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Dr. Lester Grinspoon may very well be the most influential marijuana activist of all time. If there were an award for achievement in changing the way people think about smoking marijuana Dr. Grinspoon would win hands down. During his more than 4 decades of honest intellectual contributions and recommendation for re-thinking the use of cannabis and the laws related to marijuana Dr. Grinspoon founded the Harvard Mental Health Letter, and was its editor for fifteen years, which among other qualifications, put him in a better position than any contemporary American physician to tell the truth about drugs.

Dr. Grinspoon is Associate Professor Emeritus of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and the author or co-author of over 160 journal articles, including his 1995 commentary in the Journal of the American Medical Association entitled "Marihuana as Medicine: A Plea for Reconsideration." His first book, Marihuana Reconsidered, originally published in 1971 by Harvard University Press, was recently republished as a classic. His latest book, Marihuana, the Forbidden Medicine, co-authored with James B. Bakalar, was published by Yale University Press in 1993 (revised and expanded edition, 1997) and has now been translated into ten languages. Dr. Grinspoon was also a reviewer of the 1999 Institute of Medicine report, "Marijuana and Medicine: Assessing the Science Base."

Dr. Grinspoon appeared in the Canadian documentary The Union: The Business of Behind Getting High ~ Also, he has two very good websites that I recommend, plus that you visit and join his Facebook Fan Page.

• Marijuana: The Forbidden Medicine - Dr. Grinspoon's official website
• Uses of Marijuana - A website about the potential of medical cannabis

He's a 'healer not a dealer' - is the slogan now being associated with the Canadian Marijuana Activist Rick Simpson after he won the "Freedom Fighter of the Year" award at the High Times Cannabis Cup, last November in Amsterdam. Rick has quite a story to tell and it doesn't bode well for Canadian authorities, as it gains more momentum every day, and since the moral to the story, which RCMP and Canadian government officials have tried to suppress, is that Hemp extract Oil (we call Hash Oil, or Honey Oil), made from high-grade strains of cannabis, cures cancer. Surprise, surprise! There's enough people to back-up what Rick is saying to make an inquiring mind wonder - could it be true? can THC cure cancer?

High Times Magazine Steve Hager is a person in a position to know the difference between truth and sensational bollocks, especially when the topic is medicinal marijuana related. There is an excellent article on High Times website called Rick Simpson's Hemp Oil Medicine and according to an interview by the Urban Grower (see: YouTube video) we'll be seeing more support from Steve Hager and High Times Magazine and possibly a movie to illuminate the truth about the Rick Simpson story.

The good folks from Greenhouse Seeds sponsored Rick's trip to the Cup in Amsterdam, which indicates two interesting issues to consider, first; The StrainHunters have made a life of researching cannabis, Ok for a different purpose than healing cancer but the point is that Arjan and Franco are not likely to be duped by smoke and mirrors, these guys know the power of the plant. Secondly; Rick Simpson is not rich enough to be able to afford his own travel to the Dam and now his exile from Canada, since as it turns out his house was again raided and the RCMP are seeking him for questioning. The point here is that if he were able to grow enough high-grade weed to produce honey-oil to help a bunch of people recover from life-threatening illnesses, and if he were motivated by capital gain (ie. Money) then he'd certainly have enough cash to travel in style to Europe. Maybe Rick Simpson is telling the truth because someone had to?

We are at the dawn of new age in medicine and a new day for mankind. Not only can hemp save the world, it can eliminate a great deal of human suffering and can even put an end to starvation. What are we waiting for? Join with me and let us put an end to this madness. It can only survive if we continue to sit on our backsides and do nothing. Stand up and be counted and let us give ourselves a chance to heal. ~ Rick Simpson

Over 500,000 people have viewed his You Tube video called Run From the Cure and every day the traffic is growing to the Rick Simpson website called Phoenix Tears

Jesus and his apostles were reputed to have used a Holy oil for healing and enlightenment. The Bible makes no direct mention of marijuana, so for anyone to assert that Jesus smoked it is making assumptions, although there were mild types of marijuana in Palestine at that time so it is possible.

The Bible does however make references to the "new wine" and sacred herbs which some have considered to be a reference to marijuana. The original Hebrew recipe for this mix, found in Exodus 30:23 contains references to a plant known as "keneh bosem", and a number of researchers have identified this with cannabis. The most compelling research for Jesus being an advocate of Cannabis was by Chris Bennett and first published in High Times on February 10th, 2003

Chris Bennett said cannabis was widely used at the time to heal the sick.

"The medical use of cannabis during that time is supported by archaeological records."

"The holy anointing oil, as described in the original Hebrew version of the recipe in Exodus, contained over six pounds of keneh-bosum - a substance identified by respected etymology, linguists anthropologists, botanists and other researchers as cannabis extracted into about six quarts of olive oil along with a variety of other fragrant herbs".

"The ancient anointed ones were literally drenched in this potent mixture."

Cheryl Shuman and Fred Rhoades the founders of Beverly Hills NORML 90210 are two crusaders for the reformation of marijuana laws who are making a big noise across the web and over the social networks. Fred has a most interesting background (see: Fred's Bio) with a wealth of knowledge and experience in Organic farming, then in 2007 he first met Cheryl, which he say's changed his life forever, and since that day they've worked together on a number of cool projects, first and foremost was treating the cancer and lung disease that Cheryl had been diagnosed with, Fred became her caregiver and they elected to apply a medicinal cannabis therapy combined with natural remedies. Today Cheryl is in remission and living an active lifestyle but the overall experience compelled her take a more active roll and lend her energy and experience to bring about change in the laws that surround marijuana, hence the formation of the Beverly Hills Chapter of NORML (www.norml90210.org)

The two cannabis crusaders made such a dynamic duo that they decided to start an organic farm in Northern California, where they hope to bring all their focus and knowledge to the business of healing. Complying with the legal guidelines of California Fred and Cheryl formed "Shaman Therapeutics" a Private Non-Profit Medical Cannabis Collective that serves seriously ill patients in both Northern and Southern California.

Fred and Cheryl also work with other collectives, activists and medical marijuana patients working to reform marijuana laws in Beverly Hills and throughout USA.

"This is a challenging time as a legal medical marijuana patient. Laws and politics are changing on a daily basis, says Fred Rhoades." "The prohibition of such a miraculous healing plant must stop. As a patient, caregiver and activist I will stand strong to fight for legalization and safe access for everyone."

Arjan is the founder of the Green House Coffeeshops and Seed Company, the most successful cannabis business in the world. Winner of many international awards (32 High times Cannabis Cups, 17 Highlife Cups, and dozens of other awards), a true leader in cannabis genetics. The vision, passion and hard work of Arjan earned him the distinction of being the "King of Cannabis" but he does not rest on his laurels (so to speak), as he continues to search the planet to collect cannabis genetics and landraces with his longtime side-kick Franco and the team known as the Strain Hunters.

In 1985 at the age of 20 Arjan met an old medicine man in Thailand. At that point he'd already spent ten years of his life in Africa and five years in Asia. The old medicine man had a dream: he dreamt of a free cannabis plant. He explained and taught Arjan the religion of this plant. But he also explained he would never win his battle with just money. Passion and love were the only options. No one ever died because of the cannabis plant, but the power of alcohol, tobacco and the pharmaceutical industry prevent this plant from being used and accepted. The medicine man was right. He eventually died, but the day Arjan met him it changed his life. He wanted to bring this dream closer to reality.

The Cheech & Chong Get It Legal Tour is scheduled to make 22 stops across North America, including Boulder, Indianapolis, Baltimore, Bellingham, Buffalo, Portland, Santa Barbara, Tampa, Louisville, Detroit, Minneapolis, Los Angeles and Fort Worth, with Canadian stops in Regina and Saskatoon; more dates will be announced soon. Chong's wife and comedy partner, Shelby Chong, will open all dates on the tour, as well as DJ-Joey Mojo.

Successful beyond their wildest dreams, the iconic comedy duo Cheech & Chong defined an era with their hilariously irreverent, satirical, counter-culture, no-holds-barred comedy routines. Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong's phenomenal success began on the stand up comedy circuit which led to 9 hit comedy albums and 8 hit films, breaking box office records, shattering comedy album sales, garnering multiple Grammy nominations and mesmerizing fans for more than a decade.

With nine albums released from 1972 through 1985, Cheech and Chong were nominated for four Grammy Awards, winning the Grammy Award for Best Comedy Album with their third album, Los Cochinos, released in 1973. Big Bambu, their second album, was the biggest selling comedy record of all time in 1972 and remained so for many years. Their stunningly successful comedy streak transitioned to film in 1978 with their first movie, "Up In Smoke," the highest grossing comedy of 1978, topping $100 million at the box office. Cheech and Chong co-wrote and starred in a total of eight feature films together, all directed by Chong.

From the world famous Troubadour in Los Angeles where they were initially discovered, Cheech & Chong announced their first tour in over 25 years!

Going to Vancouver when I was a youth was a big-deal and at least a 6 hour drive. Me and my buds towed a 19 foot ski boat all the way to Qualicum Beach on Vancouver Island, spending 10 days discovering Super Natural British Columbia. Rock'n on the boat and partying on shore all night, we'd go salmon fishing in the morning to get sobered up and water skiing in the afternoon to get all revved up. At the end of our Island trip the 3 delinquent teenagers had tickets to see the Police at the Pacific National Exhibit (PNE) in Vancouver. Sting had me from the first word I heard but sold me when I watched the man perform, it has always been awe-inspiring.

Sting is acknowledged for his efforts in the UK, by signing a letter to the past Prime Minister, warning against a toughening-up of policy on cannabis, Also, for backing a campaign by Release, which provides support for people with drug problems.

Whilst cruising the marijuana videos on YouTube looking at cannabis culture material and admiring peoples Channels I came across the most remarkable young woman web publisher named Angel Macdonald on COMarijuana and editor of the Reefer Report.

Her site has the following appropriate quote underneath, to give you a hint of her cool mindset:

"Most [marijuana smokers] are Negroes, Hispanics, Filipinos and entertainers... Their satanic music, jazz and swing, result from marijuana usage. This marijuana causes white women to seek sexual relations with Negroes, entertainers, and any others."

-Harry Anslinger's (first commissioner of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics)1938 testimony to Congress

Angela is also a contributor to the NORML / Examiner and has a great social netowrk on the following sites.
- YouTube
- Facebook
- Myspace
- Twitter

Most importantly make sure you check out her site www.reeferreport.com

This hilarious Canadian comedic Mockumentary series lasted 7 years, ending in December 2008, as the most popular Canadian series on Showcse. The Trailer Park Boys gave us the great deviant characters of Ricky, Julian and Bubbles who are always trying to figure out new ways to get rich, get high, and stay out of jail while dealing with their nemesis Jim Lahey the alcoholic, former cop, trailer park manager and his side-kick, the shirtless big bellied Randy. Growing, smoking and selling weed is a common theme for these lovable ex-convict chain-smoking alcoholics and the drunkard Mr. Lahey is always out to bust them.

Ironically, the characters portrayed in the Trailer Park Boys, as off-the-wall as they may seem, in many ways typify people we could find in any lower-class neighborhood, anywhere in the world. So now this iconic cast of degenerate characters has found new audiences via television syndication around the world and is delivering this bizarre Canadian trailer-trash brand of humor to viewers in Australia, UK, Spain, Ireland, Denmark, Netherlands, Israel, Finland and soon to be in Poland.

For the last seven years they have appeared in public almost exclusively as their characters not as themselves, Bubbles (by Mike Smith) has even been known to sing his trademark song "Liquor and Whores on tour with Guns N' Roses. To keep the Boys going and to continue feeding their substantial fan-base, last month the Trailer Park Boys released a new feature length movie called "Countdown to Liquor Day" where the fun is all about seeing how the Boys become their own worst enemy. Despite their best (and sometimes worst) intentions, everything goes hilariously wrong for this gang, and for everyone around them. Even the one who technically wins in the end gets no joy.

In a recent Newsweek article they coined the term "Pot's Biggest Bud" to describe Ethan Nadelmann and spoke of him with reverence in this quote:

The folks at the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws worshipfully refer to him as "our drug czar."

Nadelmann doesn't quite cringe when he hears endorsements like that, but neither does he entirely fit in with his comrades in the drug-legalization lobby. Yes, he admits to smoking pot occasionally. But you won't see him posing in High Times with an armload of giant buds, and he's not some wild-eyed stoner on a quixotic quest to legalize grass. In fact, he's a wonky, 52-year-old former Princeton professor, a studious kid who grew up the son of a respected rabbi in Yonkers, N.Y., and who graduated from Harvard with honors. Nadelmann went on to earn a master's degree from the London School of Economics, returning to Harvard to garner both a doctorate and a law degree before settling into a teaching gig at Princeton.

The President of Reefer Poker would like to personally congratulate the poker player "alwaysblowin" for kickin the asses of the Reefer Green-House staff last night. However, the President sends this challenge to the great poker player and adversary "alwaysblowin", to come back next week and experience the feeling of having a $30 bounty on your Mother fuckin ass and to see what it feels like to be on the sharp end of the reefer.

How can you pass up on a FREE bounty tournament? Register now for the next event, and see if you have what it takes to "smoke" the Reefer Poker Green-House staff! Smoke the Competition (or Nuke em) at Reefer Poker

The Green Reefer and his sidekick Six-Pack hang-out in the DF Dub area of Texas, or D-Town, also known as Dallas Fort Worth, home to a major crime syndicate boss Gee Dub, whom they keep an eye on, as well as other immoral scum-bags.

In an early episode of The Green Reefer, in which the pair of crime fighters first partner up, when an old enemy of Six-Pack's named Tequila the Barracho Malo (mean drunk) attempts to poison Six-Pack's burrito in a D-Town eatery but accidentally serves it to the wrong customer. Soon a big fight ensues and after a giant bong hit the Green Reefer jumps into action to help-out the his new friend Six-Pack, to stave off the Tequila. Just before this super-hero jumps into the fray, The Green Reefer shouts out -

A six-pack isn't a party until the reefer shows up and this party is about to get started.

WARNING: The Green Reefer comic portrays marijuana use in a good way

You can read all about the adventures of the Green Reefer on his website, follow the antics on Myspace, or drop by the 420 Café and score some cool merchandise - like 2 lighters for $4.20 or act now and snag the original Green Reefer Kick-Ass Comic Book Special #1 - Collects the origin of Six-Pack, Attack of the Clones (not available on the website) and Welcome to the Super-Hero Auto Sales. Plus additional sketch pages and bonus material. 52 pages - $4.20 price tag. Score it now here.

What I find so inspiring about Danny Danko is his attitude towards marijuana, he acknowledges all the voices for change and recognizes the organizations for reformation of marijuana laws, even promotes them and works with all of them but at the core of his message, is the ideology of a true Cannabis cultivation connoisseur and an advocate for unadulterated recreational growing and smoking.

It's too easy to get caught up in the politics of pot, especially if you're an editor of a magazine. Even the conspiracies against medical marijuana, or perhaps the new hypocrisy of marijuana dispensaries in California (ie. More weed boutiques than Starbucks franchises etc...), or maybe the controversy of Mexican Drug cartels camping out in Federal Parks to manage grow-ops, now that's just a short list of compelling conversations for an editor to get engrossed in but instead of any of that, Mr. Danko has kept his passion pure and simple - cultivation of cannabis.

Here's the Wikipedia BIO for Danny Danko:

Danny Danko is a writer, photographer and Senior Cultivation Editor of High Times Magazine. He has written numerous articles on the subject of marijuana gardening both outdoor and indoor. Danko is the writer of Top Ten Strains of the Year every year since 2005 and also the creator and founder of the HIGH TIMES Seed Bank Hall of Fame.He is also credited with a highly popular instructional video on how to roll a joint.

Other notable grow articles by Danny Danko include Jungle in the Bronx, Seven Habits of Highly Effective Pot Growers, The History of Hydroponics, Organics for Beginners Top Ten Strains of 2008 and Cloning for Dollars.

Aside from cultivation content, Danko has also conducted interviews with Manu Chao, Sizzla, Belly (rapper), Bill Lee (left-handed pitcher), Method Man, I Wayne, Antibalas and Joel Tudor.

Danny Danko on Myspace Danny Danko at High Times Danny Danko on Facebook

Canada's self-proclaimed "Prince of Pot" was escorted out of B.C. Supreme Court and into jail Monday to await extradition to the U.S., where he is to serve up to five years in prison for shipping marijuana seeds across the border. Marc Emery, 51, was indicted in 2005 along with two associates on drug and money-laundering charges stemming from a lucrative mail-order pot-seed business run out of Emery's Vancouver book and paraphernalia shop, which also doubled as B.C.'s Marijuana Party headquarters. As Emery left the tiny courtroom, his wife Jody wept in the public gallery while a crowd of the cannabis crusader's followers chanted: "Free Marc Emery!"

According to reports on Celebstoner -Twitter: FALSE ALARM: #JackHerer is still alive, sorry for reporting he had passed - his son BJ sez: "just got done seeing my dad. he is not dead"

Source Oregonian: Marijuana activist in critical condition after collapsing at Portland festival.

Growing hemp as nature designed it is vital to our urgent need to reduce greenhouse gases and ensure the survival of our planet. ~ Jack Herer

PLEASE NOTE: The following story was based on a false rumor, which was corrected on this blog the following morning when it was determined that Jack Herer was still alive and recovering in a hospital. We apologize (again) for any confusion and meant no disrespect. Jack Herer is a legendary marijuana activist and we cheer him on!

Jack Herer, sometimes called the Emperor of Hemp, is an author and advocate for the hemp and marijuana movements. In 1970 he wrote one of the seminal books on the history of hemp and marijuana prohibition. Herer also founded and served as the director of an organization named HEMP Help End Marijuana Prohibition).

According to Portland Progressive Examiner: Breaking: Jack Herer, Emperor of Hemp, marijuana hero, dead

According to a source close to the family, Jack Herer, much beloved Emperor of Hemp, is dead. The marijuana hero collapsed backstage on Saturday, September 15, at "Hempstalk 2009" in Portland, Oregon. Herer had just given a fiery speech to the crowd on the future of hemp when he suffered a heart attack and a significant loss of oxygen. Herer died today, September 18, at Legacy Emanuel Hospital in Portland.

Rest in Peace, Jack, Thank you for your incredible effort on behalf of the pro-marijuana movement.

Marc Emery, known as the Prince of Pot is a Canadian cannabis and libertarian activist, Vancouver retail store owner, editor of Cannabis Culture Magazine, as well as a former cannabis seed seller. The U.S. government considers Marc to be a drug dealer and want him extradited from Canada and behind bars. Over several years Marc negotiated a plea deal for a five year sentence in US Federal Prison and this month it's expected that the sentence will be handed down in the Seattle Federal Court of Ricardo Martinez.

In his own words, from "Why I'm Cutting a Deal" Marc explains why he accepted the guilty plea.

lawyer framed my options thusly: To challenge the extradition would be a lost cause and result in my extradition to Seattle to stand trial on three counts: conspiracy to manufacture, conspiracy to distribute, and conspiracy to money launder. Even waiting for my trial in Sea-Tac jail would take approximately 6 months to a year. Sentencing on the money laundering involves a mandatory minimum 10 years in federal prison. It also comes with the possibility of a substantial financial penalty, perhaps as high as $250,000 or up to $1 million in fines. If there is a financial penalty attached to my conviction, I cannot be transferred to a Canadian prison while any amount owing is outstanding. To challenge all three charges involves a potential jail time of 10 years plus 5 years plus 5 years plus $250,000 or more in fines.

Marc Emery recently completed a "Farewell Tour of Canada" and spoke to groups in major cities all across the country. Talking to people about the madness of the prohibition and the consequences on our society. Marc's efforts for cannabis activism are outstanding , he's been a true maverick for changing the way people think about the prohibition of marijuana and we should all do whatever we can to help his cause by joining in or promoting any of the protests listed on Cannabis Culture.

Free Marc Emery: Rally For The Prince of Pot - Saturday, September 19, 2009

Barney Frank is a crusader for changing the laws on two things that millions of Americans enjoy; marijuana and online gambling. This man deserves a special tribute and all the support our counter-culture comrades can give him, therefor I'm suggesting that we put a prize package together, for all weed growers, to develop a potent strain of weed named after this righteous dude. Maybe High Times could honor Barney at this years Cannabis Cup and a year from now medical marijuana dispensaries all across the country could be selling super strength "Barney Frank" (marijuana strain) over the counter.

The Marijuana Patient Protection Act (H.R. 2835) would prevent federal authorities from prosecuting pharmacies, growers and users of medical marijuana in states where the use of the substance for medical reasons is legal. The bill has received support from members of both parties.

"There are some people who are in severe pain for whom nothing else seems to work," said Congressman Frank. "It is cruel to prevent them from having access to something which helps relieve their pain. This is especially true because so many states allow it. For the federal government to come in and supersede state law is a real mistake."

The Act to Remove Federal Penalties for the Personal Use of Marijuana by Responsible Adults (H.R. 2943) would eliminate federal penalties, but not override existing state law, on the possession or not-for-profit transfer of small amounts of marijuana. The bill would allow possession of up to 100 grams of the substance, and not-for-profit transfer of up to 28.3 grams (1 ounce.)

The legislation would also create a $100 fine (a civil penalty) for public use of marijuana.

"I think John Stuart Mill had it right in the 1850s," said Congressman Frank, "when he argued that individuals should have the right to do what they want in private, so long as they don't hurt anyone else. It's a matter of personal liberty. Moreover, our courts are already stressed and our prisons are over-crowded. We don't need to spend our scarce resources prosecuting people who are doing no harm to others."

What do you say comrades? Let's enlist the 420 army and get behind Barney (so to speak). Send this message to Danny Danko, Jack Herer and Ed Rosenthal (the Guru of Ganja) to empower the great growers of California. Let's bombard the Social Nets with this new strain contest, so we can create a stable new super-powerful strain called "Barney Frank" to over-grow our government with and provide extra-strength relief for pain in the ass laws.

NEW YORK, July 7 /PRNewswire/ -- Bambu, makers of The World's Finest Rolling Papers, announces the launch of its first clothing line, Bambu Apparel, available for purchase starting July 2009.

Recognized as one of the world's 1000 oldest companies, Bambu Apparel draws inspiration from its own archives using original artwork from advertisements and marketing materials dating all the way back from 1764.

"We spent years searching eBay and other websites collecting old postcards, advertisements and any other Bambu products we could get our hands on with the hopes of re-releasing these items at some point. With the help of MerchDirect we've translated our history into a tangible, wearable product that we feel embodies our company,"
said Bambu's Sarah Saiger.

Sommer Skye, the daughter of our poker buddy DrCheckRaise, is a 21 year old young lady full of energy with a beautiful spirit, who had been living on her own for only a short time. Late one night, she was returning a video to the video store for a friend and was involved in a head on collision just a few miles from her home.

She had 11 hours of soft tissue surgery on her face on the night of the accident, and there will be additional surgeries in the years to come. Her family is so thankful that she was fortunate enough to survive that evening and prays that this will not break her beautiful spirit.

The auto and medical insurance will not come close to covering what lies ahead. Please consider helping this young lady not to lose hope so early in life.

Sommer Callis Medical Relief Fund

A medical relief fund has been set up to aid Sommer's long and expensive recovery. Donations can be made via the following link to her Medical Relief Fund Site:

www.skyhasnolimit.org

Every dollar counts! Please spread the word via forums, Facebook, Myspaces...
EVERYWHERE you can.

ReeferPoker has stepped up with a charity event taking place on saturday June 6th at 3pm est.

$10 +$6 tournament. $1 of the $6 is the fee. $5 goes to Sommer Callis Medical Relief Fund with Reefer Poker matching it.

Title - Sommer Callis Medical Relief Fund
Description - $5 of $6 fee goes to Sommer Callis Medical Relief fund with Reefer Poker matching it.
Date - Saturday June 6th
Time - 3:00pm est 14:00 ReeferTime
Type - NL Holdem Turbo
Buy-in - $10+.$6($5 of $6 fee goes to Sommer Callis Medical Relief fund with Reefer Poker matching it.)

Recently I said that I don't like writing about pot busts, well I need to make an exception to that and say that if it's good cops gone bad, as in the case of the Sheriff of Shawneetown Illinois then I'll drop whatever I'm doing to assist in making the hypocrite notorious. Ray baby, some day you're going to Google your name and read what I have to say: To serve and protect did not mean to serve yourself and protect your profits. You are the lowest of the low, it wouldn't surprise me for a second if you were using your ill begotten proceeds to support an out-of-control meth habit, eh Ray baby? Well I hope you like your new friends at Joilet State Penitentiary, I'm sure there's lot's of brothers there that can't wait to get re-acquainted with you and this time they won't be the ones wearing hand-cuffs.

Martin's popularity in the county surrounding Shawneetown -- boasting little more than a courthouse, a couple of convenience stores and Rudy's barbecue restaurant -- swept the Democrat to re-election four times since he took office in 1990.

A criminal complaint accuses him of distributing more than two pounds of marijuana between April 27 and May 11. But an affidavit by Glenn Rountree, an investigator with the Drug Enforcement Administration, suggests Martin's dealings were many times that total.

In a blow-by-blow account painting a picture of a good cop gone bad, Rountree wrote that Martin hatched a marijuana-dealing scheme in November with the drug dealer who later got cold feet.

At that time, Martin handed the dealer, unidentified in court papers, two pounds of pot and asked if the man could "get rid of that" for the sheriff, who promised he'd use his power to protect him if he ever got caught selling. If the dealer didn't comply, Rountree wrote, Martin said he could "make up" a crime against him.

Have a read of another report: Judge: monumental amount of evidence brought against sheriff facing drug charges

Generally I try not to write about pot busts because there are so many every day, which is bad enough already, with all that good herb going to the cops, also I avoid the topic because it's negative news that doesn't need to be reverberated around the web but this story about the Griswald Conn. couple just had to be blogged:

RUSSELLVILLE, Ark.--An elderly Connecticut couple traveling through Arkansas have been arrested after police discovered more than 219 pounds of marijuana inside of their truck. Arthur N. Scherp Sr., 71, and Helene I. Scherp, 69, of Griswold, Conn. were stopped by an Arkansas State Police trooper Thursday on Interstate 40. Troopers say the couple offered a nonsensical travel story and acted nervous.

The trooper says the couple had cellophane-bundled packets of marijuana in their truck's bed and another bag of marijuana was discovered in a passenger-side door.

Police say Arthur Scherp later told investigators he got $5,000 for making the trip. The couple are being held on $35,000 bond.

In another report from Connecticut Eyewitness News they provide a video clip and more details including the fact that the couple were also found to have in their possession a small bag and a pipe, which would explain why they were acting nervous, since they were probably stoned at the time and the cargo was likely primo gear (who grows bunk anymore?).

Very sad story, especially because they broke the first cardinal rule of being busted and now everything that was said to the disbelieving cops Can and Will be used against them. It would have been so easy for them to have said; "look officers, you wouldn't believe us if we told you. It's just too bizarre how we have found ourselves in this predicament, therefor we're going to let our attorney explain it once we've had a chance to consult with him". ~ Nothing you can say at the time of the arrest will help you. Know your rights!

Kerlikowske as the White House Drug Czar makes for some interesting reading and he's getting lots of print since being confirmed on May 7th, as head the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (Drug Czar sounds better).

A quick check of Google news shows 321 articles in the past few days and today's top stories are from the OpEd of the NY Times, LA Times and Seattle Times all touting rhetoric about the "war on drugs" being over. Then Huffington Post has been covering the topics surrounding Mr. Kerlikowske as has NORML, taking issue to the recurring theme that pot is more potent than it used to be. My favorite on that topic was by AlterNet "The Media Doesn't Get That Hyping Potent Pot Makes More People Want to Smoke It"

Wall Street Journal published White House Czar Calls for End to 'War on Drugs' which elicited over 200 comments (including mine) but of all these great news organizations it had to be left to Steve Bloom of Celebstoner to do some actual reporting (rather than regurgitating White House blather) with his blog post "Kerlikowske's Dilemma" that actually provides some useful interesting information, which I shared on a Yahooka thread today.

Searching this topic on Google News there is 448 News articles, of course the Blogosphere will be ten times that many stories.

Ryan Grimm from Huffington Post covered this story well, in: Arnold: Time To Talk About Legalizing Pot - which had about 330 comments but my favorite piece was a blog article on High Times by Joseph Klare (aka StonerJesus420) called: Ok Arnold, Let's Debate. Here we find Arnold's debate team on video.

After posting Oregon Weed Grower earlier this week I came across an article published on Oregon Live, local news, entitled Traffic stop leads police to indoor marijuana grow operation about an unlucky guy who was pulled over for a traffic violation and the cops found almost a pound of pot in his car, which led to the search of his house, where they seized his grow-operation. Well the unlucky guy was Brian Waldrip and he left the following comment, which I decided to publish as a way to try and help him out. Maybe someone will read this and have some suggestions for Brian to help him solve his dilemma.

Hey Buddy! Yes, Oregon growers are very talented. I am the man charged with possession, manfucature and distibution of marijuana in Oregon that you commented on April 29th or 30th.

Those plants were some of the best the DEA agent that helped raid my home had ever seen, according to him directly. Funny thing is, I've only been growing for a short time! Organic methods rock!

Do you have any great legal contacts? One who needs a pro bono case?

These guys took every dime I have.

Also, I found this comment from Brian on the OregonLive.com article:

Well, what I was thinking is that I AM a registered, valid patient with the right to carry, consume and cultivate marijuana in the state of California. I still cannot believe that the state of Oregon doesn't not acknowledge the validity of a licensed, Medical Doctor. Interestingly, you can drive on Oregon streets with an out of state license, you can have proof of insurance from another state, and you can even possess hardcore, narcotic prescription medicine from another state. You can even have an out of state doctor call in your script for vicodin and not be a "criminal". Why, is a medicine I can grow myself, not allowed to be possessed in the state of Oregon if another state of the union honors my right to self medicate?

Someone please help me a make a stink about this!!! I moved to Oregon because of the beauty and good people. I am in process of getting my Oregon medical marijuana license, and am NOT a criminal. I am a God loving, earth loving, people loving person. Anyone who has any help or suggestion please email me @ brian_waldrip@yahoo.com

Especially an attorney who needs a pro bono case, as these bullies have taken every dime I have. $3,960 was all the money I had set aside for 2 months.

Please pass this along to anyone you think might be able to help out Brian.

Steven Kubby's name kept coming up during my research for Jamaican Lamb's Bread, as he's one person who knows more about cannabis strains than most anyone else alive. As a matter of fact, Steven Kubby is a VIP figure in Cannabis Culture, with such an amazing background that my meager little blog post will not possibly do him justice, so I encourage you to read more about this fascinating man on his website www.kubby.com

For any of you that are reading this and enjoy the benefits of medical marijuana as a treatment for what ails you, say a little blessing to Steven Kubby the next time you administer a dose of "medical grade marijuana". Steven Kubby may well be the single most important person in the evolution of medicinal marijuana:

"Kubby helped author Prop. 215, California's Compassionate Use Act approved by voters in 1996 and was the Libertarian Party's gubernatorial candidate in 1998."

Today Steven Kubby is on the bleeding edge of medicinal marijuana, as President and CEO of Cannabis Science.

About Cannabis Science, Inc.
Cannabis Science, Inc. is at the forefront of medical marijuana research and development. The Company works with world authorities on phytocannabinoid science targeting critical illnesses, and adheres to scientific methodologies to develop, produce, and commercialize phytocannabinoid-based pharmaceutical products. In sum, we are dedicated to the creation of cannabis-based medicines, both with and without psychoactive properties, to treat disease and the symptoms of disease, as well as for general health maintenance.
Source: Cannabis Compounds Reduce Multi-Drug Resistant Infections

As the fearless leader of the Marijuana reform movement and Executive Director of NORML, he seems to have super-human cyber strength, able to be on all corners of the Internet and still have time to hand a great huge mock check during a staged press conference, at 8:00 am on Wedesday April 15 (better known as Tax Day) from the steps of the General Post Office in Midtown Manhattan. The phony $14 billion dollar check presented to US Treasury represents "tax and regulate" how legal-weed could boost the economy. This ploy will send a loud message across the country about the seriousness of the intent.

Mark my words, this entire week leading up to 4/20, a day of symbolic importance to the global cannabis culture, you'll see Mr. St. Pierre and his team e-mail blasting call-to-action newsletters, posting articles to the NORML blog, commenting to remarks on every major Social Network on the Net, Twittering like crazy, interviewing with the media and all the while dealing with some intellectually dim-witted people who are just plain ignorant to the purpose of the NORML cause, even with reams of data to itemize all the damage of the marijuana prohibition, or stacks of scientific reports on the beneficial effects of medical marijuana, still the man just fights on, leads his team, and marshals his time and resources like a great field general of the 420 army. Allen St. Pierre carry's our great hope like a standard bearer.

Perhaps the coolest thing about this guy, from what I've gleaned by following as much of what he writes and says as I can keep up with, is that he believes that the work he's doing today will ultimately benefit the today's youth tomorrow because it's likely to be 2 or 3 more Presidential terms of office until marijuana laws are completely reformed across the United States. So he and his contemporaries dedicate a great deal of their time to young people, educating them with the facts and empowering them to seek the truth for themselves, then join the battle for legal freedom of choice.

Case in point is a huge rally and National Marijuana Forum held this coming weekend at Colorado University, which hosts the largest annual organized 4/20 event in the world:

The National Marijuana Forum will be the foremost assessment on the current legal, scientific, environmental and social issues related to cannabis. Experts from all fields including marijuana law reform activists, law enforcement officials, medical experts, environmentalists, journalists and awarded scientists will participate in panels and lectures. The forum will serve to educate, enlighten and empower members of the CU and Boulder community on all current issues regarding marijuana in an unbiased environment.

Allen St. Pierre deserves all the support and respect he has earned, as he's done a fabulous job of bringing intelligence and compassion to the marijuana legalization debate.

Yesterday a short article hit the web from a discussion and pod cast on KUOW radio 94.9 in Seattle, about coming out of the Cannabis Closet:

It's called the "cannabis closet." Drug reformers want responsible members of society to come out, proclaim they smoke pot, and that they want the laws changed. Think Rick Steves. The argument is that if you really want to roll back the so-called drug war, marijuana is the best place to start.

Now this is a topic I find rather interesting because I myself hide behind the "handle" of Reefer Smoke and use a cartoon character smoking a reefer as an avatar. It's a thinly veiled deception, but still the Reefer Smoke icon is all over the social networks and web. However, I often wonder what difference it would make to actually show me smoking reefer and use that image instead? I even went as far as to record video of myself smoking weed and discussing some thoughts I have about it, especially why I enjoy it so much. Thus far I haven't finished the production, partly because I'm such a novice with editing video but also because a part of me is apprehensive about publishing media where I'm the one smoking a reefer. This throw-back attitude comes from being a closet reefer-maniac, who for 30+ years of life, never wanted anyone, except a select few people, know that I love smoking ganja.

Out of curiosity I searched the term "Cannabis Closet" and low and behold there's a cool website with an eleven part video series titled "Come out of the Cannabis Closet" with Host Alison Myrden from a show produced back in August 19, 2007. A little further investigation and I learn that Alison Myrden is a fellow Canadian and major activist for medical marijuana, with her own website called The Marijuana Mission and if that weren't enough there's entire line of clothing, bags, mouse pads and wall clocks for sale on Café Press with this Groovy "Come out of the Cannabis Closet" logo. Congrats Alison! You certainly came way, way out of the closet and you've done a fabulous job of leading the way for the rest of us.