David Candelaria, 43, is a disabled and retired veteran, medical marijuana recipient and licensed grower. During Desert Storm, Candelaria, a tank mechanic, was hit by an exploding gas canister that fractured his skull. The injury resulted in the loss of his motor functions.
Candelaria had to re-learn how to speak, walk and read. He said he soon learned to live with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and received steroid injections, which contributed to cartilage deterioration in his hips.For many years, Candelaria said he couldn’t find prescription drugs that allowed him to function daily.
He said his life was forever changed the moment he tried marijuana. “I could walk. I could ride my motorcycle. I could enjoy life again.” Candelaria said he joined the Occupy Albuquerque movement in hopes that he could raise awareness of the benefits of medical marijuana and speak out against monopolies created by insurance and pharmaceutical companies.
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PHOTOSTORY: ABQ Bruja Fest features wicked creations, local artists
October 13Expo New Mexico hosted the ABQ Bruja Fest on October 10–11, featuring all things wicked and magical. This fest offers a space for Albuquerque community members to showcase witchcraft activities and gifts with a variety of vendors, workshops and performances. Some vendors offered palm and tarot readings. Others sold candles, incense, brooms, crocheted goods, jewelry, crystals, art and more. Trinity Ayers is a freelance photographer for the Daily Lobo. She can be reached at photo@dailylobo.com and on X @DailyLobo
PHOTO STORY: Casa Flamenca hosts Balloon Fiesta Tablao
October 12Casa Flamenca in Old Town provides a space for dancers to perform the traditional Spanish tablao, featuring a small stage in a cozy setting where dancers and musicians perform in the same space. During the performance, audience members gather near the stage to view the action up close. The Casa Flamenca Balloon Fiesta Tablao was held during Balloon Fiesta week, so while the balloons went up, the dancing shoes came out at Casa Flamenca. Alex Joe is a freelance videographer for the Daily Lobo. He can be reached at sports@dailylobo.com or on X @DailyLobo
Ice Wolves downed by Odessa Jackalopes
October 7On Sept. 11, the New Mexico Ice Wolves and the Odessa Jackalopes were set to face off in Albuquerque. Right before the game started, both teams were warming up to play, and there were hockey pucks being thrown all over the rink. After the warm up, both teams went back into the locker room, before coming back out a little later to see the colorguard and also hear the national anthem. There was also a moment of silence for victims of the 9/11 attacks in 2001. After the game began, there were players coming on and off of the bench all game. The Jackolopes started off with the lead, but the Ice Wolves quickly tied the game 1-1. While tied, New Mexico struggled to get another point for the rest of the game. Although the Ice Wolves put up a good fight, they ended up losing the game 3-1. Cayden Flores is a freelance photographer at the Daily Lobo. They can be reached at photo@dailylobo.com or on X @DailyLobo
