welcome.... let's see to answer your questions:

i live near long beach and IMO, the best dispensaries are in LA. Here's my fav spot:
www.apothecary420website.com - EXCELLENT SERVICE, awesome strains of sativa, indica, and hybrids that are both S and I dominant. they have clones, edibles, shake to make cannabutter, accessories, etc. they accept cash, debit, and credit cards. if u pay cash, they tend to knock off $5 or so off the price. the grams are nice and fat. they are in the heart of LA so be prepared for LA traffic both on the freeway and on the streets.

i went there last nite and got a hybrid called Sour Diesel - Sativa dominant - AWESOME. i also recommend Lambsbread - it's pure sativa.....

as for your ppwk - my experience has been that the card alone does the trick....

Hope this helps!

welcome So Cal!!!!!