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departments 6 Letter from the Editor Diversity makes us strong, our culture keeps us strong.
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8 News Nuggets Cannabis makes headlines here, there, everywhere— and we give you the scoop—PLUS our latest By the Numbers.
16 Legal Corner MMJ is moving into the mainstream—with CNN’s help.
18 Strain Reviews Our ever-popular sampling of amazing strains currently provided by your friendly neighborhood collective.
26 Destination Unknown Hot, young hip-hop sensation Mac Miller is on fire! ON THE COVER: Photo by Ian Wolfson
features
Siquijor in the Philippines offers visitors a taste of magical moments.
12 A Global Affair
27 Profiles in Courage
The World Anti-Doping Agency relaxes regulations on athletes using cannabis involved with the Olympics.
14 Miracle Man Stan Rutner beats cancer— thanks to MMJ.
Our latest feature provides insight into the life—and struggle—of a medical cannabis patient.
28 Cool Stuff From iPhone macro lenses to Hisptirs, if it’s a cuttingedge product or cool lifestyle gear, we’re all over it.
30 Recipes Easy and Delicious—ease into Fall with these tasty dishes and dips.
32 Entertainment Reviews The latest films, books, music and more that define our culture.
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SEPTEMBER 2013 • CULTURE 5
letter from the editor
Vol 5 IssUE 3
CULTURE Publisher
Jeremy Zachary
GET YOUR CLICK HERE
Editor-In-Chief
www.iReadCulture.com
Evan Senn
Arts & Entertainment Editor Ashley Bennett
Editorial Contributors
Dennis Argenzia, Omar Aziz, Ashley Bennett, Jake Browne, David Burton, Michael Carlos, Grace Cayosa, Jasen T. Davis, Alex Distefano, David Downs, Carolina Duque, Charmie Gholson, Michael Gifford, James P. Gray, Lillian Isley, David Jenison, Liquid Todd, Kevin Longrie, Dan MacIntosh, Meital Manzuri, Sandra Moriarty, Damian Nassiri, Keller O’Malley, Denise Pollicella, Paul Rogers, Joy Shannon, Lanny Swerdlow, Arrissia Owen, Simon Weedn
Photographers
Steve Baker, Kristopher Christensen, Michael Gifford, John Gilhooley, Amanda Holguin, Khai Le, David Elliot Lewis, Rick Thompson
Interns
Dulce Balandran, Kim Johnson, Derek Obregon
Art Director
Pride and Passion In the face of adversity, our diversity gives us strength
T
he revolution of cannabis and the struggle to access our freedoms is evolving. There are stories in our newspapers, online and on television every day on how cannabis is helping the world. Dr. Sanjay Gupta came out on one of the most credible news channels in the world and explained how he was wrong for misjudging the benefit of cannabis as a medical option. A fiveyear-old girl in Colorado finally gets relief from her incredibly frequent and intense seizures, and another man’s cancer is cured—all thanks to the natural relief of cannabis. Illinois has also recently become the 21st state in the U.S. to legalize medical cannabis. The world is changing every day, and it is important to keep up with it. Here at CULTURE, we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of this revolution. With change there is, of course, some trepidation— the future is uncertain. But, the best of best roll with the punches, and adapt. I have faith in the people of this great nation, and given time, I believe the people will make sure our government’s legislature reflect the opinions of the people it serves, and cannabis will be accepted. Good things happen when you
Steven Myrdahl
Graphic Designers
Vidal Diaz, Tommy LaFleur
Director of Sales & Marketing Jim Saunders
Regional Manager John Parker
open your eyes and mind to diverse views of the world; when you celebrate what makes people live well. Living well can mean something different for everyone. Regardless of our differences of race/ethnicity, religion, nationality, sexual orientation, gender, political affiliation, as a community we welcome diversity. A culture of inclusion and support makes a stronger community. And thus a stronger humanity. As CULTURE’s first female Editor-In-Chief, I want to take this time to remind us about what makes America so spectacular, in the first place—its diversity and its adaptability. I am proud to continue in this tradition of great journalism, up to the minute news, entertainment and amazing original content in the nation’s #1 cannabis lifestyle magazine, as we lead this revolution to freedom and compassion. I hope that this will remind you of what makes us strong, and an even stronger community—a symbol of our pride and passion. CULTURE, it’s our lifestyle.
Sincerely, Evan A. Senn
Editor-In-Chief
Office Manager Iris Norsworthy
Office Assistant Jamie Solis
Social Media Manager Jamie Solis
Account Executives
Jon Bookatz, Gene Gorelik, Justin Marsh, Beau Odom, Paulina Porter-Tapia, Dave Ruiz, Kim Cook, April Tygart
IT Manager
Serg Muratov
Distribution Manager Cruz Bobadilla
Culture® Magazine is published every month and distributes 25,000 papers at over 500 locations throughout Michigan. No articles, illustrations, photographs, or other matter within may be reproduced without written permission. Culture® Magazine is a registered trademark of Southland Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. 700 S. Main St. | #119-124 Lapeer | Michigan | 48446 Phone 888.694.2046 | Fax 951.284.2596 www.iREADCULTURE.com
CULTURE® Magazine is printed using post-recycled paper.
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gearing up in preparation of the 2014 Arkansas vote. The group needs 62,507 signatures to be eligible.
Business symposium To focus on legalization of medical cannabis
Michigan City’s ordinance restricts medical cannabis use in homes
THE STATE Board meeting to discuss Michigan’s Medical Cannabis Act
Michigan’s Medical Cannabis Act might have added some new changes according to Michigan Public Radio’s Jake Neher. A state meeting is scheduled to discuss if new health conditions should be covered under the measure, which was put into place in 2008. Although a previous board had voted to include people suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and Parkinson’s disease to qualify for medical cannabis, the two diseases were never stamped to the official list. The discrepancy of what medical ailments warrant the use of cannabis is why the current panel is revisiting the act. However, some proponents of the Medical Cannabis Act are questioning whether or not the panel will find themselves repeating the past, claiming that there is a lack of adequate representation from the medical community that will be present. State officials say, however, that there will be adequate representation on all sides during the latest visit to the measure. 8 CULTURE • SEPTEMBER 2013
The city of Jackson, Michigan is issuing a new ordinance for residents. The public will now permit medical cannabis users to use 20 percent of their home for cannabis use and cultivation, according to the Detroit Free Press. The ordinance, passed by Jackson City Council by a 4-3 vote, will go into effect on September 12th. However, there is controversy surrounding the measure as many medical cannabis users feel that their home should not be restricted for use. “I don’t think people should be restricted in their homes in any way,” she said. “Your house is your castle. We shouldn’t be involved in your home,” said council member Kimberly Jaquish after the meeting. Jaquish’s sentiments’ were echoed by others who attended the meeting and walked out in protest after the measure passed. Joe Cain, owner of Medical Cannabis Farmers Market, says that he plans to reject the regulation. “I respect the law. You’ve been told 50 times by attorneys and by everyone that what you’re doing is illegal and conflicts with state law. You don’t respect the law.” Michigan has a reported 130,000 registered medical cannabis users after voters approved
medical cannabis for some medical conditions in 2008.
THE NATION
Arkansas voters could see multiple proposals to legalize medical cannabis on ballots
Residents of Arkansas may be seeing the phrase “medical cannabis” on their ballots more than once in the coming months, according to the Kansas City Star. Recently, a measure from a group called Arkansas for Responsible Medicine (ARM) inched their way closer to state voters when Attorney General Dustin McDaniel certified its popular name and ballot title. The ARM collective can now begin working on obtaining signatures in an attempt to gain a spot on the 2014 ballot. ARM, as well as various other promedical cannabis collectives are
Huge possibilities await the cannabis industry in the coming years. In Illinois alone, the NCIA presume 1,000 new jobs generated due to the recent legalization of medical cannabis, according to CBS. These jobs include a demand for individuals who can produce and package products like lotions and lozenges for patients uninterested in inhaling cannabis, as well as opportunities for people involved in accounting who can specialize in cannabis revenues. The list continues adding software providers, insurance providers as well as attorneys all being reputable fields in demand by the cannabis industry.
Medical cannabis efforts soldier on without Congress’ help
Illinois joins 19 other U.S. states in its acknowledgement of cannabis as a therapeutic product, containing medicinal values. Once the law is fully put into practice, it will be among
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the dozen states that license the production and dispensing of medical cannabis. It should be noted, two states—Washington and Colorado— are in the process of licensing the commercial production and sale for recreational purposes, according to The Daily Caller. It kind of goes without saying, but times are changing. Whether or not federal law will catch up with the changing of times any time soon is still in question.
President’s approval, as the initiative to legalize cannabis wasn’t spearheaded by activists—but by the President himself. Upon its approval, Uruguay will be the first country in the world to fully legalize the growing, selling and recreational use of cannabis.
THE WORLD
Empire
Uruguay has taken a leap to legalize cannabis
of the Sun
Uruguay’s president has taken a huge leap in favor of cannabis. A bill to legalize cannabis has been passed by the House of Representatives and is expected to be approved by the Senate and signed off by President Jose Mujica, according to the BBC. Chances look highly promising for the
by the numbers
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Approximate number of signatures Lansing City Clerk received by the Coalition for a Safer Lansing in regards to its cannabis legalization initiative: 6400 (Source: The Independent Voter Network)
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The estimated number of registered medical cannabis patients in the state of Michigan: 132,000 (Source: MMJBusinessDaily.com)
The percentage of studies solely focusing on the beneficial effects of cannabis, as calculated by Dr. Sanjay Gupta: 6 (Source: Fox News)
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The amount of mature and immature plants a medical cannabis patient is authorized to have at any given moment according to California state law: 6 and 12 (Source: The Sacramento Bee)
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Amount of space (in percentage) a Jackson, Michigan resident— as of Sept. 12, 2013—will be allowed (in their own home) to use and cultivate cannabis: 20 (Source: The Oakland Press)
Amount of plants a patient is authorized to have at any given time in Michigan: 12 (Source: Toledo Blade)
Amount it costs (in dollars) to produce a pound of “pharmaceutical grade” cannabis vs. its value at retail price: 1,000 vs. 7,500 (Source: The Wall Street Journal)
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Percent of surveyed physicians who would approve the use of medical cannabis for a woman suffering from pain related to breast cancer: 76 (Source: The Sacramento Bee)
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The number of commercial cannabis “stores” allowed in Michigan, a state where medical cannabis is legally authorized: 0 (Source: The Wall Street Journal)
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Number of jobs the National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA) foresees will be generated due to the legalization of medical cannabis in Illinois: 1,000 (Source: CBS) The average percent range of roadway fatalities dropped within the first year of medical cannabis legalization in a state: 8 to 11 (Source: The Boston Globe)
Percent of Americans who say the federal government should not enforce anti-cannabis laws in states that have opted for a new approach: 64 (Source: San Diego City Beat)
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The percent of people who are in favor of making medical cannabis legal, as seen in recent ABC News-Washington Post poll: 81 (Source: USA Today)
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The percent of total global hemp fiber produced in China: 51 (Source: www.ipsnews.net)
Sometimes a break is all you need. After nearly five years away from the spotlight indie music darlings, Empire of the Sun, are back with the new album titled, Ice On The Dune and a stage show unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. Expect diehard fans donning masks, eccentric hats and even spaceman suits. Imagine concert attendees in amazing outfits and short-looped videos of everything from scenes of nature to natives praying to their gods projected onto the walls of The Fillmore. Empire is a masterful group of artists. With drum circles, fire-breathing and incredible dances, it’s clear that the break away from the spotlight benefited these guys. And their fans love every bit of them. Empire of the Sun gets it. We just wish other bands would take note of this awesomeness.
IF YOU GO
WHAT: Empire of the Sun in concert WHEN/WHERE: Fri, Sep. 13. 7pm at The Fillmore Detroit, 2115 Woodward Ave., Detroit. INFO: Tickets $47-$251. For more information visit www.thefillmoredetroit. com.
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FLASH
A Higher Standard “out-of-competition”
The Olympics’ World Anti-Doping Agency relaxes rules on
cannabis use
By Jasen T. Davis
M
illions of medical cannabis patients around the globe face discrimination at work, on the road, in schools and in the courts, but there’s one place it’s getting a little better: on the Olympic winners’ podium. On May 11, the World AntiDoping Agency (WADA) amended its rules to raise the level of allowable traces of cannabis found in athletes’ urine from 15 nanograms per mililiter to 150 nanograms per mililiter. In a statement, WADA says they increased the limit because they don’t care what athletes do in their off-time, but they don’t want them to compete high. The effect of the change is that athletes have more personal freedom, experts say. A light “weekend” cannabis
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user who stays clean for two days before an in-competition test probably won’t face WADA consequences like suspensions of three months to a year, or the loss of a medal. (However, daily users might need up to three weeks abstinence to get under the 150 ng/ml limit, studies show.) Athletes and activists say raising Olympic standards for traces of cannabis use is a step in the right direction, but the race toward real equality is going to be an ultramarathon. Many athletes wonder why WADA considers cannabis a “performance enhancing drug” at all, especially given cannabis’ rising prominence in sports therapy. After decades of doping scandals, the Olympics created a formal drug monitor in 1999 called WADA. WADA seeks to ban
substances that meet at least two of three criteria: they enhance performance, they present a health danger; or they violate the “spirit of the sport.” WADA added cannabis to its list of banned substances (which include testosterone, speed, cocaine, heroin, etc.) in 1999, after Canadian snowboarder Ross Rebagliati won the first-ever Olympic gold medal in snowboarding in 1998. All Olympic athletes are subject to random drug tests with no notification. All athletes who make it to first, second or third place also have to pee in a cup. Rebagliati’s urine came back positive for 17.8 ng/ml of THC-COOH (a molecule created when the liver metabolizes THC—the main active molecule in cannabis). Officials yanked his gold.
Rebagliati appealed, arguing the cannabis metabolites in his urine were the result of secondhand smoke. In arbitration, officials restored his medal on a technicality: cannabis was not yet on the list of banned substances at the time of the contest. “I’m the only person to lose a gold medal and get it back again,” Rebagliati tells CULTURE. WADA’s relaxed, new attitude to “out-of-competition” cannabis use is part of a shift in society, Rebagliati said. Twenty U.S. states have medical cannabis laws and two have ended cannabis prohibition. Canada has a national medical cannabis system and more and more countries—like Colombia, Uruguay, not to mention The Netherlands, etc—every year break with the U.Sled cannabis prohibition. c
A number of studies show the naturally occurring components in cannabis like cannabidiol relieve pain and reduce inflammation. “Cannabis is a huge painkiller, a huge antiinflammatory, perfect for post-operation recovery,” Ross said. Ross’ Gold is developing a CBD-rich line of topicals for sore muscles and pains. “A lot of athletes could profit from cannabis use to relax sore and beaten bodies,” Gieringer said. The correlation between snowboarding—with its epic falls—and cannabis use is probably more than a vestige of its counter-cultural roots. “Cannabinoids play a major role in the extinction of fear memories by interfering with learned adversive behaviors,” the AJSM reports. “Athletes who experienced traumatic events in their career [like, say, a huge spill] could benefit from such an effect.”
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BUZZ A CULTURE Magazine EXCLUSIVE
Cannabis Cures
Cancer Stan and Barb Rutner say cannabis
saved their lives By Roberto C. Hernandez
Stan and Barb Rutner are no strangers to cancer. The married couple, both in their 70’s, have run into it before. It struck Stan in the lungs first. Manifesting as a persistent cough, a doctor later revealed cancerous nodes in the lungs were the real culprits. As if that wasn’t enough of a blow, doctors later discovered worse news for Stan: brain cancer. Like before, the Rutners were able to successfully battle—and beat—cancer. But this time, they turned to a less invasive, more permanent treatment and solution—medical cannabis. CULTURE spoke with Stan, Barb, their daughter Corinne and her husband John about this intense and life changing experience with cannabis. While cancer is a very serious disease, both of your previous bouts with it provided you with some great perspective, correct? Stan: While it was taken very seriously, there was also an element of “Here we go again.” Barb: With both Stan and I, since we’ve been through cancer so much, cancer has become kind of business as usual. You know? Stan: We’ve got another chore to do, or another wheelbarrow full of dirt to carry up. You know it was just a job to do and that was all we concentrated on. Stan’s health and quality of life began to decline, even with treatment in full swing. Barb: He was wiped out. He was very thin. After radiation to his brain, he got radiation pneumonitis (inflammation of the lungs due to radiation therapy), so pneumonia. [T]here were three hospital visits, and on the third they kept him for a week and started him on oxygen 24/7. And then he went into palliative care. With little options left to try, Stan and Barb’s daughter
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Corinne and her husband John started thinking outside the box. Barb: Corinne suggested a cannabis capsule infused with coconut oil; they’re yellow capsules that he started taking. He started taking those in early November of 2011 and he took, in the beginning, about a third of a capsule in the morning, and it was just about a week or two later that he was able
to give up the extra oxygen that he had had 24/7. Barb, you’ve told me before how stark and significant the changes were in Stan as a result of his use of medicinal cannabis. Barb: At one point, he was using a walker and then gradually he was able to help with a move, and loading a pickup truck. Now he walks up stairs, does exercise classes and doesn’t get out of breath. He takes a nap most afternoons, but his strength is so much better than it was. It’s remarkable. Eventually, after several months, a brain scan came back negative. No cancer. Same for the lungs? Barb: On January 27, 2013 we received the results of Stan’s brain MRI in an email from his oncologist, stating simply: “IMPRESSION: No evidence of recurrent disease.” The lung cancer that had metastasized to his brain in the
summer of 2011 (and nearly taken his life) was GONE! The doctors call him a miracle man. We are deeply grateful to his “team” of doctors, friends and family, but we’ll always believe that cannabis turned the tide. Stan and Barb Rutner
{Corinne and her husband John on Stan’s experience} Looking back, are you convinced that cannabis works as an anticancer medicine? Corinne: I’m 100 percent, no question, that his brain tumor is gone because of the cannabis oil. John: There is no doubt in my mind that cannabis pulled my father-in-law out of the wasting stages of cancer and enabled him to gain strength and in turn fight this horrible cell malfunction with success. While many would say that the chemo and radiation could have played a part, he would never have lived long enough to find out without cannabis oil. c
Corinne Rutner and John Malanca were so inspired by cannabis’ purported ability to treat—and cure—cancer, they started United Patients Group, an organization and web reference site devoted to sharing information and resources about medical cannabis to those looking for answers. www.unitedpatientsgroup.com
Photos by John Gilhooley
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legal corner
By Denise Pollicella
Medical Cannabis Goes Mainstream
Stepping forward with confidence
T
he movements for cannabis to be both classified as a medicine and legalized for recreational use have been raging in the American subculture since it was outlawed 50 years ago, but it was fairly catapulted into the mainstream this past month when CNN’s chief medical correspondent and renowned neurosurgeon, Sanjay Gupta, aired his documentary Weed. Dr. Gupta not only endorsed cannabis as a viable medicine, but apologized to the American people for his part in condemning cannabis without having fully researched it. Gupta’s endorsement is a critically important one for several reasons. First, it was a measured, reasoned, well-researched opinion with appropriate caveats, which gave it substantially more credibility than a blanket approval would have. Second, he is a credible source from one of the more neutral cable news networks, and he is not generally prone to the sensationalizing that tends to plague other national correspondents. Finally, he is bringing the debate about cannabis into the national mainstream and out of the shadows of Cheech and Chong, where it has largely lingered in the minds of the general public. Anyone who has heard me speak publicly has been on the receiving end of my frustrated lamentations about the medical community’s failure in this regard. Corporate hospital systems and big pharma have made
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pill-pushing cowards of medical doctors who won’t certify their patients for medical cannabis because “we just don’t know anything about it” and then refuse to study it even in the face of overwhelming anecdotal success. Perhaps Dr. Gupta’s showcasing cannabis on the national stage will be the catalyst the American medical community needs to start pushing back against the money and politics that has been holding it hostage for so long to the detriment of truly ill people. Perhaps Weed will cause the many detractors of medical cannabis to rethink their
seemingly immutable opinions that all medical cannabis use is really recreational. Perhaps a few of Michigan’s district court judges who’ve taken to practicing medicine from the bench were watching CNN the evening of August 11, and will begin to reconsider automatic revocation of defendants’ medical cannabis cards. Perhaps, just maybe, we will look back and say this is where the tide turned. For those of us in the medical cannabis community, particularly in Michigan, it has already taken far too long and cost far too much money, freedom and hardship. House Bill 4271, hopefully headed for hearings early this Fall, is a necessary step forward in Michigan. And while we continue to fight for safe patient access without fear of prosecution here at home, even more states are taking up the issue of medical cannabis and decriminalization. Six more states, and more than half of our country will be medical cannabis states. With the backing of the Obama Administration’s first choice for surgeon general now on board, there is reason to be optimistic that medical cannabis now has the momentum to be free from federal intervention as well. c
Stay tuned. Denise Pollicella, founder of Cannabis Attorneys of Mid-Michigan and a graduate of Wayne State University Law School, practices corporate law, business transactions and medical cannabis law in Livingston County. She can be reached via email at dpbusinesslaw@yahoo.com.
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strain & concentrate reviews GET YOUR CLICK HERE
www.iReadCulture.com
Cherry AK-47 The light green buds on this rare cherry phonotype of Cherry AK-47—available at Ann Arbor’s Tree City Health Collective—showcase her 75% sativa dominance. They’re not fluffy. The calyxes have filled in and are abundant with trichomes. A dry hit of the medicine rolled in paper showcases the cherry flavor. The first, smooth draw tastes both sweet and citrus, and expands right away in the head. It’s a little disorienting and very powerful. About 10 minutes into it, mood elevation, pain, nausea and muscle spasm relief kicks in. Most important: the sativa affect—uplifting, focusing, and energizing—is one of the longest lasting I’ve had. Less medicating is needed. Perfect for day use.
Alpine Star I love heady Sensi Star, so I was eager to try this 75% indica dominant Alpine Star. Alpine Star has Tahoe OG Kush and Sensi Star parents. Lots of long red pistils on nicely trimmed little buds. Has an earthy, clean citrus aroma. Grinds easily. Grinding also releases more lemony rich, dank scent. I rolled a few little joints and smoked on them all night instead of cigarettes, enjoying the mild draw and waves of soothing medicine. The first few hits quickly settled in my head and neck, relaxing angry, bunched up muscles across my neck and shoulders. After about 10 minutes it moved into my chest, calming anxiety. Strong pain relief and settled nausea too. Great sleep aid. Good for insomnia, digestive issues, anorexia, muscle spasms and chronic pain. Found exclusively at Canna Cure of Ypsilanti. Legal Disclaimer
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The publishers of this publication are not making any representations with respect to the safety or legality of the use of medical cannabis concentrates. The reviews listed here are for general entertainment purposes only, and are intended for use only when medical cannabis is not a violation of state law. Please consume responsibly. Concentrates are legal and covered under the Michigan Medical Marihuana Act (“usable marihuana” is considered the “dried leaves and flowers of the marijuana plant, and any mixture or preparation thereof”) and the Public Health Code Act of 368 (“the resin extracted from any part of the plant; and every compound, manufacture, salt, derivative, mixture or preparation of the plant or its seeds or resin.”).
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Photo by Ian Wolfson
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The music Mac Miller makes has the seriously cool spirit you only get growing up fast on the city streets. If you lacked a proper electrical source you could keep everything in your icebox chilled by plugging it in to Mac Miller’s latest album, Watching Movies with the Sound Off, an audio joy ride full of spine-vibrating bass, kick-ass lyrics and the kind of beats that can make driving fast and cool on any highway in America easy. Culture was fortunate to talk to Mac Miller about life in the success lane as he tours from city to city in support of his latest and greatest creation, Watching Movies with the Sound Off. Born Malcolm James McCormick in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the young hip hop artist released But My Mackin’ Ain’t Easy in 2007 at the tough age of 15. Shortly thereafter he signed up with Rostrum Records and released a series of mixtapes that proved that the powerhouse from Penn state had the potential to easily knock down other hip hop heavyweights with stunning grooves and hard-hitting lines that belied his youth and revealed and man who knew how to handle a mic for any crowd, anywhere. In 2011, the young musician unveiled his first LP, Blue Slide Park, a certified gold album that hasn’t stopped gaining fame since it hit the web. His second LP, Watching Movies with the Sound Off, released just a couple months ago, in June 2013, has taken his career to a whole new creative stratosphere.
Mac Miller is the kind of artist who isn’t afraid to talk about drugs, and what he has to say isn’t a simple yes or no. His answers possess a stark integrity which a person only gets after walking up and down that particular road, and it isn’t always fun. Does the mighty Mac Miller care about cannabis? In a conversation with online music journalist AndPop, the artist spoke honestly when asked about what him and his friends talk about when he uses cannabis. “When we get high we talk about, fuck, big, prolific shit,” Mac Miller says. “When I’m high with my homies, we always talk about deep shit … conspiracy theories and religion craziness, science . . . ” Mac Miller isn’t the first modern musician to confess to finding philosophy with the assistance of cannabis. Like most guys, when he smokes with his friends he’s serious about it. “We’re not dumb,” he says, describing some of the deep talks he’s had while medicating. “We don’t just talk about bitches and alcohol and weed, man. We have thoughts.” When Mac Miller raps about cannabis, he’s just talking about life in his particular big city. That’s what his lyrics are all about. “It’s just about everyday life. That’s what we try to do. We try to talk about what we do every day. So if we’re smoking a lot of weed every day, then we’re going to rap about smoking a lot of weed every day. But I just bring a message of positivity that can speak to as many people as possible.” SEPTEMBER 2013 • CULTURE 21 SEptember
career, and he really knows my style so it’s easy to put together.
Although you are still a very independent artist, the work you have done has already given you some serious fame and fortune. At this point in your career, after everything you’ve done, what is the most important thing to you? Well I think it’s about not getting too big too quick. That’s the key to staying a real person even with success. I’m taking things step by step. Everyone wants to go straight from point A to Z, not realizing that everything in between is just as important if you want to be able to make it. A lot of your music is upbeat. I like how you write a lot about the fun, cool details every person experiences growing up. I also like how you rap about the hard times, too. Do you sometimes feel like you have to perform some sort of happy act, because of the lighter material on your previous albums? A lot of people see an artist as a person that’s always happy, always positive, but there are a lot of ups and downs in this world. There are a lot of valleys. Sometimes things aren’t awesome, but you have to go through every step of it. It’s tough when everyone expects you to just be that happy guy. I rap about that, too. Listening to Watching Movies with the Sound Off made me realize how much your style had changed since anything you did before 2010. It had a very relaxed sense of confidence. I think this album came to me at a point when I didn’t want to accomplish anything. The first album had to be big. I wanted to really accomplish something. With this one, I felt like I had more time to think about what I was saying. It must have been cool being able to make an album without the pressure of it being the absolute totally greatest epic hit of your young human existence or else. I did Watching Movies with the Sound Off mostly for fun. 22 CULTURE • SEptember SEPTEMBER 2013
Have you had any training? Watching a lot of your moves, it seems like you’ve done a lot of improvisational comedy or even stand-up comedy. Does that just come from spending a lot of time onstage and being interesting during interviews? I guess I’ve practiced a lot doing shows. I really like comedy. I listen to a lot of stand-up on the road. Aside from music, humor is something that’s always been interesting to me. I’ve watched a lot of stand-up comedy and things like that on YouTube and the radio.
This seems a lot less commercial than your previous hits. A lot of the material on the new album seems a lot more personal. I wanted to create an album that had more purpose to it than just trying to be successful. Some people say West Coast, some people say East Coast, but we both know that there are many different hip hop styles out there to choose from. How would you classify your hiphop? I think it’s just a little bit of everything, even beyond hip hop. I’m just trying to do everything I can. I hope nobody can classify my style or me. It’s very cool that you aren’t afraid to talk about the downside in your music or during interviews. Now that you’ve been around, what’s the worst thing can happen to you as an artist? Writing a song you really like. Sometimes you think no one
likes it but you. It’s tough when people don’t like it at all. How do you get through that? You make a song that is just the real you. When you are creating music and putting your soul into it, then you realize it doesn’t matter who likes or doesn’t like it. Some of my favorite songs don’t get a lot of hits. Other songs might get popular, whether I think they deserve it or not. Your music videos not only have some very stylish cinematography, but are also very funny. Whoever your working with really knows how to get some good shots from you, and the jokes you work in from your lines are genuinely funny. Everything we do is just kind of made up at the last second. I don’t get directed to do anything. Everything I do comes from me. I work with a director I’ve worked with my whole
A lot of other hip-hop artists have turned their acting ability into some serious film roles, like Ice Cube, Common, Busta Rhymes and 50 Cent. Have you ever thought of trying that, yourself? You’ve had plenty of experience, because of the number of music videos you have on YouTube cannot easily be counted. If the right stuff came through I’d definitely do it. I don’t mean maybe. I’ve talked about it with a few people, but I haven’t heard anything interesting yet. I’d do a film if it was a good one. Now that you are older, tougher and wiser, what veteran advice would you offer to a young artist who wants to make it in an industry that isn’t always nice to the people in it? I would tell them to not listen to anyone. You have to trust yourself with every decision, whether it’s your image or your music or your life. You are going to go through life surrounded by people who are going to tell you things like they really know who you are, but you have to know yourself to handle that and actually make it. c V I S I T U S AT i R e a d C u l t u r e . c o m
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destination unknown
By David Jenison
The Herculean City of One of the oldest paradise cities has something for everyone
T
he mighty Hercules captured the hellhound Cerberus, slew the multi-headed Hydra and stole the man-eating horses of a giant, but did you know he also founded the city of Barcelona? According to legend, one of his ships got lost on its search for the Golden Fleece, and when Hercules found his men on the beautiful Catalan coast, they asked him if they could stay. Granting their wish, Hercules and his men founded Barca Nona, which would become present-day Barcelona. The story has as much basis in reality as a Kardashian series, but it highlights the diverse cultural history that energizes Spain’s second city. Foreign rulers have included the Carthaginians, the Visigoths, the Moors and the Charlemagne-era Franks, and Julius Caesar once governed the country. Traces of these cultures remain with ancient Roman ruins and dense concentrations of Gothic architecture, while national hallmarks include late 19th-century Moderenista works like Antoni Gaudí’s La Sagrada Familia
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church. Surrealist painter Salvador Dalí is associated with nearby Figures, but the country’s other art icons, Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró, both spent time in Barcelona soaking up its ethos. Many impressive sights are found in Ciutat Vella (“Old City”), whose sections include the once-sketchy El Raval (think NYC’s East Village), the trendy La Ribera and its medieval heart, Barri Gòtic, featuring the famous pedestrian street La Ramba. The coastal La Barceloneta neighborhood, whose Mediterranean beach landed ink in Miguel de Cervantes’ Don Quixote, recently inspired National Geographic to name Barcelona the No. 1
beach city in the world. While the culture and architecture span many eras, Barcelona’s commercial profile is modern with dynamic clubs, restaurants, bars, fashion boutiques, wine havens, chocolate shops and gourmet markets. Likewise, within an hour’s drive, visitors can enjoy Roman-style thermal baths, the prestigious Penedes wine region, the Hamptons-style Sitges, the mountaintop Montserrat monastery and El Cellar de Can Roca, currently rated the No. 1 restaurant in the world. Barcelona sounds hot, but is it blazin’? According to the Consumer News and Business Channel (CNBC), Barcelona ranks fifth on its list of the world’s top cannabis travel destinations. America’s premier financial network, whose love of green apparently extends beyond Wall Street, directed smokers to Barri Gòtic hot spots like La Rambla, Carrer Escudellers and Plaza Real, the latter of which is the starting point for cannabis-themed walking tours. Down the way from Carrer Escudellars, George Orwell Plaza (a.k.a. “Plaza Trippy”) was a top smoke spot until officials installed a 24-hour video surveillance system to establish more control over the area. Clearly that is as darkly ironic as President Choom Gang cracking down on medical cannabis, but Barri Gòtic makes up for it with the Hash Marihuana Cañamo & Hemp Museum. Barcelona is also a major convention destination, and this includes cannabisthemed expositions. For several years, the city hosted the Highlife Fair, one of the largest cannabis events in Europe. Spannabis is currently the top annual event in Barcelona, and it will celebrate its 12th anniversary next March. The Highlife folks are giving them competition, though, launching the GROWMED medicinal fair last year in Valencia. Other national events include Spannabis Malaga and the Expo Cannabis in Madrid. The country even has an annual Medical Cannabis Bike Tour from Madrid to Valencia to raise awareness about medicinal use. Spain was one of the first European countries to decriminalize cannabis, and those who wish to medicate in Barcelona will find the city has first-rate plants from Morocco. However, Spain’s laws against trafficking are severe so never take stashes in or out of the country. c
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profiles in courage
Are you an MMJ patient from Michigan with a compelling story to tell? If so, we want to hear from you. Email your name, contact information and details about your experiences with medical cannabis to courage@ireadculture.com.
WHY DID YOU START USING MEDICAL CANNABIS?
Patient: Steve Green
AGE: 34 Condition/ Illness: Epilepsy, chronic pain and muscle spasms.
Using medical cannabis since: 2010
I had tried all the other traditional forms of controlling my epilepsy, and I was beginning to get proof liver enzyme failure. The side effects of the list of prescription drugs made me incapable of functioning normally.
DID YOU TRY OTHER METHODS OR TREATMENTS BEFORE CANNABIS? I tried several different diets—ketogenic, gluten-free etc. I also tried a series of pharmaceutical anti-convulsion, anti-seizure medications. As far as my neurologist was concerned I had tried everything there was to try.
WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT ISSUE OR PROBLEM FACING MEDICAL CANNABIS PATIENTS?
Law enforcement issues, misuse of power and the lack of education. I think education is the most important thing though. Most people that I’ve had the chance to speak with say that they would prefer a natural medicine like cannabis if it would stop their pain or their debilitating condition.
WHAT DO YOU SAY TO FOLKS WHO ARE SKEPTICAL ABOUT CANNABIS AS MEDICINE?
I would tell them that I was also skeptical when my doctor recommended medical cannabis. It’s hard to believe the something so basic that grows from the ground can be used to control such complicated neurological disorders and so many other wide ranges of varying diseases and conditions. I would also point them in the direction of learning more about the compounds that are in cannabis and not referring to the stereotypical thoughts. I would tell them my story and offer them other people’s stories as further evidence. c
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cool stuff MicroMax LED Pocket 100X Microscope For iPhone Make your bland days at work more exciting. You’ll uncover wonders with this microscope, which fits easily onto the back of a special iPhone 5 case, for easy snapshots and viewing of the microbial world. Think of the up-close textures and life you’ll discover on your keyboard, the communal bathroom door handle or even that cricket that lives under your desk. You might look odd but you’ll get some respect when your coworkers have seen their office equipment . . . up close. ($19.99) www.thinkgeek.com
Hipstirs by Matthew Hoffman Enjoy the limited edition stir-stick creation by artist Matthew Hoffman’s Hipstirs! There’s only 100 of these little neon beauties available, shaped in the likeness of human hip bones and packing the brightness of five flourescent colors. Put your left and right “hip” in, and shake it all about. ($30.00) www.colossalshop.com
Audiowood Barky Turntable If a record plays in the middle of a forest with nobody around to hear it, does it make a sound? It will if you’re spinning your vinyl on this made-to-order item that bridges the gap between naturalistic aesthetics and the needs of music aficionados. Each turntable is handmade from ash, and each one is thoroughly unique. Mother Nature never sounded so good. ($1,500) www.audiowood.com
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By Aunt Sandy
Sandy Moriarty is the author of Aunt’ Sandy’s Medical Marijuana Cookbook: Comfort Food for Body & Mind and a Professor of Culinary Arts at Oaksterdam University. She is also the cofounder of Oaksterdam’s Bakery.
Takin’ It Easy Summer has been fun but it’s easy to get bored of that same old summer flavor. So let’s give ya some easy and tasty choices! Here’s a variety of dips and sauces to pair with some delicious skewers—take some time to take it easy. Make the transition into fall by embracing some new tasty eats in celebration of easy livin.’
Menu:
VEGETABLE & BEEF KABOBS BÉARNAISE SAUCE LEMON CAPER BUTTER SAUCE CRANBERRY WINE SAUCE
Legal Disclaimer
Publishers of this publication are not making any representations with respect to the safety or legality of the use of medical marijuana. The recipes listed here are for general entertainment purposes only, and are intended for use only where medical marijuana is not a violation of state law. Edibles can vary in potency while a consumers’ weight, metabolism and eating habits may affect effectiveness and safety. Ingredient management is important when cooking with cannabis for proper dosage. Please consume responsibly and check with your doctor before consumption to make sure that it is safe to do so.
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VEGETABLE & BEEF KABOBS Serves 4 1 pound of beef, top round steak, cut into 1 1/2 inch chunks 2 medium sized onions cut into quarters and separated into pieces 3 tablespoons soy sauce 1 tablespoon dry sherry 2 tablespoons Cannabis Infused Oil 1 tablespoon chili sauce 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger 1 medium zucchini 1 medium sized yellow straight neck squash 1 medium sized red pepper 1 medium sized green pepper 1/2 cup Cannabis Infused Italian dressing In a medium sized bowl, mix the first seven ingredients. Cover mixture and refrigerate at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally. One hour before serving, prepare grill for barbecuing. Cut zucchini and yellow squash into 1 inch chunks. Cut red and green peppers into 1 inch pieces. On 2 long skewers alternately thread zucchini, yellow squash and red and green peppers. On 2 other skewers alternately thread beef chunks and onions, reserving the marinade. Place the vegetables and meat skewers on grill over medium heat, cook 10 minutes, brushing the vegetables with cannabis infused Italian dressing and the meat skewers with the remaining marinade, frequently and turning the skewers occasionally, until vegetables are tender and meat is cooked to preferred taste. To broil in the oven about 3 hour before serving, marinade the beef about 30 minutes before preheat broiler. Cut vegetables and arrange on the skewers as above using all metal skewers. Place arranged skewers on rack in broiling pan. Broil for about 15 minutes, turning and basting occasionally.
CRANBERRY WINE SAUCE
LEMON CAPER BUTTER SAUCE
1 1/2 cup cranberries 1 cup cannabis infused simple syrup 1/4 cup orange juice 1/3 cup red port wine 1/8 teaspoon salt
4 Canna Butter 1 tablespoon capers 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon chopped parsley 1/2 teaspoon salt Dash of ground red pepper
BEARNAISE SAUCE 1/4 cup white wine vinegar 1 tablespoon minced green onion 1 1/2 teaspoon tarragon 1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper 2 egg yolks 1/4 cup Canna Butter 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
In a double-boiler top, combine wine vinegar, green onion, tarragon and pepper. Over high heat bring to boiling. Boil 3 minutes as the mixture reduces. Place double-boiler top over hot not boiling water in the bottom pot. Whisk in egg yolks and cook beating constantly until mixture thickened slightly. Add butter, a tablespoon at a time, beating constantly until butter melts and sauce thickens. Stir in parsley. Serve hot as a dipping sauce. SEPTEMBER 2013 • CULTURE 31
For our complete recipes go to ireadculture.com.
In a small sauce pan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in remaining ingredients. Serve hot.
In a 3 quart saucepan, whisk all ingredients together over medium heat mixture to boiling, stirring frequently. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer mixture for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
entertainment reviews Goldfrapp Tales Of Us Mute Records English electronic act Goldfrapp have returned to delight the masses with their sixth, and perhaps most sonically vast, studio album, Tales Of Us. Ever stylistically diverse, Goldfrapp’s last full length release, Head First saw the group embracing the most danceable of ‘80s pop as their muse. However, the new record sees the duo returning to sparser, ambient, acoustic ideas from their fourth record Seventh Tree, as well as their debut Felt Mountain. Tales Of Us draws on these previous influences and blends them with incredible string arrangements to create a record of ten songs that are absolutely stunning in their fragile beauty. Vocalist Allison Goldfrapp’s sultry, breathy, pure voice dances and floats like snowflakes being carried on the breeze that is Will Gregory’s productions and compositions. While the record is certainly not devoid of foot stompers, one comes in the form of the dusky tune “Thea,” the vast majority of the album is dominated by pristine, delicate stunners like “Annabel” and the lead single “Drew.” While fans of the groups previous, more dance oriented work, might find this record a bit lacking in that department, anybody that listens to Tales Of Us will certainly mesmerized by the record’s sublimely gorgeous song craftsmanship. (Simon Weedn)
Marijuana Smoker’s Guidebook: The Easy Way to Identify and Enjoy Marijuana Strains By Matt Mernagh Green Candy Press
As medical cannabis becomes more mainstreamed and more easily accessable throughout our great nation; sometimes even for the experienced patient, the plethora of choices can be a bit overwhelming. Enter Canadian medical marijuana activist, journalist and web-caster Matt Mernagh with his new educational text, Marijuana Smoker’s Guidebook: the Easy Way to Identify and Enjoy Marijuana Strains, to make selecting the right type of cannabis an easier task for you. Mernagh takes the reader through a journey of 150 strains that they’ll most likely encounter, reviews them much like a music critic reviews a record, and includes hi-res, full color photos, to help you distinguish one type from another. The book does a good job of making sure to note strains with specific medical benefits, such as chronic pain relief. It might have been interesting to see the author give a bit of background on each strain but Mernagh accomplishes exactly what he sets out to do with Marijuana Smoker’s Guidebook; clearing away some of the residual haze from medical cannabis strains for his readers and making finding that perfect plant much more simple. (Simon Weedn)
Oblivion Universal Pictures Dir. Joseph Kosinski While designed with beautifully epic visuals and sound design, the sci-fi adventure film Oblivion with Tom Cruise and Morgan Freeman ultimately proved to be like a gorgeously wrapped present that leaves you slightly confused. The epic and intricate story could have been better suited for a miniseries, because, edited down into a film, some of the interesting details about the character’s stories seem to get lost. Yet, the film’s design is so gorgeous and lush that if you love visual effects and futuristic space adventures, you can just enjoy the ride. Tom Cruise impressively helmed this film for the most part on his own, but he had quite an impressive cast supporting him, including the magnificent Morgan Freeman and the badass Nikalaj Coster-Waldau, better known as Jamie Lannister. It was nice to see the stunning Olga Kurylenko in a lead role, since she first awed adventure-film audiences in Centurion as the intimidating Pict warrior Etain. English actress Andrea Riseborough, who played the famous Wallis Simpson in Madonna’s W.E., perfectly embodies the future here in this film. In the end, even when the unwieldy script made this film a bit confusing, the visual effects ended up saving it from “oblivion.” (Joy Shannon) 32 CULTURE • SEPTEMBER 2013
Inside|Out exhibition Now in its fourth year, Inside|Out brings nearly 80 reproductions of masterpieces from the DIA’s collection to the streets and parks of metro Detroit, pleasantly surprising and delighting residents of the participating communities. Where possible, the works are clustered within walking or biking distance of each other in a grand, open-air gallery. The DIA is working with the communities to plan educational opportunities and other fun activities, such as bicycle and walking tours. Residents of participating communities will enjoy a designated weekend to visit the museum for free and see “their” works of art. This program was inspired by the effect art can have on people, as a catalyst for public dialogue and shared cultural experiences. The program has grown to become the cornerstone of the museum’s community outreach and is a highly anticipated event for the public. The DIA offers free museum admission to residents of participating communities encouraging the public to come to the DIA to experience the works of art in person.
IF YOU GO
WHAT: Inside|Out exhibition program by the Detroit Institute of Art Museum WHEN/WHERE: At various locations throughout the Detroit Metropolitan area. Thru Sep. 22. INFO: For more information, specific dates and cities involved, visit www.dia.org.
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let’s do this Our picks for the coolest things to do around town Oddball Fest starring Dave Chappelle and Flight of the Conchords, Sep. 1
Oddball Fest is shaping up to be THE place to go for comedy and quirk. With headliner like Flight of the Conchords and Dave Chappelle, you know things are going to get weird—in the best possible way. DTE Energy Music Theatre Clarkston www.dte.energymusic.theatreclarkson.com
Kid Cudi, Sep. 21
This “kid” is pure genius. A CULTURE veteran, Kid Cudi is a powerhouse of awesomeness and isn’t looking like he’s slowing down any time soon. Check him out before he passes you by! DTE Energy Music Theatre, Clarkston www.dte.energymusic.theatreclarkson.com
Queens of the Stone Age w/Guards, Sep. 21
QOTSA combines classic rock ballads with fiery contemporary energy and style. These “queens” are more like rock gods than actual queens. A show that shouldn’t be missed. The Filmore Detroit, Detroit www.thefillmoredetroit.com
Dane Cook, Sep. 21
The Under Oath tour marks Dane’s first live tour since his highly successful ISolated INcident Tour in 2009. Combining energetic physical comedy, clever wordplay and trenchant observations about human behavior, Cook’s unique brand of stand-up and accessible guy-next-door attitude have galvanized audiences of all ages. Fox Theatre, Detroit www.fox.theatredetroit.net
Sarah Silverman, Sep. 22
Funny girl Sarah Silverman brings back the weirdness she is loved for and sharp word play she is criticized for. This girl’s not afraid of anything—and we love it. Royal Oak Music Theatre, Royal Oak www.royaloakmusictheatre.com
The Wayan Brothers, Sep. 26
Anyone familiar with the output of Shawn and Marlon Wayans—including films such as Scary Movie, White Chicks and Little Man—will know they are not the go-to guys for sophisticated comedy stylings. And so it proves in a live show that is epic in running time, if not in scope. Sound Board at MotorCity Casino, Detroit www.motorcitycasino.com SEPTEMBER 2013 • CULTURE 35
Chuck Shepherd's
Newsof the
Weird
LEAD STORY—ROACH MOTEL ; At age 20, Kyle Kandilian of Dearborn, Mich., has created a start-up business to fund his college expenses, but it involves a roomful (in the family home) of nearly 200,000 cockroaches. The environmental science major at University of Michigan-Dearborn breeds species ranging from the familiar household pests, which he sells on the cheap as food for other people’s pets, to the more interesting, exotic Madagascar hissing roaches and rhino roaches, which can live for 10 to 15 years. (Kandilian told the Detroit Free Press in July that of the 4,000 cockroach species, only about a dozen are pests.) Why not choose a more conventional “pet”? Because “[m] ammals smell,” he said. (Missing from the Free Press story: details on the likely interesting initial conversation between Kyle and his mother when he asked if he could have 200,000 cockroaches in the house.)
CAN’T POSSIBLY BE TRUE ; A 55-year-old woman in the Netherlands seemed to be experiencing orgasms emanating from her foot, she said, and Dr. Marcel Waldinger of Utrecht University (writing in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, online in June) produced a possible explanation. The applicable left foot nerve enters the spinal cord at about the same level as the vaginal nerve, Waldinger wrote, and the woman’s recent foot injury might have caused the nerves to cross. The woman reported “five or six” orgasms per day that felt exactly like “regular” orgasms and, she said, were making her feel terribly guilty and embar36 CULTURE • SEPTEMBER 2013
rassed. After treatment with a nerve anesthetic, she reported being orgasm-free (in the foot, at least) for eight months. ; The intersection of West Gateway Boulevard and North Congress Avenue in Boynton Beach, Fla. (pop. 60,000), is nine lanes wide, busy even at 11pm on Sunday night, as it was at that time in July when a 2-year-old girl darted across, a combination of good fortune and sometimesrare Florida driver alertness allowing her safe arrival on the other side without a scratch. “It’s a miracle,” said Harry Scott, who witnessed it. “I’m telling you the truth.” Mom Kayla Campbell, 26, was charged with felony neglect, as she appeared “oblivious,” said police, to the child’s absence from home. ; An unnamed restaurateur from Nagoya, Japan, has filed a lawsuit against an affiliate of the country’s largest organized crime syndicate, Yamaguchigumi, demanding a refund of “protection” money she had been paying for more than 12 years (in total, the equivalent of about $170,000). The affiliate, Kodo-kai, burned down a bar in 2010, killing people, in a similar protection arrangement that went bad, and the plaintiff said she, too, was threatened with arson when she decided to stop paying. According to an expert on Japanese “yakuza,” a relative of one of the victims of the 2010 fire may also sue Kodo-kai.
UNCLEAR ON THE CONCEPT ; In June, following his guilty plea in Corpus Christi, Texas, to V I S I T U S AT i R e a d C u l t u r e . c o m
possession of child pornography, Jose Salazar, 70, offered to perform public service to reduce the 12-year sentence a federal judge had handed him. Salazar said he “had a lot to offer society,” according to an Associated Press story, and could be “useful” in mentoring children. ; At Atherstone, England’s, Twycross Zoo, a program is underway to try to teach quarterton giant tortoises to speed up. An extended outdoor pen had been built for Speedy (age 70), Tim, 40, and Shelly, 30, but that meant it took a longer time to round them up for bed at the end of the day. The Leicester Mercury reported in June that zoo officials were trying to use the lure of food to get the tortoises to significantly improve their wayunder-1-mile-per-hour gait. ; Actually, It Might Enhance the Experience: The British sex toy manufacturer Ann Summers issued a recall in June of a certain model of its popular Ultimate O Vibrator because of a problem with the
electrical charger. The company said it was being cautious but that the risk of danger is low.
INEXPLICABLE ; Tina Marie Garrison, 37, and her son Junior Lee Dillon, 18, of Preston, Minn., were charged in June with stealing almost $5,000 worth of gopher feet from the freezer of a gopher trapper in Granger, Minn., and selling them for the local offered bounty of $3 per pair. Garrison, Dillon, and the victimized trapper were friends, and it was not clear why the thinly populated gopherfoot market would not have deterred Garrison and Dillon. ; Louann Giambattista, 55, a 33-year-veteran American Airlines flight attendant, filed a lawsuit against the company in July alleging that it had subjected her to baseless hassles because of co-workers’ accusations that, argued her attorney, were wrongly “making her out to be a nut.” One of the accusations was that she was “hiding rats in her underwear.”
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