for picking up another issue of NUG Magazine. 2011 was an up and down rollercoaster ride in the cannabis community and, unfortunately, ended on quite a downturn. But as I always say, “2 steps forward and 1 step back is still 1 step forward!” When I think back over the last 3 years that we have been publishing NUG Magazine, I am proud of the steps forward that have been made and choose to look at those, rather than dwell on the small backward pushes that we as an industry go through. I was recently interviewed by the 420 Times regarding what my thoughts were on the economic effects of the recent federal crackdown on the industry and on NUG itself. The ancillary businesses and people who are affected by this meaningless, outdated, and ineffective war on a plant are many. Besides the obvious tragedies, like patients not having access to their doctor recommended medication in a safe environ-ment, there are literally thousands of people being hurt. Writers, photographers, sales people, printers, designers, trucking companies, bands, product companies, landlords of commercial real estate and more are all affected by the attempt to completely wipe out the only industry that is thriving in California!

With this New Year, we as an industry and a community must understand that the recent backlash from the federal government and the crackdown on the medical marijuana movement are coming because we are WINNING!!! We are changing the perception of this plant and the powers that be are beginning to grab at straws to try and stop us! This is NOT the time to pull back, but rather the time to move forward. Support the people who support the change that we collectively want to see! With initiatives on the local, state, and federal levels popping up, there are plenty of opportunities to help ALL of them! Let’s not bicker about which one is better and let the opportunity pass us by! Support them ALL! NOT ONE person belongs in prison for cannabis regardless of their reason for using it!

We at NUG want to thank everyone who continues to support the movement, and we also want to tell our readers that their voices are important. Don’t ever let the opportunity to educate someone on cannabis slip past you!

-Ben G. Rowin

COVER ARTISTMARIO TORERO

“Chicano Park Graffi ti”Work in Progress (2011)

Make sure to log on to www.nugmag.com for additional content and exclusive online articles!

Citizens for Patient Rights and the Pa-tient Care Association Submit Their Initiative for Safe Access to Medical Marijuana in San Diego CityPatient Care Association of California (PCA)

Citizens for Patient Rights, in association with the Patient Care Association, is proud to announce the submission of our initia-tive proposal for medical marijuana collective regulation and taxation in the City of San Diego.

The initiative proposal was submitted to the San Diego City Clerk on Monday, December 19th. This initiative proposal was crafted after consultation with rep-resentatives of city government, community groups, patients, and the general public regarding their concerns about medical marijuana collectives. We have found that the greater commu-nity is compassionate towards medical marijuana patients and supports the rights of all patients to have access to cannabis medication in San Diego City.

The main concerns we heard focused on operational safety – collective security measures, operating standards. Therefore, our initiative has been written with these concepts in mind, making sure that collectives operate as responsible good neighbors, serving the needs of the patients and the commu-nity at large.

We also feel that it is important that collectives contribute di-rectly to the City of San Diego, so we have included a tax on storefront collectives so that the collective will have a direct, positive impact on the city budget. Our initiative proposal covers the following point:

Prohibits collective operation in inappropriate zones, in-• cluding residential zones or near areas where children gather. Operational security requirements • Operational building interior and exterior appearance • requirements Operational personnel requirements • Verifi cation of adherence to operational requirements • Fees on collectives for cost recovery • A supplemental sales tax levied on collectives for local • use

We will need 62,057 signatures for our initiative petition in or-der to qualify for the November ballot. We will have a period of six months in which to gather these signatures.

We have full confi dence that we will qualify for the Novem-ber ballot, having recently completed a signature gathering campaign for a referendum initiative to overturn a severely restrictive ordinance within 30 days. In the referendum effort, we saw the overwhelming public support, as we succeeded in submitting over 15,000 additional signatures above and be-yond those needed to qualify our referendum within the 30-day window. We are confi dent that we will prevail in enacting fair regula-tions that meet the needs of patients, caregivers, and the com-munity at large through the direct democracy process.

For more information on how to get involved with the referen-dum effort, call (858) 413-7722 or email Info@pcaca.org

Cannabis Liberation and Public Opinion: Closing the Gender GapBy Paul Armentano

The outreach efforts of the NORML Women’s Alliance (NWA) are pivotal to NORML’s overall goal of cannabis liberation. Established in 2010, the NWA is a nonpartisan coali-tion of socially and geographically diverse women who believe that marijuana prohibition is a destructive and hypocritical policy that undermines the American family, sends a false message to young people, and destroys the cherished principles of personal liberty and local self-government.

Just as NORML’s mission is to move public opinion suffi ciently to achieve the repeal of marijuana prohibition, similarly, one of the intended goals of the NWA is to suffi ciently move public opinion forward among women. Without increased public support among women, we will arguably never bring about an end to this failed, destructive war of can-nabis consumers.

There exists a startling gender gap between men and women when it comes to the issue of marijuana legalization. And even though over the past decade the work of NORML and likeminded organizations have effectively shifted public opinion overall in favor of rational marijuana policies from just 36% public support in 2005 to 50% public support today, the gap between men and women’s support for legalization remains nearly the same now as it was then.

Here are some statistics:

According to a 2005 nationwide Gallup poll, 41% of men said they favored cannabis legalization versus 32% of women, a gap of 9%.

According to a 2007 Zogby poll commissioned by NORML that asked – Do you support amending federal law to remove criminal penalties for the use of marijuana by adults? – 57% of men supported such a measure versus 41% of women, a difference of 16%.

According to a 2010 Gallup poll, 51% of men favored legalizing cannabis versus 41% of women, a gap of 10%.

According to a 2010 LA Times/USC poll conducted just days prior to the Proposition 19 vote in California, male voters were evenly split on whether to support the statewide regulation proposal while women respondents disapproved of the proposal by a 21-point margin. (The measure ultimately failed at the polls, gaining 47% support from California voters.)

And fi nally, the most recent Gallup survey from 2011 found that 55% of men favored legalization, but only 46% of women did so, a difference of 9%.

Are NORML’s overall education efforts making progress in shifting public opinion? Yes. But nonetheless, there continues to exist a signifi cant and troubling gender gap that limits our efforts to bring about majority support for responsible cannabis liberation. The NWA seeks to close this gap by reaching out, engaging with, educating, and addressing the unique concerns of women. You can learn more about the NORML Women’s Alliance and their work by visiting the NWA’s offi cial website at: http://norml.org/women or on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/normlwomen.

Paul Armentano is the Deputy Director of NORML and is the co-author of the book Marijuana Is Safer: So Why Are We Driving People to Drink? (Chelsea Green).

6 | NUGMAG.COM

By: Dion Markgraaff

Everyone seems to be giving their interpretation of what the end of the current Mayan calendar in 2012 means. Who really knows, but with the wall of cannabis prohibition cracking globally – could the Mayan calendar’s end coin-cide with the beginning of the chance at cannabis free-dom? With signals of cannabis policies changing around the world, the end of the Mayan calendar cycle could con-cur with the end of cannabis prohibition.

Switzerland – Starting January 1, 2012, the official per-sonal grow amounts of 4 plants per person will be legal. The country already has relaxed drug law enforcement and almost two decades of waxing and waning of can-nabis tolerance.

Czech Republic – The government decriminalized can-nabis (up to 15 grams in public) and cultivation of small amounts for everyone in 2009. Recently, they have said they are going to set up a legal medical cannabis national system. In addition, they decided growers of psychedelic cacti and fungi will no longer be a crime, allowing small amounts of cultivation.

Poland – At the end of 2011, the government changed the drug laws to allow prosecutors to send drug users to treatment instead of prison.

Denmark – In November 2011, the city council of Copenhagen voted 39-9 to set up a committee to explore how best to legalize and regulate the sale of cannabis in the Danish capital. The move is supported by Mayor Frank Jensen. “We are thinking of perhaps 30 to 40 public sales houses where the people aren’t interested in selling you more, they’re inter-ested in you,” said Mikkel Warming, the councilman who heads the Social Affairs Commit-tee. “Who is it better for youngsters to buy marijuana from? A drug pusher who wants them to use more, who wants them to buy hard drugs, or a civil servant?” he asked in remarks reported by the Telegraph (UK). Warming said that while questions remained about how to implement a cannabis sales system, the Dutch model was not one he wanted to follow. “We want to make it a little bit more concrete what kind of decriminalization we want: should it be a public buying system, should there be an age limit?” Warming said. “We don’t want an Amsterdam model. We want a way to make it legal to import or grow marijuana so that criminal gangs don’t profit from it,” he said.

Colombia – Recently, President Juan Manuel Santos has called for the global legalization of cannabis, but said his country could not be the one to lead the way. “The world needs to discuss new approaches,” Santos said. “We are basically still thinking within the same framework as we have done for the last 40 years….Drug trafficking is what finances the violence and the irregular groups in our country. I would be crucified if I took the first step.”

Washington State - An initiative to legalize cannabis for everyone over 21 has a great chance of making the November 2012 ballot and passing. The initiative is called a “New Ap-proach Washington” and it would set up distribution to adults through state-licensed, can-nabis-only stores. The impressive list of supporters include the current Seattle City Attorney Pete Holmes, Former U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Washington (and the guy

2012 – The Year of Change – Did the Mayan calendar predict the end of prohibition of cannabis?

who prosecuted Marc Emery) John McK-ay, Travel program celebrity Rick Steves, State Rep. Mary Lou Dickerson (D-Seat-tle), and ACLU of Washington drug policy Allison Holcomb, who is stepping down temporarily to run the campaign.

Colorado - 2012 could be the end of cannabis prohibition in Colorado. Spon-sored by the Campaign to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol, the initiative has a signature process underway to make Colorado’s November 2012 ballot. The initiative’s backers include Mason Tvert and SAFER Colorado and Brian Vicente and Sensible Colorado, in addition to the Drug Policy Alliance, the Marijuana Policy Project, Law Enforcement Against Prohibition, NORML, and Students for Sensible Drug Policy.

California – The people of this great agricultural state might have their sec-ond opportunity to legalize cannabis this November after failing to do so in 2010. At least 2 different initiatives (the Repeal Cannabis Prohibition Act and The Regu-late Marijuana Like Wine Act of 2012) are positioning their way onto the 2012 bal-lot.

Other U.S. States – Many places, like New Jersey, Rode Island, and Washington D.C., will establish their first medical cannabis dispensary systems, which will certainly change the political landscape there and in surrounding areas.

Spain – The beginning of the end of cannabis prohibition may have been planted in the Basque region of Spain. This fiercely independent and au-tonomous area (the home of ETA) has announced that the parliament of Spain’s Basque Country Autonomous Community will approve a new drug law early this year that will regulate cannabis cultivation, distribu-tion, and consumption. “It’s better to regulate than to ban,” said Jesus Maria Fer-nandez, second in command at the region’s

health authority. Regulating “the growing, sale, and consumption of cannabis” is a better approach to pot smoking. Regional health authority head Rafael Ben-goa echoed his subordinate’s words. “We do not want to be prohibitionists.”

Hopefully the Mayan calendar is true and we are going to see the end of this old world, starting a new cycle of life. The “end of the world” seems like a great thing considering the state of it today. Never in the history of the world have the people of this planet had such a great opportunity than now. If the wall of cannabis pro-

hibition has come down on December 21, 2012, then this year will truly be remem-

bered as the end of an old era and the start of a new, better world.

10 | NUGMAG.COM

Patient Profile: RobZilla

By: Pamela Jayne

If you have never had a personal experience with cancer, count your lucky stars, but don’t hold your breath, because chances are, you or someone you love will eventually be sidelined by this wretched disease, be it directly or indirectly.

This month I met and had an enlightening conversation with Rob, a survivor of two bouts with squamous cell carcinoma. His surprising diagnosis was quickly followed by intense chemotherapy, radiation, and an extremely invasive and painful surgery called a radical neck dissection. Google it. It’s gnarly, I mean really gnarly. I am always amazed by how nonchalant the patients I meet are about their illnesses and the brutal treatments they endure just to survive. It became somewhat easier to understand when Rob said, “Going through all of that really sucked, but on the other hand, I have to say it was a good thing because I am here. I am cured, as far as I know. I’m alive. But the side effects of those treatments push you to the edge of death. It is not a pleasant experience.” Of course, we are all aware of the side effects of cancer treatments. The constant nausea, vomiting, inability to eat and keep food down, depression, anxiety, and extreme fatigue are par for the course of a cancer patient, but those of us who have never experienced it fi rsthand will never fully understand what it is like to live day after day of complete misery.

On a positive note, while Rob was fi ghting his cancer, medical cannabis was read-ily available in the safe environment of reputable collectives. Sadly, this is no lon-ger the case in San Diego. His advice to patients who are currently ill and have had safe access to their medicine taken away was this: “The main thing is to not let themselves be made to feel like they are outlaws. Don’t allow ‘them’ to push you out. We all have a voice in this society and the only way ‘they’ will listen is if we participate. Their goal is to stop us from participating.” While Rob does not quite consider himself to be an activist, he does say, “I am opinionated and I vote.” As for how cannabis should be regulated and dispensed, he shares the common sense opinion of many others. “I believe it should be on the same level as beer and wine and sold in specifi c places like dispensaries.” In the nearly fi ve years he spent go-ing to collectives for medicine, Rob said he never had a negative experience. In fact, he spoke of how he often saw collective employees educate newly diagnosed patients who were new to the use of medical cannabis and in need of guidance. He said it was very obvious that most collective operators were experienced, knowl-edgeable, and actually cared about their patients. Speaking of patients, Rob said, “I was amazed by how ‘normal’ the people I saw in the dispensaries were. They were moms and dads, cousins, brothers, everybody. It isn’t some weird slice of hipsters and hippies, or the liberal fringe. It’s everybody.”

Because Rob is in the free and clear as far as cancer is concerned, our conversa-tion turned to the politics of medical cannabis here in San Diego and also at the state and federal levels. When I asked him what he would like to say to Laura Duffy, Bonnie Dumanis, and others who have made it their mission to deprive patients of their preferred choice of medicine, he said, “Those people have a po-litical agenda. Very rarely is a politician rewarded for being lenient on things that are considered to be crimes.” Sadly, he is right. Perception is reality, and as long as the vocal minority continues to spread propaganda aimed at vilifying cannabis, we will always have to fi ght tooth and nail for our right to choose how we treat our own ailments. It is absolutely absurd that patients are being made to feel like crimi-nals. Rob went on to say that the forced closure of medical cannabis collectives is

“a disaster. People are hurting; people will die because they will not be able to eat, because they cannot get their medication.” Once again, Rob is spot-on with this ob-servation. It is the vulnerable who will suf-fer the most and our government seems to be just fi ne with that. As a former Libertar-ian turned staunch Democrat, he says, “It is very disappointing to me what has hap-pened on the federal level because I am a big Obama supporter. I have no doubt that if he did not want this to happen, it would not have happened. He may not have been the instigating factor, but I am still very disappointed.”

Despite his justifi ed disappointment, Rob remains hopeful and expects to see the full legalization of cannabis within ten years. He cited recent poll numbers that showed how most Americans approve of the use of cannabis as medicine, and almost as many are supportive of full legalization. He also wisely pointed out that we have been through this before with prohibition and the temperance movement. It didn’t work then and it is not working now. “My message is that people have to realize that right now we are on the dark side of the moon. The pendulum swings in both directions and we are now on the far side of the swing. When you look at it from there, it seems like a long way back, but it will happen sooner than you think. If you really believe, and your own personal experience tells you that you are right, then eventually the rest of the world will catch up. There have been many other groups of people who were demonized by society and had to fi ght to be recognized. The people who are always trying to push their interpretation of how the world should be are the ones we need to look out for. I don’t know why they are so outraged and obsessed with how other people choose to live their lives.” I couldn’t have said it better myself. Let’s hope that 2012 marks the return of reason and com-passion to the ever-changing landscape of cannabis regulation.

12 | NUGMAG.COM

Mario Acevedo Torero pushes art beyond the level of a tangible com-modity and employs it to build community, beautify surroundings, en-rich lives, and encourage understanding. Born in Lima, Peru in 1947, Mario was introduced to the arts at a very young age by his father, renowned artist Guillermo Acevedo. His family came to the United States when Mario was 12 years old.

He established Downtown San Diego’s first art gallery along with his father, which later became the first multicultural arts center. He later opened Acevedo Gallery in Mission Hills, which operated throughout the ‘80s and ‘90s. His public art can be seen in numerous places locally, including Chicano Park, various spots around the Boulevard, and UCSD in La Jolla. He has also created public works throughout other cities in the United States as well as internationally in Peru, Japan, Costa Rica, Barcelona, and Czechoslovakia.

Mario is a self-proclaimed “Artivist”; a term that is very fitting to his visionary and warrior-like persona. He has founded, and is active, in many art, cultural, and politically related groups and organizations. He gives his time and knowledge to teach painting to people of all ages through his Cosmic School of Art. Mario also currently operates the Mundo Gallery in University Heights.

What is being “Artivist” all about?Using art in community building. Everyone has a role in building a strong community. Whether you’re a doctor or a gas station atten-dant, you have a role in strengthening your community. I’ve decided to better the world around me through art. I use my art as a call to ac-tion for the issues that I feel are important, whether they be political, spiritual or environmental. What current projects are you working on?Well, I just finished a 57’ by 17’ mosaic mural for UCSD titled ‘Chica-no Legacy, 40 Años’, which, from concept to completion, took 3 years and a trip to China. So I’m still feeling the buzz from that. Break-ing through the ‘glass ceiling’ and putting colorful cultural art on the UCSD campus was quite a gratifying accomplishment. My next proj-ect is reviving the murals I did at Chicano Park. The state has freed about a million and a half dollars for The Chicano Park Renovation 2011 Project to have original artists restore damaged and weathered murals painted back in the ‘70s. I have a lot of history there, so this will be a loving rejuvenation of art that has been with me since my beginnings as an artist.

I love to work with and encourage youth and I am consulting with a new start up organization called Keep Up Culture. Keep Up Culture is a movement started by young people to wake up our culture, to make a difference in the world we live in. Keep Up Culture questions the world we live in and seeks new answers through art, culture, and sustainability.

What would you say is one of your greater moments in your art career?There have been so many. I would say that a moment that was defining of my art career was when I was 17. My father put me in the merchant marines to keep me out of trouble. By the time I returned 9 months later, I had been caught up in a mutiny against the ship’s captain. His crazy actions almost got us killed by steering us into danger. Myself and the crew stopped all operation until they finally had to dock the ship and let us off. It taught me that through democratic organization you can overthrow the crazy bastard at the helm and steer the ship away from the rocks. I’ve been a revolutionary ever since. Another big moment was after completing a community mural project in the City of Toledo, Ohio; by surprise, the mayor of the city made a City Proclamation honoring me for the progressive creative work that I was doing in the community.

Do you have any regrets or any embarrassing moments that you would like to share?Not really, because any regrets or mistakes that I have made in my life have paved the way to an awareness for self-improvement, which has made me real-ize that most good comes from hard episodes crossed. Now I just give thanks to all goodness received from such lessons learned.

What is the “Cosmic School of Art” all about?The Cosmic School of Art is more of a philosophy than an actual institution. Several years back, I came up with the idea when I realized that everyone has an inner, creative genius that they need to nurture. My father was an artist and he understood the importance of nurturing a child’s creativity. I felt it was im-portant to provide an environment where anyone who wants to learn, young or old, can come to observe and participate in the creative process of the birth of inspiration. I offer my time to anyone who wants to participate. I’m constantly working on public art projects where I offer a creative outlet for people to come and explore their inner genius.

What is the most important lesson that you want your students to walk away with?…that ‘Si Se Puede!’, that ‘Yes We Can!’ It’s the lesson that may help artists dare and challenge any obstacle and social problems that are encountered along our path. That art is everywhere waiting to be discovered and utilized to teach and heal the environment and its living entities, especially the enlighten-ment of oneself.

Besides the weather, what do you love most about San Diego?By the enlightenment of a historical/prophetic global position, I find myself, di-rectly from Peru at 12 years old, in San Diego at the border with Latin America at a time when the Latino/Chicano population in the U.S. comes into an ethnic renascence, adding to the American Art Revolution. So as a sea and sun wor-shiper, and a leader in social art justice, I find S.D. to be the perfect place on the planet to be.

Artist Spotlight: Mario ToreroBy: Jed Sanders

“Concerto”. Mario in his studio and some of his paintings (2011) “Chicano Legacy 40 años”, glass/mosaic mural at UCSD Peterson Hall (2011)

What do you like to do for fun?I am blessed to have a career (a mission) that I enjoy immensely. My work is my fun. Putting on some good soul funk records and working in the community with other Artivists is my idea of fun. When I’m not doing that, you’ll find me soaking up some sun on the beach. Regarding your work, what is the greatest compliment you have ever received? Well at least one of the great ones was when I joined Czechoslovakia’s Velvet Revolution of 1989 and went to Prague to initiate a mural move-ment. In 1991, and as a symbol of peace, I was asked to paint a mural of John Lennon on a wall in a park dedicated to John. I felt complimented and honored that a group of people felt that I was the right person to cre-ate an image with such a powerful message.

...What was the greatest insult? I don’t think there are any serious artists out there who enjoy watch-ing their work being torn down or destroyed. I am one of those artists. Throughout a 30-year span, I watched how the city, over and over, disre-garded the efforts of its Artivists to create an arts district downtown; first in the Gaslamp, and then in the East Village. So in 2004, I saw for the fourth time the tearing down of our ‘icon’, the ‘Eyes of Picasso’, a mural I painted on our Reincarnation Arts Center, and then changing the name of our East Village Arts District to the Petco Stadium District.

Do you find that marijuana helps with the creative process or against?In my life experience, I have witnessed how constructive marijuana has been in uniting diverse people in peace and love. I see how people need to indulge in some kind of substance for recreation, inspiration, and now even as medicine; and weed has been that in comparison to drinking alcohol or smoking cigarettes, which has had a detrimental effect upon humans’ health. Our new generations are much more conscious about their environment, so they are making better choices. This makes me more optimistic about our future.

Where would you like to see yourself 10 years from now?Hopefully not in the grave…I’m kidding. I’m in my sixties now. It has be-come clearly defined that what I do now affects my future outcome. So I have entered a new space of solidarity with health and environmental awareness that guides my art and social connections that are breaking through an outdated broken system of seemingly perpetual self-destruc-tion. The dream of global revolution is finally becoming a reality. Ten years from now, with or without me, humanity should truly see how we have been able to change the world by acting upon our spiritual reawak-ening that we have entered in this 2012 New Epoch.

To learn more about Mario’s work, you can visit his website at www.mariotorero.com

Artist Spotlight: Mario ToreroBy: Jed Sanders

“Chicano Park Graffiti”, Work in Progress (2011)

Only patients with legally recognized medical cannabis ID cards may obtaincannabis from medical cannabis collectives/dispensaries. In strict

compliance with Prop215 and SB420 HS11362.5 & HS11362.7”

Written by Canna Chef Kim ~ The REAL Mother Earth Co-op ♥ Proudly serving San Diego MMJ patients since 2005

New Year’s Day marks the time of the beginning of a new calendar year. Many cultures celebrate the event in some shape or form. The New Year of the Gregorian calendar, today in worldwide use, falls on January 1st, continuing the practice of the Roman calendar. There are still numerous calendars that remain in regional use that calculate the New Year differently.

The order of months in the Roman calendar has been January to December since King Numa Pompilius in about 700 BC, according to Plutarch and Macrobius. According to the Christian tradition, January 1st is the day of the circum-cision of Jesus (on the eighth day of his birth), when the name of Jesus was given to him (Luke 2:21). Since then, January 1st has been the first day of the year. With the expansion of Western culture to the rest of the world during the 20th century, the January 1st date became global, even in countries with their own New Year celebrations on other days (China and Pakistan). In the culture of Latin America, there are a variety of traditions and superstitions surround-ing these dates as omens for the coming year. January remains a symbol of the New Year’s celebration. In Native American culture it is also known as the Celebration of Prayers, where we do prayer ceremonies that symbolize great health and prosperity to others and ourselves.

The common of New Year’s resolutions are often self-improvement. What if we take on a fresh approach? Instead of concentrating on self-improvement, what if we try to improve the lives of others or commit to doing one thing different everyday that helps improve the quality of others’ lives. Find an important cause or charity to support, and not just by giving money, but by taking the time to truly get involved.

Did you know that in San Diego County alone there are over 5,000 children in foster care? To me this is an astounding and sad number, and one way too big to be ignored. San Diego also has the first school in the nation dedicated to homeless children. With this as an indication of where our world is headed, we can’t sit back – now is the time to use the energy creatively and for the good of others. Come on – I dare you – Get involved!

This month we have a few new healing recipes for your New Year’s dinner with, of course, our medicinal twist!

Some of the following recipes are taken from Mother Earth Co-op’s “Special Medicinal Recipes – A Medical Cannabis Cookbook.” Canna Chef Kim © 2008 Cookbook available at finer co-ops, collectives, and physician offices, or online at www.motherearthcoop.com/products

SWEET BRIE & CHERRY BOMB CHUTNEY(Appetizers)

1 (8-oz.) pkg. brie cheese 1/2 tsp. kief1 lb. cherries (dark, sweet, pitted) 1/4 tsp. allspice1 cup brown sugar 1/4 tsp. cinnamon1 large apple (Granny Smith chopped) 1/4 tsp. onion salt1/2 cup onion (finely chopped) 1 loaf French bread1/3 cup apple cider vinegar

Combine all ingredients except kief and brie in heavy saucepan and stir to mix. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook gently for 45-50 minutes until thickened, stirring occasionally, and add kief. Cool for at least one hour before serving. Heat brie in the microwave on HIGH for 30 seconds to one minute, or until softened. Pour 1 cup cherry chutney over brie and serve with crackers and French bread.

Note: Exotic healing treat for the discriminating taste buds that help with sleep and ward off nausea.

UTILA MULLED & SPIKED CIDER(Beverages)

1/2 cup brown sugar 1/4 tsp. salt1 tsp. allspice (whole) dash of nutmeg1 tsp. cloves (whole) 1 cinnamon stick1/4 tsp. kief 2 qts. apple cider

Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and bring slowly to a boil. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes. Strain before serving.

Note: Pour this therapeutic winter treat over clove-studded orange wedges. Patients love it!

CILANTRO & ALMOND COUCHLOCK SOUP(Soups)

6 1/2 cups chicken broth 1/2 tsp. kief4 cups cilantro (fresh, chopped) 1/2 cup almonds (toasted slivered)2 cups parsley (fresh, chopped) 1 sprig marjoram (fresh)6-oz. cream cheese (cubed) 1/8 tsp. pepper (ground)

Combine 2 cups broth, 2 cups cilantro, parsley, cream cheese and almonds in a blender or food processor and pu-rée until smooth. Heat remaining 4 1/2 cups broth in a large saucepan. Whisk in the herb-cheese mixture, kief and marjoram. Simmer 25 minutes to blend flavors. Transfer 1 cup soup and remaining 2 cups cilantro to blender; puree until smooth. Return soup to saucepan and season with salt and pepper. Simmer soup for another 13 or so minutes, thinning soup with additional broth if needed. Makes 4 to 6 servings.

SAVORY SHRIMP TARTS(Vegetarian)

2 tbsp. lemon juice 1 medium bay leaf3 tbsp. white wine (dry) 1/4 tsp. red peppers (crushed)2 tsp. extra virgin olive oil 1/8 tsp. salt3 cloves garlic (minced) 1/8 tsp. pepper1 lb. shrimp (peeled & de veined) 2 tbsp. parsley (fresh, chopped)4 tbsp. cannaoil

To clean leeks: trim off root and dark green stems with a sharp knife. Cut several incisions in the leek’s stem end to open it up like a fan. Soak in water for several minutes, and then swish to dislodge dirt. Repeat until no grit remains. Combine lemon juice, wine, 2 teaspoons of oil and garlic in a medium bowl. Add shrimp and toss to coat. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for 15 minutes, tossing occasionally. Drain well, reserving marinade. Heat cannaoil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook, turning once until barely pink, about 30 seconds per side; transfer to a plate. Add bay leaf, crushed red pepper, and the reserved marinade to the pan; simmer for 4 minutes. Return the shrimp and any accumulated juices to the pan; heat through. Season with salt, sprinkle with parsley, and serve immediately. Makes 4 healing servings.

Note: Serve as an appetizer or as a vegetarian main dish. To make ahead: refrigerate for up to 1 day. Reheat on a baking sheet at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes.

Cannabis Cooking withCANNA CHEF KIM

14 | NUGMAG.COM

TOURTIERE TRANCE(Casseroles)

(2) 9” pie shells 1/4 cup cannabis (finely chopped)1 1/2 lbs. beef & pork (mixed) 1 tbsp. savory (chopped)1 large onion (chopped) 1 tsp. cumin4 cloves garlic (minced) 1/2 tsp. pepper (ground)1 large potato (diced) 1/2 tsp. cinnamon1 stalk celery (chopped) 1/4 tsp. cloves1/2 cup gravy dash allspice1 tbsp. cornstarch 1 tbsp. milk2 tbsp. tomato paste

Preheat oven at 350°F. Combine meat, garlic and onions in a frying pan over a medium-low heat. Stirring mixture well, cook until onions are translucent and meat browns. Add some of the gravy and bubble gently for 3 to 5 minutes. Sprinkle on cornstarch, stir again and add the remaining gravy. Let it bubble to a rich sauce, adding the remaining ingredients. Pour mixture into pie shell and cover with vented top crust (cut slices in top shell). Brush top crust with milk and bake for 1 hour at 350°F or 175°C until crust is golden brown. Serves 6

Note: A very favorite Quebec meat pie that is traditionally served on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. These tourtieres are loved by every patient that has tried its medicinal qualities.

CROCK POT CARAMEL CHEESECAKE(Cakes)

1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs 1/4 cup sugar 2 large eggs (beaten) 1/2 cup brown sugar1/4 cup walnuts (chopped) 1/3 cup evaporated milk1 tbsp. brown sugar 1 tsp. vanilla1/2 cup cannabutter (melted) 2 tbsp. flour2 (8-oz.) pkgs. cream cheese (softened) 1 cup chocolate chips (semi sweet)1 (3-oz.) pkg. cream cheese (softened, melted)

In medium bowl, combine: crumbs, walnuts, 1 tbsp. brown sugar, melted cannabutter and mix until crumbly. Pat into bottom of 7” spring form pan and set aside. In large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add 1/2 cup brown sugar and 1/4 cup sugar and beat well. Add eggs, milk, vanilla, and flour and beat until smooth. Pour this mixture over crumb crust in prepared pan. Melt chocolate chips in microwave oven or over very low heat. Drizzle over cheesecake in pan; then using a knife, marble by drawing knife through the chocolate and cheesecake batter. Position a ring of crumpled aluminum foil in bottom of a 5-quart crock pot. Then fold two 24” long pieces of heavy duty foil in half the long way, then in half again, and place over ring of foil in crock pot, making an ‘X’, letting the edges hang down over the sides of the crock pot. Place the springform pan on top of all of this, making sure it’s level. Cover crock pot and cook on high for 2 1/2 to 3 hours. Turn off crock pot, don’t remove lid, and let stand for 1 hour. Cautiously remove cheesecake from crock pot using the strips of foil you placed over the rack and chill for at least 3 hours. Remove sides of pan and serve with hot chocolate sauce or caramel fudge ice cream topping and some whipped cream. Makes 8 curative servings.

Note: When cheesecake is baked in the oven, the top usually cracks unless you bake it in a water bath. In a crock pot, that is not a problem because the baking environment is so moist. Make sure that your springform pan fits easily in your slow cooker with a space at least a 1/2” all the way around between the pan and the sides of the crock pot.

BODY & IMMUNE CLEANSING(Remedies )

3 medium carrots 1 medium coconut2 medium beets 2 stalks celery

Blend together in a juicer and drink immediately. This combination of juice is very effective in cleansing the kidneys and the gall bladder. This juice contains mega doses of alkaline properties of iron, calcium, potassium, sodium and magnesium.

Note: This is a great body builder and strengthener.

“KIEF” is an age old way of extracting trichomes from plant material. Kief is the product derived from the kiefing process. Kiefing is a method in which you rub dry trim, buds and small leaves with crystals on them over a silk screen. The THC glands will form a powder that comes through the screen, which is then used in cooking or for smoking. It is usually a pale green to light brown dependant on the strain of cannabis. Kief powder that is pressed together is called hash.

Note: Kief boxes are sold at some smoke shops and are easier to work with than the silk screens. In a kief box, the screen is above the collection drawer allowing the THC glands to pass through the screen and into the collection drawer. This makes it easy and compact for the average user to collect the kief and use for smoking or for cooking.

*Cannaoil is any high quality food grade oil such as coconut oil, hempseed oil, olive oil, or canola oil that has been infused with high-grade medical cannabis.

*Cannabutter is dairy butter that has been infused with high-grade medical cannabis.

The recipes for cannaoil and cannabutter can be found in the first copy of NUG Magazine or online at www.MotherEarthCoop.com

Wishing you a hempy journey to a healthier you! Peace, Love & Gratitude,

Kim

Only patients with legally recognized medical cannabis ID cards may obtaincannabis from medical cannabis collectives/dispensaries. In strictcompliance with Prop215 and SB420 HS11362.5 & HS11362.7”

SAN DIEGOASA RALLY

AARONEVANSIMAGINATION@YAHOO.COM

We had The Chronisseur put in some overtime this month with six strains to sample and review. What better way to kick off the New Year than with half a dozen of the most pristine nugs Hopper has seen all year, which was grown and provided by San Diego’s fi nest green thumbs.

SoCal Trash: (Anonymous Grower)“Let me start by saying that there is nothing trashy about this new strain. It is actually a cross of Trainwreck and Hash Plant, hence the name. This knockout love child of two top notch strains is draped in trichomes and sparkles like stripper glitter when held up to natural sunlight. It is also a really dense little nugget. Its aroma is hash-like and piney, not at all sweet. The pungent Hash Plant really comes through, more so than the Trainwreck. It is a great balance of aromas. The fl avor is nearly identical to the aroma. It reminds me of a very piney hash. The hit packed a heavy punch to the lungs and the effect was very strong and very relaxing. I know this would be great for those in need of anxiety and stress relief. Hats off to the grower!”

Ogre: (G-Dub)“A trichome covered bud with a deep olive colored tint on the outer leaves. The hairs are a darker shade of red, almost maroon. This piece was clearly grown and harvested with care and expertise. The aroma is not quite as pungent as I expected, but it is still pleasant. It is very earthy, herbal, and musky smelling. Now on to the hit…The fl avor is surprisingly hashy-tasting. Although it didn’t pack quite as much of a punch as I expected it to, it was smooth and enjoyable. The ‘high’ hit quickly and throughout my entire body. This is an ideal strain for aches and pains of all kinds. I am very impressed with this sample.”

Romberry: (G-Dub)“Wow! This perfect-looking nug is a lighter shade of green with a moderate amount of red hairs and an overwhelming amount of shining trichomes. This is an excellent example of what an experienced grower can produce. The aroma is simply amazing. Very sweet berry smell that is not too overwhelmed by the Romulan cross. It has a naturally sweet aroma, not sugary-smelling at all. I can’t wait to hit this one! The fl avor is also very sweet and berry-like, just like the name says. It offers a nice expansion followed by a good cough. The fl avor lingers and is very pleasant-tasting. The Romberry provides an immediate head and body ‘high’. This sample was obviously grown with care and patience. I would recommend it to most patients because of its versatility in treating a wide variety of common ailments.”

LA Confi dential: (Patient X)“Two words: Bud Sap. It’s something I don’t see on a regular basis, so this is defi nitely a treat! The coloring is bright lime green with orange hairs and a plethora of trichomes. This is literally one of the best-looking nugs I have seen all year. Its aroma is very, very sweet and piney as well. It smells every bit as amazing as it looks. No doubt, this is going to taste incredible. The sweetness coated every taste bud in my mouth. Great expansion with an aromatic exhale that will turn heads. The ‘high’ hits immediately and straight to the head. A full on dome run. This is a serious strain for serious patients. Defi nitely do not operate heavy machinery while medicating with the LA Confi dential (Don’t worry; the microwave is not considered heavy machinery!). Kudos to Patient X, you are defi nitely in the top tier of San Diego’s medical cannabis growers.”

Sour OG: (Coma)“The fi rst thing I noticed about the Sour OG is its deep green coloring and orange-red hairs. Although it could have been trimmed a little tighter, it is still a nice-looking sample. It’s very sticky and that is always a good sign. For some reason, the aroma reminds me more of Trainwreck than Sour OG, not that it is a bad thing. I dig the lemony-pine aroma. Now for the taste test. Good fl avor, similar to the aroma. It’s piney and pungent. Not extremely expansive, but smooth and fl avorful. Very relaxing effect, especially in the neck, back, and shoulders. Pretty much any patient would benefi t from the use of this strain. Keep up the good work, Coma!”

PB Porch Bud: (BigBFarms)“This bud is a striking dark shade of green with very light orange hairs. The contrast of colors is remarkably stunning. The aroma is sweet and citrus-like with a crisp hint of pine as well. It’s a very well-balanced aroma. I have a feeling that I am really going to enjoy sampling this one. Nice fl avor, tastes hashy with a touch of berry. Just like its aroma, the fl avor is well-rounded and robust. The ‘high’ has an instant cerebral effect soon followed by a wave of relaxation throughout the entire body. This is an exceptional piece, but don’t let the name fool ya. You won’t fi nd this on just any porch in PB. This is the cream of the crop! Big props to BigBFarms for a job very well done.”

The collectives may be closing, but the growers keep on growing, and they certainly are not showing any sign that they are slowing. . . Enjoy that modifi ed obscure reference and have a Happy New Year!

Article by: Pamela Jayne | Nug Shots by: Phil Calvin for SCR Photo | Photo by: William Riley

and the effect was very strong and very relaxing. I know this would be great for those in need of anxiety and stress relief. Hats off to the grower!”

Ogre: “A trichome covered bud with a deep olive colored tint on the outer leaves. The hairs are a darker shade of red, almost maroon. This piece was clearly grown and harvested with care and expertise. The aroma is not quite as pungent as I expected, but it is still pleasant. It is very earthy, herbal, and musky smelling. Now on to the hit…The fl avor is surprisingly hashy-tasting. Although it didn’t pack quite as much of a punch as I expected it to, it was smooth and enjoyable. The ‘high’ hit quickly and throughout my entire body. This is an ideal strain for aches and pains of all kinds. I am very impressed with this sample.”

“Two words: Bud Sap. It’s something I don’t see on a regular basis, so this is defi nitely a treat! The coloring is bright

The collectives may be closing, but the growers keep on growing, and they certainly are not showing any sign that they are slowing. . .

Romberry: “Wow! This perfect-looking nug is a lighter shade of green with a moderate amount of red hairs and an overwhelming amount of shining trichomes. This is an excellent example of what an experienced grower can produce. The aroma is simply amazing. Very sweet berry smell that is not too overwhelmed by the Romulan cross. It has a naturally sweet aroma, not sugary-smelling at all. I can’t wait to hit this one! The fl avor is also very sweet and berry-like, just like the name says. It offers a nice expansion followed by a good cough. The fl avor lingers and is very pleasant-tasting. The Romberry provides an immediate head and body ‘high’. This sample was obviously grown with care and patience. I would recommend it to most patients because of its versatility in treating a wide variety of common ailments.”‘high’. This sample was obviously grown with care and patience. I would recommend it to most patients because of its versatility

Sour OG: “The fi rst thing I noticed about the Sour OG is its deep green coloring and orange-red hairs. Although it could have been trimmed a little tighter, it is still a nice-looking sample. It’s very sticky and that is always a good sign. For some reason, the aroma reminds me more of Trainwreck than Sour OG, not that it is a bad thing. I dig the lemony-pine aroma. Now for the taste test. Good fl avor, similar to the aroma. It’s piney and pungent. Not extremely expansive, but smooth and fl avorful. Very relaxing effect, especially in the neck, back, and shoulders. Pretty much any patient would benefi t from the use of this strain. Keep up the good work, Coma!”

18 | NUGMAG.COM

NUGMAG.COM | 19

Only patients with legally recognized medical cannabis ID cards may obtain cannabis from medical cannabis collec-tives/dispensaries. In strict compliance with Prop215 and SB420 HS11362.5 & HS11362.7”

By: Aaron EvansBANG! The starting gun has sounded. The real race has just begun. Ladies and gentlemen, I hope you didn’t place your bets early, for there’s a new contestant in the competition, and the odds have just been changed. This month’s featured artisan, Aaron Sokol, isn’t new to the fi eld; in fact, he’s been hiding in the shadows of the packs’ leaders, meticulously plotting this moment for over 8 years, drafting their winds, perfecting his technique, waiting for the perfect moment to take the world by storm. The time has fi nally come to place his name in the hat and see how far he can go in this rat race alone. If life is the art of war and this is the sprint to reinvent the art form, then this author is placing his chips on the rookie busting from the gates.

I’ve always liked the underdog, the long shot, but that’s not even it this time around. Aaron has truly earned this op-portunity to shine and seems poised to seize the moment. After all, like I said, it’s not exactly his fi rst time on the track. With a degree in scientifi c glassblowing from Salem Community College, the only school on the continent to offer such a diploma, and having just completed a 3-year apprenticeship with J.A.G., one of the kings residing at The Glass Palace, and inarguably one of the best pipe makers in the world, it quickly becomes clear why I have such high expectations for Mr. Sokol. But, every story has a beginning, so let’s not get too far ahead of ourselves before we can’t fi nd our way back to where it all started.

Originally from Vermont, Aaron, like all true artisans, had a rebellious spirit since his inception and was thrown out of school for the fi rst time in the 7th grade. I can tell you with certainty that it wasn’t because he wasn’t smart. The problem was that he was too smart, and, once again, a trait seen in almost all great artists. Around this period, a local bead maker named Karol Shirver took Aaron’s misunderstood genius under her wing and introduced him to the basics of torchworking. Yet, unbeknownst to her, at only 16, he began making pipes at another studio, putting a steady cash fl ow in his pockets by slanging old school spoons to local shops. But this fi nancial stability was short lived, as he saw his profi t margins drop over 75% as mass produced glass from India and China were introduced. Like everything else in our country, his job had been outsourced. So, back to school it was.

Now I’m not going to talk about scientifi c glassblowing too much because, well, it’s boring. I have the upmost respect for the skill taken to make lab beakers and designs for crazy experiments for scientists, but in my eyes, it lacks an artist’s edge. There’s just no pizzazz. I will mention that Aaron received a full scholarship based on his badass, inherent talent, but it’s really no surprise that his spirit was discontent in a world with a (pun intended) glass ceiling. Making, at best, a middle class living working for a university simply wasn’t going to fl y. See, we artists like to dream.

At this juncture is when he originally connected with The Glass Palace shop mates J.A.G. and JOP, fi nally giving him anarchist companions in pushing the boundaries of glass sculpting. However, the pipe culture’s economic downfall had

still to manifest a solution to the fl ood of overseas glass; once again, back to school it was.

This time he studied mechanical engineering management where he was an A+ student, which is the only thing I can think of that’s MORE boring than scientifi c glassblowing. Just saying it out loud makes my mind go a little numb. Straight up, this would be the one angle of Aaron’s life I didn’t understand. I guess he just thought if he had stable work, he could make his art on the side and not have to stress the daily grind. But that’s not how this story ends; it wouldn’t be a great story, and then I tell you this race will be epic.

Three and a half years into his studies fate called and J.A.G. was on the other end of the line. He had just returned from C.H.A.M.P.S, the industry’s largest glass trade show, and had seemingly done the impossible; he made enough money that tangible fi nancial stability was fi nally within grasp. In a moment, Aaron fl ashed forward in his mind thirty years, visualizing a life of drudgery chained to a desk. The decision was clear, accept J.A.G.’s offer, move to Cali, and fi nally pursue his true passion, pipemaking.

The plan was set, grind around the clock in preparation for the next big show, as to secure the funds to facilitate the move, and then take a leap of faith. Seeing that Aaron is an avid skydiver with over 100 solo jumps under his belt, it’s no surprise that when he did leap, he leaped head fi rst, fully focused and prepared to soar. Now, only one year after touching down in SoCal, he’s setting out into the spotlight. I tell you, if this is his fi rst step out of the gates, then the rest of the fi eld better have been upping their workout regimen. Aaron’s going in hard and I can hardly wait to see what the future holds for this master in the making.

What I haven’t told you yet is that I’ve had a little secret, but I love my NUG F.A.M. so much that I’m going to share. This stunning, dazzling display of artistry you’re currently staring at, drooling over its clean lines and golden highlights; it’s playful, yet classic and timeless and has never been seen by ANYONE, ANYWHERE.

The large piece you’re staring at is titled “War Economy” and is the debut piece in Aaron’s Japanese Rock Garden series. Inviting the smoker into his world and asking for their par-ticipation in its artistic completion is something quite unique and unlike anything I’ve seen within the glass culture. If pipes are considered functional art, then I would have to say this is functional, functional art. Viewing the Japanese Rock Garden and getting lifted, both ritualistic and meditative, the marriage of the two seemed natural and obvious to Aaron. It’s so simplistic in its truth, but often, life’s most beautiful things are just that, simple and true. Even at the most basic level the two mediums are married, as both glass and sand are silicate and, thus, molecularly identical. What more can I say, that’s just some next level shit.

The grenades in the sand represent our constant “military expenditure” and our “system of bondage” while the corn represents our “agricultural expenditures”, no-

tating the “altering” and “subsidizing” of crops here in America, asking the patient to ponder these subjects in their daily refl ections. I told ya, Aaron was one smart cookie. Each piece in this series will be one of a kind with different marbles, glass stones, and miniature sculptures deciding the theme. Aaron is still fully conceptualizing, yet, I’m sure all further commentary made will be thought provok-ing and pertinent.

Next, let’s look at the “Reality TV” line. I’ve stated in past articles that I believe our whole world has become voyeuristic. We each love peering into each other’s lives and this series falls right in line with those beliefs. You can literally watch your fellow patients’ smoking experience in real life 3D. One thing I really like about these slides is that they are perfectly designed for a Cali snapper, and when I used it, one hit put my mind at ease. His tank logo overlaid in gold makes these pieces just gangster, which is exactly what I said the fi rst time I saw them.

The last line he’s introducing returns to the same lane as the Rock Gardens, bringing an Asian fl are with inscriptions from “The Art of War” overlaid, once again, in gold. Oh, did I forget to mention that it’s real gold; not gold paint, but real gold precisely laid on top and then affi xed in the kiln during the cooling process. Yeah, I’d say “gangster” is the right word to use for this cat’s art, but I’m talking old school ancient gangster, back when war was sacred. In today’s current world, it may be wise to re-member lost lessons. I know the tiny scroll that rolled into my submission box as I was getting ready to leave the shop certainly did. Telling me once again never to underestimate my opponent and that a man who rushes forth doing so is sure to be captured. Having patience and waiting for reinforcement is the path of the enlightened warrior.

All the pieces hit incredibly smooth and the red embers of my Yoda O.G. glowed like the fi ery breath of a dragon refl ecting against the silky black sides of the “Art of War” spoon he gave me. This feature intently drew my eye in and gives his work a signature style.

Aaron Sokol isn’t leaping out of the box; he’s obliterating it right from the beginning. He should be. If I’ve painted this as if Mr. Sokol is the next Zen master to arise from the “Philly Glass Movement”, it’s because he undeniably is. He not only fully credits his shopmates at the Glass Palace, J.A.G. and JOP, but he also gives credit to fellow Philadelphia glass gurus SLINGER and SNIC for their infl u-ence and inspiration along the way. The reason I believe in Aaron Sokol so much is that I can directly relate to being the next to bloom in a long legacy of greatness. The pressure it lays upon your shoul-ders is incredible, but when harnessed correctly with meditations, like yoga and inner meditation, it can catapult you to the front of the pack and beyond. As both a writer and musician, I’ve grown up in the legacy of hip hop legends like RJD2, Blueprint, Illogic, Copywright, Rashad, and many others being from the musical hotbed of Columbus, Ohio. I know Aaron’s story oh so well. In fact, I’ll admit that several times while writing this, I’ve seen our stories overlap our paths to 2012 and our moment to shine as solo artists. Aaron Sokol has been blessed as I know I’ve been blessed. And moving forward into 2012, I believe it’s important that we all remember that we’ve each been blessed if we hope to manifest our collective dreams. The future is now, and with artists like Mr. Sokol, myself, and

a million other brilliant stars standing beside us, our world’s future is surely bright. This story is epic because this race is just beginning and it’s in all of our hands to make sure the race ends in our favor. To keep up with Mr. Sokol’s role and progression in the culture, visit him on Facebook at Young Sokie or drop him a line at aaronsokol4@hotmail.com.

As a thank you to NUG, our many loyal readers across the world, my amaz-ing fans, The Green Brothers and Dove Ink F.A.M, Mr. Sokol, J.A.G., JOP, CREEP, RYNO, MAXIMUS, CHAD G and YOU, I would like to take this mo-ment to announce the release and FREE DOWNLOAD of my debut single as a solo musician, “I’ve Been Blessed” by Aaron Evans. Now available at www.aaronevansimagination.com. I told you our paths crossed quite a bit. Till next time, keep the fi re burning. You know I will.

22 | NUGMAG.COM

Outlaw NationBy: SD Liz

Happy New Year! ‘Twas the season to cherish memories, and now it’s time to start the New Year! NUG Magazine is checking in with Stoopid Records’ Outlaw Nation, a reggae/rock band from New Or-leans, Louisiana…and more recently, Miami, Florida. With members residing from both cities, the main man behind the 3-piece band is SIMEON, the guitarist/vocalist originally from the South, but who now resides in Florida. Next to him are his bandmates, Danny Woolen on bass and (currently) Kevin Offitzer on drums, who both still re-side in LA. The band was originally founded by the Silverback Music and Management Co. back in 2001, and they later signed to Stoopid Records in 2002. With seven CDs out and an EP, their most recent full album, Back in Babylon, was just released late last year, and it was reason enough for them to tour the West Coast just last month. With Jägermeister as their sponsor, the guys started their “Back in Babylon” tour in their hometown of LA and travelled along the West Coast to Washington State. This month the boys are showing some funky soul to the Midwest.

NUG Magazine caught their stop at Winston’s Beach Club in Ocean Beach, California. It was a cold and chilly night back in December, but that didn’t stop their soulful reggae/rock from warming up the night. Outlaw Nation started with “Well, Well”. Next, they played a song that sounded similar to Tom Petty’s “Mary Jane’s Last Dance”. Other songs included “Cool Mon Vibes”, “Beautiful Woman”, “Love & Music”, and “Honesty”. Their skankin’ riffs mixed with rock music and soulful vibes from the South brought a new spin on the current reg-gae/rock scene. It was nice seeing this band get down while sticking to their Southern roots, especially with the soulful lyrics. Also, some of their music sounded like it might have been inspired by King Yel-lowman from Jamaica. Irie!

It’s great to hear that reggae/rock was inspired by the original Sub-lime band. Of course, that inspiration is what is driving many affluent bands that are currently HOT in the reggae/rock scene right now. And, we must not forget where reggae has its roots – not only in the land of Jamaica, but in good ol’ blues, rock, and soul. With such bands as the original Sublime, Slightly Stoopid, Pepper, and now, Rebelution, Silverback Music and Management Co. has been there to help pave the California reggae/rock road. And now with these bands from the South, including funky band Dumpstaphunk, and Outlaw Nation as a funky, soulful reggae/rock band, both from New Orleans, it’s no wonder why all of these guys are still making waves!

NUG Magazine chatted it up with SIMEON about being part of the Silverback and Stoopid family, his thoughts on the current reggae/rock scene, what inspires the band, and if nugs will be legal within the next 10 years. Read On:

How does it feel, as a band, to be with such notorious people as Silverback and Slightly Stoopid?I was stoked of course. I am a real fan of Slightly Stoopid; not just because they have helped us, but because they are great musicians and songwriters in their own regard! I think we have some of the

same influences, which kind of seep their way into our playing and writing.

What is your message to fans? What do you think you are bringing to the scene?The dirty New Orleans Funk scene on top of the reggae! We bring a different flavor and spin to the genre because of our roots not being from Southern California. We bring the vibes from the DIRTY New Orleans Funk scene and spin the reggae on top of it.

What do you think of the reggae/rock scene, especially the current scene?The staples are, of course, 311 and Slightly Stoopid. Fishbone has been the blueprint on which you try and build your vibes. The kids today are really doing amazing things with the music and keeping it vibrant! SOJA, Rebelution, and The Dirty Heads are definitely sick!!!

What do you think of the original SUBLIME band?They are the guideline in which you must follow to be a great band in this genre. They are the ones who started it, ya know!

What are some of your favorite SUBLIME songs?Brad wrote some of the most amazingly infectious songs ever!!! ‘Badfish’, ‘Date Rape’, ‘What I Got’, and ‘Santeria’ are among my most favorite! I was more into his radio-friendly stuff; though, that was about me being into some really catchy writing!

Who originally inspired you guys?Danny and myself are huge Police fans, as well as Fishbone and Bad Brains. Reggae has been a big part of our musical growth!

What inspires your lyrics?Just life, ya know! Things that everyone laughs, cries, or bitches about. Wherever it comes from is what I take…usu-ally a riff or a groove held makes me think of the words and lyrics.

How is the reggae scene in Louisiana?Not big at all. There are a few bands who are trying to push the vibes, but more ska bands than anything. Stoopid and Rebelution come through the area and crush all the time!!!

How about in Florida? How’s the reggae/rock scene there and along the East Coast?It’s been good. There are quite a few bands killing it in FL. Hor!zen is one, and, of course, The Supervillians.

So how does the band practice, seeing that you live apart?We get together 2 weeks before a tour and work out what we want to play on the tour itself…and practice heavily!

Who did the art for your “Back in Babylon” tour?A guy named Eric Swanson out of Illinois. That was the first CD cover he has done. He also did the work for some of our t-shirts.

Do you believe in the legalization of cannabis?Hell to the Yes! Legalize it all the way man!

What do you think prevents its legalization?I have no idea – I guess they have not figured out how to tax it or to con-trol the cultivation of it. It’s all BS though! Let people do their thing!

Do you think it will be legalized within 10 years?It should!

Any favorite strains?Sour Diesel is my ISH!

Finally, tell me some most memorable acts!311, English Beat, and, of course, all of the Silverback and Stoopid Fam-ily! Easy Star All Stars and John Brown’s Body have also been really cool to jam with and roll out with!

Outlaw Nation is currently on tour this month in Nebraska, Iowa, Minne-sota, Montana, Utah, and Colorado. For more information, visit them on www.facebook.com or www.reverbnation.com while they get their website “revamped”. Also, check out their music collections on iTunes, including their EP that was just released last month titled, Another Day. Soulful!

Written by: Medicinal Michael BorisPhotos by: Nick Compton

Happy Nug Year! This past year has been the most excit-ing year for NUG readers and smokers alike. 2012 is the year of “The Protest”. I don’t know about you guys, but I am sick and tired of hiding who I am and what I smoke. The dreaded and evil Bonnie Dumanis has not won her tirade against the medical marijuana community and we all made it to fight another fight this year. Bonnie does so much huff-ing and puffing that I am convinced she was a monster pot smoker in her former life; but nobody would smoke with her, so now, in this life, she is exacting her revenge on anybody who dares to have a smoke and a smile. Great job to every-body for supporting your local San Diego MMJ movement and showing anyone who dares to tread on your freedoms with their fat foot that you guys will take a toe!

Occupy San Diego, though not as strong in physical num-bers, still limps on into the New Year to speak for all of us who can’t be out in the cold with them to speak for our-selves. If you see anybody speaking out against those who would hold one’s rights from them, whether you agree or not, you should still be thankful we live in a country where you can speak out.

This month in San Diego weed entertainment you can see the entire NugLife crew performing at the Madhouse Com-edy Club in downtown SD. This last month on the NugLife Radio Show you watched Tommy “The Roach” Lucero chal-lenge me to an eggnog drinking contest that ended with the both of us on the business end of a bucket. I also had my ass handed to me by Erik “The Joint” Martin in the 50 shots in 50 minutes. If you missed any of the nugtacular moments on the NugLife Radio Show last month, you can always watch the archives on www.Slangradio.tv or on www.Nug-liferadioshow.com.

I don’t want to let you miss out on what was an incredible night of mixed martial arts action. Every stoner’s dream…right? Cage vs. Cons! I got invited to Los Angeles for a night on the town with all the blood my squeemish self could han-dle; so I threw my fearless photographer into the action, got myself a nice chili dog, and watched felons fight police officers. I recommend this show to anyone who likes action. Happy New Year Everyone!

Medicinal Mike says: Enjoy this life because sometimes a bird in hand just makes it harder to roll a blunt.

26 | NUGMAG.COM

Tell us about 420•LTD™ Apparel.420•LTD™ apparel is everything street about the 420 lifestyle, a premium clothing brand for the Cali way of life with a focus on the 420 subculture. 420•LTD™ represents the hustle, lifestyle, and culture of California or as how we like to say it around here...the “Californication”. Far from your typical stoner, hippie, tie-dye, cliché and novelty clothing, 420•LTD™ takes our creative direc-tion from the surf, skate, action sports, graffi ti, reggae, urban and hip-hop lifestyles blended into one with 420 overtones. We bring slick and clean designs to represent the 420 way of life. When you wear the 420•LTD™ brand, you’re adding class to your ‘STASH’.

How did you come up with the 420•LTD™ name?The 420 stands for the CA state bill that allows people to smoke marijuana medicinally; but currently, there are only 15 other states plus the District of Columbia that have similar laws. Until all 50 states make smoking marijuana legal, then maybe we can change our name to 420 Unlimited! The LTD also stands for lim-ited, meaning most of our designs will be limited to 420 pieces or will be only available for a limited amount of time.

How did you come up with the idea?I looked around for clothing to help me represent my love for the lifestyle, the hustle, and the culture behind it. Everywhere I looked, I found the clothing to be poorly designed, loud, and in your face. I said to myself, if this is what most smokers are wearing, then no wonder the general public has attached a nega-tive stigma to cannabis! So I decided to start a clothing company for people to represent their strains and their culture, a niche and customer base that is growing everyday as more and more people smoke and marijuana becomes more mainstream and decriminalized. The proliferation of marijuana in TV shows, mu-sic, amongst celebrities, and its acceptance in society made me

feel that it was the right time to start a clothing company to represent the new face of 420! A clothing company that would have fresh, slick and clean designs that even a non-bud smoker would want to rock. Our mission is not just to make the best cloth-ing, but to make a difference too.

How do you think you can make a difference?We believe in giving back and we plan to do that by donating 10% of our online sales to organizations that fi ght for marijuana users’ rights and education. Every month we will feature a story of how marijuana has helped a person medicinally. For allowing us to feature their story on our website, we will sponsor their doctor’s renewal for the year! Also, the more people who wear clothes by 420•LTD™, the more it will be in the public eye. So if society sees someone who they perceive as ‘normal’, wearing the shirts and not looking like a typical ‘stoner’, then they might say to themselves, maybe marijuana isn’t so bad after all. Instead of associating marijuana with staying at home, sitting on the couch, and letting the day pass by, they instead will see the many faces of 420•LTD™ as contributing members of society. By changing people’s view on cannabis, maybe we can infl uence them to vote ‘yes’ when and if there is a proposition to legalize weed! We here at 420•LTD™ hope that with every visit to our website, every sale, every design, we can bring social awareness and break the stereotypical image of a ‘stoner’. Not only are you supporting 420•LTD™ when you buy our products, but you’re joining the movement and supporting the cause!

Who is your target market?420•LTD™ represents the new face of 420; some may see us as anti-establishment, against the grain, outcasts, outlaws, outsiders, the counter-culture, hustlers and grinders, and the fringe of society. We may be all that, but at the same time, we are also the forward thinking, progressive, rebels with a cause, and leaders of the pack. Our clothing is a refl ection of the streets and our style mirrors that lifestyle.

We welcome everyone from all different walks of life, from the hippies all the way to politicians. 420•LTD™ is ‘All Races, All Backgrounds, All Strains, ONE BRAND.’

Is 420•LTD™ Apparel only for people who blaze?No, 420•LTD™ is not just for bud smokers; it’s for anyone who appreciates cool cloth-ing and supports the rights of people who want to blaze up for medical or recreational purposes. We here at 420•LTD™ Apparel believe that ‘You Don’t Have to Smoke To Look Dope!’

What separates you from other clothing companies?Most of the major established clothing lines have some suggestive marijuana clothing, but don’t specialize in that niche. We just happen to be a street wear clothing brand whose niche is the 420 lifestyle. Our Californication line focuses on the 420 lifestyle and hustle. Our 1/8ths line or collective, as we like to call it, are designs of the different can-nabis strains and for people to ‘Represent Your Strain’. Most marijua-na clothing companies tend to be more in your face, cliché, innovative, and comical in their design themes. They like to take the 420 themes and play into the typical stoner stereotype, thus limiting themselves to only the hardcore bud smoker. We like to subtly represent the lifestyle with clean, slick and fresh designs that anyone from a ‘budhead’ to a novice would be proud to rock the brand.

Most other competitors’ shirts are made with that ‘cardboard’ cotton feel and tend to be worn oversized. Our shirts are made with 100% super soft, ring spun cotton to give it more of a fitted feel. We believe the extra comfort, attention to detail, and our designs are what sepa-rate us from everyone else out there. 420•LTD™ is always ‘Freshly Trimmed & Cured’.

What challenges have you come across with starting this brand?Besides the usual challenges of promoting, marketing, and finding capital to fund a start up, it has been challenging for people to take us seriously or accept us as a brand when our logo is a marijuana leaf, even if it’s toned down with clean lines. We had stores automati-cally shoot us down without even looking at our designs because they didn’t want to be associated with that. There have also been times when it has been difficult to find models who want to do work for our company. They feel like it might hurt their modeling career because they support 420.

What is a common misconception that you wish people would understand about what your company represents?We are a clothing brand first and foremost, not just a cannabis brand-ed company only. Our goal is not to advocate marijuana smoking, but to bring tolerance, awareness, and understanding to the people who do smoke cannabis.

What’s in store for 2012 and beyond?We just finished working with Jeff Murillo, an amazing photographer (jeffmurillo.com), on our 2012 lifestyle lookbook photo campaign. It’s a kick-ass photo marketing campaign that will help define us as a company, instead of letting other people define us. This lookbook will showcase the California lifestyle we are trying to capture. It will serve as a recruitment tool, an online catalog for stores, and give insight about our target market as to what our company is all about.

Our primary colors will also change from green and black to purple and grey! Our new color scheme will be prominent in our 2012 lineup. We currently just carry t-shirts, but we plan on adding hoodies, sweat-ers, a women’s Mary Jane line, and ball caps to our 2012 lineup. In the summer, we plan to release the highly anticipated 1/8ths line!

Where can we get more info about 420•LTD™?You can become a fan, purchase apparel, and find out more info about us at www.facebook.com/420LTD and, of course, on our website at www.420ltd.com

Only patients with legally recognized medical cannabis ID cards may obtain cannabis from medical cannabis collectives/dispensaries. In strict compliance with Prop215 and SB420 HS11362.5 & HS11362.7”

28 | NUGMAG.COM

2.Electric Waste BandAt Winstons @ 9

3.TRAIN OF THOUGHT Poetry/Spoken Word/Acoustic/Comedy At Queen Bee’s @ 8

5.Erin & The Project At Brick by Brick @ 7

6.Pato Banton w/ Stranger & DJ Carlos CultureAt Belly Up @ 9

So Cal VibesAt Hennessey’s Gaslamp @ 9

7.City DeliveredAt SOMA @ 6

HI Rootz w/ SandollarAt 710 Beach Club @ 9

YelaWolfAt Porter’s Pub UCSD @ 8

DJ QuikAt 4th & B @ 9

8.IriesideAt RT’s Longboard @ 10

9.NOFX w/ No Use For A Name & Special GuestsAt House of Blues @ 6

10.Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Presents:Common Sense & Useless RhetoricAt Belly Up @ 7

TRAIN OF THOUGHT Poetry/Spoken Word/Acoustic/Comedy At Queen Bee’s @ 8

11.The Wailers w/ DJ Unite At House of Blues @ 8

12.AncestreeAt Pier View Pub @ 8

Sister HazelAt Belly Up @ 9

13.91X Presents:Slightly Stoopid w/ The Aggrolites & Perro BravoAt SOMA @ 7

Reef Bound SolAt 710 Beach Club @ 9

40oz to Freedom w/ Generator& Sunny Rude At Belly Up @ 9

Stone SensesAt Hensley’s Flying Elephant @ 8

14.Bad Neighborz At Winstons @ 9

15.Kahi LofaAt RT’s Longboard @ 10

Public EnemyAt 4th & B @ 8

Handsome FursAt Belly Up @ 9

16.Electric Waste BandAt Winstons @ 9

17.ReeformAt Bar Leucadian @ 9

So Cal VibesAt Winstons @ 9

TRAIN OF THOUGHT Poetry/Spoken Word/Acoustic/Comedy At Queen Bee’s @ 8

19.Sunny RudeAt Hennessy’s @ 10

IriesideAt Pier View Pub @ 8

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

The Simpkin Project w/ Blue Moonies & DJ Carlos CultureAt Belly Up @ 9

20.Organic Blood Presents:Natural High FestivalAt Queen Bee’s @ 6

Boom CultureAt Gallagher’s Pub @ 9

Dashboard Confessional (solo acoustic)At House of Blues @ 7

SilencerAt SOMA @ 6

21.Boom Culture At RT’s Longboard @ 10

Live ReggaeAt Stage Bar & Grill @ 8

22.Ease Up At RT’s Longboard @ 10

23.TRAIN OF THOUGHT Poetry/Spoken Word/Acoustic/Comedy At Queen Bee’s @ 8

24.Sharon Hazel Township At House of Blues @ 9

27.Allstar WeekendAt House of Blues @ 6

Sunny Rude At Nick’s at the Beach @ 10

Social GreenAt Hensley’s Flying Elephant @ 8

28.So Cal VibesAt The Salty Frog @ 9

Ozomatli At Belly Up @ 9

Thicker Than Thieves At Boar Cross’n @ 8

Live ReggaeAt Stage Bar & Grill @ 8

29.The Adicts w/ World Inferno Friendship Society & F.O.A.At House of Blues @ 6

January Events

Only patients with legally recognized medical cannabis ID cards may obtain cannabis from medical cannabis collectives/dispensaries. In strict compliance with Prop215 and SB420 HS11362.5 & HS11362.7”