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JULY 546
GROWING BUDS OF THE FUTURE Reducing the Carbon Footprint of Cannabis
MOON MADE FARMS Sustainable and Sun-Grown
HIGHTIMES.COM
Biden's White House on Weed
July 2021
USA $6.99 / FOR $6.99
Engaging Entertainment for the Masses
HIGH TIMES
// JULY 2021
3
&͇K̀ͭ V̺ͯU J͋ͨT̻ͪ T̷ͳQ͆ͫ C̀ͪ K̀ R̷Úʹ V̻ͳG [́ͻ O̳Ϳ ҆ʹF [́ͻTͫͅN̸ ÍͯP̹ Q͇ͺ V́ U̺͵Yͅ C̀ͪ G͈ͫP͆ Y̺ͫP̷ͼG̈́ ŔU̻ͨN̷ D͇ͺ C̾Q E̳ͺE̺ͯP̹ ÓG 0̷ͺ҈ͯZ C̀ͪ ÓͼK̷ V̺ͧP [́ͻ F̻ͪ K̀ R̈́ͫX̻͵Wͅ [̷ͧTͅ 9̷ M̀͵Y V̺ͫ U͆W̹ͭN̷ C̀ͪ Y̷oX̷ Íͺ [́ͻ ÉͼG̈́ͫF Y̻ͺJ C̾Ͳ V̺ͫ J̻ͭJ̷V G̀ͺG̈́ͺC̻ʹO̷ʹV T̳ʹI̻ʹI Ḧ́͵O ÉͳK̵ C̀ͪ K̀҈͇ͫP̵ͫTͅ V́ K̀ R̷Úʹ ÉʹE̷Vͅ C̀ͪ V̺ͫ U̺͵Yͅ [́ͻ M̀͵Y [́ͻ U͆ͯN̾ Y̳ʹV V́ U͆G̳ͳ
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CONTENTS ,̭͘; 8́ͲW̿ͫ
ON THE COVERS: +7439 ˀ PHOTO BY JUSTIN CANNABIS '&(0 ˀ ILLUSTRATION BY KLAWE RZECZY (*39*7+41) ˀ PHOTO BY JUSTIN CANNABIS
30
74 HIGH AND HYSTERICAL
34 *(4Ƌ(&33&'.8 We all love weed (duh), but we also love the Earth, and we don’t love the fact that some cultivating processes aren’t as green as the leafy green buds we all love to smoke. So, we tracked down some experts to hash out (pun intended) exactly how to make the industry a better partner to the planet.
42 WEED AT THE WHITE HOUSE So far, President Joe Biden hasn’t exactly been a friend to those who light up in the White House. High Times asks the age-old question: Would cannabis users have a staff spot in this president’s White House? No spoilers; you have to read the article!
90
48 VIRTUAL BLISS Whether you like comedy, drama or anything in between, this breakdown of the best streamable TV shows and films will keep you engaged.
58 CONCERT ROUNDUP
74 12 INTERNET
22 CANNABUSINESS 26 THMQ Trans-High Market
16 EDITOR’S LETTER
Quotations
18 LETTERS 20 THE VETERAN CHRONICLES
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Fully vaxxed and ready to party? Have we got some recommendations for you! From hip-hop to rock, Green Day to Alicia Keys, and everything in-between, dive right in for some really great event recommendations. Finally, live music again!
// JULY 2021
30 BRAND SPOTLIGHT 64 PIX OF THE CROP
102
Comedian Doug Benson spills all about his new Netflix documentary, his comedy career and all things weed. From going on stage high to debunking stigmas and making strides in acting and comedy, Benson tells all.
80 GETTING ACQUAINTED WITH CANNABIS CORPSE The Richmond, Virginia-based, cannabis-themed death metal band keep the vibes alive with their very own, sickening blend of bud worship and riff worship. Check them out for weed puns and obscure metal knowledge.
84 TRUE TO HIS NAME: A CHAT WITH JAM MASTER JAY’S SONS The New York legend’s sons, TJ and Jesse Mizell, reveal their roots and open up about their dad’s passion for cannabis and where it initially came from, as well as their passion for music. Everyone bow down to the king!
90 PERFORMANCE HIGH From comedians and artists to social media influencers, we chatted with all kinds of entertainers who are changing the face of cannabis and social commentary. Check out interviews with Ellie Paisley, artist and creative; Blunt Blowin’ Mama, a cannabis influencer and social activist and cannabis comedy personalities Ngaio Bealum, Frank Castillo and Rachel Wolfson.
104 HIGHWITNESS NEWS States Imposing THC Limits and High Five
118 EDIBLES 122 ASK DR. MITCH
114 PRODUCT REVIEW
124 DOPE RIDER
116 GEAR
132 CROSSWORD
BLASTING BIG PHARMA Producer and director Brendan Fitzgerald’s recently released documentary, The Oxy Kingpins, chronicles the cartel-like nature of the pharmaceutical industry. According to the documentary, the pharmaceutical industry’s pyramid-scheme-like structure—which kept the opioid epidemic alive and well over the
past several years—comprises three levels: At the top of the pyramid, there are big pharmaceutical companies such as Purdue Pharma, the maker of OxyContin; at the middle level, there are local pharmacies that order suspiciously large amounts of opioids for the underpopulated areas they cater to; at the bottom of the pyramid, dealers purchase large amounts of opioids from pharmacies in rural America and ship them off to desperate customers in big cities. The Oxy Kingpins condenses decades of evidence into a sprawling panorama that will bring even its most uninformed viewers up to speed about this unbelievable and ongoing publichealth crisis. Learn more at hightimes.com.
INJUSTICE AND OUTRAGE Marvin Scott was arrested on a misdemeanor charge for possession of less than two ounces of cannabis back in March. He was taken to the hospital for allegedly acting erratically, then taken to jail, where he suspiciously died. Scott was just 26 years old. After details of the incident unfolded, seven of the officers involved with his arrest have been canned from their positions. Scott suffered from schizophrenia and was experiencing an episode during his arrest, according to his family. While no official cause of death has been released at the time of this writing, Scott was restrained in a bed, peppersprayed and forced to wear a “spit mask” during his time in prison. Some have speculated that the cause of death was suffocation, although this has not been confirmed by the authorities. Cannabis advocates from organizations such as NORML expressed their dismay with the way things turned out for Scott. Learn more at hightimes.com.
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ON INSTAGRAM Eating nutritiously has never been more tempting. Introducing medicated brussels sprouts—courtesy of the talent behind @mslisapizzaskitchen. Chances are that you either love or hate brussels sprouts (yes, we’re referring to you picky eaters). But these particular ones are drizzled in THC butter and CBD olive oil for double the medicated value. Lisa’s Canna Kitchen in California also makes infused dishes such as tuna dip, crab cakes, spicy buffalo cashews and more. Give Lisa a follow for more delicious treats—both savory and sweet.
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Tweet your best high observations and comments our way (@HIGH_TIMES_Mag) for a chance to be featured on this page! And be sure to follow us on Facebook: (Facebook/HighTimesMag) and Instagram: (@hightimesmagazine) for all the latest news as it’s happening! @legalizeNC_ @BenKissel @HIGH_ TIMES_Mag @tomangell Back to the insanity. 3 hours to make $40 in Postmates to hit my $125 goal for the day then photo shoot followed by emails then laundry, dishes and then pass out for 5 hours before starting over. Remind me again how stoners are lazy? @Rob_Mc_123 @HIGH_TIMES_Mag @Cannabis_Voter and @JoeBiden All state efforts are meaningless unless decriminalized at the federal level. Many employers hold federal law over the heads of their employees. @MistyMagic1 I love the conversation about the hamburger picture in the window!! NFT-y Siff-Ty: Gregory Siff Delights with New NFT Collection via @HIGH_TIMES_Mag @JohnMartini420 Strain: Sweet Tooth is a hybrid cross that was a little difficult to track down, but its ancestry is a multi cross between Afghani Indica × Nepalese Indica × Hawaiian Sativa. This strain also won first place in High Times cannabis cup in 2001. @HIGH_TIMES_Mag @Boabeeee @HIGH_TIMES_Mag THC breathalysers! Mind Boggling! authorities considering testing people for non-addictive THC, as bonkers an idea as them rolling out a breathalyser to measure if you had too much milk in your morning coffee. @clinton_lowell @zackmike420plug @JimBelushi and 9 others It is a shame that the market for this is so expensive. Heck, just to get a card to purchase it here in Ohio will cost about 600 a year and the people that need it for pain on a limited budget cannot afford it.
PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK, MARVIN SCOTT; IMAGE FOUND VIA TWITTER (ORIGINALLY FROM NBC AND THE SCOTT FAMILY)
INTERNET
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EDITOR’S LETTER
EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN ADAM LEVIN CEO PETER HORVATH PRESIDENT PAUL HENDERSON VICE PRESIDENT OF CONTENT JON CAPPETTA EDITOR-IN-CHIEF JAMIE SOLIS
W
hat does entertainment look like in the modern era of being a stoner? It’s no secret that Hollywood isn’t pumping those same stereotypical stoner flicks like they used to a decade or two ago, as the perception of cannabis evolves. So, what is there to do the next few months? Take a journey with us on a summer chock-full of fun, cannabis-friendly entertainment including everything from TV shows to music and social media content. Let’s get the good times flowing—without letting the huge disappointment of last summer bring you down. This is a new year, and that means that the fun is popping off. At High Times, we’re making sure you’re not plagued with boredom over the next few months. We have drummed up engaging profiles on five different, follow-worthy entertainers, from comedians and musicians to a live painter, who all love weed and aren’t afraid to show it on social media and elsewhere. Doug Benson shares his secrets about toking before and during standup performances, while Jam Master Jay’s sons Jesse and T.J. Mizell discuss their father’s iconic legacy, and Cannabis Corpse frontman Phil Hall discusses the band’s influences and smoking back in the day. They’ll keep you engaged. Don’t fret if you’re stuck at home this summer. Take an edible; grab a joint or hit that vape pen and chill—courtesy our stream-able content guide suggesting the best in TV shows and movies on various platforms. For those itching to GTFO, we have a roundup of summer concerts and festivals across the nation that you won’t want to miss. You’re welcome. In the spirit of celebrating being outside in the beautiful weather, soaking up the rays, we can’t help but highlight something else we love that does the same—and that’s outdoor cannabis. We talk to Moon Made Farms’ founder and owner Tina Gordon about how she fell in love with growing cannabis outdoors in conjunction with the cycle of the sun and moon. We also take a deep dive into the complicated state of the environmental impact of commercial cannabis and what companies are doing to be more conscious of their environmental footprint. Join us in embracing entertainment and having fun this month. After all, being amused and engaged is something we all deserve after what we’ve been through. Cheers! The High Times Staff
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CONSULTING PUBLISHER MARY C. MCEVOY ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER MAXX ABRAMOWITZ CREATIVE DIRECTOR FRANK MAX ART DIRECTOR STEVE MYRDAHL DIGITAL EDITOR CHLOÉ HARPER GOLD COPY EDITOR MATTHEW GRACE RESEARCH ADVISOR DR. MITCH EARLEYWINE VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES & EVENTS SAMEEN AHMAD DIRECTOR OF COMPETITIONS MARK KAZINEC CLIENT IMPLEMENTATION DIRECTOR MIKAILA STRYCHARZ SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER LEO RECHETNIAK WEBMASTER DARREN LIU CHAIRMAN EMERITUS MICHAEL KENNEDY FOUNDING PUBLISHER/EDITOR THOMAS KING FORÇADE (1945–1978) CONTRIBUTORS TIM BRINKHOF, JUSTIN CANNABIS, RAJ CHANDER, KYLE EUSTICE, SHARON LETTS, J.J. MCCOY, MARK MILLER, MADISON ORTIZ, NICOLE POTTER, R. SCOTT RAPPOLD, PATRICK SEIFERT, KEEGAN WILLIAMS, LAURIE WOLF
HIGH TIMES July 2021, No. 546 (ISSN #0362-630X), published monthly by Trans-High Corporation, 2110 Narcissus Ct Venice CA 90921 • HIGH TIMES and Trans-High Corporation do not recommend, approve or endorse the products and/or services offered by companies advertising in the magazine or website. Nor do HIGH TIMES and Trans-High Corporation evaluate the advertiser’s claims in any way. You should use your own judgment and evaluate products and services carefully before deciding to purchase. • Mail subscriptions (payable in US funds) and changes of address (please include most recent mailing label) to PO BOX 37032 Boone, IA 50037-0032 • Offices at 119 West 24th Street, New York, NY 10011 • Periodical postage paid at New York, NY, and at additional mailing offices • Manuscripts must be accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope • All contributions will be carefully considered, but the publishers and editors assume no responsibility for loss or injury to unsolicited material • Copyright © 2013 by Trans-High Corporation. Nothing in this publication may be reproduced in any manner, either in whole or in part, without specific written permission of the publisher. All rights reserved. “HIGH TIMES,” “CANNABIS CUP,” “MEDICAL CANNABIS CUP,” “MISS HIGH TIMES” and “BONGHITTERS” are trademarks and registered trademarks of Trans-High Corporation. All advertising and advertised products void where prohibited. POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to HIGH TIMES, PO BOX 37032 Boone, IA 50037-0032
PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK
LOADED FOR YOUR LEISURE
STAFF WRITERS BENJAMIN M. ADAMS, ADDISON HERRON-WHEELER
LETTERS
UP IN SMOKE I don’t know about you, but I can’t believe that there are actually politicians out there trying to put caps on THC. Sure, maybe weed is stronger than it used to be, but we also have pot shops that tell you what the strong stuff is before you buy it. Seriously, what was the point of legalization if states are just going to decide the weed can’t have any THC in it? I’ve been smoking since the ‘60s, and even then, if you wanted the strong stuff, you could find it. —The OG Stoner California RESPONSE: That’s definitely a good point, and one that we make in a lot of our coverage of this topic. Most industry experts believe that imposing THC caps amounts to taking a step backwards into the land of prohibition. Only allowing low-THC cannabis will force medical patients into the black market to get effective products, and it will also wreak havoc on the recreational cannabis market. Unfortunately, we’re in the same boat as you, just hoping these bills don’t pass and staying on top of the stories. Keep spreading that truth! MARIJUANA MOMMA I’m sure your readers already know this, but South Dakota has lost its damn mind. The people have spoken, and they legalized marijuana last year in the election. I can’t believe that there is still such a vigorous fight to keep this law from coming true. I’ve been using cannabis for years now, and I was ready to come out of the closet, so to speak, as a mom who smokes. Now, I feel like if anything, things have just gotten worse, not better around here. —Mellie South Dakota RESPONSE: We have been following this story, and it is definitely a bummer. We are as shocked as you are that the state is dragging its heels so much, but considering the legalization of cannabis taking place in so many other states, and the fact that voters did approve and
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the future of federal legalization we are all looking forward to, we sincerely hope that these issues will be behind you soon. Until then, please continue to use us as a resource! QUEER CANNABIS Thank you, thank you, thank you for your article a few issues back on LGBTQ cannabis users. I’m nonbi-
RESPONSE: We always recommend talking to kids about cannabis the same way you would about alcohol. Some billboards might make alcohol look like a lot of fun, showing bottles with colorful labels that look appealing and refreshing on a cold day. Seeing that is pretty normal, but that doesn’t mean it’s okay for kids to drink. It’s up to us to explain to them that alcohol can be
“MOST INDUSTRY EXPERTS BELIEVE THAT IMPOSING THC CAPS AMOUNTS TO TAKING A STEP BACKWARDS INTO THE LAND OF PROHIBITION.” nary, and reading that article made me feel like High Times sees stoners that aren’t the typical, masc, straight dudes who often get associated with weed and appreciates them. Loving that representation, but I’d like to see more. Instead of just a one-off piece, do you all plan on including more stories like that? —Claud Oregon RESPONSE: We’re so glad you liked it! Yes, while we love doing specialized pieces like that, our goal is to try and include as much intersectionality as possible and write about LGBTQ people, people of color, women and other marginalized folks whenever we can, in all of our coverage. Readers like you make us realize that’s even more important. CONFUSED IN COLORADO I was driving home with my kids the other day, and my little boy pointed up at a billboard featuring a huge, green pot leaf and a bunch of candies and started asking if we could go there. He didn’t stop bringing it up the whole way home. I’m not against cannabis, and I’ve smoked before, but I never expected to see advertisements like that in such obvious places. How should I go about talking to my three, young kids about these things? Obviously, they are going to see them. —Sandy Colorado
fun for grown-ups, but can be bad for kids who are too young. You can say the same thing about cannabis. WEEDLESS IN SEATTLE I’m a HUGE stoner, and I just moved to Seattle! I’m so excited to be living somewhere where weed is legal, and I seriously can’t wait to check out some of these dispensaries. But there’s one problem: How the hell do you keep track of all these different concentrate types? There’s FSE, rosin, resin, wax, shatter, badder, budder…the list goes on. How can I stop from sounding like a total idiot and tourist when I go buy anything other than flower? —Jed Washington RESPONSE: Yes, there are lots and lots of concentrate types, but we got you! The obvious answer is, Google is your friend, and looking up info on these terms generally helps. FSE is full-spectrum extract, and budder, badder, etc. are slang terms used to describe the consistency of your product. But most of all, we’d just suggest putting the ego aside and asking your friendly, neighborhood budtender what they would recommend. You may even end up making a smoking buddy, so take advantage of their expertise! Send your letters to Feedback c/o High Times 2175 Sampson Ave., Ste 118 Corona, CA 92879 Email: hteditor@hightimes.com
// BY PATRICK SEIFERT
COLIN WELLS OF VETERANS WALK AND TALK.
VETERANS WALK AND TALK
A chat with Army veteran Colin Wells about walking, tripping and veterans supporting one another.
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elcome back to the July issue of High Times. As always, I’m honored to bring back the “Twenty22Many Veteran Chronicles,” in which I highlight all the hardest-working veterans and cannabis activists across America. There is no demographic in the United States that benefits more from access to medical cannabis than the veterans’ community. This July, I’m absolutely thrilled to bring you all the powerful story behind Veterans Walk and Talk (VWAT), a veterans’ organization I have been watching and admiring very closely for many years now. This is a wonderful story about veterans coming together as one unit and hiking with Mother Nature on the beautiful trails of the Golden State. The organization also advocates for cannabis and psychedelic therapy for veterans. VWAT was established in California, the state with the largest veteran population in the United States, and it’s the fastest-growing veterans’ organization in that state and possibly the country. Behind all successful veterans’ organizations, there is a veteran selflessly volunteering their time to make veterans’ lives better. And VWAT is no different. The mastermind behind VWAT is combat Army veteran Colin Wells, with the very close support of his soulmate and wife, Cuqui Huerta, also a veteran, from the US Navy. Between raising their four beautiful children and throwing their energy behind VWAT, these two are by definition a power couple. Wells has put in the work by action, not just words. He has traveled to Washington, DC, to meet with legislators, and, closer to home, consulted with local lawmakers and city council members. This combat veteran is as real as real gets when it comes to activism and advocating for veterans’ rights to access cannabis and psychedelics.
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“Every kid knows what Tylenol and aspirin are, but not many know the first thing about mushrooms or cannabis. My family and VWAT are committed to this change. We all have a right to be well.” —Colin Wells When did you get into cannabis and psilocybin activism? I started my activism two years into running VWAT, in 2018. I have been to DC twice and spoken to House subcommittees there. I have been to many city council meetings and State Senate hearings on behalf of cannabis. I am now an active spokesperson for [the California Senate hallucinogenic-decriminalization bill] CA SB-519. When did you start VWAT? December 2016. Why did you start VWAT? I was looking for [a] like-minded community and was not finding it in Los Angeles, where I lived at the time. So I thought I’d start one centered around the shared love of nature and cannabis. When did you go on your first VWAT walk? December 2016, and I had many walks where no one came in the beginning. When I started being more outspoken about cannabis and other tools, veterans took note.
PHOTOS: COURTESY COLIN WELLS
THE VETERAN CHRONICLES
How many VWAT chapters are there? We have four active chapters in California: @veteranswalkandtalk, @veteranswalkandtalksd, @veteranswalkandtalksac and @veteranswalkandtalkbayarea. How many VWAT events happen in a month? We usually have two walks per chapter a month. How many veterans and veteran families show up on average? No less than 10, and in [San Diego], we have nearly 25 per walk now. Is medicating allowed during the VWAT walks? Yes. Education and a safe space to take control of our wellness are paramount to our mission. Have any lawmakers or city officials ever joined you for a VWAT walk? Only in spirit. Your numbers continue to grow. Why do you believe VWAT has been so successful? VWAT is successful because we continue to show up. The leaders and members devote themselves to a simple idea: community, compassion and helping ourselves so we can help others. Plant medicines are an integral part of our wellness as well. Do you believe you will see the end of cannabis prohibition during your lifetime?
TOP LEFT: VWAT HAS FOUR ACTIVE CHAPTERS IN CALIFORNIA. TOP MIDDLE: HIKERS MEETUP. TOP RIGHT: IT’S A GREAT WAY TO MINGLE. BOTTOM LEFT: STAND UP FOR YOUR RIGHTS! BOTTOM RIGHT: REPRESENTING THE VETERANS OF CALIFORNIA.
Yes. Unfortunately, money and regulations get in the way all too often. Same with psychedelics. People fear what is not mainstream. Every kid knows what Tylenol and aspirin are, but not many know the first thing about mushrooms or cannabis. My family and VWAT are committed to this change. We all have a right to be well. Let’s do a shout-out to those who have helped you behind the scenes. Beard Bros Pharms were my first supporters and continue to help us daily. There would be no VWAT if they had not supported us the way they do. There have been many other amazing donors, like Grandma Baker’s, Fatty’s, MJS Wellness, Rancho Organics and the incomparable Cali Blaise. There have been many more throughout the years. @Operation1620 has donated funds, which helped immensely. @Vetality.Corp here in San Diego has been integral to our growth. @boycottshittyweed and @cannabis.synergy as well have been guiding lights. There have also been amazing homegrowers who are some of the kindest, most generous people I’ve ever known, and educators who help us daily. @afutureforvets and @operationevac provide us with much-needed assistance and education. We are also working with @hauxgatherings for psychedelic integration, which is important in the healing process with these modalities.
HIGH TIMES
// JULY 2021
21
CANNABUSINESS
// BY J.J. MCCOY
New Frontier Data Senior Managing Editor
POPULAR PASTIME How cannabis is gaining on alcohol among post-lockdown partygoers.
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overall domestic cannabis sales grew by 6.7 percent, while year-over-year alcohol sales, meanwhile, peaked at 5 percent. Since then, cannabis sales have generally been cruising past alcohol’s popularity. A Harris Poll released last December found that since the COVID-19 pandemic, nearly half of cannabis consumers ages 21 and up had replaced or reduced their alcohol consumption with cannabis. It also found that one-third of those using cannabis recreationally prefer cannabis to drinking alcohol. Past studies have been somewhat indeterminate to the extent that cannabis legalization impacts alcohol sales, but health and wellness have increasingly
become consumer priorities, and New Frontier Data has found that 81 percent of cannabis consumers believe cannabis to be safer than alcohol. A preference for cannabis over alcohol by consumers of both explains in part why major alcohol brands are aggressively entering the cannabis market: Constellation Brands notably invested more than $4 billion in Canopy Growth, a Canadian cannabis company. They recognize that increased access to legal markets and the elimination of the punitive risks of cannabis use will likely lead to some displacement of alcohol use by cannabis for a broad base of consumers. * *
PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK
A
h, the Fourth of July, America’s birthday! Independence Day annually means fireworks, along with hot dogs, baseball and apple pie. Oh, and booze: According to Alcohol.org, the Fourth of July is also the nation’s fourth-booziest holiday, after only Mardi Gras, New Year’s Eve (the day that women most associate with drinking) and St. Patrick’s Day (that which most men associate with drinking). But after New Year’s Eve, the Fourth is reportedly the second-biggest day of the year among both sexes for binge drinking (33 percent among men, 24 percent among women). Cannabis may be helping to change that, however, as its popularity gains on both beer and spirits. A recent Gallup poll found that 70 percent of Americans now consider the use of cannabis as morally acceptable, up from 65 percent in 2018 and 2019. Compared to 21 topics, the poll found that only five ranked as more morally acceptable than “smoking marijuana”: birth control (90 percent), drinking alcohol (86 percent), divorce (77 percent), sex between an unmarried man and woman (72 percent) and gambling (71 percent)—and the last two were too close to definitively call over cannabis, given the survey’s margin of error. In 2018, US retail alcohol sales totaled $254 billion, nearly 7x overall cannabis sales (both legal and illicit) of $37.2 billion. Yet it was also when cannabis-industry data research firm New Frontier Data estimated that
CANNABUSINESS
Alcohol Use Frequency by Age
Once a week to a couple times per month
Once a month to less than once a year Ages 18-34
Tracking those customer bases, many alcohol companies have been hedging their bets through significant investments in the cannabis beverage space. As legalization increases, major beverage and alcohol companies see huge opportunities available for the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) beverage spaces in an overall US legal cannabis market worth an estimated $24.9 billion in 2021, and due to reach about $41.5 billion in 2025. Rather than deem cannabis as a threat, beverage alcohol leaders aim to exploit opportunities to make toeholds in the space. For now, the market segment includes two main categories: THC beverages and hemp-derived CBD beverages. Each has its own legal requirements and therefore different routes to shelves. However, they attract consumers for similar reasons: Nonalcoholic, slightly effervescent and boasting low or no calories, cannabis beverages are seen as healthy alternatives to alcohol. No less reliable a source than The Washington Post has shared cannabis cocktail recipes. Consumers are embracing new modes of consumption. New Frontier Data found that while flower remains the leading product form, more (57 percent) current consumers report using both flower and non-flower forms of cannabis, though nearly one-fifth (19 percent) do not use
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flower products at all. Much of the diversification in product use and selection is driven by younger consumer segments. Most of the Big Alcohol companies investing in cannabis are ironically stepping away from alcohol to do it. It is illegal to sell THC and CBD mixed in alcoholic beverages, (though the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau [TTB] allows hemp in beverage alcohol products if the producers follow their hemp policy). Overwhelmingly, however, hemp-infused beverage alcohol products have not yet established bankable popularity: There were 15 labels approved in 2020 and none within the first quarter of 2021. If the legislative landscape remains uneven (individual states are increasingly adopting adult-use programs, though federal prohibition remains in place), better cannabis beverage technology is allowing beverage alcohol brands to more easily enter and establish themselves in the beverage space. Companies like SōRSE Technology have devised methods to make THC, CBD, hop oil and other terpenes become water soluble. That makes for a faster, more predictable onset of euphoria than what has traditionally bedeviled consumers of edibles. Consistency is the key for cannabis food and drinks to rival beverage alcohol in terms of popularity and
16%
Never Ages 35-54
Ages 55+
promoting the category’s credibility. Mass-market brands (as compared to those in a luxury niche) find that offering a range of product lines from middle- and lower-priced tiers is attractive to consumers, especially at varying price thresholds for respective products. For instance, a customer may be devoted to premium flower, but open to mid-tier infused beverages. Marketers offering variety (along with discounts) can ring up sales for overall purchases to account for marginal discounts. Indeed, price is likely to remain the most significant barrier to competition, at least until US federal legalization. The price tag for a six-pack can still reach $60 in some locales due to the uneven tax levels between alcohol and cannabis. In one price comparison, the tax on a 12-ounce beer was $0.12, while a can of THC tonic was taxed at $5.53, bumping the relative prices to $1.21 apiece versus $9.76, respectively. Helping to lobby for commercial equity and tax relief, the Cannabis Beverage Association (and its members, including beverage alcohol companies like Pabst Labs) is lobbying to bring the unit cost of cannabis drinks to $5 or less. Given the Founding Fathers’ resentment of unfair taxation (see: Boston Tea Party), that seems like a cause they would find worth celebrating.
CHART: NEW FRONTIER DATA
At least a few times a week
9%
9%
24%
18%
22%
22%
26%
36%
38%
33%
47%
Consumers aged 35-54 are the most frequent drinkers, and the most likely to prefer alcohol over cannabis.
MARKET
// THMQ
TOP FIVE STRAINS
MARKET ANALYSIS
3
BLUE DREAM $301 2
Price by the ounce
The second half of the 2021 THMQ calendar kicked off with pot prices rising in all three national markets, including a steep $13 hike in the East. This resulted in the average ounce in America reaching a yearly high of $316. For the third straight month, Blue Dream made it to the “Top Five” strains, this time topping the list, while tasty Grape Stomper makes its inaugural appearance.
2
$344
$331
$327
$325
$322
$313
$316
YTD Average: $327
$307
YTD Average: $309
$308
East Price Index
$308
US Price Index
$307
2
WHITE WIDOW $370
JULY 2021 PRICE INDEX
$306
SOUR DIESEL $431
GRAPE STOMPER $336 2
RUNTZ 2 $255 Jan Mar Apr May Jun
Jul
Jan Mar Apr May Jun
South Price Index
West Price Index
YTD Average: $324
YTD Average: $275
Jul
PURPLE KUSH ”30 percent THC weed discounted 30 percent? A deal that was meant to be!”
$273
$262
$275
$284
$275
$282
$331
$327
$322
$314
$323
$324
(Beverly Hills, CA)
PINK RUNTZ ”If pink ever had a smell and taste, this would be it!” (New Orleans, LA)
BUBBA KUSH
Jan Mar Apr May Jun
Jul
Jan Mar Apr May Jun
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”Proof there’s weed in Manchester even when hippie-jamfest Bonnaroo isn’t being held.” (Manchester, TN)
SECRET FORMULA #6 High Times wants to know what you’re smoking. Submit your strain information including location and price by the ounce to thmq@hightimes.com, or tweet us (#THMQ).
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”The secret is out; it’s White Fire #43 crossed with Dosidos.” (Providence, RI)
TRANS HIGH MARKET QUOTATIONS STATE
CITY
ALABAMA ALASKA ARIZONA ARKANSAS CALIFORNIA
Madison Fairbanks Phoenix Brookland Beverly Hills Colfax COLORADO Commerce City Littleton CONNECTICUT Hartford FLORIDA Jacksonville GEORGIA Atlanta Fayetteville HAWAII Aiea ILLINOIS Anna INDIANA Evansville IOWA Davenport LOUISIANA New Orleans Slidell MAINE Bangor MARYLAND Rockville Westminster MASSACHUSETTS Plymouth MICHIGAN Battle Creek MINNESOTA Duluth MISSOURI Kansas City MONTANA Bozeman NEBRASKA Omaha NEVADA Henderson
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Afghani Kush White Widow Hemlock Member Berry Purple Kush Grape Stomper Cherry Cookie Breath Bro G Obakan Lavender Jones 24K Sour Diesel Blue Dream Grape Stomper Blueberry OG Chernobyl Pink Runtz Blue Dream Terpwin Station Cinderella 99 Tangerine Dream Crescendo Alien Apple Zurple SFV OG Sunshine Stank Tahoe Alien Prometheus
STATE
$196 $420 $260 $400 $336 $192 $160 $240 $336 $400 $320 $430 $328 $480 $280 $280 $320 $350 $340 $360 $240 $424 $200 $169 $504 $160 $410 $315
CANNABIS COMPANY STOCKS
NEVADA NEW HAMPSHIRE NEW JERSEY NEW MEXICO
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VERMONT VIRGINIA WASHINGTON WISCONSIN WEST VIRGINIA
Laughlin Dover Montclair Albuquerque Clayton Lockport New York Greensboro Bismarck Eugene Tigard Pittsburgh Providence Aberdeen Manchester Denton Richardson South Burlington Alexandria Yakima West Bend Beckley
Larry Peyton GG4 Cherry Gar See Ya The Prophet Banana Kush Lemon Haze Strawberry Cough Northern Lights Sour DIesel Gorilla Dawg Runtz Cthulhu #43 Secret Formula #6 Tahoe OG Bubba Kush Gas Purple Punch First Frost Runtz Blue Dream Green Crack Conspiracy Kush
$240 $360 $480 $280 $336 $200 $320 $175 $432 $210 $90 $448 $352 $420 $280 $420 $200 $400 $420 $224 $400 $250
INTERNATIONAL BANGLADESH CANADA NEW ZEALAND VENEZUELA
Dhaka Edmonton Auckland Caracas
Deshal Rio Bravo Purple Haze Colombian Gold
$5.75 $272 $360 $140
NEW YORK N. CAROLINA N. DAKOTA OREGON PENNSYLVANIA RHODE ISLAND S. DAKOTA TENNESSEE TEXAS
Reported on 4/9/2021
UP
0%
+1%
+2%
+3%
Cara Therapuetics
NAS: CARA
$29.19 +1.72
AbbVie Inc
NYSE: ABBV
$107.54 +1.44
Canopy Growth Corp
NAS: CGC
$28.99 +0.49
Greenlane Holdings
NAS GNLN
$6.04 +0.47
Aurora Cannabis
NYSE: ACB
$8.91 +0.40
DOWN
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0%
+5%
Innovative Industrial
NYSE: IIPR
$188.99 -4.69
OrganiGram Holdings
NAS: OGI
$3.05 -0.10
GW Pharmaceuticals
NAS: GWPH
$217.93 -0.07
Corbus Pharmaceuticals
NAS CRBP
$1.84 -0.05
Tilray
NAS: TLRY
$19.76 -0.01
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BRAND SPOTLIGHT
MOON MADE FARMS “I’ve always been somebody who was a minority among minorities, being marginalized and also being attracted to marginalized subcultures. Rock ‘n’ roll is where I found my family, and in cannabis, I found another family.”
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by Addison Herron-Wheeler
I
nspired by the “female expression of the most powerful plant on Earth,” her words, Tina Gordon of Moon Made Farms carved out a cannabis brand, and a name for herself, in Humboldt County, California. But it hasn’t always been this way. “I was living in San Francisco for most of my adult life, and during that
time, I was living a very underground lifestyle with art, music and playing in bands, releasing records, van touring, that kind of thing, for about 20 years,” Gordon said. “I was in a bunch of different punk and metal bands; I did a mobile soundstage, that kind of thing. And I used to do art shows, photography, video. I really TINA GORDON OF MOON MADE FARMS. dedicated
PHOTOS: COURTESY MOON MADE FARMS
Tina Gordon of Moon Made Farms discusses inclusionary practices at her business and the perks of outdoor cannabis.
myself to having a full, creative life, to live lean, and to live life to the fullest.” However, after two decades living that lifestyle, things began to transition. After going through a band break-up and a career shift, she was looking for where to go next. Suddenly, Gordon found herself spending more and more time in Humboldt County instead of the Bay Area, first filming a documentary, then even dating someone in the area and realizing she wanted to spend all of her time there. She also fell in love with growing the cannabis plant, something she never would have tried in her previous life. * *
“Moon Made Farms acknowledges the feminine in this plant, the moon being a symbol of femininity. The moon has a regular schedule with subtle changes every, single night. So, sun-grown isn’t just about the sun; it’s about the moon and the night cycle as well.”
TOP: THE MOON MADE FARMS DRYROOM. MIDDLE: GREEN NINJA IN THE FIELD. LEFT: AN EIGHTH JAR OF MOON MADE FARMS FLOWER.
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31
BRAND SPOTLIGHT
TINA GORDON, BUSY AT WORK.
TOP: SUN-GROWN AS ALWAYS. BOTTOM: FROZEN LEMONS STRAIN. FAR RIGHT: TINA GORDON EXAMINES A PLANT.
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“I didn’t even have houseplants in San Francisco,” she admitted. “I was really urban. And then when I went through my first season in Humboldt, and I saw this plant grow from seed to full expression, I was completely captivated, and it shifted my awareness to the natural world and how
incredible it is. The sensory experience of growing this plant changed my life.” As she began listening to the earth and the plants she was growing, she started to realize how sacred the relationship between cannabis and grower truly is. Seeing how cannabis thrives when given rain-caught water, fresh air, full sunlight and all the other natural elements that can be granted through outdoor growing in the Emerald Triangle, Gordon knew she
had a new obsession. Now, instead of making music and art, she’s all about growing the juiciest, most gorgeous buds. But she never left the social justice element behind. Gordon started learning permaculture regenerative techniques and working them into her growing to develop more sustainable practices around producing cannabis. As an advocate for outdoor growing, she is always trying to learn more. And as a social justice advocate, she always tries to pull in queer folks, women and other marginalized people to work on her farm. “I’ve always been
properties and potential of what this plant has to offer. Now, Moon Made Farms is known on the market for producing quality, sungrown, sustainable cannabis that stands out from the rest, but it wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work and ethos that Gordon puts into her work. She’s also thrilled that she gets to revisit her musician days and sell merch for her farm, and she loves studying the growth cycle of the plant. As for the moon, to her, it’s a celebration of the feminine within the cannabis plant, the dark within the light. “Moon Made Farms acknowledges the feminine in this plant, the moon being a symbol of
somebody who was a minority among minorities, being marginalized and also being attracted to marginalized subcultures,” Gordon said. “Rock ‘n’ roll is where I found my family, and in cannabis, I found another family. And when something changes your life as much as cannabis, there is a responsibility to pay it forward, a responsibility to do activism work and social justice work and to help educate people about the true value of this plant. Through education, she wants to make sure that the focus is on sun-grown and natural cannabis, a personal passion. “Misconceptions about
femininity. The moon has a regular schedule with subtle changes every, single night. So, sun-grown isn’t just about the sun; it’s about the moon and the night cycle as well. This is a photosensitive plant. It’s sensitive to light. And that quality of light will affect the plant in every way, so one of the most important things about the plant being grown outside is that exposure to the night sky. And so, Moon Made Farms is acknowledging lunar farming techniques, an ancient way of cultivating all plants, as well as the symbol of the feminine that the moon represents.” moonmadefarms.com
outdoor-grown flower are based on the industry standard,” she said. “That started because of prohibition, when all the outdoor farmers were forced inside, so indoor farming became the industry standard. Now that we’re emerging out of prohibition, it just feels like the plant should go back outside. Now, during that time, some incredible advancements have happened. A lot has happened in the way of genetics and techniques around this plant, but I would love to see this plant go back outside, and for there to be extensive research done on the
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33
DO NO HARM
The cannabis industry strives to go green while growing the green. by Mark Miller
A
s legal cannabis continues to rightfully imprint itself upon the American capitalist landscape, the breakneck expansion of the industry also carries with it one of the common drawbacks of big business—abnormal and excessive damage to the environment, including contributing to devastating climate change. Such environmental havoc caused by legal weed operations occurs on several levels, often simultaneously, from diminishing vital water resources to adding to already overloaded waste landfills. And while it is true that illegal, black-market bud businesses are equally culpable of violating Mother Nature, the focus of this article will be on the legally sanctioned industry, as it is obviously much easier to hold legitimate companies and cannabis professionals to regulatory standards, as well as to expect them to employ eco-friendly technology, than it is to influence the behavior of dangerous drug cartels or bands of hippies growing in the mountain wilds. The necessity for this intensified eco-focus within the marijuana industry is found in the numbers: In 2019 alone, US and Canadian cannabis companies produced an estimated combined one million tons of waste, a figure that will surely rise as more states legalize weed, more storefronts are opened and more production companies are founded. And although the cannabis industry has a long road ahead to become more environmentally responsible, there are individuals, organizations and companies all currently striving to improve the cannabis industry’s carbon footprint, as well as better preserve natural resources like soil and water. This feature profiles some of those who are making a difference and blazing the trails that the entire industry should follow in order to do everything possible to preserve our natural world so that it can keep on producing the plant we love and cherish.
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PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK
The NCIA Report The National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA) unites and represents cannabis companies while also wisely prioritizing eco-stewardship. In October 2020, the trade association released a 58-page report, “Environmental Sustainability in the Cannabis Industry.” The NCIA’s comprehensive assessment addressed legal weed’s impact on the environment and evaluated best management practices and policy considerations. The NCIA’s research is a topical and invaluable resource for cataloging these issues, and much of the information in this article is derived from the association’s report. Morgan Fox, media relations director for the NCIA, said the report is a harbinger of more information and solution strategies to come. “The report is the first major introductory installment in what will become a recurring series of deep dives into specific environmental issues in the cannabis space,” he said. Fox described the role his organization plays in keeping the legal industry as green as possible: “We work with a number of experts and stakeholders to produce educational resources that can help regulators and lawmakers inform their decisions. NCIA is primarily a federal lobbying organization, so we don’t get too directly involved with state-level legislation, but we want to make sure those who do have the best information possible and help facilitate ongoing discussions on environmental responsibility and sustainability within the industry. As we get closer to federal regulation, we will be actively involved in legislation and regulation related to this topic with both Congress and federal agencies.” Among the NCIA’s most intriguing suggestions is the industry-wide formation of a “central agency liaison” that would provide information and guidance to cannabis companies for implementing and maintaining holistic practices that promote sustainability.
Fox detailed the difficulties for the cannabis industry to arrive at an overarching best-practice policy. “While the vast majority of the industry is deeply concerned about environmental impacts, there are plenty of operators out there who are not, and some state and local policies can make operating sustainably very difficult or prohibitively expensive,” he said. “Clear regulations and licensing [are] the only way to assure compliance, but regulators also have to find ways to make sustainable beneficial environmental practices obtainable and practical.”
Prudent Pot Packaging Among the many sobering statistics unveiled by the NCIA report is that legal cannabis will be responsible for producing one billion units of single-use plastic waste annually. Solutions include improved recycling efforts and the more widespread use of renewable products. One company on the cutting-edge of eco-friendly packaging is HISIERRA, based in South Windsor, Connecticut, and founded by Mike Greenfield. HISIERRA’s initial product in 2015—a sustainable, renewable dispensary exit bag—was indicative of the company’s goal of generating environmentally friendly cannabis-packaging materials. Greenfield described his product as being “the only American-made, certified renewable, truly sustainable and certified child-resistant cannabis exit packaging, made from plant-based materials, with a 100 percent wind-power factory located in America’s heartland.” Greenfield elaborated: “When I created HISIERRA, I wanted the proprietary material to be earth-friendly—our bags are made from sustainable non-GMO plant-based materials, not petrochemical-based plastics—also, that our manufacturing be earth-friendly and renewable; our factory runs on clean and green 100 percent renewable wind-generated power. “Our glass products contain a high percentage of recycled content, and our lids are made from recycled plastic, including reclaimed ocean waste and reclaimed diverted river plastics,” he continued. “We now offer backyard compostable plastic jars and tubes and are very excited to offer stock products and customized compostable rigid packaging.” When asked what the industry as a whole can do, Greenfield waxed philosophical. “Awareness and availability,” he said, needed to be increased. “We continue to make strides, but there are
PHOTO: COURTESY HISIERRA
HISIERRA FOUNDER MIKE GREENFIELD
still many challenges to perfecting packaging. Cannabis packages must perform and provide a barrier for moisture, odor and children, and it must be strong to prevent tearing or tampering. Cannabis packaging must also be pretty to attract a buyer on a crowded shelf. And yet at the end of the life cycle, we want the cannabis packaging to just disappear. There are still many obstacles to a perfect cradle-to-cradle (recycled) packaging life cycle. Due to federal regulation, used cannabis packaging cannot be moved across state lines, so each legal state must find a solution on its own for right now. “HISIERRA has solved the sourcing side, eliminating fossil fuels to use plant-based plastics, and instead of dirty manufacturing, we have clean wind power,” he continued. “The proper disposal and end-of-use actions for now still depend upon the consumer.” And indeed, the retail market is there for products and packaging like those manufactured by companies like HISIERRA. A 2019 survey by business application provider CGS found that a third of respondents were willing to pay up to 25 percent more for sustainable goods.
Reducing Waste From Plants to Carts The Golden Gate University Environmental Law Journal published an important report in July 2020, “Green Garbage: A State Comparison of Marijuana Packaging and Waste Management.” This analysis illuminated many often-overlooked facts and figures regarding cannabis and pollution, such as Washington State generating 1.7 million pounds of cannabis-plant waste between 2014 and 2017. And that’s only one legal state. * *
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but, instead, can be reused again and again. One such cannabis-consumption apparatus comes from Puffco, the cutting-edge manufacturer of “smart rigs” that allow for the easy dabbing of concentrates without requiring wasteful single-use cartridges.
Save the Soil Perhaps it’s because we’re always standing upon it that we overlook soil and its vital importance. Yet attending to soil’s sustainability we must do, for it is the source and home of so much of our live-giving vegetation, including cannabis. When it comes to the legal industry’s impact, the chief areas of concern include soil loss through erosion by water and wind, a decrease of soil’s organic content and a significant reduction in soil’s capacity to store carbon, which increases its acidity and can damage pot plants. One option cannabis companies have to ensure they’re benefiting the soil is to utilize a service like the Clean Green Certified program. Formed in 2004 and located in Crescent City, California, Clean Green helps the legal industry adhere to positive environmental practices and methodologies. Due to cannabis’s continued prohibition at the federal level, pot companies are unable to apply for official USDA organic status, but the Clean Green Certified program offers the next best thing. According to company founder Chris Van Hook, “Clean Green is the world’s longest-running, largest, most award-winning and most qualified cannabis-certification program. We certify cannabis and cannabis products as if they were in the USDA National Organic Program, [making it] the certification program closest to the global organic program. Certified members may use the
TOP: CHRIS VAN HOOK. BOTTOM: GET CLEAN GREEN CERTIFIED.
recognized logo on their labels in their marketing materials and social media.” Van Hook explained the process cannabis cultivators go through in order to achieve certification: “First, their fertilizers and pest controls must be naturally based. They must have clean drying and processing areas. Then there is an application, a review, an inspection. Finally, if all is appropriate, a certification is issued for one year. Same for [pot] processing companies.” Van Hook detailed how closely Clean Green standards mimic the FDA’s organic-status requirements: “About 90 percent. We have a few important differences: The National Organic Program requires three years of no prohibited substances [growing] on the ground to get in. We require one year, as we want farms to transition into the program. “We are able to provide more training and problem-solving than is allowed under the National Organic Program,” Van Hook continued. “Lastly, and this is important: We test every farm every year for pesticide use. We send in soil samples to the same labs that we use for the National Organic Program. This is a very important record for the farmers to develop and keep in their records.” * *
PHOTO: COURTESY CLEAN GREEN
The Golden Gate University study also offered problem-solving ideas. For example, one area in which cannabis companies can certainly do more on their end is composting, which is the process of recycling organic materials, including food and plant matter. However, most companies choose to mix their marijuana materials with non-compostable waste, then sending it to a landfill, a process that is cheaper than utilizing compost facilities and bins. One major impediment to cannabis composting is the requirement in each legal state that marijuana waste must be mixed with other compostable materials at a one-to-one ratio so that it is rendered unusable and not available for black-market usage. A change in these state laws could facilitate more routine composting by the industry. The NCIA report promoted reducing plant waste via regenerative models that cause minimal soil disturbance, the utilization of natural fertilizers and composting, and on-site, internal wasteto-energy processing. A Denver, Colorado, dispensary, CannaBotica, created an incentive recycling program in which customers receive one free pre-roll joint for every 10 containers recycled. Unfortunately, some states’ laws, including the cannabis capital of California, prohibit giving away free cannabis products, which can decrease incentive-based customer recycling. The Golden State’s weed laws could be modified to allow for free products exchanged for recycling efforts. Disposable cannabis-concentrate cartridges—whether self-contained with a battery intact or a onetime cart for a reusable battery—pose a huge problem because the difficulty in fully removing cannabis material from the carts makes them problematic to recycle. This is yet another issue involving legal cannabis conflicting with environmental concerns that could benefit from genuine legislation and regulation in order to provide a solution, such as requiring cartridges to be mechanically designed to be easier to open and clean in order to be properly recycled. Another obvious solution is using a device that does not rely on cartridges
“What is really exciting is how these technologies carry over to all decentralized agriculture, which can apply to any crop, anywhere on the planet,” Gellert added. “Even with the systems we have available today, sealed environment facilities can literally reuse the same volume of water, over and over.” Asked what the cannabis industry can collectively do to decrease water waste and pollution, Gellert was frank. “The technology is already here,” he said. “The only issue is scale and cost. For instance, we’ve co-developed a zero-waste system that feeds multiple cash crops and produces And Clean Green continues no waste. In the final stages of this system, a ther“Water conservation to expand into pro-environmal evaporator is used to separate and recycle the is becoming a mental arenas, as Van Hook last drops of water from nutrient sludge, leaving very big deal, only dry fertilizer, which can be sold or reused.” confirmed the company now especially in areas offers certification in the cateReverse osmosis (RO) is a process of water affected by drought. gories of regenerative and vegan purification that utilizes manufactured semiperConsequently, farming, both practices being meable membranes to purify water, and it can regulatory demands highly eco-friendly. be critical for water conservation. Gellert said for new cannabis that his company raised the RO bar. “Prior to operations are Liquid Gold HydroLogic, reverse osmosis had been around Water is becoming increasingly becoming increasingly for decades without many advances in efficiency,” more valuable every year, and he said. “One of the first products I brought to strict, with some the onus is on the commercial market was an RO filter that improved wastewater areas requiring little cannabis industry to protect, discharge by 75 percent. to no wastewater reuse and recycle as much of this “HydroLogic’s commercial/industrial systems are released back into the precious resource as possible. producing the least amount of wastewater ever in environment.” Both indoor and outdoor this industry,” Gellert continued. “Now we’ve added —Rich Gellert cannabis-growing operations minimum-liquid-discharge technology to systems are culpable when it comes to already operating at high efficiency, maximizing negatively impacting water. Agricultural runoff, comprising water conservation. Our current focus is to meet and exceed pesticides, heavy metals, excessive nutrients and industrial the most challenging regulation requirements while still providcleaners, harms the immediate ecosystem. These substances ing pure water as base from nutrient formula mixing. Despite many years of being wasteful, modern, reverse osmosis is the also place an added burden upon wastewater-treatment systems. foundation of water conservation in hydroponic farming.” As suggested by the NCIA report, one solution is to ensure cultivators are only utilizing the minimum amount of water Gellert elaborated on why HydroLogic describes its systems required to grow a plant, while simultaneously capturing any as “hyper intelligent” and “hyper efficient.” “HydroLogic’s comexcessive water for reuse within the grow site. puter-controlled systems provide real-time feedback to keep A prime example of a company offering water-recycling close tabs on all analytic variables,” he said. “This allows the users to easily adjust the systems to maximum efficiency and technology is HydroLogic, a member of the NCIA that was founded in 2005 with a continued commitment to offering minimum waste. Our best standalone systems can produce efficient water conservation. six parts of product to one part waste, which was unheard of in cannabis just a few years ago. The HydroLogic mobile app HydroLogic president and founder Rich Gellert stressed helps the user keep all this information logged and organized the importance of his company’s products to the environment. for many years of trouble-free operation. “Water conservation is becoming avery big deal, especially in areas “By ‘hyper flow,’ we mean our systems can accommodate affected by drought,” he said. “Consequently, regulatory demands for new cannabis operations are becoming increasingly strict, with any GPD [gallons per day] requirement,” he added. “We thought some areas requiring little to no wastewater released back into things were getting crazy when designing systems for 10,000 the environment. While it has been a challenge for the industry to GPD, but then 50,000 GPD requests started coming in, then meet what can seem to be draconian policies, these regulations 100,000, 200,000—it’s been crazy! Our largest build so far is have given companies like HydroLogic incentive to develop new, around half a million gallons of purified water per day designed advanced conservation technologies. for four million feet of canopy.” * *
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PHOTO: COURTESY HYPERLOGIC
HYDROLOGIC PROVIDES WATER-RECYCLING TECHNOLOGY.
Cannabis vs. Climate Change
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CANNDESCENT’S SOLAR CAPABILTIES ARE IMPRESSIVE.
we are not saying every region should grow outside, but that the policy can allow these options for growth systems instead of mandating one option, i.e., only indoor.” Regarding future endeavors for her and her research team, Summers revealed: “We currently have a proposal for continued work on quantifying greenhouse-gas emissions from greenhouse and outdoor growth systems. We hope to also study some policy adoption potentials such as the previously mentioned energy efficiencies: lights, HVAC, on-site clean energy. We are also continuing to work with reporters, industry [professionals] and other researchers, allowing for the information from this study to be widely distributed and readily available.”
Solar Solutions We’ll conclude this feature on a positive note, but we must remain realistic if we’ll be able to get through this conflict of cannabis versus climate. And best practice to achieve that end is the industry’s utilization of renewable energy on a daily basis. One such company that definitely puts its money where it grows its marijuana is the big-time bud business Canndescent, which in 2019 constructed the first solar-power-generated indoor pot-production facility in Desert Hot Springs, California. The site utilizes 734 solar modules to power up the company facility. In doing so, Canndescent’s system offsets as much carbon annually as a forest of over 400 acres. Achieving the status of a solar-powered company is all part of Canndescent’s “greendoor” model that unifies a variety of eco-beneficial strategies, like water efficiency through improved irrigation and relying on renewable sources by harnessing natural energy from windmills in nearby Palm Springs. These practices are merged with Canndescent’s pesticide-free cultivation, LED lighting for less overall energy consumption and a computerized hydroponic system to vastly reduce water usage. The challenges the cannabis industry faces are big when it comes to being more eco-friendly, but the solutions we arrive at can be even bigger—and better.
PHOTO: COURTESY CANNDESCENT
In the end, it may all come down to this. A study published in the March 2021 edition of Nature Sustainability reports that cannabis operations generate excessive and harmful greenhousegas emissions. Specifically, the research revealed indoor ganja growing causes between 2,283 and 5,184 kilograms of carbon dioxide per kilogram of flower—in other words, a whole lot of pollution just to grow a miniscule amount of weed. Hailey M. Summers, a PhD candidate in the mechanicalengineering department at Colorado State University (CSU), was the study’s lead author as part of a team of researchers. Summers confirmed that indoor cultivation contributes extensively to climate change. “Our recent study focused on understanding the greenhouse-gas emissions from indoor cannabis while the values for greenhouse and outdoor are still unknown,” Summers said. “We have speculated that both greenhouse and outdoor growth systems would yield less greenhouse-gas emissions, but we are unsure by how much. With indoor, the processes of heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), grow lights and carbon dioxide supplied for increased plant growth are the largest sources of greenhouse-gas emissions.” Summers offered best-practice suggestions to the weed industry, as well as the end-using customer. “Efforts should focus on reducing energy consumption from HVAC and lights as well as lowering carbon dioxide amounts,” she said. “Beyond our study, there are many best-managementpractice guides, some with regional specific data, that can inform growers on ways to reduce their environmental impact. There are also several companies leading the charge on ‘greening’ the cannabis industry, or seeking business mentorship from other growers could be an option. Policymakers can also play a role in helping to mandate energy reductions or requiring on-site clean-energy solutions. Consumers can also play a role by investing in or purchasing products from the cleanest operations, thereby driving demand for more sustainable practice within the industry.” When asked what regulations and tech innovations are necessary to solve this dilemma, Summers said they must include “indoor efficiency improvements such as lights, HVAC, on-site clean energy. Also, lifting restrictions on the type of growth systems, [either] indoor, greenhouse or outdoor. For example, in counties only allowing indoor growth, if the decision were in the hands of the growers, they could choose greenhouse or outdoor where it makes sense. The caveat here is that in both greenhouse and outdoor systems, greenhouse-gas emissions have not been quantified. So
WEED AT THE WHITE HOUSE
Would former US presidents who smoked cannabis back in the day have been denied a job in President Joe Biden’s White House?
by Benjamin M. Adams
E
arlier this spring, reports from sources such as the Daily Beast revealed that around a dozen White House staffers were suspended, asked to resign or placed in a remote work program due to past
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cannabis use after completing background checks for positions in the Biden administration. On March 19, White House press secretary Jen Psaki backpedaled and tweeted that only five White House staffers were completely terminated from their jobs—but that failed to make the controversy disappear. In other words, even if they quit smoking weed years ago, they were still terminated from White House positions. Considering that several past presidents, let alone several White House staffers, have admittedly smoked cannabis, hashish or hemp at some point, it comes off as a bit hypocritical, especially for the hardworking individuals who are otherwise qualified for the job. Most common pre-employment drug tests are urinalysis tests, which some cannabis smokers can narrowly pass in as little as 72 hours after abstention from cannabis (although THC metabolites can linger in fat much longer). Oral swab tests are even easier to pass. Hair-follicle tests can detect THC up to 90 days in the past. Most background checks cannot go beyond seven years into the past. But to require a lifetime without cannabis use for a White House staffer job takes it to a new level. The US Cannabis Council (USCC), an alliance of organizations, businesses and individuals working to legalize cannabis in the United States, slammed the White House staffer policy. “With the recent adult-use legalization of New York, Virginia and New Mexico, it’s clear that the American people and their state-government representatives are demanding the end of cannabis prohibition,” Steven Hawkins, the USCC’s interim CEO and Marijuana Policy Project executive director, told High Times. “While we applaud much of what the Biden administration has done so far, including its tremendous work on vaccination rollout and steadying the economy, we at the US Cannabis Council remain confounded that the White House has not remedied the concern around these firings over past cannabis use.”
“We implore the [Biden] administration to not sit idly by but rather listen to Americans and focus the same ambition we’ve seen with their economic initiatives on the growing cannabis industry.” —Steven Hawkins
Most agree that in modern times, any presidential candidate would have a tough time getting elected without throwing support behind at least some type of cannabis reform. “We implore the [Biden] administration to not sit idly by but rather listen to Americans and focus the same ambition we’ve seen with their economic initiatives on the growing cannabis industry,” Hawkins added. Many state leaders have concluded that the failed War on Drugs led to disproportionate arrests among Black and brown people. The White House policy only reinforces these disparities. Hawkins stated that “racist policies like this are offensive and unacceptable.” Just weeks prior to the new White House staffer policy, the Office of Personnel Management issued contradictory guidance indicating that federal agencies would not automatically disqualify applicants from federal service solely because of their past use of cannabis, but rather “should exercise special care before making a determination of unsuitability for
criminal conduct based on marijuana possession.” Leaders in the cannabis industry continue to scratch their heads. NORML’s executive director, Erik Altieri, for instance, slammed the policy, stating, “This sort of ‘Flat Earth’ mentality refuses to recognize the reality that millions of Americans currently engage in the use of cannabis in a manner that is compliant with the laws of their states, and that these people are at no greater risk for occupational accidents or injuries. They should not be singled out and discriminated against solely for this activity, and it is highly inappropriate for the Biden administration to take these punitive actions.”
...... Where Biden Stands on Cannabis President Biden stated in February 2021 that his administration will
pursue cannabis decriminalization, as well as expungements for people with prior cannabis-related convictions. But leaders in the cannabis industry are becoming less and less optimistic that President Biden will take much, if any, action on cannabis any time soon. While President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris campaigned on the decriminalization and de-scheduling of cannabis, the administration has not taken any specific action on cannabis to date. Some campaign promises between Biden and Harris include action on the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement (MORE) Act or an executive order. While it falls short of full cannabis legalization, President Biden could also potentially improve banking access in the meantime by supporting the Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act—which passed in the House of Representatives on April 19. Admittedly, things weren’t any better under the Trump administration. Although Donald Trump said during his 2016 presidential campaign that he planned to leave the issue of cannabis legalization to the states and signed the 2018 Farm Bill, his administration subsequently upheld the federal prohibition of cannabis, like virtually all other presidents, and Trump’s 2021 fiscal budget proposal included removing protections for state medical cannabis laws. Trump also originally installed Jeff Sessions as attorney general, who was known for his wildly negative opinions about cannabis. Seven in 10 Americans said that they believe that “the use of marijuana should be made legal in the United States,” according to recent national polling data that was compiled by associates from Quinnipiac University. In addition, cannabis is now legal in 16 states, two US territories and the District of Columbia—which raises the question: Is President Joe Biden out of touch with the will of the people in America? * *
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...... Would These Past Presidents Be Denied a Job in the Current White House? High Times has reported extensively on presidential pot use, and the general consensus is that at least 11 out of 46 presidents have allegedly smoked or grown cannabis, hashish or hemp. Let’s take a look at all of the presidents who would’ve been denied a job inside President Joe Biden’s White House, given the current background-check criteria about any past pot use. President Joe Biden served alongside former president Barack Obama, who smoked cannabis regularly in his youth. “When I was a kid, I inhaled, frequently. That was the point,” Barack Obama said in 2008—referencing Bill Clinton’s face-palm-inducing pot-use admission some 20 years earlier. Sorry, Obama. It looks like no White House job for you. Biographer Douglas Wead more or less outed George W. Bush as a —Barack former pot smoker while he was a young man, adding that he’d never agree to discuss cannabis or other drug use (i.e., cocaine) post-presidency. Bill Clinton was forced to admit to smoking pot, but his answer was disappointing to say the least. “When I was in England, I experimented with marijuana a time or two, and I didn’t like it. I didn’t inhale and never tried it again,” he said, probably attempting to avoid further media attacks. According to The Washington Post executive Jim Truitt, John F. Kennedy and his alleged mistress Mary Meyer smoked cannabis together on the evening of July 16, 1962. Kennedy smoked three of the six joints Meyer
brought to him, initially feeling no effects. But he could not handle a fourth joint. “‘Suppose the Russians did something now,’ he said,” Truitt wrote about Kennedy. In a letter to his family, young Franklin Pierce wrote that smoking weed was “about the only good thing” about serving in the Mexican-American War. Former presidents Zachary Taylor and Andrew Jackson also are reported to have smoked weed during the Mexican-American War, like most other US troops who were stationed in Mexico. All three former presidents would’ve been denied a job in Biden’s White House. The country’s Founding Fathers also loved the cannabis plant, according to documents. James Monroe not only smoked hashish while serving as US ambassador to France, but he was apparently so smitten by the plant’s magic that he continued smoking it until his death at age 73! James Madison, considered the “Father of the Constitution,” wrote cryptically that hemp gave him the insight to create a new, democratic nation. Thomas Jefferson also reportedly smoked hashish while serving as US ambassador to France, and, at one point, he Obama smuggled hemp seeds known for their potency from China. George Washington grew hemp for many reasons, including its sustainability and unlimited promise in America; he also once recorded in his journals that he separated the male and female hemp plants, which suggests he was growing them for flower. Washington’s use of laudanum (a morphine solution) for intense dental pain also did not impede his ability as the nation’s first president or turn him into an addict. If former pot smokers can rise to become presidents of the United States, maybe it’s only fair to hire White House staffers who have done the same exact same thing in the past.
“I inhaled, frequently. That was the point.”
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+̾ͲWͅͺT̳ͺḰʹ -̾ͧY̷ 4͌ͫE͌Ϳ
6̺ͯU R̳V [̷ͧT J̳ U̺͵Ỳ Wͅ V̺ͧV H͇ʹ F̻V̈́ͧE͆ͯQ̀ C̀ͪ T̷ͲK̳ͨN̷ G̀ͺG̈́ͺC̻ʹO̷ʹV C̈́ͫ ÓG V̺ͧP GͅG̀ͺK̳Ͳ L͇V N̻ͱG Y̷ͫF (̈́͵O V̺ͫ 0̷ͺ҈ͯZ U͆G̳ͳK̀ͭ U̺͵Yͅ C̀ͪ C͆ J́ͳG ÓͼK̷ T̷ͲG̳Gͅ V̺ͧV C̈́ͫ U͆ͯN̾ R͇ͲN̻ʹI Wͅ V̺Q͇ͭJ V́ V̺ͫ K̀ R̷Úʹ ÉʹE̷Vͅ Y̷ Ë́ͧX̷ͪ N̻ͱG Ḧ́ͫU̺ J̻ͺ Q̸ 1̟ -͇J Y̷ M̀͵Y G̀ͺG̈́ͺC̻ʹO̷ʹV Kͅ C J͇ͭG R̳V Q̸ G͈ͫT͋͵P̷oU N̻ͼGͅ 9̷oT̷ J̷G V́ I̻ͼG [́ͻ J̻ʹVͅ Q̀ ṔͺG͉͵T͆ͮ[ ÉͳG̶ͯC̀ K̀҈͇ͫP̵ͫTͅ ÓͼK̷ U̺͵Yͅ ÉʹE̷Vͅ C̀ͪ ÓG V́ J̷ͲR [́ͻ U͂ͫP̶ [́ͻT U͇ͳO̷ ÉʹU͇ͳK̀ͭ Y̺ͧV [́ͻ ŃͼG E̳ʹP̳ͨKͅ C̀ͪ S͇ͧN̻ͺ[ R̈́͵ḮͧO̿ͯP̹
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+̾ͲWͅͺT̳ͺḰʹ -̾ͧY̷ 4͌ͫE͌Ϳ
*̷G C̈́ͫ *̻ͭJ 6̻ͳGͅo H̳ͼQ̈́ͯV̷ D̻ʹI̷ C̀ͪ D́ʹI ÝV̺Ϳ ҈ͯE̽ H́ [́ͻT U͇ͳO̷ U͆G̳ͳ $͋ -̷ͫI̳ʹ 9̻ͲN̻ͧOͅ
ummertime and the living’s easy, right? In the dense year that is 2021, that’s surely the hope as we approach a new season. There is palpable excitement in the air this summer, as the general public eagerly awaits the go-ahead to continue to reemerge into the real world after far too much time indoors. For most, the new season means active and social days enjoying the outdoors, but more time out and about is married to intentional time for regrouping and relaxing, with some long, stoney evenings in front of the TV. We could lie and say, “Wow, we’re so sick of watching TV after 2020! You won’t see us in front of the screen this summer,” but we’re already shuffling through our brain on what to put on our screen later today, and pretty much any given evening. We’re among friends! Don’t worry. Here at High Times, we understand that getting a little toasty with some quality streaming content is a yearlong necessity, and we have you covered, with the most essential programs to fit any summer TV or movie date with our number-one girl, Mary Jane.
5̵ͮK͆ͺoU %̈́ͫG̽ 0̷ͺ҈ͯZ Following the series’ sweep at the Emmy Awards last year and continued praise from audiences and critics alike, we’re practically begging you to start this show if you haven’t already, and would argue that it’s absolutely worth rewatching if you have already completed (and sobbed through) the final episode. If the razor-sharp writing and iconic cast of ever-evolving, well-written characters aren’t enough to convince you, the gut-busting laughs and fast-paced one-liners sure will.
5̷ͧT̵ͮ 2̳V͋ *͛̚ /̳; This rollercoaster-ride, genre-bending series will have you losing your breath cracking up one minute and gasping the next over the suspenseful, out-of-left-field storyline. It acts as a millennial satire that, in its four seasons, successfully surfs the wave of multiple often-conflicting genres and themes, and still somehow pulls it all off. It is entirely engaging in a multitude of ways and unlike anything else you’ve seen.
$̳ͪ 6̈́ͯR 0̷ͺ҈ͯZ If you are familiar with the work of Eric André, you know a prank film like this was the logical next step in his filmography. The wacky road-trip comedy reaches absurd heights as
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it actively pranks the strangers caught in the film’s crossfire. There is surely a plot, but the main entertainment is the curiosity and cackling over the unsuspecting real-life people acting as background characters and reacting to the absurdities thrown at them, filmed on hidden cameras.
1̬͔'̪ *̡͘#̪͕1̭͟ *̡͠5 #̈́GͅͺG̶ &̷ͼG̾͵R̿ͫP͆ 0̷ͺ҈ͯZ )̈́ͧE̷ C̀ͪ (̈́ͧP̽ͯG 0̷ͺ҈ͯZ 6̺ͫ #̶ͻN͆ 5͉ͯO %̳ͺC̾͵I
*͛̚ /̳; +͆oU #̾ͽC͋ 5͇ʹP͋ K̀ 2̺ͯN̳ͪG̾ͶJ̻ͧ
*͇ͲW %͇D ;́ͻT '̀ͺJ͇K̳O *͛̚ /̳;
2̺͵V́ %́ͻT͆ͫU͋ /̳X̷Ͳ 5͆ͻF̻͵U 2́Ͷ 6̮
throughout TV history blended with the Marvel Universe, and some twists, turns, even questions and conversations around morality, this series is great to intellectually tickle the mind in a multitude of ways. Catch the hype.
#̾ͯG̀ 9́N̶ 0̷ͺ҈ͯZ Mixing fact and fiction, the seen and unseen, this series dives into what we might find in worlds farther away than we may ever reach, and the lifeforms those potential planets could very likely hold. Using science and quantitative information to theorize how different atmospheres could support and advance other forms of life beyond that we know here on Earth, it will not only get your brain moving, but it’ll thrill you with computer-generated worlds that are incredible to perceive and ponder.
-̝͑2 '̰͜.̧͞+̦͓ 5̷ʹU̷ 0̷ͺ҈ͯZ 4͇U̻ͧP &́ͲN 0̷ͺ҈ͯZ #͈ͧV̳ &̻P̷Ϳ 5͇X̻ͼK̀ͭ &̷ͧV̺ 0̷ͺ҈ͯZ '͊ͶN̳ͯP̷ͪ 6̺ͫ /̻ʹF '͊ͶN̳ͯP̷ͪ 5̷; '͊ͶN̳ͯP̷ͪ 0̷ͺ҈ͯZ /̻ͪP̻ͭJ͆ )́R̷Ͳ 0̷ͺ҈ͯZ This show feels like it was tailor-made for cannabis consumers. While this selection could also belong in the Cartoons category below, in essence, it’s like listening to a podcast—a conversation between two people on varying, existential topics—with ever-changing, enticing visuals to accompany the dialogue. We watched this one so many times last year while stoned as hell, dissecting different elements of the covered topics, eventually opting to throw it on muted and paired with a playlist because it was so fun just to look at.
9̳ʹF̳͢KͯͅQ̀ &̻P̷Ϳ If you weren’t already part of the weekly horde of fans eagerly awaiting a new episode of this Disney+ hit original, it’s time you pop this on. With precise characterizations of sitcoms
/̻ͿC͌ͧM̻ %̳ͺC̾͵I *͛̚ /̳;
#̶ͼG̀ͺẄ́ͫ 6̻ͳG *͇ͲW Not only are there a whopping 10 seasons to dive into, and most episodes are self-contained, I’m hard-pressed to even call this a children’s show. It’s kid-friendly, but it takes you to an entirely enticing post-apocalyptic land. The silly characters, the plot elements consistently tickling deeper topics and the fantastical animation keep you entranced through the bite-size, 12-minute episodes (which you may very well find yourself getting lost in for hours).
5͂͵P̹ͫ$́ͨ 5̓ͻC̈́ͫ2̳ʹVͅ 2̈́ͯO̷ So, yes, SpongeBob has been a staple in pop culture for decades now. We think it’s still on the air? But that’s not what we’re talking about. SpongeBob episodes, specifically from the turn of the century, are frankly a joy to continuously revisit as an adult, especially if you’re a little toasty. The humor and style are influenced by off-the-wall, avant-garde ’90s hits like The Ren & Stimpy Show or Rocko’s Modern Life. It is perfectly fun and equally bizarre. We strongly advocate for the first three seasons, specifically.
If Hayao Miyazaki is not a name you are familiar with, first, we’re sorry, and second, it’s never too late. This animator, director, producer and screenwriter’s entire film catalog is available on HBO Max, with powerful, rich and beautifully animated stories from the past several decades. Any film from the collection is an absolute treat, but start with Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle or My Neighbor Totoro if you’re new to the club.
#̤͠'̪͚#̬͕8̝ #̦͕/̙͠'̜ 1̨͠+̧͚5 &̻G̀ͩJ̳ʹV̿ͫPV 0̷ͺ҈ͯZ #͈ͧV̳ 6̺ͫ .̳V #̻D̷ʹF̷ .̷ͭG̀ͪ Q̸ -́T̳ 0̷ͺ҈ͯZ 5͆ͫX̷ʹ 7̀ͯX̷U̷ *͇ͲW %́ͻT̳ͭG V̺ͫ %́ͽC̈́ͪN͋ &́ͭ
*͛̚ /̳; 2́ͱÄÓʹ +̀ͪK̹͵ .̷ͧI͇ͫ 0̷ͺ҈ͯZ
6̳ͺV́͵ (̻;G̈́ '͊ͺT̷ͳG 7̣ *͇ͲW There’s a plethora of tattoo reality shows available to stream, but this one not only combines the suspense of waiting to watch a concept from an artist and client come to fruition, but also weaves in some of the most cringeworthy and embarrassing tattoos in the United Kingdom. Artists are tasked with covering up horrific, ugly or just downright regrettable decisions of yesteryear. It’s also just very British, which for me is a bonus.
$̻ͲN͋ Q̀ V̺ͫ 5͆G̷ͺ 0̷ͺ҈ͯZ What do you get when you mix unsuspecting New Yorkers, pop culture and a loose game-show concept (comedian Billy Eichner improvising with and often screaming at random pedestrians for small cash prizes)? Eichner captures the genuine innocence and confusion of some of the unsuspecting public, and the aggressive brashness of others, with a celebrity guests and absurd, arbitrary, made-up games that change with each episode.
6̺ͫ 5̻ͳR̾ͫ .̻ͬG 2̈́ͯO̷ There are a handful of classic turn-of-the-century reality gems on Amazon Prime with which to dive into a nostalgic rabbit hole, and this monumental success—starring Paris Hilton and Nicole Ricci hilariously navigating different American cities and regions starkly different than their home base of Beverly Hills—was arguably the show that started it all. It is absurd, and the added sound effects, superficial socialites and ridiculous situations aren’t to be taken too seriously. In fact, that’s entirely the point.
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2̺͵V́ %́ͻT͆ͫU͋ V̈́ͻ6̮
/̧͞' /̡͚&̤͑5̫ /̭͟6̫ + .́ͼG 0̷ͽ ;́M 5̷ͧÚʹ C̀ͪ 0̷ͽ ;́M )́ͫU V́ *́ͲN͋ͽQ́ͪ 0̷ͽ ;́M )́ͫU V́ 9́M 2̈́ͯO̷ 5͆͵T̳ͭG 9̳U *͇ͲW #̈́ͫ ;́ͻ V̺ͫ 1̀ͫ! 0̷ͺ҈ͯZ 6́ͺC̾ 9̻ͶǴͻV
*͇ͲW ,̷U̷Ϳ 5̺͵T̷ *͇ͲW
%́͵M̷ͪ 9̻ͺJ %̳ʹP̳ͨKͅ 0̷ͺ҈ͯZ Chefs compete to get the hosts and special guests high on cannabis-infused cuisine with their creative use of leafy herb and THC- and CBD-infused sauces. Starring co-hosts Kelis and Leather Storrs, the show features competitors who battle it out in the kitchen for a chance to win $10,000.
$̈́͵C̶ %̻ͺ[ *͇ͲW This Comedy Central series, and new classic, follows two millennial stoners in New York City getting into mayhem and grinding along the way. The pilot episode jumps in headfirst, with viewers peering into the show as a spectator, midway through the two leads’ vivacious, chaotic city lives and interactions. The characters are instantly infatuating, and as a whole, the series acts as a genuine and relatable love letter to close friendships everywhere.
5̿ͯN̷Ϳ (̳ͩG +̥͐D 6̮ This 2007 stoner comedy flew under the radar for us, but following your first watch after a couple jays, it’s our duty to make this film’s existence known. You’ll follow Jane (Anna Faris seriously nails it), an actress in Los Angeles who accidentally ingests edibles and must navigate a stacked day of errands while grappling with the effects of overindulging in THC. It is top-tier stoner humor, absolutely worth the intermittent ads on IMDb TV.
)̈́ͧUͅ +ͅ )̈́ͫG̀ͫT 0̷ͺ҈ͯZ It’s about time that cannabis continues along the path of decriminalization and legalization in this country, and while the continuing acceptance and destigmatizing of the plant is crucial, this documentary dives into America’s tumultuous relationship with cannabis to the present day, providing worthwhile context around what got us here and how we can continue to move forward with conversations and legislation surrounding the plant.
.̧͍& #̦͛6̠͑4 1̦͑ 9́M̳ͮQ̾ͯEͅ *͇ͲW &̻ĹͯP͆ͫF 0̷ͺ҈ͯZ *̻ͭJ /̳ͯP͆ͫP̳ʹE̷ *͛̚ /̳; %́͵M̷ͪ 9̻ͺJ %̳ʹP̳ͨKͅ %́͵M̻ʹI Q̀ *̻ͭJ
0̷ͺ҈ͯZ &̳G̶ C̀ͪ %́ʹH͇G̶ 2̈́ͯO̷
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2̺͵V́ %́ͻT͆ͫU͋ %́ͳG̶Ϳ %̷ʹV̈́ͧN (̻U͆ .́͵M 2̻ͩV͇Gͅ
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Summer is also a time for celebrating LGBTQ stories, and what better story to celebrate than that of Elton John? If you haven’t already seen this film, it is powerful, heartbreaking, and full of gorgeous colors and great music. Light one up, settle in and get lost in this incredible biopic.
/́V̳Ͳ -́ͳD̳ͺ *͛̚ /̳;
#̈́ͳ[ Q̸ V̺ͫ &̷ͧF 0̷ͺ҈ͯZ Had enough of zombie flicks, or are you hungry for more? Directed by popular filmmaker Zack Snyder of Justice League fame, this zombie action heist film dropped on May 21 on Netflix and stars Dave Bautista, Ella Purnell, Omari Hardwick and Tig Notaro as a group of mercenaries attempting an ambitious mission in zombie-infested Las Vegas.
)́ͪ\̻ͲN̳ Xͅ -́ʹI *͛̚ /̳; Even if you aren’t a die-hard Godzilla or King Kong fan, you’ll find something to love about this film. Featuring huge battles, deeper connections between the characters and kooky conspiracy theories, this is just a downright fun film. Don’t expect to leave with a deeper, more profound understanding of anything other than giant monster battles, but this is a great one to pair with edibles and a rainy night.
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Another callback classic, this movie is based on the Sega game we all played back in the day (and many of us still play it now). If you’re a gamer and you want a night off to just get stoned and watch a movie, or if you just want something engaging but not too serious while you blaze, this is a must-watch. Bonus points if you consume (responsibly, of course) every time there is a fight scene.
2̺͵V́ %́ͻT͆ͫU͋ 9̳P̷ $̈́͵U 2̻ͩV͇G
4́ͩM̷ͺO̳ʹ #̿ͧ\́ʹ 2̈́ͯO̷
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Set” that you won’t want to miss. Stay hydrated out there, friends.
0̧͟ '͈ͫP͆ %̷ʹV̷ 5̳ʹ $̷P̳F̻ʹQ %̳ͲK̸͵T̀ͯC J̳FͅͻO̿ͫT Éͳ
)́͵F 8̻ͨGͅ 5͇ͳO̷ 6́ͻT #͇ͭ V̺Q͇ͭJ ,͇Ͳ[
#̈́ͫ [́ͻ T̷ͧF͋ V́ F̳ʹE̷ K̀ V̺ͫ J́ͺ U͇ʹ Y̺ͯN̷ T͇ͨD̻ʹI [́ͻT U͉ͫC͆Ϳ U͆͵P̷ͪ D́ͪ[ C̹ͧK̀V T̳ʹF́ͳ U͆C̀ͭG̈́ C̹ͧK̀! 9̷ M̀͵Y Y̷ C̈́ͫ *̷G Kͅ Q͇ N̻ʹG͇Ͷ Q̸ U͇ͳO̷ ÉʹE̷Vͅ J͇ͭG H̷V̻ͼC̾ C̀ͪ Q͆ͮG̈́ G͈ͫP͆ Q̸ G͊ͩK͆ͯP̹ R̈́͵ŔV̻͵Pͅ V̺ͧV Y̻ͲN J̳ͼG [́ͻ U̳ͿK̀ͭ pY̺ͧV R̳ʹF̷ͳK̵!q C̀ͪ G̀ͰQ͋ͯP̹ V̺ͫ Q҅G̈́ͯP̹ Q̸ U͇ͳO̷ V͉ͯE̷ Q͈ͫT *̷ͲN̳ /̷ͭC 6́ͻT 0́ͽ 6̺Q͇ͭJ ,͇Ͳ[ Get down with Green Day, Fall Out Boy and Weezer. This July and August in particular are stacked with tour dates in everywhere from SoCal to Washington, DC and everywhere in between. This triple-threat event is even making a stop in Canada for our readers up north. It’s not just mega; it’s hella mega, so get your tickets now before it’s too late.
8̳ḰͻU .́ͩC͆ͯQ̀ J̷ͲN̳ͳG̹ͧV́ͻT Éͳ
#̤͕%̡͍ 6̺ͫ 9́N̶ 6́ͻT 0́ͽ 6̺Q͇ͭJ 5̷ͶV Alicia Keys is not only famous for having musical skills and vocals that are otherworldly and breathtaking. She is also an activist who promotes body positivity and brings light to current injustices in the world. See this goddess live, and you might get a chance to hear her latest single, “So Done,” and so much more.
8̳ḰͻU .́ͩC͆ͯQ̀ aliciakeys.com
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5͇ͳO̷ 6̈́ͧF̻ͺḰʹU 5̾ͯI̺ͺN͋ 5͆͵Q͂ͯF ,͇Ͳ[ 1̵ͺ Fans of Slightly Stoopid have been waiting patiently for last year’s Summer Traditions 2020 dates to be rescheduled. It’s time to rejoice, as Slightly Stoopid is spending this summer bringing you smoked-out jams like “2am” or “Collie Man.” Shows also feature other bands depending on the date, from Common Kings to Jamaican roots reggae icon Don Carlos. It doesn’t matter where you live in the US; chances are they’re making a stop near you soon.
8̳ḰͻU .́ͩC͆ͯQ̀ U̾ͯI̺ͺN͋V́͵R̻ͪ Éͳ
*̙͞& 5͇ͳO̷ /͇K̵ (̷V̻ͼC̾ ,͇Ͳ[ #͇ͭWͅͺ Electronic music lovers, unite! You can finally hear the likes of artists from all genres of music including headliners DJ Snake, 2 Chainz, Future, G Jones and others at 2021’s HARD Summer Music Festival. Skream will even be performing an “Old-Skool Dubstep
Get ready to be “Feeling Alright” with the rock music band Rebelution and some special guests. No matter where you find yourself on the map, there are plenty of stops on the Good Vibes Summer Tour 2021. Tour dates start in August and continue through July 2022. This huge tour includes shows at some of our favorite outdoor venues, including the picturesque Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison, Colorado.
8̳ḰͻU 8̷ʹW̷ T̷ͨG̾ͻV̻͵P̿ͻU̻ͩ Éͳ
COVID-19. That’s because the inaugural Barefoot Country Music Fest is happening this year, and it has a lineup that will not disappoint! Even those who don’t live and breathe country music are familiar with many of the performers like Zac Brown Band, Carrie Underwood and Dan + Shay. Come throw on your cowboy hat and get to one-two steppin’!
1̀ V̺ͫ $̷ͧE̺ K̀ 9̻ͲF͉͵Q̶ 0̷ͽ ,̷U̷Ϳ D̳G̸͵Q͆ͩQ͇ʹV̈́ͿO͇K̵ͬGͅͺ Q̈́ͭ
+̀ͱE̳E̷C͆ͯQ̀ /͇K̵ 6̳ͺV́͵ (̷V̻ͼC̾ 5̷ͶV Two leading forms of art are colliding to form one of the most anticipated events of the summer—the Inkcarceration Music & Tattoo Festival! This event is chock-full with three days of musical talent that will leave your jaw permanently to the floor in awe. Some performances you won’t want to miss are Slipknot, Mudvayne and the legendary Rob Zombie. Plus, leading tattoo artists and performers will be slanging designs and art all weekend long, so whether you’re looking for fresh ink or are just a spectator, Inkcarceration is a tattoo and music dreamworld.
*̳T͋ 5͆ͿN̷ .́ͼG 1̀ 6́ͻT #͇ͭ 1̵ͺ What else says “summertime” more than hearing Harry Styles himself singing every word to “Watermelon Sugar” while wearing his iconic fashion statements? Harry Styles Love On Tour kicks off in Washington and Canada mid-August and then travels throughout the US through the end of October. Most of his tour dates feature the sweetheart of folk music, Jenny Lewis.
8̳ḰͻU .́ͩC͆ͯQ̀ Jͅͺ[̾ͫU É W̽
$̳G̸͵Q͆ %́ͻP͆[ /͇K̵ (̷V #͇ͭ Country music fans can finally get over the sadness they felt when Stagecoach was cancelled for a second year due to
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Jewels and the Pixies. And for those who just want to have a good time, Lupe Fiasco Performing The Cool is going to be straight-up epic. With a preview party on the 16th, this event is better than ever before. Don’t miss more artist announcements in the near future.
&́ͻI̾ͧUͅ 2̳M %̺ͯE̳ͭQ +̾ͲK̀͵Kͅ T̻͵V̸ͫU͆ Q̈́ͭ
+̿ͧI̻ʹG (̷V̻ͼC̾ 5̷ͶV Pull out that festival gear that has been packed away for far too long! Get ready for musical experiences, captivating lights, carnival rides and some allaround great vibes! Festival attendees are in for a treat with the official lineup, featuring Excision, Griz, Illenium and Kaskade. Camping reservations are available this year for those who like to rough it, so be sure to claim your space soon.
%̺ͧV͆ͧJ́͵E̺ͫG *̻ͲNͅ #͆ͲC̀ͺC )̷͵T̹ͯC K̿ͧI̻ʹG̸ͫU͆ͯX̳Ͳ Éͳ
1̺ͯQ 5͆ͧV̷ 4̷ͬQ̈́ͳC͆͵T͋ /̳ʹU҆G̾ͪ 1̺ͯQ K̀ͱE̳E̷C͆ͯQ̀ Éͳ
4̻͵V (̷V 5̷ͶV Riot Fest has it all! For all our favorite, stereotypical stoners out there, there will be performances by Sublime with Rome and Dirty Heads. Those going for the nostalgia factor won’t want to miss The Smashing Pumpkins, Run the
&̻E̾ͧK̿ͫT #ͅ J̳ V̳ͻI̺ͺ Wͅ ṔͺJ̻ʹI Kͅ U̷ͺ K̀ U͆͵P̷ $̷ U͇G V́ E̺ͫE̽ X̷ʹW̷ Y̷ͨU̻ͺGͅ C̀ͪ C̈́ͺKͅͺ C̀ʹQ͇ʹE̷ͳG̀ͺU V́ M̷ͫR K̀ͬQ̈́ͳG̶ C̴͵W͆ E̳ʹE̷ͲN̳ͺḰʹU T̷E̺ͫF͇ͲG̶ F̳ͺGͅ C̀ͪ C̀Ϳ Q͆ͮG̈́ E̺ͧP̹ͫU V̺ͧV ÉͻN̶ C҅G̵ͺ V̺ͫ G͈ͫP͆ F̷ͺC̻ͲU N̻V̷ͪ C̴͵X̷
PIX OF THE CROP SHOW US WHAT YOU GOT
E-mail your hi-res digital photographs to mailbag@hightimes.com
FLOWER OF THE MONTH
SWEET TOOTH Velvety to the touch, and with a sweet, sugary taste, there’s a reason it’s called Cotton Candy Kush. Once this baby’s harvested, trimmed and cured, the nugs will look very fluffy and uniform for good shelf appeal. Granddaddy Kurt
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GROW OF THE MONTH
WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS Cannabis Cup-winning strain Super Lemon Haze is a sativa-dominant hybrid of Lemon Skunk x Super Silver Haze. This beauty is a true blessing from the Netherlands that is truly caked in kief and trichomes. Not to mention its unique flavor profile. Klaas R.
NUG OF THE MONTH
COLA OF THE MONTH
THE REAL DEAL
LONG LEGACY
We managed to pull off this long nug of Runtz—the real Runtz, and not the boof and mids going around the Bay Area that’s trying to pass off as “fire.” You can taste the Zkittlez and Gelato Cookies taste, which is something to write home about, before inducing a blissful coma into the unknown. The Ringmaster
Dedoverde Haze is choice sativadominant hybrid that combines the best qualities of California Haze x Amnesia. Up here in the far reaches of Humboldt County, these plants can grow about 10 feet tall under the constant California sun, something that we’ve perfected for generations. Belinda H.
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%́ͳG̶ͯC̀ K̀҈͇ͫP̵ͫTͅ O͇K̵ͯC̀ ŔͪE̳V J́Vͅ C̀ͪ 6̮ R̷ÚʹC̾ͯV̻ͫUtV̺ͫ N̻V Q̸ ÓͪG̈́ʹ E̳ʹP̳ͨKͅ ŃͼK̀ͭ G̀ͺG̈́ͺC̻ʹG̈́ Kͅ G͊ͶQ̀ͫP͆ͯC̾Ͳ[ Ḯ͵Y̻ʹI 72
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2̈́͵N̵̻҆ %́ͳG̶ͯC̀ &́ͻI $̷ʹÚʹ V̳ͲMͅ C̴͵W͆ Y̷ͫF J̻ ÉͳK̵ T́ͻV̻ʹG C̀ͪ J̻ N̳ͺGͅͺ 0̷ͺ҈ͯZ F́ͩW̿ͫP͆ͧT͋ 6̺ͫ .̳V $̾͵E̽ͨWͅͺG̈́ oug Benson’s elevated humor has made him one of the most iconic cannabis comedians around. Between The Marijuana-Logues, Getting Doug With High and his celebrity guest-star appearances on Trailer Park Boys and various other roles, Benson—along with his passion for cannabis—is no stranger to the limelight. In fact, he gets high from it (the limelight, that is). Besides his time on screen, Benson is also an avid film lover. His Doug Loves Movies podcast has gained some serious traction with thousands of listeners and viewers tuning in as he records live to discuss television and movies and speak with special guests ranging from Weird Al to Pauly Shore. His interest in movies ultimately led to his involvement in the production of Netflix’s The Last Blockbuster. Benson also participated in 420 for a Cause last year. The idea behind this livestreamed event was to bring something to the local community that would provide positivity during the pandemic while giving back to professionals throughout the region who’d been impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. This past 4/20, he hosted Doug Benson’s Comedy Sesh, giving stoners everywhere epic entertainment despite the lack of the pandemic weed events. While his chilled-out stoner stand-up routine leaves audiences cackling and offering him bong hits, Benson also stands up for a more serious role lately—cannabis activism. He explains his comedy, his ideas as an activist and more in this interview.
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What are your fans like, and what’s it like doing the epic smoke sesh and chatting with your fans? What do you enjoy most about connecting with them? Has it been difficult or different connecting with fans during the pandemic? One of the best things about touring as a stand-up was meeting the fans after shows. It was usually in a smelly alley next to a dumpster, but we didn’t care because we’d smoke and take pics and laugh. I know every comic thinks this, but my fans are the nicest in the world, and I can’t wait to interact with them again. We will probably be smoking from our own devices, but we can still share nugs with each other—six feet apart! Do you smoke weed during your brainstorming process for writing jokes? What’s the process like? After all these years being a comedian, I still don’t have a process. I basically get high, watch movies and TV and go about my life, and when jokes come to me, I write them down. Having a pen nearby is important. When I think of a joke in the shower, I usually forget it by the time the shower is over. Is it particularly helpful to consume cannabis before or while you’re performing comedy? What about when you’re acting? Do you have a specific consumption preference—bongs, bowls, joints, blunts, vapes, dab rigs, edibles, etc.? Have you ever had an edible before performing stand-up? I love doing stand-up high. Acting, not so much, because I’ve got lines to remember, and the character I’m playing isn’t necessarily
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high. I smoked a lot on the set of Trailer Park Boys, mostly because they let me! I don’t have a consumption preference, but hitting a dab rig right before going onstage would be my favorite when available. Edibles are weird to do before going onstage because you don’t know when it’s going to kick in. I want to be high the second I walk out onstage; I don’t want to be standing there wondering when it will hit me.
Why are you so passionate about cannabis? Besides involving it in your comedy, you’re also an advocate for cannabis rights and an ambassador for the Last Prisoner Project. What drove you to support the LPP’s mission? And what has your experience been like working with this organization? I’ve been saying for years that a system where I can smoke and not get in trouble but others are incarcerated for it needs to be fixed. LLP is trying to get every last person in prison for bullshit marijuana charges released—that’s a cause that deserves all the support it can get. Tell me a bit about your other projects. More specifically, I’m interested in hearing more about your podcast, Doug Loves Movies. These days, it seems like everyone and their mothers are podcasting. What got you to start this podcast? I started podcasting on a whim 15 years ago. Yeah, DLM has been a thing for a decade and a half. Someone said, “Do you want to do a podcast?” and I was like, “Sure, I love movies, so I’ll do a podcast about movies.” I’m lucky I started early because [now] everybody’s mother’s mother is doing it.
The Last Blockbuster is now on Netflix. How did you get involved with that project? The filmmakers asked if I wanted to be interviewed for their doc about the last Blockbuster [video-rental store] left in business. In addition to my chat, the movie also filmed actress Ione Skye, comedians Brian Posehn and Ron Funches, filmmakers Kevin Smith and Lloyd Kaufman, and lots more fun people. While being interviewed in Hollywood, I expressed interest in visiting that last Blockbuster in Bend, Oregon, and they said, “Come on up, and we’ll film it!” So I did. They captured that moment where I entered a video-rental store for the first time in many years. So many memories, so many movies! Speaking of your podcast, it’s easy to see you love movies. Have any all-time favorite movies and genres? Edgar Wright is my favorite filmmaker. All of his movies are great to watch while high because they are colorful, fast-paced, clever and exciting. I met him on Twitter when we bonded over how much I loved Scott Pilgrim vs. the World. While it’s got a lot of fans, I still think it’s one of the most underrated movies ever. Now Edgar comes on DLM whenever he has a new movie to promote, which makes me very happy. Do you have a strain you like to smoke before/while watching movies? What’s your favorite movie snack? I don’t have a favorite strain. I don’t have a favorite snack. These are questions I get asked all the time, but I don’t have specific answers because I enjoy most strains and snacks! Just no raisins, please. If there’s one thing you want people to take away from this interview, what is it? That I’d really appreciate people buying tix for my next internet comedy sesh, but I’d appreciate it if they gave a donation to Last Prisoner Project even more!
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# E̺ͧV Y̻ͺJ %̳ʹP̳ͨKͅ %́Rͫͅ Q̀ E̳ʹP̳ͨKͅ E̾ͧUͯͅE F̷ͧV̺ O̷ͺC̾ C̀ͪ V̺ͫ D̳ʹFoU K̀҈͇ͫP̵ͫ Q̀ H̳ʹU $͋ #̶ͪKͅ͵P *̷T́ʹ 9̺ͫG̾ͫT
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alf classic death metal, half cannabis-reference fun and all badass, brutal music, Cannabis Corpse have made a name for themselves by referencing OG death-metal classics and incorporating a cannabis-infused spin in the band’s look and sound. Cannabis Corpse’s 2019 record, Nug So Vile, was inspired by Cryptopsy’s None So Vile album, and it’s a tribute to the classic. The band managed to fit in a mini-European tour before the pandemic hit, and then took advantage of quarantine time to work on some different musical projects and focus more on creation, like many other bands have done. And, as a band that hails from Richmond, Virginia, they’re stoked about cannabis legalization in the state, even though they personally don’t mind shopping in the black market. “Every time I’m asked about legalization, I always say that it’s never been an issue for me to score weed at any time,” said Phil Hall, Cannabis Corpse’s vocalist and guitarist. “So this whole legalization thing has not really changed anything in my life, personally. But as soon as some stores open up in Virginia and straight up sell weed, that’ll be very obviously much more convenient. I always love going to Colorado and places like that where weed is legal. But I kind of enjoy going to kick it with my buddy, and every now and then we’ll score a bag of weed.” When it comes to lyrical themes, Hall summed it up perfectly by describing Cannabis Corpse as “weed zombies. You know, things like, what if Jason Voorhees smoked a big blunt with you, or something like that. We’re like seven albums deep now, so I have to get a little more creative with my weed stories!” As an homage to all their favorite classic deathmetal bands from the ’90s and early ’00s, Hall and his twin brother, Josh, first came up with the concept for Cannabis Corpse when they were teenagers in high school “just sitting around, smoking weed and watching some Cannibal Corpse and Morbid Angel VHS tapes.” “This band is trying to capture that sort of vibe, and that feeling we would get when we listened to those classic bands,” Hall explained. “We want it to sound dark and evil, but we also love combining our love for weed with it because we felt like if we had named our death-metal band something a little more standard and basic, there would have been no way to stand out from the piles upon mountains of death-metal bands out there.” While Hall isn’t sure if the band has turned deathmetal fans on to cannabis or cannabis users on to death metal, he does know for a fact that some kids have been suspended from school for wearing Cannabis Corpse shirts.
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“I definitely received that email, but they didn’t care; they were laughing,” Hall said. And when it comes to cannabis consumption, his favorite method of ingestion is a tried-and-true classic: smoking a joint. “I’ve had various experiences with edibles and dabs and things of that nature, and sometimes it’s hard to sort of gauge how strong it’s going to be,” Hall said. “I’ve been kind of staying off the vape pens and things of that nature just because they’re so intense, and they were fun for a little while, but lately it’s like, if I smoke a vape pen, it’s so strong that I just have to sit there on the couch for a couple of hours, but I can smoke a joint and go about my day as usual. I like sticking to smoking joints because I know exactly what’s going to happen.”
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#̾ͳQͅͺ [̷ͧTͅ C̸ͺG̈́ J̻ F̷ͧV̺ ,̳ͳ /̳V̷ ,̳ͿoU ÚʹU C̈́ͫ M̷ͫR̻ʹI J̻ P̳ͳG C̾ͯX̷ $͋ ,́ʹ %̳ͶR̷ͺV̳
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In New York, there are a few legends whose personas are ingrained into those who grew up in the area. With stars like Biggie Smalls, Jay-Z and Nas, there’s a certain mysticism around their names. Fans don’t talk about them as people anymore; they’re closer to myths—those that turned their negatives to positives, ya dig? Well, when we’re talking about God-tier icons from New York, the name Run-DMC is always on that list—close to, if not at the top of it. Widely regarded as one of the most influential groups in hip-hop history, Run-DMC were founded back in 1983 by Joseph “Run” Simmons, Darryl “DMC” McDaniels and DJ Jason “Jam Master Jay” Mizell. Known for breaking barriers and smashing stereotypes, Run-DMC helped pioneer the modern MC-DJ relationship and were the best genre-benders to ever do it, paving the way for rap-rock and becoming one of the most successful fusions of the two to ever exist. While infusing and reimagining other genres is native to hip-hop, we’d go so far as saying Run-DMC’s remix of Aerosmith’s “Walk This Way” changed the way many audiophiles, especially outside the hip-hop world, thought about the possibilities within their chosen genres—and Run-DMC collected just about every plaque and award possible on their rise to stardom. Unfortunately, almost 20 years after the group started out, Jay was tragically shot and killed in 2002 at just 37 years old, seemingly closing the book on this iconic group’s story.
While he was never very public about it, those in the know know that Jam Master Jay was something of a connoisseur even way back in the day. You see, Run-DMC were role models—they were a new class of entertainer, and maintaining a “clean” image was paramount to their commercial success. But behind the scenes, there was no question who in the community had the best greenery. At a time when most people were still smoking brown brick weed, Jay was literally trailblazing the term “rapper weed”—seeking out the best he could find from far and wide and paying what others would consider ridiculous prices per ounce in order to inhale the latest and greatest. There’s a Jam Master Jay quote on hip-hop that is pretty applicable to cannabis if you flip a few words around, and it’s one that rings true for the plant we all know and love today: “Back in the day, if someone said that hip-hop and rap was a fad, that was a joke to me because they just didn’t know what they were talking about. In reality, there were so many people who didn’t know what they were talking about.”
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While Jay couldn’t be as open back in the day about his habits due to the adversity and racism that his group faced while coming up in the industry, cannabis is now a cheat code for many, with some artists finding one-hit-wonder fame by making a gimmick out of the plant. Not only was Run-DMC forward-thinking about their genre, Jay was a true lifer when it came to cannabis, so we could rest assured that any play he would make in the arena would be a true connoisseur play, not some quick cash grab.
Eighteen years after his tragic death, Jay’s sons TJ and Jesse Mizell have rekindled their father’s legacy in a way we can all be sure their dad would be proud of. Introducing Jam Master Jays in California through a partnership with Cookies, Jesse and TJ developed a cannabis pre-roll product that, while awesome to smoke, is also a nostalgic hat tip to days of old. Fashioned like an old cassette-tape case, the packaging looks just like something you might have bought with Run-DMC or Jam Master Jay’s music on it back in the late ’80s or early ’90s. “My dad was a connoisseur with this weed stuff before it was really the weed industry of today,” Jesse said. “And if you think about music and weed, Black people couldn’t really do anything to tarnish the name, like Run-DMC didn’t even cuss in their songs because it was taboo. It was taboo for Black people to even have a stage. My dad not being able to endorse cannabis—[that’s] something that I know he would have done if he were here today.” He continued: “People tell me stories like, ‘I would always stand next to your dad because I know he smoked the good shit. I hit one of his blunts one time and, like, “Yo, I never smoked no weed like this. I didn’t know weed like this existed.”’ He was buying $500 ounces while we were buying trash for $90 off the Jamaicans.’” TJ reminisced: “The minute I exhaled after my first time smoking, I was like. ‘Whoa, okay. I totally understand him now.’ It was like a lightbulb moment, like in one of those cartoons. I was like, ‘Wow, my dad smoked weed!’ There were flashbacks to Phillies in the car. He wasn’t smoking cigars; he was rolling those in the studio. This is what the studio smelled like—like, all the time. It all became clear, and I asked my mom, and she was like, ‘Yeah, he was a pothead. Like, every day.’” Because of this, bringing the Jam Master Jay legacy into the space is much more than just a potentially lucrative business idea—it’s also an homage to their father. “This is about what he can do in the cannabis industry as a brand, but also what he resembles as a being in our culture,” Jesse said. “He was someone that was involved with hype culture because he, like, invented that. They invented what hype culture was, like Black culture, hype culture. Run-DMC really invented that. On a wider scale, the first Black group, first rap group on MTV—that’s as hype as it gets. So I think that is, in essence, what we’re pushing through. We started with the cassette tape, and we want that to live forever in the cannabis industry and let it be known that the Jam Master Jay brand was the first to brand a music cannabis product like that. “But further than that, because he was smoking $500 ounces, we want it to be known [that] the essence of his brand is about cannabis,” he continues. “Personally—not for the Run-DMC
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brand, which might not ever be a candidate for this, but it’s authentic to JMJ, and I firmly believe that speaking for his legacy. I believe that this is something he would have been like, ‘Yeah, no brainer, 100 percent do that shit. How much bread do you need? Let’s get it done—but if you’re going to use my name, I’m smoking the best weed in the game. Do this cool cassette thing, but I need the best weed.’” Having just been introduced in Colorado on 4/20 through a partnership with Native Roots, Jam Master Jays are showing no signs of slowing down. Although it’s likely far off in the future, the boys are eager to get back into their home state of New York given the recent legalization news there. But in the meantime, there’s plenty of work to be done. With a new line of sativa joints launching and a flower assortment on the way, keep an eye out for this throwback packaging packed with a modern punch, and get ready to say: “Got damn, that DJ made my day!”
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5̺͵P̻ͺT̻ͧ #̀ͺJ́ʹ[oU $̾ͻP͆ $̾͵Y̻ʹo /̳ͳC Kͅ ṔO̳ͲK͌ͯP̹ E̳ʹP̳ͨKͅ C̀ͪ ÓͺJ̷J́͵F $͋ #̶ͪKͅ͵P *̷T́ʹ 9̺ͫG̾ͫT
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2̺͵V́ %́ͻT͆ͫU͋ $̾ͻP͆ $̾͵Y̻ʹo /̳ͳC
any social influencers are exactly what you would expect: white, blond, making their bucks by trying to resemble celebrities and having good taste in cannabis. But if you look just a bit further, there is a plethora of unique and powerful influencers who don’t fit that basic mode. One of those is Shonitria Anthony, the woman behind the Blunt Blowin’ Mama social-media platform. A Black mom who smokes weed and also a journalist, Anthony started her social and digital platform to create a place where women like her could connect and be seen. It’s not just for women of color and moms, although that is the focus; it’s for anyone who uses cannabis and leads a proactive life, but doesn’t see enough people who look like themselves doing just that. “Blunt Blowin’ Mama is a cannabis lifestyle platform that aims to normalize conversation around cannabis,” Anthony explained. “I just wanted to normalize that it’s okay if you’re a parent who con-
p$̾ͻP͆ $̾͵Y̻ʹo /̳ͳC Kͅ C E̳ʹP̳ͨKͅ N̻ͬGͅͺ[̾ͫ R̾ͧV̸͵T̿ V̺ͧV C̻ͳU V́ ṔO̳ͲK͌ͫ ÉʹX̷U̳ͺḰʹ C̈́͵Ẁͪ E̳ʹP̳ͨKͅ + L͇V Y̳ʹV̷ͪ V́ ṔO̳ͲK͌ͫ V̺ͧV K͆oU Q̽ͧ[ K̸ [́ͻoT̷ C R̳G̀ͺ Y̺͵ ÉʹU͇ͳGͅ E̳ʹP̳ͨKͅ C̀ͪ + C̾Q Y̳ʹV̷ͪ V́ C̿ͶN̻ͬ[ X́ͯE̷ Q̸ ÝͳG̀ Q̸ ÉͲQ̈́ Y̻ͺJ V̺ͯU R̾ͧV̸͵T̿ O͋ ŔͪE̳V O͋ Y̷ͨU̻ͺG V̺ͫ +̀V̳ͭT̳ͳ R̳ͭG C̀ͪ O̷E̺ͧP̶ͯU̷ q sumes cannabis, and I also wanted to amplify voices of women of color with this platform, my podcast, my website, the Instagram page and merchandise.” Originally inspired to action because all the articles she found on moms who use cannabis only featured middle-aged white women, Anthony saw space in the industry that was in desperate need of being filled. “I couldn’t relate to those women, and then I didn’t really see anyone who was really influential or an influencer who looked like me, and I was really disappointed,” she said. “I was like, I’m a wife, I’m a mom, I smoke weed and I have a lot of Black friends who smoke weed, so I can’t be the only one.” Through selling merchandise with slogans like
“Moms Who Smoke Weed Are Not Bad Moms” and “First I Smoke Weed, Then I Do Things,” Anthony is working to tear down the stigma that Black mothers who use cannabis are lazy or irresponsible. For the most part, Anthony has only positive things to say about the way social media has given her a platform to connect with other women. However, she readily admits that social media can be frustrating as well. “I’m sure you know this as well, but it’s not exactly easy to manage a social-media platform when you’re talking about cannabis,” Anthony said. “You can’t run ads. It’s hard to run a business when you can’t run ads like you would for any other social-media platform or merchandising business.” Still, despite these setbacks, Anthony is poised to continue taking on the world of cannabis and social-media influencers with her unique brand. With a background as a journalist, it was the natural next step to go from blogging and writing for sites like HuffPost to doing a podcast and being an influencer. Frustrated that she wasn’t hearing enough real, raw stories on folks in the cannabis industry, Anthony decided to create her own podcast. “I always knew I wanted to share the stories of women, especially women of color, and especially Black women, and I knew that I wanted to highlight different types of lifestyles,” Anthony explained. “I try my best to talk about different types of couples; I interviewed a polyamorous triad, lesbian couples and queer couples, women-run companies and companies run by people who identify as queer. I try to be as inclusive as possible because, as a Black woman, I know what it feels like to be excluded.” While some of these connections might be hard to come by, social media has opened up avenues for Anthony that allow her to connect with those who contribute to her message. “I have followers who live in India, huge fans in Brazil or the UK and Canada, and people who would never have known this platform exists if it weren’t for social media, especially Instagram,” she said. “I think there’s definitely something to be said for the evils of social media, but it does do one thing really well that no one can argue with, and that’s connect people. I’ve been able to find my tribe, and I’ve actually been able to connect and make friends with other like-minded women. It’s hard to make friends with other women, especially moms who smoke weed, because they may have a certain type of career, or their partner has a certain type of career, and they may not talk about it much. That’s why I’m so grateful for Instagram, because it’s connected me to so many amazing people.” D̾ͻP͆ͨŃͽK̀ͳC̿ͧ Éͳ
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// JULY 2021
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%́ͳG̶ͯC̀ C̀ͪ ŔͪE̳V J́V (̈́ͧP̽ %̳V̻ͲŃ Q̀ E̳ʹP̳ͨKͅ C̀ͪ ÉʹP̷ͩV̻ʹI Y̻ͺJ V̺ͫ Ë́͵Y̶ $͋ $̷ʹL̳ͳK̀ / #̶ͧOͅ
94 HIGH TIMES
// JULY 2021
2̺͵V́ %́ͻT͆ͫU͋ (̈́ͧP̽ %̳V̻ͲŃ
rank Castillo rose up the comedy ranks using the fine art of roasting on the Comedy Store’s notorious “Roast Battle” nights. That’s when things get personal—and anyone who gets roasted can expect some blows landing below the belt. A native of San Jose, California, Castillo formerly served as a host and sketch writer at various venues in Southern California. He then climbed the ladder in Los Angeles’s competitive comedy scene—ultimately gaining respect after annihilating fellow roasters on the floor and through his stand-up routine. During a normal year, Castillo tours the nation, sharing stages and studios with big-name comics, and he’s frequently on Comedy Central or making guest appearances on shows such as The Joe Rogan Experience. He’s also a consistent advocate for cannabis, often repping brands such as Puffco or Cookies. High Times caught up with Castillo to get the lowdown on his intimate relationship with cannabis and the ultra-fine line between funny and offensive jokes. Back in 2017, Castillo beat out Matthew Broussard to become
and eventually it got to the point that it was Mo Amer—who just got on Netflix on the Black Adam movie—and Joe Rogan told me that I need to quit my job and just do comedy. My friend walked in when they told me to quit my job and just do stand-up. It’s just taking that extra leap and having faith in yourself. I feel like that’s now happened.” As we patiently anticipate more in-person entertainment in the future, having at-home options for keeping us entertained will remain important indefinitely. Luckily, Castillo offers virtual engagement in through his podcasts Peak’d and Buddies. Peak’d was initially created out of Castillo’s passion for showing his friends the coolest stoner accessories. “Peak’d was an idea I had for a little bit. A lot of my good friends smoke weed in the comedy community,” he said. “I hate to say it, but they don’t smoke the best weed, or they just don’t know. I’m such a stoner. I love showing cool stuff to my friends. That’s kind of what Peak’d is. I show them high-end rosin and concentrates while using the Puffco.” A love of cannabis has given Castillo an avenue to connect with leading brands while entertaining fellow consumers, and Peak’d is partnered
p# Ńͺ Q̸ O͋ Í͵F Ḧ́ͯG̀ͪU U̿͵M̷ Y̷ͫF K̀ V̺ͫ ÉͳG̶Ϳ ÉͳO͇ʹK͆Ϳ + J̳ͺG V́ U̳Ϳ K͆ D͇ͺ V̺ͫ[ F́ʹoV U̿͵M̷ V̺ͫ D̷V Y̷ͫF q the champion of Roast Battle II on Comedy Central. How did he get started on the path of a roast master? You can say it’s in his blood. “I come from a very traditional Hispanic family on one side, and an extremely Mexican-American family on the other side, so it was always ball-busty on both sides of my family,” Castillo said. “We’re always just kind of roasting each other in a way. In big families, you got to get noticed somehow, and being funny is one of the ways that happens. I started at the Comedy Store, when it was just open mic. Roast Battle became a show, and I became a part of that. I was a young comic and I just figured out where I could fit in. Roasting is just something that I was good at. Through the years, it taught me how to become a better writer and it helped me [improve my skills].” These fine-tuned skills have landed Castillo in the limelight, sharing the stage with the likes of Bill Burr, Joe Rogan and Tom Segura, and working with others such as Dave Chappelle. Some of his most important experiences were working with leading comedians who had faith in him to take the leap into being a full-time comedian. “When I was working at the Comedy Store, one of the best parts was that they’re happy to give you advice.,” Castillo said. “When you work at the Comedy Store, the whole goal is to become a paid regular and then to move on and do stand-up. I was doing stand-up on the road, touring, but also still working at the comedy club. So I’d have to text all these big guys. All these guys knew that I was still working there,
with Puffco and Punch Extracts. Weed isn’t just something Castillo enjoys recreationally; weed encompasses his everyday comedian lifestyle. “I have bad anxiety, and my brain is already very loud,” he shared. “When I get stoned, it feels like it calms and quiets it down. I use it pretty much day by day—writing or when I go onstage when it’s not a highly intense situation like I’m recording something. When it’s not an important situation, I do like to go onstage high.” Cannabis also allows Castillo to take life a little less seriously, which is a good quality to have when you make people laugh for a living. “[Cannabis] definitely lowers my inhibitions about worrying about jokes,” he said. “Normally, I’m thinking about whether or not a joke is funny. It’s less about worrying if a joke will piss anyone off. At this point, if I cared so much about pissing people off then I wouldn’t be able to tell any jokes.” Like many comedians in 2021, you can catch Castillo online. However, don’t be fooled by his respectable social-media following—he’s not in it for the likes. “But when it comes to the fandom—it’s all about going onstage and being in a club,” he said. “It’s in that atmosphere. I use social media to just promote my stuff and give everyone an inside look at what I’m doing. I’m definitely not one of those Clubhouse comics.” Stay tuned for more news and announcements about Castillo’s latest work, including his new album, a tour with Don’t Tell Comedy and new weekly episodes of the Peak’d and Buddies podcasts.
K̀V̳ͭT̳ͳ Éͳ Ḧ́ͧP̽ͩCͅͺK̾ͲQ
HIGH TIMES
// JULY 2021
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4̳ͩJ̷Ͳ 9́ͲHͅ͵P Q̀ G̿ͨT̳ͩK̀ͭ J̷ R̳U̻͵P Q̸ ÉͳG̶Ϳ E̳ʹP̳ͨKͅ C̀ͪ O̷ʹV̳Ͳ J̷ͧN͆ͮ C̶ͼQ̵ͧE͋ $͋ #̶ͪKͅ͵P *̷T́ʹ 9̺ͫG̾ͫT
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2̺͵V́ '̿ͯN͋ '̻G̀
any comedians have worked cannabis into their professional personas—some even make it their entire persona— but few have incorporated it as flawlessly as Rachel Wolfson. While she’s hilarious and not above using the leafy green goodness as a punch line, cannabis also goes much deeper with her. But it wasn’t always this way. “I was first really introduced to weed when I was 19, because growing up with such a strict family—my parents were politicians and defense attorneys—they used all these scare tactics and said I would literally die if I smoked weed,” Wolfson said. “Then I was living in Vermont, in college, and a boyfriend of mine literally laughed when I told him that. Then I started to realize like, okay, pretty much everyone knows that no one has ever died from smoking weed.” Still, even after wrapping her mind around that realization, there was still subconscious fear and shame around using cannabis. But even that began to lift as Wolfson researched NORML and cannabis advocacy and realized how much good work there was to do. Now she also uses cannabis for medical purposes in lieu of taking multiple pharmaceuticals. To this day, she is open and honest about using cannabis to help cope with depression and anxiety. Similarly, it took Wolfson a while to land on her career as a comedian. “I spent my 20s in and out of working corporate and restaurant jobs,” she explained. “I took marketing gigs on the side, and I just kind of hustled, working wherever I could. Then I started working at a corporate comedy company, and at this point, I taught myself Photoshop so I could gain a new skill to help at my comedy job, and at this point, I was in the marketing side of comedy.” From there, she started the Wolfie Memes Instagram account, and she realized she could be funny as a meme creator. After that, she wanted to be at the forefront of the comedy scene, not behind the scenes doing marketing. But she was still a little hesitant about jumping into the spotlight. “With Wolfie Memes, I would get DMs, and people would talk to me as if I’m a dude, like, ‘Yeah, bro,’ implying they thought I was a guy, and I didn’t correct them,” Wolfson said. “And I wasn’t ready to come out of the green closet, per se, because my parents and my family always made it seem like there was a risk, like it could affect their jobs.” Still, she heard comedy calling, and eventually ended up trying stand-up, where she couldn’t hide the fact that she was a woman or stay in
p6̺ͫT̷oU ÝM V̺ͧV P̷ͫFͅ V́ D̷ F́ʹG C̀ͪ +oO Ú C͉ͧT̷ Q̸ V̺ͧV +oO C̾ͽC͋ ÉʹU͆ͧP͆Ͳ[ V̺ͯP̽ͯP̹ N̻ͱG Q̽ͧ[ J́ͽ E̳ʹ + I̻ͼG D̳ͩM GͅͶG̵ͯC̾Ͳ[ V́ R̷͵R̾ͫ Q̸ ÉͲQ̈́ V̺ͫ .̟͎6̩ ÉͳO͇ʹK͆Ϳ Y̻ͺJ V̺ͫ E̳ʹP̳ͨKͅ K̀ͪWͅͺT͋ ÝͳG̀!q the green closet. But the rush of performing and making people laugh ended up being enough to make her stay in the limelight and gain confidence in her art. “I had grown a small following, but at that point, I hadn’t gone onstage,” Wolfson explained. “It wasn’t until I started coming into my own, going to open mics and starting my first podcast and then just growing a following and kind of building a name for myself with stand-up, and not just the memes. That’s kind of when everything came together, when I was able to combine all those skills and my story into something I care about.” Now, even through the COVID pandemic, Wolfson’s been creating. She’s working on a new podcast, looking forward to live comedy coming back and planning to continue to focus on activism as well. “There’s work that needs to be done, and I’m so aware of that,” she said. “I’m always constantly thinking like, Okay, how can I give back. I want to uplift these voices, and I think, especially in cannabis, they are underrepresented. My advocacy rests within using my humor to spread the message of access, and also uplifting other people by sharing their content.” It’s also important to Wolfson to provide a space for women in cannabis and comedy. “I can prove that cannabis humor is funny, and that it doesn’t matter if I’m a guy or a girl,” she said. “Women can be funny; we can smoke weed. We don’t just use cannabis as a fetish. There are a lot of medical reasons why cannabis is important to women specifically, and there are things cannabis treats that men will never go through, like menstruation or having a baby. I want to keep proving that women belong in cannabis and in comedy.”
K̀V̳ͭT̳ͳ Éͳ ÝͲ҆ͫÉͳG̶Ϳ
HIGH TIMES
// JULY 2021
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$̷ͩQ̿ͫ G̀ͺT̳ʹE̷ͪ D͋ V̺ͫ Y̺ͯOͯͅE̳Ͳ ÝN̶ Q̸ V̺ͫ N̻ͼG R̳ͯP͆ͫT C̀ͪ E̾͵V̺ͯP̹ F̷K̹ʹG̈́ $͋ /̳ͪKͅ͵P 1̈́ͺK͌
2̺͵V́ %́ͻT͆ͫU͋ '̾ͲK̷ 2̳ͯU̾ͫ[
llie Paisley is an artist and clothing designer whose vibrancy has graced the cannabis community since her younger years, when she relied on weed to help her through a difficult period. “I kinda had a little bit of a rough patch as a teenager,” she said. “Some not-so-awesome stuff happened to me. I was looking for a way to heal that didn’t involve antidepressants—I struggled with that for a long time.” Paisley found cannabis, but she was also seeking community in a time and place in which prohibition was in full force and the negative public perception of cannabis was severe. At about the age of 16, she thought to herself, “I need a scene that understands me and doesn’t judge me for being a recreational-cannabis user or a medical-cannabis user—because it shouldn’t matter.” Before long, she joined her local NORML (National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws) chapter and started making an impact. In these early days, there was much attention on how cannabis helped treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but most efforts were focused on veterans. “I wanted to see the same thing happen for women who were victims of sexual abuse,” Paisley said. “Because that’s that I went through, and I know how much cannabis helped me. I wouldn’t want to see somebody have to make the choice to move to another state just to get the medicine they need—that’s really wrong.”
p+ H̷ͫN Ú N͇ͩM͋ V́ D̷ G͈ͫP C̴ͲG V́ Í U̷ͫ V̺ͧV O͇K̵ N̻ͼG =N̷ͺ C̾͵P̷? ÉʹV̈́ͯD͇ͺK̀ͭ V́ V̺ͫ G͊ͶG̈́ͯG̀ͩG q
Paisley started to contribute her artwork to NORML’s efforts, be it creating posters for the organization’s “Smoke Down Prohibition” rallies or designing T-shirts. “They were just so sweet and uplifting, everybody believed in me… that was really the springboard for it all,” she said of the NORML crew. At 18, Paisley became the secretary of the Philadelphia chapter of NORML—the youngest person to sit on a board of directors for a chapter of the organization. (When she was 19, she also started a NORML chapter in Lancaster County; she’s no longer involved there, but the chapter still meets and organizes.) Paisley’s a powerful force to be reckoned with, and her advocacy efforts are just one of many successes she’s achieved so early in life. Paisley went from admiring live painters at music festivals to becoming a live painter herself. At 19, she had the opportunity to live-paint for the Southern California band Slightly Stoopid. “It gave me the self-confidence to feel like I belonged there, and that my art was worthy,” Paisley said. Since then, Paisley and her rainbow-colored canvases have stepped into the spotlight. She’s now live-painted for a diverse array of musical artists, including the Wu-Tang Clan and Ice Cube, and she was an official painter for Dead & Company after-parties across the country. “I feel so lucky to be even able to go see that music live, [let alone] contributing to the experience,” she enthused. Today, Paisley lives in Colorado with her husband and fellow artist, Aaron Brooks (@abrooksart). She admits that there’s a small amount of healthy competition between them, but they support each other by being each other’s teammate through everything in life. Paisley’s live painting is something that all music and art fans should experience in person, but in the meantime, give her a follow on social media—you will not be disappointed. Her Instagram feed features time-lapse video of her creating her mind-blowing psychedelic paintings—it’s a vibrant and captivating experience watching her create her art, everything from colorful portraits of famous celebrities like Bill Murray and Post Malone to whimsical creations of skulls and fungus. She’s a positive burst of brightness and magic in the sometimes redundant and repetitive world of social media. You can support this lovely soul by scooping up an original creation, buying some of her merch (including items from her hat-line collaboration with Grassroots) or even stopping by Denver’s Marijuana Mansion, which features some of her murals. Feeling inspired to create something yourself now? “Just do it,” Paisley said. “If you have an idea, don’t let anyone get in the way of accomplishing it, especially yourself. You really can do whatever you set your mind to. Everyone brings something unique and beautiful into this world that wouldn’t be there without them.” K̀V̳ͭT̳ͳ Éͳ G̾ͲK̷ R̳ͯU̾ͫ[
HIGH TIMES
// JULY 2021
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%́ͳG̶ͯC̀ 0̹ͧḰ $̷ͧN͇ͳ Y̷ͧTͅ O̳ʹ[ J̳ͺU K̀ V̺ͫ E̳ʹP̳ͨKͅ K̀ͪWͅͺT͋tC̀ͪ O̳ʹ[ Q̸ V̺ͫO C̈́ͫ Y̻ͲF̾Ϳ G̀ͺG̈́ͺC̻ʹK̀ͭ $͋ ,̳ͳK̷ 5́ͲKͅ
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HIGH TIMES
// JULY 2021
2̺͵V́ %́ͻT͆ͫU͋ 0̹ͧḰ $̷ͧN͇ͳ
omedian, publisher, TV personality, activist and entrepreneur—Ngaio Bealum’s footprint in the cannabis industry is vast and varied. You may be familiar with him from his days hosting Cooking on High. He’s also a comedian who hosts virtual comedy shows every month with guests like Margaret Cho, Doug Benson and Drew Carey. Bealum is also a regular in the cannabis industry, serving as everything from a weed-magazine publisher to the co-host of Cannabis Planet. What we love most about him is all the good he brings to the industry, whether he’s publishing the word on cannabis or serving as emcee for a huge cannabis event. “I feel like my job is to spread the word about the benefits of cannabis and cannabis legalization,” Bealum said. “Education is always better than prohibition, whether I’m talking about it or writing about [it] or even just traveling around and smoking weed while being a good person. I will say that I most enjoy being the emcee for a variety of cannabis events. Shout out to the International Cannabis Business Conference, the Emerald Cup and the Seattle Hempfest for showing the world that cannabis is fun, safe and lucrative.” Bealum hasn’t let an international pandemic slow down his entertaining of at least slightly high crowds everywhere. Fans can celebrate 4/20 every month of the year with Bealum’s 420 Comedy Extravaganza. Bealum explained: “It’s an online show, so there aren’t any lockdown restrictions at all. You can enjoy a top-notch comedy show in the privacy of your own bong. I produce it on the 20th of every month in conjunction with the Nowhere Comedy Club [nowherecomedyclub.com], and it’s a lot of fun because weed gives you the giggles.” You don’t have to be a huge stoner to enjoy the set; all adults are welcome to attend. “And the jokes aren’t just about weed,” Bealum added. “We talk about a lot of things. I’ve had Doug Benson, Margaret Cho, Brian Posehn and even Drew Carey once or twice. You don’t even have to be a stoner to enjoy the show, but a little weed couldn’t hurt.” And while weed might not be the butt of all Bealum’s jokes, it’s definitely something that affects his perspective and approach to comedy. “I definitely have a sort of ‘stoner state of mind’ about most things,” he shared. “The phrase ‘write high, edit sober’ is a good one, although I saw a post on Twitter the other day that said, ‘Sativa for writing, indica for editing,’ and that may be my new approach. After being onstage, I really, really, really enjoy hanging out in the parking lot in a giant weed circle and kicking it with the folks that came to see the show. I’m not sure if I’m ready to pass a joint back and forth with a bunch of strangers yet, but we can smoke ‘Berlin style,’ where everyone has their own personal bowl or doobie.” In addition to his iconic comedy, Bealum is also beloved as a TV personality. He served as the cannabis expert on the competitive cooking show Cooking on High on Netflix, but, alas, Bealum says that a second season of the binge-worthy show is highly unlikely in the future. However, that doesn’t mean you won’t be seeing Bealum as the star of another cannabis series in the future. “I would love to do another show about weed
and food, or weed and sex, or weed and just about anything,” he said. “I’m working on a new web series where I roll (heh) through different towns talking to stoners and stuff about their stuff. Look for it on my YouTube channel.” Although our dreams of a second season of Cooking on High have been crushed for now, Bealum still lets us in on his secret to not getting too high while eating so much weed on the show. “I was very careful!” he said. “We shot four episodes a day, so I made sure just to take a few bites of each dish. I have definitely been too high on edibles before, but I was at work on the show, so I managed to maintain at least the appearance of being able to handle my drugs. After we would wrap for the day, I would usually lay down on the couch—we had a lot of couches for the judges—or sit in my car for a bit before heading home.” What could make an already interesting man even more interesting? Juggling, of course. Bealum has won the People’s Choice Award at the International Jugglers’ Association Fest. The way he got into juggling was the way you’d expect from someone so friendly—he made some friends. “I used to work at Pier 39 in San Francisco, and I would see the street performers making bank, so I decided to become one,” he said. “I am good at making friends, so I introduced myself and asked if they would teach me to juggle. Turns out that jugglers are very friendly and they like to share. I always say that juggling is open-source and magic is proprietary. Also, jugglers usually have really good weed. So I fit right in.” Bealum has been keeping fans entertained virtually through his comedic endeavors this past year, and he’s an interesting person to follow on the Internet. He’s also humble about his approach. “I don’t know if I’m the one to ask about strategic use of social media for specific things,” he said when asked about his social-media presence. “I just post pics and info and hope for the best.” Bealum’s followers look passed this diffident nature and appreciate following him for his engaging content—anything from live videos to weed. If you want weed content, check his Instagram and Twitter. And if you’d like to get behind the scenes into what’s cooking in his kitchen or the random music he’s creating, follow him on TikTok. In addition to his monthly comedy shows, you can catch Bealum live in person this summer, as he’s in the process of setting up as many shows as he can. “I plan on being in Berlin for the [International Cannabis Business Conference] in July, and everywhere from Eureka to Nashville to DC,” he said. “I would really like to set up a tour of all the states that have legalized adult cannabis use. Wanna help?” Bealum leaves us with some wise final thoughts. “As always, have fun, be yourself,” he said. “Follow me on social media [ngaio420 on just about all platforms], and if you see me walking down the street or whatever in your town, don’t be afraid to say ‘high.’”
p+ ÝͻN̶ ŃͼG V́ F́ C̀͵V̺ͫT U̺͵Y C̴͵W͆ Y̷ͫF C̀ͪ H́͵F Q̈́ Y̷ͫF C̀ͪ U̷; Q̈́ Y̷ͫF C̀ͪ L͇V C̴͵W͆ C̀ͿV̺ͯP̹ q
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XZIBIT may have chosen the wrong name for a strain. p.108
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THC limits are being imposed in a handful of states—it’s a troubling new tactic cannabis opponents are using to upend the will of the people. by Benjamin M. Adams
A
t the highest levels of government, officials are quietly seeking to reduce the amount of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in cannabis in states that have already legalized the plant. Efforts in a handful of states to impose caps on THC in flower and concentrates are underway. A future dystopian patchwork of THC caps in different states isn’t quite a distant pipe dream: Two high-ranking US senators raised the possibility of limiting THC in a recent bipartisan report from the Caucus on International Narcotics Control. The March 2 report was issued by Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), and it includes a recommendation that the National Institutes of Health and the US Food and Drug Administration develop their own recommendation as to “whether states should cap the potency of [cannabis] products that may be sold.” To date, THC-cap proposals have been introduced in Washington, Montana, Florida and Vermont, and a draft bill is stirring up controversy in Colorado. Most of these bills are dead or have little chance of passing their respective legislatures. Only Vermont lawmakers have successfully added THC limits into the state’s
// JULY 2021
PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK
HIGHWITNESS NEWS NEWS
PURPLE URKEL Finally Jaleel “Steve Urkel” White is launching a purple line. p.108
POWER OVER POTENCY
system, which isn’t yet close to being operational. In that state, limits are set at 30 percent THC in flower and 60 percent THC in concentrates—a bit higher than the limits proposed in the other states. If Vermont leaders stay on track, these THC limits could be up and running by May 2022. Among the most disputed THC-cap proposals was Florida’s. House Bill 1455 would have capped THC at 10 percent for all medical cannabis flower and 60 percent THC for all concentrates and other product types except edibles. The bill was introduced by Republican State Representative Spencer Roach, who claims that cannabis causes “deterioration of motor skills.” Florida for Care executive director Ben Pollara called HB 1455 an “existential threat” to the state’s medical cannabis industry. The measure cleared a Florida House committee in early March but was not heard in the Health and Human Services committee, most likely ending its chance of passing. A similar Senate measure, Senate Bill 1958, was not heard in committee, diminishing its chances of seeing the light of day. Eli Joyce is communications administrator at Regulate Florida—a grassroots movement collecting petitions to bring sensible reform to Florida’s laws—and NORML of Florida. He’s also an ambassador and consultant for Sunshine Cannabis. “At the end of the day, this is an orchestrated attempt by the Florida Legislature to dissuade people from becoming patients,” Joyce told High Times. “This is the same Legislature that never wanted to implement medical marijuana to begin with and didn’t want to allow smokable cannabis. The cap would require patients to purchase more medicine to achieve the effectiveness of what they currently have access to. With prices already high, this law would immediately turn thousands of patients back to the unregulated market.” * *
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“At the end of the day, this is an orchestrated attempt by the Florida Legislature to dissuade people from becoming patients. This is the same Legislature that never wanted to implement medical marijuana to begin with, and didn’t want to allow smokable cannabis.”
Brands like Sunshine Cannabis are dedicated to developing Floridian cannabis cultivars and heirloom strains, which amply exceed the draconian THC limits that are being proposed. According to Joyce, the fight against bad legislation involves the whole community. “It’s been mobilized by community-led advocacy organizations, the many activists that’ve persistently called and met with their elected officials, and industry leaders like [cannabis brands] Trulieve and Sunshine Cannabis getting the word out via social media and email lists,” he said. “The public needs to know —Eli Joyce who their elected officials are in the State Legislature and where they stand on this issue. Republican or Democrat, a majority of Americans want to see it legalized. There is no majority clamoring for a cap on THC. It’s obstructionism and unpopular with voters.” Massachusetts’s first THC-limit bill, HD 2841, would impose a cap of 10 percent THC in flower and ban vape cartridges that exceed five milligrams per metered dose or potency of more than 10 percent THC. According to Adam Fine, a lawyer with the Vicente Sederberg law firm, the bill doesn’t stand a chance in Massachusetts’s Democrat-dominated Legislature. But more worrying is SD 465, introduced by Democratic State Senator Jason Lewis. If passed, this bill would give leaders broad power to limit the amount of THC in each type of cannabis product. Washington State’s House Bill 1463 would have banned all concentrates with more than 30 percent THC. Fortunately, the bill is dead, but the issue itself is not, as lawmakers try to thrust it into the State Legislature year after year. Regarding Washington State, NORML state policies manager Carly Wolf stated in a press release, “[Many] states regulate adult use cannabis access; virtually none of these impose [THC] restrictions. That is because such a cap is arbitrary and is not in the best interest of consumers who deserve the legal option to access varying strains of cannabis of varying potencies. Imposing such a blanket ban on these higher-potency products will not eliminate demand for said products, but it will succeed in driving this market underground— making it unregulated and unsafe.” Similar proposals in other states don’t appear to be getting anywhere, either. Democratic Colorado State Representative Yadira Caraveo’s draft THC-limit bill backfired before it could even be filed in the State Legislature; however, hearings are expected in the near future. Montana’s Senate Bill 341, which would have limited THC to 15 percent in all recreationalmarijuana products, including flower and everything else, is also dead in the State Legislature.
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HIGH FIVE
FIVE PLANTS THAT INTERACT WITH THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM These plants have unique compounds that mimic cannabinoids and/or work with the endocannabinoid system. by Benjamin M. Adams 1
LIVERWORT Radula perrottetii, a mossy plant also known as liverwort, contains perrottetinene (PET), a compound chemically similar to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). As recently as 2018, a study suggested that PET is moderately psychoactive through activation of the CB1 receptor. Not only can you buy this herb online using a simple Google search, but it’s caught on as a legal high in places such as Switzerland and New Zealand, where Maori people have used it traditionally for centuries. It is usually reduced into a concentrate and smoked. 2
SUNFLOWER Certain sunflower varieties contain cannabigerol-like (CBG) phytocannabinoids called amorfrutins, potent antidiabetic derivatives. Unfortunately, common decorative sunflowers in North America typically don’t contain these natural compounds. Helichrysum, however, is a genus of over 600 varieties of sunflowers native to South Africa that contain amorfrutins. These plants are sometimes processed into essential oils and used for their anticancer and antidiabetic properties. 3
BLACK PEPPER Black pepper contains guineensine, an alkaloid that boosts endocannabinoid tone by blocking and delaying endocannabinoid reuptake—reducing paranoia and other negative effects. It also contains beta-caryo-
phyllene, a terpene found in cannabis that activates the CB2 receptor, and piperine, a potent modulator of the TRPV1 receptor that prevents pain and neurodegeneration (anandamide and cannabidiol also bind to TRPV1 receptors). Other spices such as clove and cinnamon share these properties. 4
CACAO BEANS Chocolate in raw form contains beneficial N-acylethanolamines—cannabinoid-like fatty acids that can increase anandamide activity in the body. These chemicals slow the breakdown of the anandamide produced in your brain and boost its effects. There are tiny amounts of anandamide itself, as well as N-oleoylethanolamine and N-linoleoylethanolamine, that bind to the TRPV1 receptor. Cacao beans also contain feel-good chemical precursors like theobromine, tyramine and phenylethylamine. 5
ECHINACEA Echinacea contains cannabimimetic compounds called N-alkylamides, which are very different from cannabinoids—but still trigger CB2 cannabinoid receptors. A 2006 study called the compounds in echinacea a whole new class of cannabimimetics. Echinacea also contains beta-caryophyllene and is used as a daily constitutional to boost the immune system. Rue contains a relatively similar compound called rutamarin, which shares a selective affinity to the CB2 receptor.
HIGHWITNESS NEWS
DID I DO THAT? Jaleel White, better known to pretty much everyone in the United States as Steve Urkel of Family Matters, is taking the plunge into the legal cannabis industry. White will be working with 710 Labs to present his new line of products, itsPurpl, which will offer several variations of the Purple Urkle strain. Fittingly, the brand launched on 4/20. “The thing that always stood out to me was, there is no clear brand leader for fire purple weed,” White said. “It made no sense to me that no company of significance had claimed this lane, so why not me? To smoke the end result from such a quality pod has been surreal.” The idea for the company was first conceived of when White met 710 Labs founder Brad Melshenker on a flight. “I feel a little bit like Willy Wonka, the flavor came out so similar to grape candy,” White said. The icing on the cake? The packaging features a psychedelic purple Steve Urkel image, and a limited-edition waffle maker is available from the company as well.
“WE SUPPO THE AS RT COMM IAN UNITY.”
While napalm-themed cannabis branding might sound like a fun idea at first, it backfired horribly for hip-hop icon Xzibit. His cannabis brand is now being removed from stores in California, as consumers are uncomfortable with the implication behind the name. Napalm was dropped on Korean and Vietnamese people during US military conflicts in both countries, so it’s not a great look for the company now that activists are trying to combat the recent trend of anti-Asian hate. While he apologized for any hurt he caused, Xzibit refused to change the name. “My intention for naming the cannabis company ‘Napalm’ was by no means affiliated or a nod to the devastation it has had in its past,” he claimed in a statement. “I think the creative license that I use for Napalm is purely based out of my body of work as an artist. There’s been calls for banning the company and banning the use of the word “napalm.” My intention here is to just let everyone know that as a Black man, I understand discrimination and hatred. I understand what that does to communities, how it affects communities. I’m not tone-deaf to that. So, just to clarify the position that we have at Napalm Cannabis: We by no means acknowledge, justify or feel as though we are promoting violence towards the Asian community. We stand with the Asian community.”
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PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK
XZIBIT A
HIGHWITNESS NEWS
BC CANNABIS REVAMP Officials from British Columbia are challenging the Canadian government to make changes to home medical cannabis cultivation laws, as the government claims that home growing contributes to the illegal market, a worry that overrides the importance of having reasonable access to cannabis grown at home. “We know the program allows patients to produce their medicine at a lower cost than they can buy it, but we also know there is significant
abuse, and that cannabis grown by medical growers is a significant source of illegal market cannabis,” the office of BC Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth said. “We would also like to see the federal government rethink the medical access program, in particular personal and designated production.” If home-grow restrictions pass, medical cannabis patients will likely be upset to have their home-growing rights taken away. It remains to be seen if this is something they will need to worry about.
CANNA-BRITS
DELAYED IN DETROIT Detroit officials have been ordered to halt processing cannabis business applications for the time being, due to a lawsuit claiming that the state is violating the Constitution by giving preference to “legacy” applicants from the city instead of wealthy outsiders profiting off of the newly legal industry. Crystal Lowe, a hopeful cannabis shop owner, is
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filing the suit. “The adult-use license application process is on hold, by temporary order of the court,” Detroit corporation counsel Lawrence Garcia said in a statement on April 8. “The city’s Civil Rights, Inclusion and Opportunity Office will reach out to certified Legacy Detroiters to offer general advice and support while the litigation is pending.” Until the lawsuit is resolved, the city must hold off granting any new cannabis licenses.
PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK
Most people in the United Kingdom currently support legalizing cannabis, according to a recent poll from YouGov, despite the fact that it remains strictly controlled across the country. And while London’s mayor, Sadiq Khan, also recently said he supported decriminalization, nothing will happen without the ruling government’s approval. Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s press secretary, Allegra Stratton, said, “Policy on controlled drugs is a matter for UK government, and there are no plans to devolve this responsibility. The prime minister has spoken about this on many occasions—illicit drugs destroy lives, and he has absolutely no intention of legalizing cannabis, which is a harmful substance. “Sadiq Khan, the mayor of London, will know that the policy on controlled drugs is a matter for the UK government,” she added. “It’s not a matter for his office.”
HIGHWITNESS NEWS
While Denver is an expansive city geographically, at 116 square miles, most of that area is off-limits to dispensaries and other types of businesses in the cannabis industry. Nearly 70 percent of the Denver area can’t have dispensaries due to the zoning code or because of rules put in place that limit the number of dispensaries in an area. Denver dispensaries cannot be located within 1,000 feet of schools, childcare
GREENHOUSE GROWING The home growing of cannabis is legal in Arizona, but there’s a problem: The harsh desert climate rules out outdoor growing for the most part, and indoor growing can be tricky. Dante Schettino has come up with a solution to this problem by introducing the Outdoor
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facilities, other dispensaries or rehab centers. And because neighborhoods like Baker, Five Points and Park Hill are already packed with dispensaries, no more can open in those areas. “We don’t want to see it where one neighborhood is completely saturated and other neighborhoods don’t have many businesses,” said Eric Escudero, a spokesperson with the Denver Department of Excise and Licenses. “It shouldn’t be one neighborhood to have all the marijuana businesses.”
Grow Hut, a system that protects plants from the harsh outdoor climate. “Growing outdoors is tremendously cheaper, significantly safer, easier to maintain and will result in larger yields, Schettino said. “While there are plenty of indoor kits available for purchase in the marketplace, nobody has created an optimal system for growing outdoors.” The Outdoor Grow Hut has a secure structure that allows sunlight to reach the plants inside and an open design that helps maximize growing seasons and trap heat. If Arizona residents order the Outdoor Grow Hut, the company will deliver and install it—and even plant the first seeds. Workers are also available for hire to cultivate the plants. “Similar to a pool-cleaning service, we will come to your house and do all the gardening, and you just sit back and enjoy the benefits,” said Schettino.
AGITATED ADVOCATES Many progressives and cannabis enthusiasts who voted for President Joe Biden hoping for legal cannabis are now disappointed. Nothing has changed at the federal level since he has been at the helm of the country. “Have I heard anything from the White House? Uh, no,” said businessman and cannabis-rights activist Adam Eidinger. “We want Democrats in Washington to keep their promise. The president doesn’t have to wait for Congress to pass marijuana legalization or decriminalization; he could act today to de-schedule cannabis.” However, Representative Ed Perlmutter (D-Colorado) feels that some good has been done on the federal level through the SAFE Banking Act, which, if passed, will at least allow legal banking for state industries, and has support from both sides of the isle. “A number of Republicans are co-sponsors,” Perlmutter said. “I really expect the SAFE Banking Act to pass the House, pass the Senate and get to the White House.”
PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK
TOO MUCH WEED?
ALL ABOUT THAT DELTA-8 3Chi’s Delta 8 THC Vape Cartridges Will Help You Relax Without Knocking You Out
by Addison Herron-Wheeler
I
f you’re looking for a vape that packs a punch when it comes to medicinal use, claiming, relaxation, or the promotion of calmness and creativity, look no further than 3Chi’s federally legal Delta 8 THC vape cartridge. The 95% Delta 8 THC oil cartridges are delicious and come in sativa, indica, and hybrid varieties—perfect for any time, day or night. The pineapple cake flavor is subtle, not too sweet, and cannabis-tinged with delicious, full-flavor terpenes making for a robust taste experience along with a delightful calming effect. However, despite the tastiness and smooth feel of the carts, they come with a warning for those new to vaping. “This is a very pure, very concentrated vape product,” the product descriptions on 3Chi’s Delta 8 THC vape cartridges warn. “It may be harsh on the throat to those who are not accustomed to concentrated cannabinoid products. Additionally, ȴ8THC is a harsh cannabinoid. Take small puffs. Do not exceed 3 seconds per puff.”
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While the warning is fair, as there is a little bit of a tingle that comes with using the cartridge, the effects are gentle and mild. 3Chi’s Delta 8 THC is an isomer of CBD, which is federally legal, and Delta 9 THC. Delta 9 THC is limited to 0.3 percent in products, except in states with legalized recreational cannabis. The flavor is soft and mild, with hints of citrus-scented cannabis strains and fresh pineapple. The blend of flavors is playful and subtle, almost like a piña colada in a vape cart. Unlike the harsh, overpowering taste that some flavored vape pens deliver, the smoothness of 3Chi’s Pineapple Cake flavor is just the perfect hint to elevate your vaping experience. The effects, while not psychoactive like federally controlled THC cannabis products, are softening, calming, and relaxing. Perfect to use before a yoga flow or an intense cardio workout. “Known to boost mood and promote calm feelings, while simultaneously giving energy and a motivational boost,” according to the brand’s website, “you can’t go wrong with this tasty concentrate.”
ABOUT 3CHI 3Chi was founded by a biochemist who worked for 15 years on perfecting a formula that brings health and wellness. He has worked with both THC and CBD and the balance between the two, and now 3Chi has achieved the perfect formula to make Delta 8 THC impactful and subtle. The leading distributor of Delta 8 THC products in the U.S., 3Chi offers a range of products that provide relief. “We exist to help as many people as possible become the happiest and healthiest version of themselves,” their official mission statement on their website explains. “We use custom engineered cannabinoid blends and the latest technology to lead the industry in providing the most advanced and effective products.”
Most exciting of all, you can order and use Delta 8 vape carts in almost any state, despite the presence of THC. Check out 3Chi’s Delta 8 products today; you won’t be disappointed.
GEAR //
WHAT’S NEW FOR CANNABIS CULTIVATORS AND CONNOISSEURS
HOT PRODUCTS 1
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2 4
1
TOP-SHELF SELECTION
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$35 half-gram & $50 full gram, before tax selectbetter.com/ products Introducing Select Elite Live Oil. Elite Live combines the same quality oil you’ve come to know from Select, now infused with freshly harvested live resin terpenes. The combination results in a high quality, high potency oil with a wide variety of strainspecific flavor and effects—so sativas feel more stimulating and indicas feel more sleepy. Now that’s better.
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MINI ME $120 higherstandards.com Downsizing your glass piece collection? New York, New York-based Higher Standards released a mini version of its popular Heavy Duty Beaker. About half the size of the original, the Heavy Duty Mini Beaker is both powerful and portable. With multiple uses in mind, the Heavy Duty Mini Beaker is perfect for both dry herb and concentrate consumption with its Quartz Banger and Carb Cap. It delivers the same iconic water filtration and flavorful draws and is designed for durability, handcrafted from 100 percent, premium borosilicate glass. Higher Standards produces high quality.
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UPON CLOSER INSPECTION $50 veritascannabis.com Could the Smokus Focus Eclipse Display Jar be the most convenient display jar to date? Smokus Focus created a jar specifically designed to see trichomes and other curiosities and details of the majestic cannabis plant up-close under magnification. The Eclipse’s ring of recessed, LED lighting captures the details of your flower for over 12 hours. The clear, dual-magnification lens sits atop a conveniently ergonomically conscious jar that can fit in the palm of your hand. You can fit at least a quarter of flower in the jar; however, it’s still small enough to toss in your backpack or stash box.
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SMOOTH BURN $2.50 per pack vibespapers.com Smoke virtually 100 percent cannabis by rolling your next doobie with hemp paper. The Vibes Hemp Rolling Papers are cultivated and crafted in France. Your sessions will be full of flavor without the taste of regular paper. Each pack contains 50, 1.25” Vibes Rolling Papers. You can also choose Vibes Rice Rolling Papers or Vibes Ultra Thin Rolling Papers if hemp isn’t your thing. And guess what? The papers are thin, and most smokers know that less paper means less paper smoke—which makes joints taste more harsh. Minimum orders of three packs are required.
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GANJA GOURMET
EDIBLES STONEY SUN-KISSED FRUITS
MARIJUANA MUNCHIES MADE EASY!
Infuse your summertime celebrations with the fresh and bright addition of cannabisinfused fruit dishes. By Laurie Wolf
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N
ow is the time to get your fruit on. Eating seasonally allows you to enjoy fruits and vegetables at their best and fullest moment of flavor, packed with nutrition and at a good value. If you have a farmers’ market near you, expect to find a myriad of unexpected delights, from the earliest apricots to lateblooming blackberries. For fun, and for a wonderful high, these dishes are infused with one of our favorite strains, Juicy Fruit. This hybrid is possibly the happiest, most fun, best-tasting cannabis out there, with notes of berry and orange with a hint of the tropics. This weed tastes sweet—a perfect complement to fruit dishes in the summer sun.
PHOTOS: BRUCE WOLF
MARIJUANA MUNCHIES MADE EASY!
GANJA-GRILLED FRUIT MEDLEY
SWEET FIRE FRITTATA
(Serves four to six) Smokey and caramelized, grilled fruit is a wonderful way to showcase nature’s summer bounty. You really can’t go wrong as long as you stay away from overripe or soft fruit. Brushed with canna-butter before grilling, sprinkled with rosemary and drizzled with honey, this is a luscious way to eat your cannabis.
(Serves four to six) The sweet frittata is a new concept for me, and I am digging it. Frittatas, in my house, have always been cheesy and meaty, but this fresh, fruity version is a welcome addition to my repertoire.
INGREDIENTS INGREDIENTS
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1 tablespoon butter, softened 6 eggs 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2-3 tablespoons canna-butter, melted 1 teaspoon vanilla 1½ cups raspberries 1 cup whole pecans Powdered sugar
2 pears, split in half and rubbed with lemon juice to prevent browning ½ lemon 8 large strawberries, cut in half 2 tablespoons canna-butter or canna-oil ¼ teaspoon cinnamon Several branches of rosemary Honey
INSTRUCTIONS INSTRUCTIONS
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1. Heat oven to 375°F. Butter a pie pan or oven-proof skillet. 2. In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, cannabutter and vanilla. Stir in the raspberries and pecans, then pour into the prepared dish. 3. Bake for 10 minutes, then turn the heat down to 340°F and bake until set and golden brown, about 30 more minutes. 4. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
1. Prepare the grill; brush the grates with oil. Place the fruit on your work surface and brush with canna-butter. Sprinkle with the cinnamon. 2. Place the fruit cut-side down on the preheated grill. Grill until tender and golden-brown. Turn the fruit; place the rosemary on top and grill on the uncut side. 3. Arrange the fruit on your serving platter; sprinkle with the rosemary and drizzle with the honey.
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GANJA GOURMET
COOL CHERRY FOOL
INGREDIENTS
INSTRUCTIONS
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(Serves four) This recipe could not be easier. This creamy concoction can be made a day in advance, and you can vary the fruit to suit your preference. Cherries have a short season; make the most of them.
1½ cup pitted cherries 4 teaspoons canna-butter, melted 1 teaspoon vanilla 2 teaspoons grated orange peel 1/8 teaspoon ginger 1½ cups thick Greek vanilla yogurt ¼ cup shredded coconut
1. In a medium bowl, combine the cherries, canna-butter, vanilla, orange peel and ginger. 2. Mash the cherries with a potato masher or fork. The cherry chunks are a plus, but if you don’t want the fruit chunky, you can mix it in a food processor. 3. Fold the yogurt into the cherry mixture. 4. Divide the fool among four glasses. Sprinkle with coconut.
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SAFE SMOKING
Safety, compulsion and oceanic boundlessness By Dr. Mitch Earleywine
My physician said cannabis legalization is linked to selfharm. That makes no sense to me. -Dexter Hi Dexter, Self-harm is serious. The research that helped your physician draw this conclusion, however, is seriously flawed. Researchers
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fished around until they found that, in states that have recreational laws but no dispensaries, men under age 40 were slightly more likely to report self-harm. Not women. Not people in recreational cannabis states with dispensaries. Not men over the age of 40. Can you imagine all the data mining it took to get this to reach significance? Statisticians call this a Type I error. If you feel like you want to hurt yourself, go hang out with a friend or call a buddy. I’m sure that it has nothing to do with cannabis. And please remember, help is available 24/7 at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1 (800) 273-8255.
it goes away. Is that weird? -Hans Washer
What is that, and why should I care? -Silver Surfer
Hi Hans, You’re not alone. Roughly two percent of folks report impairing, repeated thoughts or actions that they feel they “have to” do. A subset responded to cannabidiol. Researchers are still working out the details. If you want to try CBD on its own, let me know how things go. Or, check out my homies at abct.org for a behavioral intervention. A standard chat and some stress reduction can go a long way.
I’m kind of OCD, but if I smoke some Harley Quinn,
I saw you had a paper on “Oceanic Boundlessness.”
Hi Silver, My lab recently showed that experienced cannabis users think that a big dose in the right setting makes folks feel at one with their community and the universe—an effect that looks important in recent work on psilocybin and depression. I’m not recommending the home game. Depression can be a tough road. Nevertheless, if you feel like lying down and re-evaluating your goals, desires and aims, cannabis might help you see the bright side of the life you’re living.
Got a question for Dr. Mitch? Email him at 420research@gmail.com.
PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK
ASK DR. MITCH
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LEGAL DIRECTORY ARIZONA JAMAL ALLEN
Allen & Associates, Lawyers 1811 S. Alma School Rd, Ste #145 Mesa, AZ 85210 Phone: (480) 899-1025 Fax: (480) 248-6389 www.GoodAZLawyers.com All Stops, Arrests & Seizures
Compliance, Regulation, Hemp/CBD Counseling, Criminal Defense, and Civil Litigation. NORML Legal Committee Lifetime Member. CHRISTOPHER M. GLEW
1851 E. First Street. Ste #840 Santa Ana, CA 92705 Phone: 714-648-0004 Fax: 714-648-0501 glewlaw@gmail.com
ARMANDO NAVA
The Nava Law Firm, PLLC 1641 E. Osborn Rd, Ste 8 Phoenix, AZ 85016 Phone: (602) 358-0288 Fax: (602) 734-3657 Email: anava@navalawaz.com Website: navalawaz.com Passionate Criminal Defense & DUI Firm. Our clients receive professional, experienced, and aggressive representation.
CALIFORNIA
BRUCE M. MARGOLIN
Director of LA NORML 337 S. Beverly Dr. #102 Beverly Hills, CA 90212 Phone: (800) 420-LAWS (5297) or (310) 652-0995 www.420Laws.com MargolinLawOffice@gmail. com Cannabis Business Lic. & Criminal Defense since 1967 App: 420 LAWS (free download) w/ Panic Button for recording.
ERIN CARLSTROM
Dickenson, Peatman & Fogarty 100 B Street, Suite 320 Santa Rosa, CA 95401 Phone: (707) 524-7000 Email: ecarlstrom@dpf-law. com Website: www.dpf-law.com Award-winning law firm dedicated to regulated agriculture and cannabis law. 50+ years representing agribusinesses statewide. Expert Compliance/Licensing, Land Use, M&A, Real Estate, Employment, Intellectual Property and General Counsel.
DEAN ROCCO
Wilson Elser 555 South Flower Street, Ste #2900 Los Angeles, CA 90071 Phone: (213) 330-8922 Dean.Rocco@wilsonelser.com www.WilsonElser.com National law firm with practice team dedicated exclusively to cannabis law. Big law quality with reasonable rates. Compliance/Licensing, Commercial Services, M&A, Real Estate, Product Liability, Employment Practices Counseling, Intellectual Property, General Counsel work.
MICHAEL E. CINDRICH
Law Offices of Michael E. Cindrich, APC 225 Broadway, Suite 1900, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 262-2500 Fax: (619) 819-7342 Email: Contact Us Website: www. michaelcindrich.com Top Cannabis Law Firm in California. Representation includes Licensing,
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ERIC SHEVIN
NORML Legal Committee Lifetime Member 15260 Ventura Blvd. Ste #1400 Sherman Oaks, CA 91403 Phone: 818-784-2700 Fax: 818-784-2411 EShevin@gmail.com www.ShevinLaw.com Cannabis expertise, criminal defense & business formation.
CRAIG & MARC WASSERMAN
Pot Brothers at Law 12362 Beach Blvd., Suite 15 Stanton, CA 90680 Phone: (855) WASSLAW Fax: (855) WASSLAW Email: thewasslaw@sbcglobal. net Website: www. potbrothersatlaw.com Representing individuals & businesses, cannabis compliance, regulation & licensing and criminal defense. Created the SHUT THE FUCK UP (when cops ask questions) movement. Co-Hosts of Cannabis Talk 101 on 101.5 FM.
LUKE ZIMMERMAN ESQ. LL.M Law Office Luke S Zimmerman APC 201 Spear St, Ste #1100 San Francisco, CA 94105 Trademarks, copyright, contract review, licensing agreements & other intellectual property assistance Licensed in California, but also works with clients at the federal and international level Phone: (415) 230-5308 Fax: (415) 230-5312 LukesZimmerman@gmail.com www.LawOfficeLSZ.com
www.TheRodmanLawGroup. com The Rodman Law Group specializes in business, cannabis, cryptocurrency and blockchain technologies, industrial hemp, securities, and intellectual property law. LEONARD FRIELING
1942 Broadway, Ste #314 Boulder, CO 80302 LFrieling@Lfrieling.com www.DrugLawyerColorado. com 40 yrs criminal defense. Former Judge, Board Member Emeritus Colorado NORML, Life NORML Legal Committee, Chair, Exec. Committee, CO Bar Assoc., 8 years Chair Boulder Crim Defense Bar. Teacher, writer, activist, mentor, state and nationally.
CONNECTICUT NICHOLAS PAINDIRIS, ESQ.
Brown, Paindiris & Scott, LLP 2252 Main Street Glastonbury, CT 06033 Phone: (860) 659-0700 Fax: (860) 652-4382 NPaindiris@bpslawyers.com www.BPSLawyers.com Helping small businesses and individuals with their cannabis-legal needs. From start-ups to licensure, custody issues to criminal defense, contact our experienced team of lawyers.
COLORADO FLORIDA DONNIE EMMI
Hunsaker | Emmi, P.C. 1667 Cole Blvd, Ste #290 Golden, Colorado 80401 Phone: (303) 456-5116 Donnie@helegal.com www.HeLegal.com Representing investors and businesses in the cannabis industry, including general corporate/litigation matters. (Located next to the Colorado Marijuana Enforcement Division.
BJORN E. BRUNVAND
Brunvand, Wise, P.A. 615 Turner St. Clearwater, FL 33756 Phone: (727) 446-7505 Fax: (727) 446-8147 Email: bjorn@acquitter.com Website: www.acquitter.com Lifetime member of NORML, FACDL, and NACDL. Florida Board Certified Criminal Trial Attorney and AV Rated. RP FOLEY
DAVID RODMAN
The Rodman Law Group, LLC 1724 Vine Street Denver, CO 80206 Info@therodmanlawgroup.com
Law Office of Roger P. Foley, P.A. 901 North Olive Ave. West Palm Beach, Fl 33401 Phone: (561) 746-7076
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LEGAL DIRECTORY Email: rpfoley@rpfoley.com Website: www.felonyflorida. com Arrested for Marijuana? Motion to Suppress based on 4th,5th,14th amendments are key. Attacking the affidavit for warrant on Growhouse/Trafficking case are mandatory. We don’t dabble in drug defense we fight. Offices in Broward and Palm Beach counties. L. GREGORY LOOMAR, P.A.
8201 Peters Road, Ste #1000 Plantation, FL 33324 Phone: (954) 433-2345 (Call us for a FREE consultation!) Greg@LGLoomarLaw.com www.LGLoomarLaw.com With over 25 years of experience, we help clients through the entire process of starting and operating legal medical, cannabis or ancillary businesses. We help your business grow! DONALD A. LYKKEBAK
250 Park Ave South, Suite 200 Winter Park, FL 32789 Ph: 407-425-4044 Fax: 321-972-8907 Don@donaldlykkebak.com www.DonaldLykkebak.com “Board certified criminal trial lawyer with over 30 years’ experience.”
KANSAS JUSTIN A. BARRETT
Barrett Law Firm, P.A. 280 N. Court Colby, KS 67701 Phone: (785) 460-0188 Fax: (785) 460-9817 Jbarrett@st-tel.net CHRISTOPHER A. ROHR
Law Office of Christopher A. Rohr, P.A. P.O. Box 545 Colby, KS 67701 Phone: (785) 460-0555 Cell: (785) 269-7699
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Marijuana and Criminal Defense
MARYLAND ADAVID E. KINDERMANN
Potomac Legal, LLC 10122 River Rd. Suite 203 Potomac, MD 20854 Office: (301) 299-2063 Fax: (301) 299-2164 Cell: (301) 762-7900 David@potomac.legal www.Potomac.Legal Licensed in Maryland, DC & Federal Courts incl US Supreme Court
MASSACHUSETTES JOSEPH GOLDBERGGIULIANO, ESQ.
104 Boston Post Road, Ste #6 Weston, MA 02493 Phone: (617) 858-1529 Fax: (617) 203-9000 JGoldbergGiuliano@gmail. com www.MassDefenseLaw.com Member of NORML’s legal committee since 2010, and a lifetime member since 2012. Current clients include: medical dispensary applicants, entrepreneurs, a cannabis chef, and military veterans looking to enter the cannabis industry. NORMAN S. ZALKIND
Zalkind, Duncan & Bernstein LLP 65A Atlantic Ave. Boston, MA 02110 Phone: 617-742-6020 Fax: 617-742-3269 NZalkind@zalkindlaw.com www.ZalkindLaw.com Michigan MATTHEW R. ABEL
Attorney at Law Cannabis Counsel®, P.L.C. Lawyers Who Roll The Right Way 2930 E. Jefferson Avenue Detroit, Michigan 48207 Phone: (313) 446-2235 AttorneyAbel@me.com
Former president of MO Assoc. of Criminal Defense Lawyers, NORML Board Chair.
NEW HAMPSHIRE
BARTON W. MORRIS, JR.
SVEN WIBERG
Cannabis Legal Group 520 N. Main Street Royal Oak, MI 48067 Barton@ cannabislegalgroup.com www.CannabisLegalGroup. com Top rated law firm specializing in the cannabis business, state and municipal licensing. We provide counsel to caregivers & patients, along with aggressive and award-winning criminal
Wiberg Law Office 2456 Lafayette Road, Suite 7 Portsmouth, NH, 03801 Phone: (603) 686-5454 Fax: (603) 457-0332 Sven@nhcriminaldefense. com
defense. DENISE POLLICELLA
Cannabis Attorneys of Michigan 4312 E Grand River Avenue Howell, Michigan 48843 Phone: (517) 456-1181 Fax: (517) 456-1181 Admin@pollicella.net www.CannabisAttorneysOfMichigan.com Follow/Message us on our Facebook page at Facebook.com/CannaBizLawyer
NEW JERSEY FRANK T. LUCIANO, P.C.
147 Main St, Suite #5 Lodi, NJ 07644 Phone: (973) 471-0004 Fax: (973) 471-1244 www.cdswiz.com Lifetime member of NORML’s Legal Committee. Over 40 years of defending drug prosecutions. Free book on drug cases in New Jersey POST POLAK GOODSELL & STRAUCHLER P.A.
425 Eagle Rock Avenue, Suite 200 Roseland, NJ 07068-1717 Phone: (973) 228-9900 www.PostPolak.com Jwarsh@postpolak.com
NEW YORK
MISSOURI
NEAL WIESNER DANIEL DODSON
315 Marshall Street Jefferson City, MO 65101 Phone: (573) 636-9200 or (800) DODSON-1 DD@danieldodson.net www.DanielDodson.net Board member, NACDL; Nationwide advice/ referrals.
Wiesner Law Firm 34 East 23rd Street, 6th FL New York, NY 10010 Phone: (212) 732-2225 Fax: (646) 678-3532 www.WiesnerFirm.com NWiesner@wiesnerfirm. com
OHIO
JONES & MUSGRAVE
DANIEL M. MARGOLIS
Brady Musgrave Kristin Jones 400 E. Walnut St. Suite 130 Springfield, MO 65806 417-866-0110 JonesMusgraveAttorneys. com
The Law Office of Daniel M. Margolis, LLC 1360 West 9th Street, Ste #200 Cleveland, OH 44113 Dan@burningriverlaw.com www.DanMargolis.com NORML Legal Committee Member. Criminal Defense and Education Law/Student Defense Attorney. Former Cuyahoga County Prosecutor with 20+ Years of Experience.
DAN VIETS
15 N. 10th St. Columbia, MO 65201 Phone: (573) 443-6866 DanViets@justice.com
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LEGAL DIRECTORY OKLAHOMA L. JUSTIN LOWE, P.C.
3133 N.W. 63rd Street Oklahoma City, OK 73116 Phone: (405) 848-7777 Fax: (405) 767-0529 Justin@justinlowepc.com CHAD MOODY
217 North Harvey Street Suite 104, Oklahoma City, OK, 73102 Phone: (405) 231-4343 Fax: (405) 231-0233 TheDrugLawyer@ thedruglawyer.com When a Conviction is Not an Option
OREGON JOSHUA C. GIBBS
Reynolds Defense Firm 3220 SW 1st Avenue, Ste #20, Portland, OR, 97239 Phone: (541) 224-8255 Josh@KindLegalDefense. com www. ReynoldsDefenseFirm.com “We represent Kind people” JOHN C. LUCY IV
The Union Bank Building 707 S.W. Washington Street, Ste #1410 Portland, Oregon 97205 Office: (503) 227-6000 Fax: (503) 227-4702 John@Law420.com www.Law420.com Criminal Defense and Marijuana Business Law
Applications, and Consulting on related corporation, financing, real estate, design, security, and compliance. SIMON T. GRILL
532 Elm Street Reading, PA 19601 Phone: (888) 333-6016 stg1300@epix.net Marijuana defense. PATRICK NIGHTINGALE
Cannabis Legal Solutions 707 Grant Street, 2340 Gulf Tower Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Phone: (412) 553-1744 Fax: (412) 553-0142 Email: patrick@ cannabislegalsolutions.net Website: www. cannabislegalsolutions.net Cannabis Legal Solutions is a Pittsburgh based law firm dedicated to serving the legal needs of Pennsylvania’s emerging medical cannabis industry and Pennsylvania’s patient population.
RHODE ISLAND MICHAEL A. KELLY, ESQ
Kelly, Souza, Rocha, Parmenter, PC 128 Dorrance Street, Ste #300 Providence, RI 02903 Phone: (401) 490-7334 Fax: (401) 490-7874 MKelly@ksrplaw.com www.KSRPLaw.com
SOUTH CAROLINA
PENNSYLVANIA
ROBERT E. IANUARIO, DANIEL L. GLENNON, ESQUIRE
The Glennon Firm, LLC 1325 Spruce Street Philadelphia, PA 19107 Phone: (215) 568-5520 DGlennon@glennonlaw. com www.GlennonLaw.com Medical Marijuana
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M.B.A., J.D. Attorney & Counselor 204 Lavenia Ave, Greenville, SC, 29601 Phone: (864) 255-9988 Fax: (866) 212-3249 www.SC420attorney.com Member of Norml Legal Committee, Member of National College for DUI
over Texas. Offices in Dallas, Waco & Temple. ADAM TISDELL
Defense W. BENJAMIN MCCLAIN, JR., L.L.C.
Attorney at Law 1300 E Washington St, Ste I Greenville, SC 29607-1858 Phone: (864) 2719097,(864) 271-9098 Fax: (864) 271-9099 E-mail: McClainWB@gmail. com Member of NORML’s Legal Committee
TEXAS
Tisdell Law Firm 1800 S. Washington Street, Ste #105 Amarillo, Texas 79102 Office: (806) 352-4844 Toll free: (855) i40-weed Adam@tisdelllaw.com www.TisdellLaw.com Tisdell Law firm handles all your marijuana defense needs whether you get busted with wax, dabs, hash, edibles, tincture, vapes, lotions, or just some buds. Remember if you get busted call 855-i40-weed.
WASHINGTON
BLACKBURN & BROWN L.L.P.
718 SW 16 Avenue, Amarillo, TX, 79101 Phone: (806) 371-8333 Fax: (806) 350-7716 Info@blackburnbrownlaw. com www.BlackburnBrownLaw. com
PAT STILEY
Stiley & Cikutovich 1403 W. Broadway Spokane, WA 99201 Phone: (888) 440-9001 Fudea@earthlink.net www.LegalJoint.net If you grew it, we will come.
WISCONSIN
GREG GLADDEN
3017 Houston Ave. Houston, TX 77009-6734 Phone: (713) 880-0333 Gladden@airmail.net GERALD GOLDSTEIN
2900 Tower Life Bldg. San Antonio, TX 78205 Phone: (210) 226-1463 GGandH@aol.com
MARK D. RICHARDS S.C.
Richards & Dimmer, S.C. 209 8th Street Racine, WI 53403 Phone: (262) 632-2200 Fax: (262) 632-3888 MDR@racinedefense.com www.RacineDefense.com Aggressive Drug Defense
CANADA
C. BARRETT THOMAS
Blanchard & Thomas, LLP 8150 N. Central Expressway, Suite 1600 Dallas, Texas 75206 Phone: (866) 219-6119 Fax: (866) 219-6119 Email: barrett@blanchardthomas. com Website: www.blanchardthomas. com Don’t trust your FREEDOM to just anyone. Mr. Thomas is a former Chief of Police and First Asst. Dist. Atty. who uses skills learned over a decade in law enforcement to defend clients from drug crimes all
MATT MAURER
Minden Gross LLP 145 King Street West, Suite 2200 Toronto, ON, M5H4G2 Phone: (416) 362-3711 Fax: 416-864-9223 Email: mmaurer@ mindengross.com Website: www.mindengross. com Matt is a lawyer & Chair of Minden Gross LLP’s Cannabis Industry Group. He provides regulatory and business advice as well as cannabis advocacy to clients across North America who operate, or seek to operate, within the Canadian cannabis industry.
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CANNABIS CROSSWORDS SHOW YOUR EXPERTISE CANNABIS BY ANY OTHER NAME
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3 The slang term for cannabis that makes it sound like a useless plant
1 The subspecies of cannabis that’s known for its sedative effects
8 The subspecies of cannabis that’s known for stimulating effects
2 The place to buy your taxed and regulated cannabis is called a _______
9 Cannabis resin pressed together goes by this name
4 Butane hash oil with a sticky, concentrated consistency
13 A gizmo that heats the plant but doesn’t ignite is called a _______ 14 The slang term for cannabis that makes it sound as if it belongs on the stove 15 Lemon-lime tasting strains typically have this terpene
5 A name for beginners, novices or newbies 6 A name for a concentrate consistency, also what candles are made out of 7 Another name for the trimmed, dried flower portion of the cannabis plant 10 The name for low-potency cannabis grown for its fiber
15. Limonene Down 1. Indica 2. Dispensary 4. Dabs 5. Gummies
6. Wax 7. Buds 10. Hemp 11. Joint 12. Linalool
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Across 3. Weed 8. Sativa 9. Hashish 13. Vaporizer 14. Pot
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11 A classic way to smoke bud, all rolled up 12 If it smells like lavender, it’s most likely caused by this terpene