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contents04.16 Vol 7 IssUE 10
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A GRATEFUL
LEGEND An inside look at Grateful Dead vocalist, guitarist, father and all out amazing performer, Jerry Garcia, and his influence on the cannabis scene.
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ON THE COVER: Photo Š Jay Blakesberg Photography
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inside
contents
04.16
86 The Most Wonderful Day of the Year
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420 Entertainment Forecast Hollywood has been playing with cannabis for years, but soon, it will take center stage in film and television!
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The Ultimate Party Playlist Check out the cannabis-inspired party playlist we’ve created just for you and your 420 holiday gathering. You can even scan the QR code and download it straight to your mobile device!
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Canna-Honey Bees Take a look at the innovative use of bee pollination and cannabis flowers that a French bee keeper has come up with, in our exclusive interview.
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Four Trends for Cannabis in 2016 2016 is going to be a banner year for cannabis—from elevated pre-rolls to innovative new tech, we’ve got the lowdown on what you should keep an eye out for.
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420 Festivities We’ve got the tips on how to make your 420 party one for the books, as well as trends to look forward to in the industry and so much more!
p h o t o b y J oel M e a d er s
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16 News Nuggets 18 By the Numbers 22 Local News 28 Legal Corner
30 Dispensary Highlight
38 Advocate Highlight
66 Entertainment Reviews Courage
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154 Recipes
in every issue
158 Colorado Now!
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46 features 126
Determined Denver Regulation shape-up for greenest city in America.
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Saving Gwen The story of young Gwenevere and how using cannabis has saved her from suffering from epileptic seizures.
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Industry Insider CEO Doug Francis has worked to make sure that Weedmaps is the front page of the cannabis community.
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Head Case A recent study by two University of Colorado professors tells all about migraines and how cannabis can help.
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Artistic Nostalgia Mike Graves draws up unique and whimsical cartoons that everyone can enjoy.
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Sway With Me Swagata Banerjee keeps the art of Odissi dancing alive in Colorado.
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Chief Creativity Local rappers Kontrast & Fo Chief are driven by pure musical passion.
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Proper Pesticide Preparations More drama with recalls in Colorado.
online Exclusive!
departments news
04.16
d Rocky Mountain High:
reviews
X Games' Tanner Hall Always Skis with Cannabis
46 Strain, Edible & Concentrate Reviews 62 Cool Stuff 148 Growing Culture 150 Destination Unknown 152 Profile in
162 News of the Weird
d U.S. Supreme Court
Tosses Anti-Cannabis Lawsuit Against Colorado
Vol 7 IssUE 10
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CULTURE M
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Publisher Jeremy Zachary Editor-In-Chief Evan Senn associate Editor Ashley Bennett managing Editor Addison Herron-Wheeler Editorial coordinator Victoria Banegas Editorial Contributors Benjamin Adams, Sheryll Alexander, Marguerite Arnold, Jake Browne, Cole Garrison, Jasen T. Davis, Alex Distefano, David Downs, Natasha Guimond, Anthony Herrold, Pamela Jayne, Heather Johnson, Joe Jatcko, David Jenison, Kevin Longrie, Emily Manke, Tyler Markwart, Meital Manzuri, Sandy Moriarty, Madison Ortiz, Denise Pollicella, R. Scott Rappold, Paul Rogers, Joy Shannon, Lanny Swerdlow, Simon Weedn, Zara Zhi Photographers Steve Baker, Kristopher Christensen, John Gilhooley, Joel Meaders, Duncan Rolfson Art Director Steven Myrdahl production manager Tommy LaFleur Graphic Designers Tanya Delgadillo, Jonathan Ibarra Regional Manager Kim Cook Account Executives Jon Bookatz, Eric Bulls, Cole Garrison, Gene Gorelik, Emily Musser, Beau Odom, Justin Olson, Jim Saunders, Chris Thatcher, April Tygart general Manager Iris Norsworthy Office Assistant Angelina Thompson director of digital media Brian Gingrich digital media Editor David Edmundson Ctv Contributors Quinn Marie Distribution Manager Cruz Bobadilla
Culture速 Magazine is published every month and distributes 50,000 magazines at over 1,400 locations throughout Colorado. No articles, illustrations, photographs, or other matter within may be reproduced without written permission. Culture速 Magazine is a registered trademark. All rights reserved. 8156 S. Wadsworth Blvd., #E239 Littleton | CO Phone/Fax 888.694.2046 www.iReadCulture.com
CULTURE速 Magazine is printed using post-recycled paper.
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/freeculturemag
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NEWS
nuggets Cannabis Clubs in Colorado Springs Have Eight Years to Phase Out The Colorado Springs City Council voted 6-3 to continue to enact its ban on cannabis clubs. Initially, the clubs were only going to be given five years to phase out, but Councilman Tom Strand amended the original guidelines and the clubs will now have eight years, according to The Gazette. During this eight-year timeline, cannabis clubs are expected to pay to be licensed through the City Clerk’s Office like other cannabis and liquor establishments. In attempt to alter the council’s position on the matter, 70 people attended the meeting to testify but came out unsuccessful. Many expressed concern for veterans who suffer from PTSD, asking councilmembers where these men will go to medicate safely and in good company. Councilman Keith King urged club owners to work to get an initiative on the ballot to try to save the clubs and the community created along with them.
Vermont May be First State to Legalize Recreational Through Legislature Vermont could be the first state to legalize recreational cannabis through legislation rather than voter initiative, according to The National Memo. A bill that was passed by the Senate after a year of review will allow adults 21-and-over to enjoy recreational cannabis by 2018. During its year-long review, Senate determined limits on recreational cannabis use and determined that it would not permit personal cultivation or edible consumption. Aside from the restrictions set forth by the Senate, the bill will also impose a 25 percent tax on recreational cannabis that will go towards drug enforcement and drug education programs. While the bill has been approved by Senate, state representatives are expected to review it before the legislative session ends in May. Cannabis advocates in the state believe that this will encourage other states to pass recreational laws through legislation as well.
Switzerland Hopes to Fight Cannabis Black Market with Legal Clubs With cannabis reform in Europe slowly taking shape, Switzerland has revealed a plan to open four cannabis clubs in Geneva, Zurich, Bern and Basel. The clubs are pilot programs intended to help people with existing drug problems and are planned to allow 2,000 people to use cannabis therapy legally, according to RT. Although this seems like a legitimate approach on minimizing the cannabis black market in Switzerland, this topic has been under debate since 2014, with the Swiss People’s Party in Geneva opposing the movement because to them, cannabis is a “hard drug.” Currently, an estimated 500,000 people illegally use cannabis in Switzerland. In 2013, the federal government decided to remove possession of 10 grams or less of cannabis from its list of criminal offenses and only fine 100 francs for those convicted of possession. 16
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Cannabis Tax Will Help Fund Education for Low Income Latinos in Pueblo A new voter initiated excise cannabis tax in Pueblo is set to help low income Latinos go to college. The tax is expected to generate $700,000 in revenue and will fund a scholarship for Latino high school seniors planning on going to local community or state colleges, according to Fusion. Currently, Latinos make up 43 percent of Pueblo County’s population, yet only 21 percent of Pueblo City’s residents have Bachelor’s Degrees. The fund is expected to grow by five percent in 2020 and will be able to match other local grants. Drug Policy Alliance Spokesman Art Way told Fusion that other cities in Colorado plan on making similar moves to promote public education and health. Last year Colorado’s cannabis industry collected $135 million in taxes, showing the economic boost a safe and regulated industry can bring to any state.
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The percentage of cannabis tax revenue that will be used to fund scholarships for low-income Latinos in the city of Pueblo next year: (Source: Fusion)
NEWS
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The number of cannabis industry-related commercial building permits that were in issued in Pueblo in 2015: (Source: Colorado Springs Independent)
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The number of women who attended the 2016 Women Grow event in Denver, in February: (Source: International Business Times)
The combined revenue that the seven recreational and medical cannabis shops in Aspen made in 2015: (Source:
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8,347,557
The percentage of Colorado Democratic caucusmembers who feel that legalization of cannabis is “good:” (Source: The Washington Free Beacon)
The Washington Times)
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The number of signatures required to get the Arkansas medical cannabis initiative on the ballot this fall:
85,000
(Source: Arkansas Times)
The percentage of Texans who support expanding medical cannabis access to include more qualifying conditions: (Source: Extract Suntimes)
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“Wasted Talent 2”
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(Source: Forbes)
WHAT: “Wasted Talent 2” exhibit. WHEN/WHERE: On view Fri, April 15-Sun, April 17. The Hive Gallery Art Collective 9975 East Colfax Ave., Aurora. INFO: Go to www.eventbrite.com to purchase tickets.
Not too into partying hard this 420? Check out a unique and exciting art exhibit! With the help of Cannabis Revival Colorado and Greenhouse ministry, Australian artist TROG comes to Denver to showcase his cannabis inspired art. TROG is known by many in the cannabis community and has created works for Tommy Chong, Kottonmouth Kings and painted for festivals like
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The increased percentage of one cannabis delivery service’s orders during Super Bowl 50 weekend:
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Kush Con and Harvest Fest. TROG has also been highlighted in many cannabis-based publications and blogs. With bright colors and wacky characters, TROG’s work is an experience within itself. Not only does this unique artist inspire cannabis lovers with his imaginatively complex artworks, when asked if he smoked cannabis himself, he said “Yes Please!” This is a special event, and tickets are required to attend.
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NEWS
LOCAL
Large Local Impact Boulder considers new growing restrictions
T
by Addison Herron-Wheeler
he first few years of legalization are very exciting for the states reaping the benefits, but there is one major downside to being built from the ground up: All the changing regulations. It seems that every time a place gets established with growing, selling or cultivating cannabis, new rules pop up that change the way things can be done. Some regulations on growing recently imposed in Boulder County could have a major impact on the industry. According to Times-Call, the Boulder County Planning Commission is currently deciding whether they should implement new regulations for their county. If these new rules go through, only single-family dwelling units would be able to cultivate homegrown cannabis. No one living in an apartment building, condo or duplex could grow or make infused products, and no one living in a building zoned for retail could do so either. The new regulations would also specify that only six plants could be grown per single-family household, and that those plants could only be for the people in the household. Current regulations allow for as much cannabis as can fit into 300 square feet to be grown indoors, and they also allow for those plants to be grown by caregivers for other patients. Since many more than six plants can fit into 300 square feet, these new regulations would have a big effect on current home growers. Another new rule would be that cannabis grows cannot cause any strong odors or loud sounds that disturb the peace of the surrounding areas. The new codes would also relate specifically to unincorporated areas of the county, meaning areas that are not part of a city or town within Boulder County. All of the towns and cities in the county have their own rules and regulations about growing cannabis, which would not be affected by these changing rules.
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Bryan Harding, one of the senior planners for Boulder County’s Land Use Department, reported that the Commission has received 153 letters on the topic. 136 people supported the proposal, 11 had no issue with it and three opposed it. Several of the people supporting it complained about dangers from indoor grows. Apparently, several of these grows have caused fires due to faulty wiring. Opponents stated that limiting to six plants would be harmful for patients who relied on caregivers to grow their product for them. Harding explained that one letter stated an opposition to the legality of the proceedings. The author wrote that he or she “questioned the enforceability of marijuana regulations when
“If these new rules go through, only single-family dwelling units would be able to cultivate homegrown cannabis.” other residential uses and activities also have an impact on neighbors, such as loud noises from lawn mowers or barbecue smoke that drifts across property lines.” While having indoor grows that aren’t being properly regulated can certainly cause hazards, this new regulation could have a major impact on caregivers and patients, as well as those who grow their own and live in apartments or condos. Hopefully, if this measure passes, Boulder County will find new ways to support the patients who rely on cannabis for their medical needs. c
420 Eve
on the Rocks Method Man and Redman have been collaborating with each other since the ‘90s, and during this time have expressed their profound love of cannabis, even starring in the cannabis movie classic How High. In celebration of 420, the duo has decided to headline 420 Eve on the Rocks along with Wutang Clan members Ghost Face Killah and Raekwon. Others included on the show’s line-up are Joey Bad A$$ and the Under Achievers, with more performers expected to take part in the event. Held at the beautiful Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater, 420 Eve on the Rocks is an ideal 420 celebration for those who want to dance and enjoy cannabis in the great outdoors with some of hip-hop’s greatest artists. WHAT: 420 Eve on the Rocks. WHEN/WHERE: Tues, April 19. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, 18300 W. Alameda Pkwy., Morrison. INFO: Visit redrocksonline. com for more details.
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NEWS
legal corner
BE PREPARED
Tips and advice for consuming responsibly on 4/20 by Ann Toney
Well, it’s that time of year again, for the annual celebration of 4/20. We have much to be celebrating, with the ballots and initiatives in states continuing to legalize medical and recreational cannabis. We want to keep you safe when celebrating so you can avoid an arrest and enjoy the festivities. Here are some tips and reminders:
1 Best advice ever: Use Uber or Lyft on 4/20. This is the easiest time of year for police to find you. They are driving around looking for just you. Then, when they stop you for a tail light violation, they come to your car window and there it is! The smell! Once they smell cannabis, you are getting arrested. Accept it. So, what can you do?
6 Public consumption of cannabis is illegal. Do not consume cannabis in public even if it is an edible, even though most people could not tell whether you had a cannabis edible or not.
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2 The smell of cannabis stays in your hair and on your clothes. A passenger 21 or older can have cannabis in a container to show the officer where the smell is coming from.
7 When you are out, don’t advertise you are using. Often times law enforcement won’t know you are using cannabis unless you tell someone.
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3 If you know someone who does not smoke cannabis, see if they will be your designated driver. Anyone who uses cannabis on a regular basis will probably have a THC level in their blood even if they have not been ingesting. So, if arrested for DUID, the THC will show up, regardless of whether you are under the influence of cannabis or not.
8 Stick close to home and have people over and consider having a party where people can stay over so everyone can enjoy the festivities without getting arrested on their way home.
4 Be polite when approached by law enforcement. You do not have to answer their questions though. You do need to identify yourself when asked. Your best response to any question is, “Officer, I have nothing to say.” Next best question, “Officer, am I free to leave?” Do not accept the invitation to do roadsides and definitely do not do the Drug Recognition Evaluation (DRE). As Nancy Reagan would advise, “Just say no.”
9 No traveling with cannabis out of state. Most neighboring states are not cannabis friendly and possession is still a felony in many of them.
5 Law enforcement are at the bar looking for public consumption. This isn’t as good as a DUID for them, but once at the bar, they can watch who leaves and radio to another officer to follow you. When you drive away, bam! You are getting stopped for a traffic violation.
4th Annual 420 Cannabis Cup Party Just blocks from the Denver Cannabis Cup, iBake holds a spectacular party for cannabis lovers to enjoy on top of the festivities going down at the cup. Because this event has gotten so big, there will be two locations at this year’s iBake 420 party, but only guests with proper ticketing will be allowed to attend both. This is a four-day event for guest to enjoy for the duration of the 2016 Denver Cannabis Cup with ticket packages, which includes dab bar access and gift bags. While those perks are for VIP ticket holders, all guest will be able to enjoy vendors, live performances and other activities. Kick off the 420 weekend with this ongoing party where you can mingle with other cannabis lovers and enjoy the plant however you’d like.
10 Make sure there are no minors present when cannabis is being used, as you can be charged with child abuse. Having a child in the car if you are charged with DUID allows law enforcement to add the charge of child abuse. c
WHAT: 4th Annual 420 Cannabis Cup Party. WHEN/WHERE: Sat, April 16-Weds April 20. iBake Denver, 6125 Washington St., Denver. INFO: For tickets visit www. eventbrite.com.
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REVIEWs
dispensary highlight
The Farm
Interviewed: Alison Ledden (Marketing Director) 2801 Iris Ave., Boulder, 80301 (303) 440-1323 www.thefarmco.com
How and when did your dispensary start up? On November 10, 2009, The Farm first began serving patients as a medical dispensary, obtaining one of the first licenses available in Boulder. In April 2014, The Farm converted to an adult-use, recreational dispensary and we are now open to the public, 21 and over. The Farm solidified its reputation as the finest dispensary in Boulder in 2015, winning
the coveted “Best of Boulder” award for a Recreational Dispensary. A few months later, The Farm won the Customer Service category at “The Cannabist Awards,” chosen from an impressive list of noteworthy Colorado marijuana businesses. Professional, friendly and inviting, The Farm is a marijuana dispensary where everyone can feel comfortable with their new-found freedom, the freedom to openly and proudly shop at a main street location to legally purchase high-grade cannabis, finally.
What’s the story behind the name of your shop? The Farm name and its logo, the cow, are more significant than most people know. The founders of The Farm are from the Midwest and hold strong agrarian values of integrity, honesty and hard work. We’re a little old fashioned. It seemed a perfect fit to name our company The Farm, as we’re also in the business of agriculture, only growing a different kind of crop. The cow was born naturally and symbolically, since she loves grass, spending long days grazing in the pastures. She’s a staple of the farm, some consider her sacred, the feminine, a black and white caregiver, similar to her Holland cousins, the Holsteins. What are the biggest challenges
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you face in this industry as a dispensary? Biggest joys? Navigating the seas of compliance is our biggest challenge. We often say we’re in the compliance business first, cannabis second. It brings us joy to act as models for responsible adult use. We are joyful to be pioneers in the movement to end cannabis prohibition. We find joy in the endeavor of shifting the common perception of marijuana consumers built via propaganda campaigns to the loving, inclusive community alive today. Being recognized as the “Best Recreational Dispensary” by the Best of Boulder in 2015 and referred to by many as the “nicest dispensary in all of Colorado” is very rewarding. Our joys are many.
What is the one thing you want patients to know about your dispensary? We want to clarify what we mean when we talk about Craft Cannabis. Craft Cannabis is the result of our company ideology. It’s the product of an artful attunement of our entire team with the plants in combination with a specific set of protocols. The Farm cultivates 100 percent of our own cannabis in Boulder. We are passionate about producing only the best cannabis. We care about the health and well-being of our customers, our employees and our community. At our core, we are Craft Cannabis growers and we don’t sell anything we wouldn’t smoke ourselves. c
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REVIEWs
advocate highlight
Sean Major Occupation: I am an active duty Wounded Warrior at the Wounded Warrior Battalion. It is my responsibility to attend various medical appointments associated with my 33 medical conditions. It is also my responsibility to enroll in adaptive sports and focus on my future.
When and how did you become an advocate for cannabis? A part of the requirements here at the Wounded Warrior Battalion is to complete an internship, but I want to work in the cannabis industry, so that creates a huge grey area. I attended THC University and gained a number of certificates for the cannabis industry. After a detailed assessment of my character, I became the first and only active duty service member given permission to work in the cannabis industry.
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How has cannabis benefited your life? My father is an Army vet and I unknowingly witnessed a huge change in him as he medicated with cannabis in the ‘90s. I lived with my grandparents in 2005 and found out they both medicated as well. While living with my grandparents I utilized horticulture as a form of therapy before I even knew what horticulture was. I created a garden for myself and I absolutely fell in love with the art of gardening. Being at the Wounded
Warrior Battalion, I see other Wounded Warriors completely zombified on some of these drugs. It really digs deep to see all these pills being consumed by those I wish to deploy with. Waking up every morning with a routine to take 12-plus pills is disgusting. You can’t even eat a full breakfast because you drank so much water just to get the pills down. Cannabis saved my life by giving me hope in a time where there are an average of 23 veteran suicides daily. Cannabis gives me a sense of purpose. I’m blessed with >>
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“Cannabis saved my life by giving me hope in a time where there are an average of 23 veteran suicides daily. Cannabis gives me a sense of purpose.”
the knowledge and passion that can create medicine for those who need it most. I can be a liberator for those who liberate our beautiful country. My guys often remind me to take care of myself. I know I’m a recovering service member, but doing things for others makes me feel more capable. I may have a hard time with a lot of daily activities, but I can grow some amazing relief and teach those in need how to do
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it for themselves. I’m giving a man a fish to eat for a day while also teaching him how to be self sustainable for life. What’s your greatest achievement for the cannabis cause? Simply put, I’m the first and only active duty service member given permission to work in the cannabis industry and I’ve submitted my state physician’s recommendation
for medical marijuana into the navy medical files. Who do you look up to or admire? I admire a lot of people. I would feel disrespectful to just name a few and leave someone out. I have this philosophy to take things I like about people and introduce those qualities into personality. If we are talking about cannabis, there are so many marijuana idols I
have, it will blow your mind. I have items that influenced my actions today that had nothing to do with cannabis. My grandmother is an amazing woman and she has been supportive this entire time with everything I’ve done. She supported me in my choice to defend the constitution and she supports my choice to provide herb for heroes. If you could change one thing about the way cannabis is viewed and/ or treated right now, what would it be? I’m going to make a few people upset but I really want our image with cannabis. And when I say “our,” I’m talking about the cannabis community itself. We advocate for change and fight for the right to be true Americans and enjoy our lives, yet we sometimes create a negative image that makes it take longer to progress. Cannabis is a beneficial herb with life-saving and lifechanging medicinal properties . . . but if we name a strain “Alaskan Donkey Poop,” we aren’t making things any easier on the cause. Cannabis saves lives. Cannabis is a safe alternative to alcohol. These two statements are completely different conversations. Separate the two for the benefit of the patient. c
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REVIEWs
strain, edible & concentrate Available wherever: Canyon Cultivation products are carried.
The Coffee The best part of waking up is now adding a little cannabis to your cup. The folks at Canyon Cultivation have brewed up a winner in The Coffee, a 10mg way to start any day. Featuring beans roasted and brewed right here in Colorado, we enjoyed it best served over ice and would put it up against the regular office brew any day. Sorry, Joyce. Unlike some beverages, it’s completely safe (and recommended) to drink the entire bottle as one dose, despite how much people will beg you for a cup. Staffers that smoke indica for pain-relief particularly loved the kick that helped even them out for a long work day.
Available wherever: O.penVAPE products are carried.
O.penVAPE Craft RESERVE There’s a new sheriff in town, and that’s completely unrelated to Peyton Manning retiring! The folks at O.penVAPE have done it again. Their newest oil, Craft RESERVE, is made from hand selected flower in small batches with 100 percent cannabis-derived terpenes. Combined with their innovative O.penVAPE 2.0 Variable Voltage Battery, testers were blown away by the ability to change from 2.5v to 4.0v. They found innumerable ways to enjoy this top of the line concentrate every time. The clear oil served up supremely clean hits. Our reviewers loved the chatty effect the cartridge had, perfect for parties and other social events.
Available at: Medicine Man in Denver and Aurora.
East Coast Sour Diesel As proud as they are of their pizza and sports teams, New England should actually feel good about East Coast Sour Diesel, one of the signature strains of the region. Medicine Man’s Denver and Aurora locations may have them beat, though, with a truly stanky cut. Chock full of that fuel and sour lemon you might expect, a nice cure brings that home to roost when enjoyed through a vape. A few hits had us feeling like we were transported to Manhattan, as the active body effect is ideal for racing to the nearest subway platform or around all of Central Park. Like the city, this strain never sleeps.
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GET YOUR CLICKS
HERE
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REVIEWs
Sour Maui PHO Sugar Wax
Available at: Mile High Dispensary in Denver.
Spam is great, but Hawaii’s new crown jewel is something that won’t smell awful if left in the sun for long periods of time. We’re talking about Sour Maui PHO Sugar Wax from Mile High Dispensary in Denver, a delightfully terpy extraction done by the experts at Craft. Crumbly without drying out, the flavors are massive and evoke the islands with hibiscus and apple coming through nicely. Reviewers raved about the heady, focused effect that locked into their temples and helped them crush through work, although they wouldn’t have minded some boogie boarding at the beach, either.
Available wherever: Mountain High Suckers products are carried.
Cherry Sucker No one wants to be referred to as a sucker. Not even octopii. The only good scenario is if you’re Mountain High Suckers, purveyors of fine candy treats for years, or you picked up their 10mg Cherry Sucker. Providing both THC and CBD, the cherry flavor is on point and tastes like a fresh bing cherry, masking cannabis flavor so the first lick is as great as the last. We found that one was our magic number, as the dose was a huge mood booster that had reviewers giggling half an hour later. Those with colitis and intestinal issues also heaped praise on the quick relief they felt.
Frankenberry Despite what the cereal boxes of your childhood may have told you, Frankenstein’s Monster did not need to eat. If he was trying to work up an appetite, though, we’d highly recommend Frankenberry, a cross of Banana Kush and a sativa-dominant Blueberry. Available only at The Herbal Cure in Denver. Cracking a jar, you’re hit with big fruit and cheese notes, like a fancy breakfast that emanates from the foxtailing nugs. Several testers noted a focused effect on their stomachs, reducing nausea and helping at mealtime. For a hybrid, you’ll love the clean effect that’s ideal for the daytime.
Available at: CURE Colorado in Denver.
Available at: The Herbal Cure in Denver.
Fire OG Shatter Yelling “Fire!” in a crowded movie theater? Bad. Yelling “Fire!” in a crowded dispensary? Likely, if you’ve seen what Craft is cooking up lately. We couldn’t help but grab a gram of their Fire OG Shatter from CURE Colorado on a recent trip to Denver. One smell of the flat, gold slab and you’d think you were whiffing flower. With no cough on the exhale, reviewers initially felt nearly numb as the hit moved like a wildfire from head to toe, providing excellent relief for cramps and muscle spasms. Don’t plan on being productive. Actually, don’t plan on much. This Fire OG Shatter is a knockout.
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REVIEWs Available at: Chronic Therapy in Wheat Ridge.
WiFi Alien Don’t be alarmed: There aren’t extraterrestrials coming for our bandwidth. Instead, this cross of White Fire and Fire Alien Kush makes WiFi Alien, a delightfully dense sativa from Chronic Therapy in Wheat Ridge. Like a UFO that appears out of nowhere, you’ll keep finding more bowls despite the smaller buds, making it the gift that keeps on giving. Fans of kush will love the musky flavor and intense effect that might be off-putting to novices, as the potency was enough to give one of our rookie reviewers a paranoia that rivals even the biggest conspiracy theorist.
Lemon HP-OG Full Melt As much as we love Hot Pockets and Bagel Bites, the staff go-to from our freezer this week was Craft LLC’s latest full melt. Looking more like the sandy beaches of Bora Bora than usual concentrates, the Lemon HP-OG they’re cranking out is truly one of a kind and best kept at a low temp to preserve consistency. Combining Lemon G, HP-13, and OG Kush, the flavor was like a margarita at Christmas with a good mix of citrus and pine. We experimented with the tiny grains of hash, ultimately adding more and more until one reviewer accused us of having “dab fever.” Treatment? More dabs.
Available wherever: Craft products are carried.
Available wherever: Keef Cola products are carried.
Vita Canna Sometimes, the best products get you high and healthy at the same time. Enter Vita Canna from Keef Cola, a delicious drink that makes smart ingredient choices without sacrificing taste. We’re fans of using natural sweeteners like agave nectar and stevia, and a smart pairing with Sour Cherry means you can’t taste the difference . . . or the cannabis. A balanced 40mg THC and 40mg CBD is great for patients that need large doses of both every day, along with a healthy dose of B vitamins. This carries over to the effects, which were soothing and contemplative instead of flooring.
Available at: DANK in Denver.
Bio Chem While most of our biology and chemistry training came in the garden, this isn’t a pop quiz. Summer break is right around the corner and we’re celebrating with Bio Chem, a cross of Bio Diesel and Chem Dawg from DANK in Denver. Fans of the Dawg will appreciate the chemmy notes of the gorgeous purple and forest green buds, grown with a tremendous density that lends well to grinding. An uptick in mental activity is notable at first, with staffers noting it works wonders for treating migraines before they start. Be prepared for a more tranquilizing effect to set in, like a happy dart you don’t see coming.
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REVIEWs
Dr. J’s Cookies & Cream Black and white. Yin and yang. The rebels and the empire. The newest in the Dr. J’s Star Barz line pairs two irresistible forces together with the Cookies & Cream 4:20 Bar. Combining exquisite Callebaut Belgian white chocolate with your favorite chocolate sandwich cookies makes it hard to stop with just one 10mg square, especially considering there’s 10 in each package for a whopping 100mg. Delightfully smooth, we transitioned into a patient body effect that penetrated deep into muscles and sore spots. Where the Cookies & Cream really shined was before bedtime, allowing us to get a much needed night of restful sleep.
Available wherever: Dr. J’s Star Barz are carried.
Available at: Generation Health in Denver.
GH Labs Blue Dream Live Resin A perennial favorite, you’d usually be hard-pressed to find a way to improve on Blue Dream, a strain that sounds like a Picasso. Let us tip our cubist hats to Generation Health and GH Labs in Denver, for their amazing Blue Dream Live Resin. Drawing from its Haze and Blueberry roots, we picked up on lemon flavors particularly, with a clean finish a pleasure for our palettes and lungs as it didn’t leave us feeling like The Weeping Woman. An excellent choice for painting or working creatively, this concentrate will loosen you up without feeling sedative, letting your mind take over.
Available wherever: Mahatma Concentrates products are carried.
The Clear If the documentary “Going Clear” rocked the world of Scientology, The Clear should equally shake up the world of concentrates. Created by The ClearTM and powered by Mahatma Concentrates, the solvent-free extraction method removes the gunk while providing steam distilled terpenes and essential oils. Whether in their slick new pen or dabbable clear oil, we couldn’t help but smack our lips after tasting tons of ripe Bartlett pear. If you aren’t experienced with pens, take it easy as the high levels of activated THC can hit you quickly; it left one reviewer in a giggle fit during a game of Cards Against Humanity. In their defense, Solitaire would have seemed like a hoot.
Available at: The Station in Boulder.
Kong
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It takes a lot to be the king. Usually more than just absconding off with a princess. If you’re looking to level up your stash, try some Kong from The Station in Boulder and hang on. Gloriously hairy, we’re fond of the jungle fruit notes beneath the pine and rubber up front, reminiscent of a weird Mario Kart crash. A combo of White Russian and Motivation, the indica-dominant effect starts behind the eyes, moving quickly into the shoulders and back, providing a calming effect after climbing skyscrapers and batting down planes. It’s also perfect for those with 10 ton hungers, as some reviewers were left with the anti-munchies.
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REVIEWs
Bubba Kush Like the new X-Files reboot or Fuller House, sometimes classics wind up disappointing. In the case of Bubba Kush, it’s more like greeting an old friend at the airport. Coming to us from Northern Lights in Edgewater and Denver, we were impressed with the vigor these nugs had. Replete with that classic Bubba earthiness, the taste was a step up from most cuts, with deep pine translating from nose to smoke. One of our favorites for sleep, this is the kush you’re looking for if you didn’t get quite enough hibernation this winter. Particularly deep and at times prone to couch-lock, don’t plan much other than a good sesh.
Available at: Terrapin Care Station in Boulder.
Available at: Northern Lights in Edgewater and Denver.
White Slipper Rosin Now that winter is over, we can’t wait to break out our open-toed slippers. You heard us. White Slipper Rosin, to be exact, and you can start at Boulder’s Terrapin Care Station where they’re making a concentrate that won’t knock you into a Sleeping Beauty style couch-lock. The taste is incredibly unique, unlike most other concentrates—uber robust flavor when smelled or smoked; very similar to flower flavor, unlike the usual dab taste. It’s fruity and balanced with a hint of pepper and licorice, it’s everything we love about a well-crafted rosin. Light and energetic, the effects tend to be more crisp, clear and balanced, unlike a lot of BHO or PHO concentrates that may leave you sweating and stuck to the couch; you’ll find yourself flittering around like a cartoon bird. Try the solvent-free White Slipper if you’re prone to nausea or wasting disorders, or are just looking for some top notch pain relief.
Banana Berry Shatter Much like a breakfast buffet, we couldn’t help but load up on fresh fruit from New Horizons in Colorado Springs. It’s hard to stop yourself when you see the type of shatter TerpX is putting out, especially the Banana Berry. Richly golden, we have to laud them for having some of the most stable shatter we’ve had in the office. Easy to work with, we loved the rich plantain flavor we picked up on the first hit: Almost sugary and caramelized. We couldn’t help but feel like leaving the office with a very motivated effect that pushes you to get out into the world with a sativa fervor.
Available at: Quality Choice Alternative Care Center in Colorado Springs.
Available at: New Horizons in Colorado Springs.
Gorilla Glue #4 One of our favorite strains of 2015 is looking strong in the New Year as we found a particularly unique cut of Gorilla Glue #4 at Quality Choice Alternative Care Center. Here, the Chocolate Diesel absolutely outshines the Chem Sis and Sour Dubb, giving a robust cacao back to the usually fuel-driven GG4. Also shining: The sea of trichs coating the nugs. Unlike actual glue, the effect brought on a euphoric sense of freedom and sense that no couch could tether us. At one point, we thought it could actually make a game of Monopoly bearable, ideal for family reunions.
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REVIEWs
Kandy Kush We would never advocate consuming raw flower out of the jar, no matter how good it smells. Same goes for shampoo. Kandy Kush, however, was tempting, which is a credit to Herban Underground in Denver. Big sugar notes hit you as soon as you pop the top, with the finely manicured nugs showing the obvious love that goes into how they’re grown. Most critiquing Kandy Kush preferred it in the late afternoon, as it excels at reducing stress and promoting relaxation after a long day but can cause slight drowsiness. Think of it as the go-to alternative to happy hour.
Available at: Herban Underground in Denver.
Available wherever: Incredibles edible products are carried.
Salted Pistachio Mint Bar It shouldn’t take Snoop Dogg to convince you pistachios are delicious, although his recent commercial doesn’t hurt. If you’re looking for the full Snoop experience, Incredible’s brand new Salted Pistachio Mint Bar has you covered. Always pioneers in the confection game, their bold flavors pay off again as the white chocolate and mint pair excellently with the natural saltiness of the nuts. With 100mg in each bar, each 10mg serving breaks off easily for dosing—or sharing. The only thing that outshines the giddy and jubilant buzz is the consistency our reviewers noted, with the same effect time and again.
Grandpa Larry One day, we’ll be rocking our grandkids on our knees, telling them all about the crazy times of prohibition. If you’re looking to channel your inner old man, Grandpa Larry from Denver’s Urban Dispensary got us so relaxed, we felt like we were rambling gibberish. A pairing of Larry OG and Granddaddy Purps, it’s a gorgeous example of indica genetics with tons of glistening trichomes. A few hits are enough to knock out the pain of walking uphill both ways, providing particular relief to joints and sore muscles. Just don’t overdo it, as the strength was enough to knock down that bear we used to fight in the war.
Available wherever: Wana products are carried.
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Available at: Urban Dispensary in Denver.
Wana Sour Gummies Peach While the election roars ahead, let’s not forget about The Presidents of the United States, the ‘90s band that forever changed our relationship with peaches. Pardon us if we sing the praises of Wana’s newest flavor of gummies, as their peach has quickly become an office favorite. At 200mg per bag, there’s plenty to go around if you don’t mind sharing. We found the sour peach taste pleasant while completely masking any cannabis flavor. Reviewers felt energized with a strong body effect, made for a night of karaoke out on the town.
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REVIEWs
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3. RYOT® Utility Tool
1. Dabsolute Concentrate Pen
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Hand crafted in America, the Dabsolute Concentrate Pen is guaranteed not to disappoint users. Its patented airflow and coil design is guaranteed to prevent the pen from clogging so you won’t have to get a replacement. Other features include its stainless steel body with high heat ceramic components that guarantee its lifetime warranty. Easy to use, the Dabsolute Concentrate Pen is attractive in design and will vaporize any wax, oil or shatter if battery wattage is adjusted accordingly. All one has to do to ensure the pen lasts a lifetime is clean the unit every so often and enjoy! PRICE: $150.00 MORE INFORMATION: thedabsolutepen.com
2. Mighty Fast Herbal Infuser Making cannabis-infused edibles doesn’t get any easier than using the Mighty Fast Herbal Infuser. In three easy steps, this convenient machine takes the guess work out of making cannabis extracts for all cooking needs. The Mighty Fast Herbal Infuser has three settings that allow users to determine how long they would like to infuse their base of choice, giving an accurate dosage each time. To make things easier, the infuser has a “Mighty Clean” setting, which does a pre-cleaning of the machine after each usage (some hand cleaning is required). Small and convenient, the Might Herbal Infuser is great for cannabis cooks at all levels of expertise. PRICE: $159.95 MORE INFORMATION: theherbalinfuser.com
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RYOT® has just released what many are calling the Swiss army knife of the 420 market—but technically it’s called the RYOT® Utility Tool. This new tool has everything a dabber or smoker needs. Whether it be poking, scraping, dabbing, scooping, cutting, grinding, drinking or anything where having the right tool makes all the difference. The hardened stainless steel lightweight construction can easily be carried around in your pocket and has a variety of useful essential tools for everyone. As an additional bonus, the tool comes with a slick silicone case with a built in wax storage jar. The RYOT® guys really thought this one through and there is no mistake this will soon be a cannasseur’s household item! MORE INFORMATION: www.volotrading.com
4. O.penVAPE 2.0 Variable Voltage Pen
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The innovative product development team at O.penVAPE is poised to shake up the market with the launch of their latest dynamic device. The new 2.0 Variable Voltage Battery allows consumers to suit their preferred taste and intensity of experience by changing voltage settings. The new multi-function battery enables selection from four different settings. They range from 2.5V-4.0V, and have a wax mode to use with your favorite concentrates, the variable voltage settings are designed for optimal performance with the original O.penVAPE cartridge, O.penVAPE Reserve and the newest Craft Reserve (debuting this month). The O.penVAPE 2.0 Variable Voltage battery pairs perfectly with each cartridge to provide the finest experience in vaping today. PRICE: $30.00 MORE INFORMATION: www.openvape.com
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For More Products Go To www.iReadCulture.com
7. GLÓ™ Portable Dab Nail
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The Gló™ wireless electronic dab nail was designed by cannabis minded engineers to deliver a better concentrates experience. The compact fireless e-torch can heat to 600 degrees in mere seconds, so concentrates get vaporized with no direct flames or harmful petro-chemical residues. If you love concentrates, you should get to know Gló™. PRICE: $165.00 MORE INFORMATION: gloproduct.com
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8. The Adventurer water pipe by Strong Silicone 5. Delta 9 Vape Pen For all natural products made without butane or chemical extractions Delta 9 is the way to go. With a sleek design Delta 9 vape pens are small enough to fit in your pocket and come in a variety of 10 different flavors. Easily refillable, Delta 9 vape pen cartridges are disposable and each new cartridge comes with a new atomizer head, to ensure a smooth and consistent vape each time. FDA approved, Delta 9 offers an effective vaping experience with a variety of delicious flavors to choose from with each cartridge containing 400mg of THC with approximately 3.2mg of THC per puff. MORE INFORMATION: delta9.com
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This bendable, foldable, nearly unbreakable Strong Silicone water pipe is perfect for traveling, festivals or parties. The Adventurer is made from BPA free, non toxic, 100 percent FDA approved food grade silicone with a boro-silicate downstem and bowl. One of the best things about this water pipe is that the base suctions to any smooth surface. No more knocking your device over while you’re trying to load it. This gem comes in several colors, and they even have a brand new glow-in-the-dark model too, for extra fun! PRICE: $40+ MORE INFORMATION: www.strongsilicone.com
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6. Haze Dual Vape 3 Allowing users to customize their vaping experience, Haze Dual Vape 3 has a variety of settings to choose from. With interchangeable mouthpieces, two different heat settings and impressive compatibility with dry herb, oils and concentrates, this vape pen is remarkable. An upgrade from the Haze Dual Vape 2.5, the Haze Dual Vape 3 has a more precise temperature regulation system, and dry herb canister with a stainless steel perforated lid that allows a better air flow and heat distribution. With its added features and upgrades from past designs, the Haze Dual Vape 3 is a great tool for beginners and experienced vapers. PRICE: $249.99 MORE INFORMATION: hazevaporizors.com
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REVIEWs
entertainment
BOOK
Getting High: Marijuana through the Ages John Charles Chasteen Rowman & Littlefield Publishers Working his way backward in time, author John Charles Chasteen takes an engaging look at cannabis’ global history, over the past 2,000 years. What feels like forbidden knowledge, Chasteen’s scholarly account of cannabis history is insightful and thorough, and dispels myths and misunderstandings about this controversial plant. He is able to place cannabis within larger historical patterns such as migration, colonialism and religion, and helps us understand a larger picture of how people have used cannabis most often as a spiritual, mind-expanding drug throughout our recorded human history. Regardless of your stance on cannabis, Getting High will give you a panoramic perspective on the history of this plant. (Alex Bradley)
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Release Date: April 5 Available on: Xbox One
GAME
Quantum Break Dev. Remedy Entertainment Pub. Microsoft Studios Quantum Break is a beautifully rendered third-person shooter that features a widely talented cast of actors. It boasts both a unique action-adventure plot, as well as a digital live-action series tie-in that coincides with the events of the story. After a time traveling experiment fails, time begins to break down at an alarming rate and during the chaos, the player must explore their newfound abilities that allow them to manipulate time in order to survive. Players can create a time shield that deflects bullets or instantly spawn at an enemy’s location for a melee takedown—the world is your timealtering oyster! (Nicole Potter)
MOVIE
The Hateful Eight
MUSIC
Double Feature Films Dir. Quentin Tarantino
Dead Temple
Quentin Tarantino’s films have always been shocking, challenging, controversial and have reintroduced many long forgotten film styles and genres of the past. It should come as no surprise that his latest film, The Hateful Eight, would continue the director’s love affair with popular genres of the past and showcase his affinity for vintage Westerns. The Hateful Eight tells the story of eight strangers taking refuge from a winter storm in a rural inn, and how their situation intensifies and unravels throughout the course of the blizzard. Including an all-star cast, The Hateful Eight is certainly not one to be missed. (Simon Weedn)
Dead Temple What has killer riffs and three distinct female voices? The first Dead Temple album, featuring three stellar vocalists that make up the “doom-wop” lineup fronting the hardrocking, gloomy group. Every song on the record is as catchy as it is heavy, but the crown jewel is “Sisterhood of the Snake,” a delightfully devilish anthem about original sin. Dead Temple has recently undergone a bit of a line-up shift, and is now playing shows and recording music again in the Denver area with just one vocalist. (Addison Herron-Wheeler)
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Photos Š Jay Blakesberg Photography
erome John “Jerry” Garcia was a larger than life figure, the musical and spiritual leader of the Grateful Dead—a band so beloved that many fans devoted their lives to following them from show to show. And when he died, millions mourned as if they had lost a family member. Originating as the house band of the mid-‘60s San Francisco acid freak-out, the Grateful Dead built a cult following of stoners and vagabonds, flower children and closet
deadheads with day jobs. By the late 1980s, the travelling circus was so huge it could stop a city in its tracks. And Garcia was the driver, “Uncle Jerry” or “Captain Trips,” whose wildly improvisational guitar style melted the minds of generations of fans. He also shared his fans’ love of cannabis; when the house lights at a Dead show went down, the whole audience lit up. But it was heroin Garcia was battling when he checked himself into rehab after a summer 1995 tour. He died there of a heart attack at the age of 53. More than 20 years later, the music is as popular as ever, kept alive by a voluminous
online archive of concert recordings; surviving band members who have continued to tour in various incarnations; and dedicated fans who refuse to let go. Some 70,000 of them turned out in the summer of 2015 when the band played what was billed as their last show together, ever. CULTURE recently caught up with two of Garcia’s four children, Trixie, 40, who represents the Garcia family in the Grateful Dead organization; and Annabelle Garcia, 44, an artist and painter. They talked about the man behind the songs and why his music will never go away. >>
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What is your earliest memory of the Grateful Dead? Trixie: I suppose it was probably being surrounded by people dancing and spinning and hugging and stuff like that. I just remember a general air of festivity, just being in the crowd, seeing everybody you know, that kind of thing. Annabelle: It’s probably my very first memory period. I have a memory of being held in my mom’s arms and looking out over an audience and my dad on stage, so probably like one year old. What was it like to go to the concerts, to see the way people revered your father and his music? Trixie: It made Jerry uncomfortable, the way some people fixated on him. To me, I was always fascinated . . . I used to just sit on the side of the stage and watch the peoples’ faces, watch them go through the motions of a song or I’d find that one person who is really dancing their heart out and just be amazed by how free they were, how expressive they were, and how enraptured they were. How did Jerry balance the constant touring and spending time with his family? Trixie: I don’t know that he did a great job of balancing
From left to right: Mountain Girl AKA Carolyn Adams, Trixie Garcia, Sunshine Kesey and Annabelle Garcia
those things. It was kind of a given that music was his life. That is his purpose. That is his thing and I never really held it against him, for being on the road, because I didn’t really know any different. He wasn’t a perfect person. He was very human and I think he was so exhausted when he got off the road he had to rest for a while. Annabelle, at his funeral you called him “a great American but a shitty father.” Annabelle: He was a shitty father but he was also my best friend. He never made me brush my teeth or do
Uncle Jerry’s Story 1942 August 1 – Jerome John Garcia is born in San Francisco, CA to Jose Ramon “Joe” Garcia and Ruth Marie “Bobbie” Garcia, joining older brother Clifford “Tiff” Ramon.
1947 Spring – A wood chopping accident with his older brother at the Garcia family cabin causes Jerry
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to lose much of the middle finger on his right hand at the age of five.
Winter Jerry’s father drowns while on a fishing trip. 1950 Jerry and Tiff
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move to live with their maternal grandparents for five years. It is during this time that he explores his creativity and begins playing the five-string banjo.
He sacrificed pretty much everything to keep playing, because that’s what he understood best. my homework, none of that. He was like the most killer friend you could have as a kid growing up. He never wanted to sell himself as a great father, like, “Who am I to tell you what
to do, kid?” He just could not be a parent in that way. Jerry has been called a workaholic when it came to music. Do you agree? Annabelle: Completely dedicated to the task. He sacrificed pretty much everything to keep playing because that’s what he understood best. He wasn’t really cut out to be anything else other than this creative exultation of music and spirit. It’s pretty awesome on that level. He’s my dad but he’s also this positive force for so many other people that you kind of separate the two in your head a bit. >>
to his disappointment. He exchanges it for an electric guitar and amplifier, and his stepfather soon introduces him to an open-tuning style.
over his hobby of painting and drawing.
1962
1960 April – Jerry enlists in the U.S. Army at age 17.
1957 August 1 – On his 15th birthday, Jerry receives an accordion,
December – Jerry is discharged from the Army on the basis of “lack of suitability to the military lifestyle.”
1961 February 20 – Jerry narrowly survives a major car accident, which he cites as a “slingshot for the rest of [his] life.” This revelation causes him to choose the guitar
Spring – Jerry and Phil Lesh meet during a party in Menlo Park. Phil later suggests recording one of Jerry’s performances to broadcast on local radio station KPFA. The recording lead to a 90-minute special broadcast, “The Long Black Veil and Other Ballads: An Evening with Jerry Garcia.”
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It’s no secret that cannabis was everywhere at Dead shows. Did your parents try to shelter you from it? Trixie: No, not at all . . . I was sheltered from hard drugs, cocaine and heroin and stuff like that, but not from cannabis. And drunk people were definitely not welcome around the scene. Annabelle: We were rolling weed when we were kids because little tiny fingers could clean up stems and seeds better. Every kid I grew up with, we all have the skill of digging the seeds out, which is a lost skill nowadays. I have very fond memories of the smell of weed, everything about marijuana. My mom wrote the first book about how to grow at home, called The Primo Plant, and we were part of her experimental garden, so it was totally 100 percent with us our whole lives.
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How do you think he’d feel about it being sold legally in stores? Trixie: He’d be amazed. It’s such a huge deal for everybody who watched their friends spend their lives in prison for an ounce or whatever . . . There are so many things Jerry would be delighted about these days and weed for the people is definitely one of them. Annabelle: He was a firm believer in using cannabis and our culture to kind of further his own ability to explore the guitar. It was a huge part of how they got to where they were . . . It was one of the reasons he decided to have fun instead of becoming a really square, normal person. He got turned on early and realized there was a more positive way to get things done than the grind. I think weed in general was kind of the seed for all of that. >>
There are so many things Jerry would be delighted about these days and weed for the people is definitely one of them.
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1963 Spring – Jerry and Sara Ruppenthal form Jerry & Sara. They marry later that same year.
perform their first show as the house band at a Ken Kesey Acid Test in San Jose, CA.
1966 Jerry joins the Zodiacs formed by Bill Kreutzmann, with Ron “Pigpen” McKernan and Troy Weidenheimer.
Annabelle Garcia and Jerry Garcia
How do you explain the Dead’s popularity more than 20 years after Jerry’s death? Trixie: I think there’s just something timeless about the music they composed and played. Hopefully going forward, like a fine wine, it’s just going to become more and more special as time goes on. The whole Baby Boomer generation, this is the music of their lives and everyone is trying to reconnect with that time when they felt connected with something, a bigger picture, and that’s why the Grateful Dead has such an enduring legacy. Annabelle: I met so many amazing 18-year-old kids last year at shows . . . and I ask them, “How did you come across the Grateful Dead? You’ve got tattoos? You’re only 18.” And they say it’s the one thing that made them feel like they belong somewhere. The fact that it still has that value is really humbling to be a part of on our end. How did it feel to see so many people come together to celebrate the legacy of Jerry and the Dead (at last year’s concert?) Annabelle: I had a great time. It was amazing, incredibly sentimental and overwhelming on too many levels I can’t even put into words. I was sad at first, and by the end of it I was so happy with this incredible spirit 76
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that was going on with the crowd . . . Here’s 70,000 people having this incredible moment together and it’s hard not to tear up talking about it. Jerry’s guitar style has been credited with helping to create an entire genre of music, jam rock. Do you see that as his greatest musical legacy? Trixie: That’s definitely a thing. But he was composing. His playing style was amazing and he wrote that music. We have (The Jerry Garcia Symphony Tour) and we’ve orchestrated a lot of the music Jerry and (lyricist Robert) Hunter composed and it’s fabulous with an orchestra and it really makes me appreciate Jerry as a composer and to think about what he might have accomplished had he lived longer and branched out, done more jazzy stuff, symphonic stuff. Annabelle: That’s the kind of stuff that will get you shot on some corners of HaightAshbury (Laughs). On one hand, he was a great improvisational guy. He was out there. On the other hand he wrote some of the most amazing guitar riffs, perfect power pop songs. He’s part of this gigantic cultural movement . . . I don’t think we’re going to know for a few hundred years his true impact, or this band’s impact. >>
Fall – Jerry forms The Black Mountain Boys with friends David Nelson and Eric Thompson.
December 8 – Daughter, Heather, is born to Jerry and Sara.
1964 Spring – Jerry joins Bob Weir, Pigpen McKernan, Dave Parker, Tom Stone and Dave Garbett as Mother McCree’s Uptown Jug Champions.
October – Jerry and the rest of the band move into a communal house on Ashbury Street in San Francisco, CA. It becomes a fixture on the local music scene, and provides free concerts throughout the year and a half they all lived there. This leads to the Grateful Dead performing more free concerts than any other band in history.
December Jerry starts dating Carolyn Adams, also known as Mountain Girl, after she breaks off her marriage to George Walker, a member of the Merry Pranksters.
1969
1965 May 5 – Jerry joins Phil Lesh, Bill Kreutzmann, Pigpen McKernan and Bob Weir to perform first gig as The Warlocks at Magoo’s Pizza in Menlo Park, CA.
December 4 – The Warlocks change their name to Grateful Dead, and
May – Jerry enters his “pedal steel flirtation period,” which continues through to 1974. During this time he records one of the best known steel solos on Crosby, Stills & Nash’s “Teach Your Children.”
August 7 – Jerry joins New Riders of the Purple Sage, and continues to be a member of the band until November 1971.
August 23 – Jerry appears on the cover of Rolling Stone Magazine for the first of 12 total covers.
1970 January 20 – Jerry records his only solo electric guitar performance at MGM Studios in Los Angeles, CA, for the movie Zabriskie Point.
February 2 – Mountain Girl gives birth to Garcia’s second daughter, Annabelle Walker Garcia.
September 7 – The band Jerry Garcia & Merl Saunders is formed.
1973 March 2 - Jerry performs with John Kahn, David Grisman, Peter Rowan and Richard Green as Old & in the Way, for the first time, at the Record Plant in Sausalito, CA.
1974 April 20 – Jerry joins Richard Green, David Grisman, Taj Mahal and David Nichtern as The Great American String Band, and make their debut performance at the Pilgrimage Theater in Hollywood, CA.
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thing. Just a hilarious person. He could’ve been a great stand-up comedian. Trixie: He had this way of kind of not giving a f*ck and also being like really happy and amused about it. He was always finding the joke, finding the way to make it not heavy. It was just nice to be around him. He was also a great artist. He also innovated all these business models for the music industry, with free shows, and (audience) recording. It’s a large impact he’s had in our culture.
Lauren Parish, Trixie Garcia, Jerry Garcia and Steve Parish
How do you remember him best, as the father, the guitar player, the friend? Annabelle: The father, for sure, the giggler, the sly chuckler. He could crack a joke in under point-zero seconds and devastate anyone with the most hilarious joke you ever heard, yet with a benevolent smile. The smile is the first
September 21 Mountain Girl gives birth to Garcia’s third daughter, Theresa Adams “Trixie” Garcia. 1975 January 23 – Legion of Mary, consisting of Jerry, Merl Saunders, John Kahn, Martin Fierro and Ron Tutt, hold their first public performance at Sophie’s in Palo Alto.
August 5 – Jerry performs under the name Jerry Garcia Band for the first time, alongside John Kahn, Nicky Hopkins and Ron Tutt at Keystone in Berkeley, CA.
1977 November 5 – Jerry appears in the movie
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Were you worried about his declining health in his last years? Trixie: We were all worried and I’d hear stories from the road about how bad he looked and it was progressing, but what do you do? . . . Drugs are bad. Heroin and coke are bad news. Stick with your psychedelics and weed. Annabelle: We would have interventions and he would promise to be better and he would try. He just wasn’t into accepting how bad he felt or how sick he was. I certainly witnessed a whole lot of pain out there on the road because those years were his declining health years. Then he got the reprieve after his coma (in 1986) and had this amazing rebirth. Then I think he kind of gave
Close Encounters of the Third Kind.
a near-fatal diabetic coma for five days, after which he has to relearn the guitar.
1979 January 30 – Reconstruction, featuring Jerry, John Kahn, Merl Saunders, Ed Neumeister, Ron Stallings and Gaylord Birch, make their first public appearance at The Keystone in Berkeley, CA.
1980 December 31 – Jerry and Mountain Girl marry.
1982 April 13 – Jerry and Bob Weir appear for the first time on Late Night with David Letterman.
April 21 – Jerry Garcia & John Kahn is formed.
December 15 – The Grateful Dead return to performing five months after Jerry emerges from his coma.
1987 Named in tribute to Jerry, ice cream-makers Ben & Jerry’s release Cherry Garcia.
March – Jerry records a number of radio commercials for Levi’s 501 jeans.
1986 July 10 – Jerry lapses into
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March 17 – The Jerry Garcia Acoustic Band
up after that. He’d been through a lot, health-wise. He really wasn’t as strong as everyone seemed to think. He was kind of a frail guy. After Jerry’s death, there was a great outpouring of grief, public gatherings in cities around the country and world. What does that say about how Jerry and his music impacted people? Trixie: People still come up to me and cry about how much they miss Jerry, 20 years later. He meant more to many people then their own families, for whatever reason, for that experience they had with him in the audience that one time, or whatever it was, these deep emotional connections. It’s overwhelming how deeply connected the fans are. Do you find yourself comforting fans or do you cry together? Trixie: We cry together . . . I’m helping to help manage Jerry’s legacy so I’m trying to desensitize myself with exposure, so I can enjoy a concert without crying, which is very difficult for me. But I went to see Prince last night and I cried there too, so maybe it’s just not a Grateful Dead thing. c
makes their first public appearance at The Fillmore during a benefit concert for Artists Rights Today.
February 14 – Jerry and Deborah Koons marry on Valentine’s Day in Sausalito, CA.
December 20 – Jerry’s partner, Manasha, gives birth to his youngest daughter, Keelin Noel Garcia.
1990 December 17 – Jerry and David Grisman perform together for the first time publicly at Sweetwater in Mill Valley, CA.
1994 January 19 – The Grateful Dead is inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
1995 August 9 – Jerry passes away at Serenity Knolls Treatment Center in Forest Knolls, CA, at age 53.
August 13 – Jerry is celebrated by 25,000 friends and family at a public memorial in Golden Gate Park. Memorial spans the nation as people all over mourn his passing.
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When Dennis McNally was hired by his idol—Jerry Garcia—the on-the-job training was brief.
“First, we don’t suck up to the press.” “That about covers it—here, smoke this.”
Dennis McNally and Jerry Garcia at a United Nations Press Conference at a benefit for the Rainforest, 1988.
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True story, says McNally, who ran the Grateful Dead’s publicity machine— such as it was—from 1980 until the band’s demise after Garcia’s death. He has written multiple books on music history and authored a book called A Long Strange Trip: The Inside History of the Grateful Dead. He also wrote the definitive work on the history of the band and last fall published Jerry on Jerry: The Unpublished Jerry Garcia Interviews. McNally gave CULTURE a few minutes recently to reminisce about the legend. >>
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Joining the Dead organization, what was Jerry like, compared to how you saw him from the audience? The impression we got in the audience was who he was. He had his dark side and he had his demons but he kept them to himself. When it came to associating with people he was almost always a gentleman. (Rock promoter) Bill Graham once said that the only two people that he knew of in the rock and roll business who were the same versus in later years, after which time they became famous and quite rich were Pete Townshend (from The Who) and Jerry Garcia. Jerry was curious about the rest of the world, interested in other people from when he was an impoverished banjo picker to the day he died. How did the travelling audience build up? 82
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The idea of running off to join the circus—it was the last circus, the last opportunity to run off and join the circus. In reaction to the Reagan era, lots of people did, which began the era of the deadhead. It was a cultural phenomenon. There had been fans in the ‘60s and ‘70s but the stereotype of hordes of people in tie-dye following the band from city to city, that’s a product of the ‘80s. How did Jerry handle becoming an icon for all these legions of fans? People would say, “These kids, they’re devoting their entire lives to the Grateful Dead.” He said, “Well so am I.” As it went on, it became something of a burden, where there were 50 employees and their families and they all needed work and a paycheck. There was a part of him that wanted to permanently be Huck Finn,
with a guitar in his hands and joint in his mouth, not terribly responsible. And he became responsible not only to his employees but to a million deadheads who demanded he give them a musical fix 80 nights a year and that wore on him and is one of the reasons why he self-medicated. Why do you think the music remains so popular? He was genuinely charismatic. He was a truly great musician. The Grateful Dead brought two things. They brought this interesting mix of rock and roll musical modes with jazz-style improvisation that nobody else has really ever quite done . . . Along with an enjoying sense of community that lasts to this day. That community, that connection with the audience, really developed when the Grateful Dead, all of them, went to the (mid-’60s San Francisco) Acid Tests and experienced
this thing where they weren’t the show. Everybody in the room was the show. They were simply the soundtrack and they related to their audience as equals and partners and there was at least a pinch of that with the Grateful Dead for the next 30 years. And that’s powerful. That’s what created the community and nurtured the community. You recently published a volume of interviews with Jerry. What might surprise deadheads in those interviews? His conversation about what’s going on in his brain when he’s improvising is an articulation of things that I didn’t even know can be articulated and certainly that only he could ever articulate and I found it absolutely fascinating . . . I never dreamed he would take my question and run with it for four or five minutes. c
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Cannabis brings people together, and makes everything better. -Savannah
The Most Wonderful Day of the Year Our cannabis culture is expanding to new heights every day. It is crossing borders and boundaries, and shaping into a global cannabis community and thriving industry. Our nation is changing the way cannabis is viewed all over the world, as we explore all that cannabis has to offer us. The growing cannabis culture is helping local and national economies, families, and people suffering. Our canna-community is vast, and our diversity is great. On this, the most wonderful day of the year, let us celebrate our culture, our community and our cannabis. Have a safe and happy 420!
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I smoke marijuana because it really helps relieve my depression. For years I tried prescription medication and I didn’t and don’t like the feeling of relying on pills to help cope with something like depression. I like natural remedies. -Anna
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Hollywood Goes Green Your 2016 Cannabis Entertainment Forecast
Get a Job comedy
FILM The big screen has always been a big supporter of cannabis. Every generation has their cannabis films. The ’70s brought us Cheech and Chong. The ’80s saw younger kids achieve a whole new high with films like Fast Times at Ridgemont High and Revenge of the Nerds. The ’90s made it cool in films like Friday, Dazed and Confused and Clerks. The new millennium brought with it broader acceptance and an influx of films like Harold and Kumar, Pineapple Express and Ted. So what does the near future hold?
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Meet the Blacks comedy
A coming-ofage tale starring Anna Kendrick and Miles Teller. March
A spoof of The Purge films starring Michael Epps. April
Super Troopers 2
Welcome to Sparkeyville
comedy
The hilarious Vermont state troopers from the 2001 film are back in this sequel. 2016
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comedy
An anti-cannabis Senator wakes up in an alternate universe where everyone smokes cannabis. 2016
Everybody Wants Some comedy
The spiritual successor to Dazed and Confused about college kids dealing with the freedoms and responsibilities of adulthood. April
Midnight Delight comedy
A group of characters in a smoking lounge get into hilarious antics over conversations with total strangers. 2016
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by David Edmundson
C
annabis has always been a popular trope to mine for comedy gold and tragic woes in film and television. While “stoner” films have thrived as part of a counter culture, where the illegality of cannabis made it more appealing, nowadays the cannabis landscape is significantly different. With a growing number of states legalizing cannabis, it is becoming more acceptable, and thus more lucrative. There’s an old adage in Hollywood, if there is money to be made, there are producers looking to cash in. Here is what can we expect of cannabis in pop culture this year.
Sausage Party comedy
Bad Santa 2 comedy
Seth Rogen stars as an animated sausage on a quest to discover the truth about his existence. August
A new adventure with Santa impersonator Willie Stokes. November
Strain Wise
Boulder Budzz
thriller
Shawn Phillips struggles to survive the dangers of becoming the kingpin of America’s legalized cannabis market, at least long enough to save his family, his fortune and his own life. 2016
comedy
A burnt out cannabis dealer struggles with medical cannabis, the lady of his dreams and long arm of the law. 2016
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420 Edition
TV If the big screen has embraced cannabis for comedic fodder, the small screen typically used it as a cautionary tale. Many episodes of Law and Order began or ended with an anticannabis message. But in 2016, new cannabis acceptance may bring new opportunities. It looks like networks are stepping over each other to have their share of the proverbial pie.
Here are the top 10 cannabis films to watch this 420 on Netflix.
10 Kid Cannabis
9
Highland dramedy
Margaret Cho is forced to move in with her dysfunctional family who now runs a cannabis dispensary. Amazon
Super High Me
8 Trailer Park Boys: The Movie
7
Buds comedy
Parks & Recreation’s Adam Scott stars in a show about the day-to-day operations of a dispensary. NBC
Wet Hot American Summer
6 Scary Movie
High Maintenance
5
comedy
Follow a cannabis deliveryman called “The Guy” as he delivers cannabis to clients in New York City. HBO
Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure
4 Dude, Where’s My Car?
Kevin Smith’s Hollyweed comedy
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Two cannabis users do battle with a cookie magnate in a Los Angeles dispensary. TBD
Half Baked
2 Untitled Chuck Lorre’s Cannabis Comedy
Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back
comedy
The Big Bang Theory creator is developing a comedy that takes place in a Colorado dispensary. TBD
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1 Cheech and Chong’s Up in Smoke
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Aboriginal Native Americans have always depended on Mother Earth . . . cannabis is one of the plants that has helped, generations before it was a popular drug. -Victor
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Your Ultimate 420 Party Playlist Let the Good Times Roll
A
p arty just isn’t a party without good tunes, so we’ve set up the best arrangement of upbeat cannabis-related music to act as the soundtrack for your ultimate 420 bash. With an awesome selection of musicians hailing from multiple genres (not to discredit the songs that didn’t make the cut), this list is bound to keep your party bouncing from start to finish. Get down with Snoop Dogg, kick it old school with Bob Marley and sway to the mood of every cannabis-inspired song in between. >>
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Scan this QR code to get our Spotify playlist
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CU LT U R E 420 “Young, Wild and Free”
“Legalize It”
“I Am the Walrus”
by Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa, Bruno Mars
by Peter Tosh
by The Beatles
“Can’t Feel My Face”
“Because I Got High”
“Doses & Mimosas”
by The Weeknd
by Afroman
by Cherub
“You Don’t Know How it Feels”
“Joke”
“Sail”
by Tom Petty
by Chastity Belt
by AWOLNATION
“New Americana”
“Kaya”
“Rainy Day Women #12 & 35”
by Halsey
by Bob Marley
by Bob Dylan
“How High”
“How to Roll a Blunt”
“Light My Fire”
by Method Man, Redman
by Redman
by The Doors
“Blow Dumb”
“Don’t Step on the Grass”
“One Toke Over the Line”
by NoBunny
by Steppenwolf
by Brewer and Shipley
“We Be Burnin”
“High By The Beach”
“I Like Marijuana”
by Sean Paul
by Lana Del Rey
by David Pee l
“The Next Episode”
“Marijuana”
“Summer Mood”
by Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg
by Kid Cudi
by Best Coast
“Goodbye”
“Hits from the Bong”
“Nip Slip”
by Best Coast
by Cypress Hill
by Chastity Belt
“Sweet Leaf”
“Smoke Two Joints”
“Pass the Koutchie”
by Black Sabbath
by Sublime
by Might Diamonds
“Habits (Stay High)” by Tove Lo
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Cannabis has always been a part of my social circle. It’s mellow and makes me feel better in general. -Manny
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BEE-LIEVE Honey Bees Create Special Honey Using Pollinated Cannabis Plants by Addison Herron-Wheeler
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hat do you get when you cross bees and cannabis? Honey made from pollinated cannabis plants. This cannabis-infused
honey doesn’t harm the bees at all to produce, and in addition to tasting delicious, the canna-honey has some interesting medical benefits. CULTURE spoke
exclusively with Nicolas “Trainerbees,” the French man behind this winning honey-cannabis combination, to find out the secrets of his bees. >> 104
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have felt less anxious. What makes it special is its taste, as if we munched directly in the plant with the taste of sweet flowers behind it.
“People who eat this honey have felt less anxious. What makes it special is its taste, as if we munched directly in the plant with the taste of sweet flowers behind it.” How did you get involved with beekeeping? I have loved honey since childhood. My first encounters with beekeeping date back to my childhood, with beekeepers in my area. I had wild colonies I was watching and I was collecting honey. Later, I helped beekeepers from time to time and it was seven years ago that I decided to take care of bees in order to collect bee products (honey, pollen, propolis). It was four years ago that I became a professional beekeeper. How did you get involved with cannabis, and are you a smoker yourself? Yes I am cannabis user,
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and have been for almost 30 years. I’m hyperactive and suffering from restless legs syndrome. I started to cultivate and educate myself on cannabis nearly 25 years ago. As the years passed, I have evolved techniques while remaining focused on organic cultivation. In the 2000s, I began to educate and help my friends with medical cannabis. How did you come up with this idea, and what made you sure it would work? The idea of using the resin came a little over six years ago, after several friends (cannabis users who knew my ability to understand the nature and behavior of bees),
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said “you’re gonna do well to take the resin from bees to make honey!” It took me four years to get the surprise and joy of seeing the resin inside the hive. What is your process like for having the bees use cannabis to make honey? The bees do not use the resin as honey directly; they use it as propolis in the hive. Tips for how the bees take the resin and then use it will clearly remain secret, because they are still in development. What are the benefits of the honey—what is special about it? People who eat this honey
Does pollinating the cannabis have any positive or negative effects on the bees? The bees are not affected by cannabinoids, unlike alcohol, for example. The colony that produces honey has done so for two years without any particular problems. How do you feel about cannabis legalization so far? What could be done differently, or better? I hope for rapid legalization for all countries of the world. But I also see the slow countries like mine, France, where having a printed cannabis leaf on a t-shirt can take you to jail. Speaking well of cannabis also makes you go to jail. People still need to be educated to understand that cannabis is not as dangerous as they believe. Is there anything else you would like to add? Producing bee products (honey propolis) with trained bees is still not currently profitable because the bees lose a lot during the process and after that, the plants are unusable. I have already finished moving (for more security because of the laws of my country) in order to perfect the technique, before thinking about marketing the honey. c
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Cannabis is like my cup of coffee in the morning and my shot of whiskey at night. It keeps me groovin throughout the day. -Malia
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A
by David Downs
mericans have entered a historic, golden age for medical cannabis formulations and modalities. Medical laws and recreational legalization have accelerated innovation to seemingly light speed, and dispensary shelves are filled with products unrecognizable from past years. Lowly cannabis cigarettes now rival the fashionable
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Cohiba cigars, medical cannabis topicals are ready to take on the billion-dollar mainstream body products market. New batches of healthy, high-design, low-dose edibles are attracting a different, Whole Foods-caliber shopper. And a controversial medical cannabis modality—suppositories— has escaped from the lab to help women with their most personal health issues. >>
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Elevating Pre-Rolls
1 Just say, “no, thank you” to dry, trim-filled, flat-smelling prerolls! Say “yes” to glass tips, gold-leaf, functional dosages and celebrity blends. Industry data show pre-rolls are among the fastest growing part of dispensary sales. You just can’t beat the form factor, versatility, flavor and big effects of a pre-rolled cannabis cone. Pre-roll sales grew 68 percent in 2015 in Washington, BDS Analytics reports. Just in time for this new gilded age, The Green Solution in Denver has 24K Gold Caviar Cones—gold-leafed pre-rolls with flower, or an optional hashfortified flower, called Caviar. Over in Michigan, Ann Arbor Wellness Collective joins the mini-pre-roll market this April with Slow Rollers—a pack of pre-rolls custom-sized for more functional dosing. Spotted in California, Hepburn’s Jumbo pre-roll is turning heads this year with its chic, glass tips, mega-size and high-quality flower bud—not trim—fortified with bubble hash. Cannabinoid-specific, strain-specific and custom blends like Medi-Cone’s Ed Rosenthal Selects Sativa or Indica Blends are also on the rise this year, said George Bianchini, co-founder of leading pre-roll brand Medi-Cone. “We see the acceptance and quality of pre-rolls going up.” >>
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Advancing Topicals 2 Last year, Foria Pleasure blew the lid off the best-kept secret in cannabis— it works through the skin without getting you stoned. This Spring, the small Los Angeles company seeks a $1.6 million investment to expand from Colorado and California to Washington and beyond. In its wake, a whole slew of skin treatments have come out of the cannabis closet to seek mainstream fans. California’s all-organic, boutique, high-end Herbabuena line of topicals are clicking with a whole new cannabis customer this year. Their “Quiver” Sensual Cannabis Lubricant is made from organic, whole-flower, strain-specific source material, plus cold water hash, and micro extract of cinnamon and clove. “It’s not warming lube,” Herbabuena Co-Founder Alicia Rose said. “I hate warming lubes. You are not feeling that hot sensation. It’s all about increasing the blood flow, which in turn sends signals to the brain that you’re getting turned on.” Longtime topicals brand Xternal announced this March that it is now in six states, just in time for MMA fighter and Xternal user Nick Diaz to defeat Conor McGregor, this summer. Xternal solidifies its national offerings with its line of Rub/Spray, Cream, Balm, Mud and Soak products, plus animal line K9 Relief Dog Wash and Lame Away Equine Therapy. >>
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Suppositories’ Day In The Sun 4
Suppository Makers: California PPH OrganiCanna, Deep Healers, Endoca CBD Washington CPC Suppositories Oregon Genesis Farms
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Little known fact—the U.S. government awarded a patent on cannabis up the pooper. It’s held by the country’s only federally licensed cannabis farmer, who works out of University of Mississippi. UMiss’ Dr. Mahmoud ElSohly will tell you— suppositories are the most efficient route of administering cannabinoids for vomiting, pain relief, muscle spasms and appetite, as well as depression and anxiety. But while federal prohibition stymies profiting from his patent—the suppository concept is out of the bag. Celebrity entertainer Tommy Chong reportedly treated his colon cancer with cannabis suppositories. Internal formulations have been spotted at outlets in Washington, Oregon and Colorado this Spring. California-based Foria rolls out Foria Relief vaginal suppositories in California and Colorado. Developed with a Los Angeles urologist and Foria volunteers, the 60mg THC/10mg CBD suppository treats PMS pain and cramping like no other 21st century product, said Foria cofounder Matthew Gerson. “Women with pelvic pain
were reporting the ability to have pleasurable sex again,” he said. Patient reviews support the medical history, as well cell, animal trials and patient selfreports on cannabinoids for menstrual issues. “Not only did my cramps ease up, but I felt good. Really good. There was no heady effect, but I felt serene. It was like if Ativan made a baby with Tylenol,” stated one reviewer. The local-acting THC and CBD does not cause euphoria, Gerson said, so doctors are vetting Foria Relief for use in double-blind placebo-controlled trials. If you can get past the taboo, taking Foria Relief rectally can help manage intractable lower back pain and spasms, and be an effective way to administer cannabinoids for anticancer regimens. Plus, rectal application can relax the sphincter, making anal sex more pleasurable, Gerson reports. “A lot of women have a G-spot that’s more posterior-oriented, but often there’s a discomfort that gets in the way of that pleasure.” Just a head’s up—both Foria products are made with coconut oil—which is not compatible with condoms. c
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CU LT U R E 420 Cannabis improves my overall quality of life. It helps me sleep, takes the edge off of my anxiety, and prevents me from having to rely on pharmaceuticals. Not to mention, it makes nearly anything just a little more fun. -Rachel
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4/20 is no longer just a day about smoking cannabis, it’s about community, camaraderie and a modern culture surrounding the herb. We here at CULTURE have got your back, and have hand-picked a variety of different events for you to really make this year’s 4/20 the best you’ve ever experienced. From enjoying live music put on by fellow cannabis lovers to attending cannabis seminars and conventions, cannabis is our culture—embrace it!
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Holistic Cannabis Summit, April 4-7 Unlike other 420 events that tend to gather in legal states, the Holistic Cannabis Summit is an awesome opportunity to connect with the cannabis community from anywhere in the world! Check out seminars, explore new information, and get everything you need from cannabis professionals. Free, Online holisticcannabissummit.com The Official 420 Rally, April 16 This 420, band together with fellow cannabis users to celebrate everything cannabis! This will be a massive gathering featuring countless vendors, live music and plenty of education to go around. Civic Center Park, Denver denver.org 4th Annual 420 iBAKE VIP Party, April 16-20 Live music makes this a party, but one of the best parts about this four-day 420 event is that it’s said to be an even larger event than the High Times Cannabis Cup! Surround yourself by fellow cannabis lovers and experience the herb like never before. iBAKE Denver, Denver ibakedenver.com
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Events
The Greatest
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wide variety of intriguing information, ranging from the scientific evolution of cannabis to in-depth discussions about cannabis in psychology and biology. University of Denver, Denver www.du.edu
420 on the Slopes, April 19-April 22 Colorado has many great sights to see, but no 420 events can beat the fresh powder from snow on the local mountain range. Mix 420 with these white slopes and you get an impressive three-night “weedend” away from home. Ski Slopes, Breckenridge breckenridge.com Redman and Method Man, April 19 Redman has a long lasting reputation as a cannabis user and artist. Alongside another famous cannabis users and musician, Method Man, these two rappers will give the performance of a lifetime on the day before 420. Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Morrison redrocksonline.com DU Marijuana Summit, April 20 This 420, join the University of Denver Sturm College of Law to discuss cannabis legalization in the state. This Summit will cover a
Flosstradamus, April 20 Check out this year’s 420 Hydefest, hosted by Flosstradamus, who is joined by artists like Snails, Valentino Khan and Chill Harris. Inspired by the “mind expanding natural beauty and openmindedness of Colorado,” spending 420 here is pretty spot-on. Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Morrison redrocksonline.com Luniz and Friends, April 20 Natures Herbs and Wellness is the host of this musical 420 celebration, bringing in local artists Luniz, Michelob, THC, Kujo, Tha God, Crhyme, Esp, Lil’ Young and Dojah Da Don. There’s so much to take in, and cannabis fits in very well here. Moxi Theater, Greeley moxitheater.com Puff, Pass & POTtery Denver, April 20 Make this 420 a relaxing one, with a simple puff, pass and pottery making class. Make your perfect ashtray with a pottery expert, choose the color and glaze it up. Attendees will be able to pick up their completed masterpieces 10 days after the session. Puff, Pass & Paint Studio, Denver puffpassandpaint.com
3rd Annual Merry Jane Wellness Retreat No one seems to love cannabis more than Snoop Dogg—his face is synonymous to cannabis culture, he’s started his own cannabis line and even started his own cannabis news platform with buddy Seth Rogan, MerryJane. com. So it’s no surprise that for this 420 Snoop, along with Future and other musical guests, will be celebrating the 3rd Annual Merry Jane Wellness Retreat at Fiddler’s Green Amphitheater. This is a concert event that is all about having fun while enjoying live musical performances and of course, cannabis. As this event is exclusive to Denver, tickets will sell out quick (last year’s event sold out almost immediately, so act fast and get tickets when you can). Who wouldn’t want to celebrate 420 with Snoop and friends? WHAT: 3rd Annual Merry Jane Wellness Retreat. WHEN/WHERE: Weds, April 20. Fiddler’s Green Amphitheater, 6350 Greenwood Plaza Blvd., Englewood. INFO: Visit merryjane.com for more details.
*Events subject to change without notice
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Determined Denver Denver to Consider New Dispensary Regulations by Addison Herron-Wheeler
Ever since the moratorium on cannabis businesses expired on the first of this year, the Denver City Council has been discussing what to do about licensing of businesses in the city. They have even formed the Special Issues Marijuana Moratorium Committee, a group that will inevitably determine what happens with the licensing of future businesses. According to Westword, the Committee is currently consulting stakeholders and local people in the community to try and come to a consensus about what should be done. While they were originally considering extending the moratorium so that no new businesses can pop up, they are now considering letting it end, but capping the amount of businesses and grows that the city can have. Medical and recreational grows will be considered together, and there will be no cap on the number of edibles manufacturers. The cap will more than likely be based off of something like
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zip codes, because the city wants to avoid any one area getting oversaturated with cannabis grows or dispensaries. Currently, there are a bunch of grow warehouses all together on the 1-70 corridor, and the “green mile” on South Broadway is clustered with dispensaries, since these businesses all popped up before the regulation of
“Medical and recreational grows will be considered together, and there will be no cap on the number of edibles manufacturers.”
dispensaries being 1,000 feet apart was put into place. This new rule will look to avoid a similar occurrence in the future. The newly licensed businesses would need to abide by the location laws, but would be allowed to move as long as they aren’t breaking any other rules, or moving to an oversaturated location. Grows and dispensaries that go out of business could have their spaces taken over by existing businesses that are
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looking to expand, as long as they have the proper approval. Because this new way of doing things would be looking at how many cannabis businesses operate in an area, not how many licenses are given out, this means that businesses could now switch from being just medical to being recreational without a huge hassle, or vice versa, something that has been an issue in the past. “We have a significant tilt toward
medical licenses right now,” Council Representative Robin Kniech told Westword. “Both are existing locations, but most of the pending applications we have in the pipeline are for medical facilities . . . One of the reasons we’re focusing on locations is we actually don’t want to stop individuals from converting to retail or recreation. We think that that is a better market, it is more regulated and frankly, it pays sales tax. So
if a patient needs medicine, there are adequate places to do that.” Although some headway is being made with these proposals and discussions, there are still some kinks to work out. The current ruling idea is to use a lottery system to determine who gets business spaces, but many feel that this isn’t the most effective way to handle the large number of applicants, and there are still some discussions going on about best cannabis businesses practices and how the cap should be treated overall. However, it is clear that medical and retail cannabis in Colorado is not a force that can be stopped, and upward growth is inevitable. c
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Gwenevere’s Miracle
A young child’s life is a miraculous story of a family’s hope, courage and progress by Jamie Solis
The first three months of baby Gwenevere’s life were smooth sailing until she had her first seizure in September 2012. Gwenevere’s seizures continued to get worse, causing her parents, Alexander and ReaganLeigh Repetski, to make frequent trips to the doctor every week. Gwenevere was put on heavy medication right away, and her initial diagnosis of infantile spasms was eventually determined as intractable epilepsy. While certain pharmaceutical treatments Gwenevere received lowered the amount of observable seizures she had, she was still experiencing constant subclinical seizures. Alexander explained, “[Pharmaceutical medications were] a small step in the right direction, but it would remain that every time we took her for an EEG, where they read her brain waves, she was having constant epileptic activity, whether she was having a visible seizure or not.” >>
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The constant interruption of Gwenevere’s brain waves meant that at barely four months old, she stopped developing entirely, keeping her from hitting milestones like crawling, walking or talking. Over the next two years, Gwenevere’s doctors would prescribe her nine different medications to try and stop her seizures. However the medications were still failing to improve Gwenevere’s condition, and Alexander took it upon himself to find other options to improve his daughter’s quality of life. He shared, “I started researching
neuroscience, and along the away I came across all of these powerful neuroprotective elements of cannabis and some other stories about adults as well as children using it for seizure activity. And I said, ‘This has got to be looked at here.’” Alexander continued his research and even considered moving to the U.S. many times before realizing he could soon gain legal access to cannabis through Canada’s federal medical cannabis program. It was during this time Gwenevere’s doctors recommended putting her on other medications as well as a Ketogenic
diet, which would require her to eat a restrictive diet using a G-tube. Alexander knew eating was the only thing his daughter truly enjoyed, and he found himself at a crossroads. “So I literally felt I had two options,” Alex said, “The first being breakdown, go completely crazy, just turn into a bubbling crying lunatic, or I could spend some time and do as much research as I could find time to do.” Alexander would put in about 5,000 hours of reading through data to learn everything he could about making oil, titration, dosages, safety and more. >>
Left: EEG PreCannabis Right: EEG PostCannabis
“The only thing I can say is I’ve seen [cannabis oil] literally transform Gwenevere from a two-year-old who was almost in a vegetative state most of her life to a three-and-a-half-year-old who is off almost all pharmaceuticals at this point and pretty happy.”
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With the support of his wife and family, Alexander decided to start Gwenevere’s cannabis oil treatment. He was able to convince one of his daughter’s doctors to write her a script by presenting logical arguments and scholarly articles. The family moved forward, and Gwenevere started the oil. Miraculously, she did not experience a seizure for two days following. And although she had a seizure on the third day, she has not had a seizure since then. Five weeks into her cannabis oil treatment, Gwenevere went in for another EEG reading. Doctors were blown away by what they saw—her reading showed no epileptic activity. A few months earlier Gwenevere’s EEG showed constant subclinical
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seizure activity, and now it was gone. Doctors even admitted they never thought they would see Gwenevere do so well and continue on to hit her milestones. Alexander shared, “The only thing I can say is I’ve seen [cannabis oil] literally transform Gwenevere from a two-year-old who was almost in a vegetative state most of her life to a threeand-a-half-year-old who is off almost all pharmaceuticals at this point and pretty happy. While she has a lot of hurdles to cross and jump over still, she’s developing, she’s having fun, she’s walking around. She’s doing kid stuff that we feared for very long that we’d never see her do.” At this point, many of Gwenevere’s neurologists have verbally admitted cannabis
must be what is working in her treatment. Cannabis oil has also been added to Gwenevere’s medical charts, which felt like a win to Alexander, “. . . I felt like it was a substantiated step to legitimize it and recognize this is working and to put it in writing. And as before they would not want to talk about it.” Grateful for his ability to find out what was best for his daughter, Alexander shared his hope for the forward path, “There are many “The family moved humans in the world, forward, and both health care professionals and Gwenevere started the private citizens who oil. Miraculously, she are as educated did not experience as myself (many a seizure for two considerably more days following. And so) on the topic of cannabis science. although she had a We need to open seizure on the third the discussions day, she has not had a about the science seizure since then.” and remove the interests of politics and business greed. This will provide a platform for all humans to move forward into the further discovery of the potential of cannabis as a therapeutic and healing agent. “ c
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I ndustrynsider I
Doug Francis of Weedmaps by R. Scott Rappold
There was a time not long ago—or call it the present if you’re unfortunate enough to live in a cannabis prohibition state—when posting the location of a cannabis dealer online would probably lead to a visit by Johnny Law. And if your guy was all out of smoke or only had flattened Mexican ditch cannabis to sell,
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forget about it. Where else could you turn? Yes, the Dark Ages. Those days are gone in many states, thanks to the activists and voters who saw what politicians didn’t and legalized the herb. And at WeedMaps.com, co-founder Doug Francis has been working for eight years to make sure medical and recreational users can find dispensaries, strains and reviews. It’s the Yellow Pages and Yelp for cannabis, and it’s changing the way people shop for cannabis. “We really feel it’s our job to teach the user how to be sophisticated,” said Francis, who at 38 is CEO of the world’s largest cannabis technology company. “Before you could say, ‘I like indica’ or ‘I like sativa’ or ‘I like Blue Dream,’ but that doesn’t mean anything empirically.” “When we give you the tools that show what Blue Dream typically looks like, what you’re buying is this and what the outcome of it should be, that’s the next step and it’s going to be an incredible one and it’s going to be done this year.” >>
“Everything we do at WeedMaps has been done before. It’s just applying those same philosophies to the cannabis industry, at a time when that was extremely taboo, extremely risky and way ahead of the game.”
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“Eventually this will be a normal industry. Weed will be so ubiquitous it will no longer be taboo or cool, but for now, those of us who are fighting prohibition, we’ve done this together.”
Financial Collapse to Riches Francis was working as a mortgageindustry executive in 2007. The financial crash was not kind to those in that line of work. At the same time, medical cannabis clubs and dispensaries were popping up all over California. He went to a doctor for a medical referral. “When the financial crash came, 2007, it kind of sent everyone who was in that field into a tizzy. For me, my legacy background was marijuana. It was in my DNA,” he said. “So I went to the doctor’s office to get my recommendation . . . and saw how busy they were in the doctor’s office so I figured that would be a safer way to enter the industry as opposed to growing or dispensing.” With the help of pioneering physician Dr. Bonni Goldstein, he co-founded Medical Marijuana Evaluation Centers, which eventually had more than a dozen clinics in California where patients could get referrals. Then he met Justin Hartfield. A techy and struggling writer, Hartfield had dreamed up a website and map showing the hundreds of new dispensaries opening in California, many of which did no advertising and hid behind nondescript storefronts. He had gone door-to-door signing them up to be listed and advertise on his new website, WeedMaps.com. At some point in 2009, Francis showed Hartfield a spreadsheet and told him the website would make 136
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$300,000 in short order if the former could become chief operating officer. They wouldn’t be reinventing the wheel, as far as listing and review websites, but turning it in a new direction. Said Francis, “Everything we do at WeedMaps has been done before. It’s just applying those same philosophies to the cannabis industry, at a time when that was extremely taboo, extremely risky, and way ahead of the game.” When they began charging dispensaries and doctors to be listed, the $300,000 came in so fast it made their heads spin.
From Map to Yelp The money came in so fast the bank suspected it was stolen and temporarily froze it, causing employees of the fledgling company to miss two paychecks. “Being the only player in the States, the only (dispensary) finder site, the only vertical integration portal, obviously we had a huge lead on everyone else and we took advantage of that,” said Francis. “The success of WeedMaps was instant only because it was filling a void in the marketplace that was absolutely needed.” Francis and Hartfield knew the dispensaries. They knew the doctors. They knew the strains. As other states like Colorado and Washington got in on medical marijuana, site revenues and visitors skyrocketed. The company has grown to 180 employees, with some 4,000 listings on
the site. It bought the domain Marijuana. com, a clearinghouse of cannabis news, reviews and discussion. The company’s “seed to sale” tracking software could play a role in legalization in France and Spain; Francis was reached by phone from the latter for this interview. “Each country and each state is its own story and I think we’re unique in the sense that we have policy writers here and abroad working with local activists to make sure that WeedMaps is right there helping them with all the structured resources of policy writing, attorneys, all the things these guys can’t afford but we can, we provide that to the industry,” Francis said.
Data is the Cornerstone Francis acknowledges there will be a time when Google and Facebook get over their fear of cannabis and seriously try to compete with WeedMaps. Yelp already does. But he says they can only try to compete. And they won’t win. That’s because at WeedMaps they go deeper than their competitors. Thanks to relationships with cannabis testing laboratories, Francis hopes to soon allow people to choose their buds by terpene profiles, the tastes and aromas that can accurately depict a strain in an industry when strains are often mislabeled. Connoisseurs will also be able to search not just by strains, but by cannabis brands. While he expects some people will always shop at their favorite dispensary, the evolution of WeedMaps is to also cater to the discriminating consumer willing to get into the minutiae like terpenes to find the perfect medicine or high. Francis also attributes the success of WeedMaps to the fact they are part of this industry, supporting cannabis back when the federal response to medical cannabis was uncertain, and continuing to assist legalization efforts today. “Eventually this will be a normal industry. Weed will be so ubiquitous it will no longer be taboo or cool, but for now, those of us who are fighting prohibition, we’ve done this together,” said Francis. “A lot of my friends have risked life and limb to do that and that creates a bond, a fraternity of those who are fighting the power, so to speak.” “It won’t always be the case but right now WeedMaps is the main company spending the most amount of money to help all our friends make this wonderful plant legal.” c
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Cannabis Prevents and Aborts Migraines Not Exactly Breaking News 138
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by Lanny Swerdlow, RN
Although the use of cannabis to treat headaches has been known for millennia, hostile adversaries continue to oppose the reintroduction of cannabis into our pharmacopeia, demanding that scientific proof must be developed to prove its safety and efficacy. Fortunately for humanity, two diligent Assistant Professors at the University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science have just issued a report to confirm the validity of this millennial old use of cannabis to both treat and prevent migraine headaches. Dr. Danielle Rhyne specializes in geriatric pharmacological studies providing clinical pharmacy services for elderly patients including transitions of care, chronic care management, pharmacotherapy consults and drug information. Dr. Sarah Anderson is Clinical Pharmacy Specialist in Adult Internal Medicine providing pharmacotherapy consultations and patient care visits for resistant hypertension, diabetes, anticoagulation, hospital discharge follow-up and general medication management. >>
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headaches and that marijuana seemed to be effective for those patients. We decided to conduct a research study to see how patients were using marijuana and the effects that it had on the number of headaches they had per month.
Dr. Anderson
Dr. Rhyne
What is a migraine? Dr. Anderson: A migraine is defined as common episodic disorder, the hallmark of which is a headache. People can have migraines and have other symptoms but the most common symptom is a headache. Why do people get migraines? Dr. Rhyne: The exact mechanism of action behind migraines is not fully understood but there is evidence that neurotransmitters like serotonin are involved and that a decrease of serotonin in the brain could cause migraines. Anderson: Depending on the individual patient they may have other symptoms associated with a migraine that are not necessarily headache related but a headache is a symptom that is very much associated with a migraine. Not all headaches are migraines—you can have tension headaches, you can have cluster headaches—there are other types of headaches besides just migraines.
Do you find cannabis to be effective in treating migraines? Rhyne: We found that patients who used marijuana did have a decrease in the number of headaches per month. With marijuana use, the average number of headaches went from 10 headaches per month down to 4.6 headaches per month. How do patients use cannabis to treat migraine headaches? Anderson: Many patients who
“Cannabis has analgesic and antiinflammatory properties acting on cannabinoid receptors that are located throughout the body. When patients use marijuana the cannabis goes to these cannabinoid receptors causing inflammation and pain to decrease.”
How did you come to study migraines and cannabis? Rhyne: During my first year of residency, I heard quite a few questions from physicians about medicinal cannabis and how cannabis can be used by patients. After doing some reading I realized that there was not much information out there. During my second year of residency, I had a preceptor who knew a physician who ran a medical marijuana clinic. The physician noticed that a lot of her patients would come in with migraine 140
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had multiple migraines per month reported that vaporizing marijuana would stop their headache and that edible marijuana would prevent them from having a headache. A fairly common patient scenario would be taking an edible with 10 to 20mgs of THC at bedtime. If they felt like they were having a headache the next day, they would use vaporized marijuana to help stop the headache. Was smoking cannabis as effective as vaporizing? Anderson: Yes—smoking was very common, but the provider at the clinic would educate patients about the potential risks of smoking marijuana and encourage them to use vaporizers as it is safer for the lungs, but smoking did have the same effect on migraines as vaporizing.
How does aspirin compare in its effectiveness in treating headaches to cannabis? Anderson: Aspirin is not the drug of choice for migraine headaches. Aspirin is very commonly used by patients for tension type headaches or cluster type headaches, but for patients who had migraine type headaches it tends to be prescription medications like Imitrex or the generic triptans. How does Imitrex compare in effectiveness in treating migraine headaches as compared to cannabis? Rhyne: Currently, there are no studies comparing Imitrex to marijuana so the comparison cannot be made. Imitrex is used for acute treatment of migraine. In our study, we had patients using marijuana for both acute treatment as well as preventative therapy. Studies comparing the two are needed in order to know the differences in effectiveness. How does cannabis work to prevent or relieve headaches? Rhyne: Cannabis has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties acting on cannabinoid receptors that are located throughout the body. When patients use marijuana the cannabis goes to these cannabinoid receptors causing inflammation and pain to decrease. So migraines are caused by inflammation? Rhyne: Correct. There are a few other mechanisms out there dealing with serotonin that are thought to be related to migraines. They are believed to activate 5HT receptor sites which is the same mechanism of action as the triptans which means marijuana may have the same mechanism of action as triptan in the brain. Would you use cannabis to treat your migraines? Rhyne: I would first use the approved therapies like the triptans and see if they were effective. If not, then it would be a conversation I would have with my provider to make sure cannabis would be a safe option and then I would be a little more likely to try marijuana. c
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Whimsical Reality Mike Graves’ unique approach to his cartoon-based street art by Addison Herron-Wheeler
All adults are guilty of wanting to be children again at one time or another, but pastimes such as watching cartoons, reading comics and playing games are often now geared towards adults just as much as children. These mediums are a comforting and welcome escape from the harsh world of adult life and responsibility. Luckily for Mike Graves, drawing cartoons and childhood-inspired illustrations is his adult job, making his version of the real world a lot more like an episode of Adventure Time. “[My art is], more character-based and character-driven, a little bit whimsical,” Graves told CULTURE. “I think I’ve tried to simplify it as much as I can over the years to make sure
the characters have a little more feeling in them.” Mike has been drawing since he was little, always finding refuge in cartoon art. “I got started when I was really young—I’d say probably in third or fourth grade, when I started skating,” he told CULTURE. “I would copy skate graphics and I would just draw everything in sight; comics, skate graphics, anything I had that had drawings on it I would just redraw.” What started as a passion to draw constantly has manifested itself as a way to spread his cheerful view of the world across Denver. Graves gets commissions to do murals and paint walls all over the city, and many of the projects he works on are aimed towards children and on buildings that children frequent. Because of this, Graves doesn’t work
“I feel like the cannabis industry has really helped. People are coming in and have made more money, are buying more art, and it seems to be noticeable a lot in Denver, so I think that’s helping a ton.” cannabis into his art as a theme, in order to keep things age appropriate. However, he is a major advocate of legalization and the good that cannabis has done for Denver. Unlike some natives who are weary of the change, he applauds the influx of transplants and new businesses to the metro area. “I would say the main thing that [legalization] has affected is the extra influx of money and people being more supportive of arts,” he explained. “I feel like the cannabis industry has really helped. People are coming in and have made more money, are buying more art, and it seems to be noticeable a lot in Denver, so I think that’s
helping a ton. I grew up here and was born here, and I think it’s a good thing. The people who move here mainly, I’d say 90 percent, do so for a good reason. It’s mostly people who support it for the right reason and want to support art and that lifestyle, and that brings a little more to the culture that there should be. It supports art and music, and a little more expression. I’m happy that it has happened and that Colorado is in the forefront of it and that we can kind of lead this. It would be nice if other states copied it, and I think every state should legalize. I think our model has worked pretty well, so other states would be smart to do the same.” c roaneindustries.com
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photos by Anarchivist Digital Photography.
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Divine Dancer Swagata Banerjee is keeping the dance of Odissi alive in Colorado
by Addison Herron-Wheeler
Colorado has always had a special connection with the Eastern world—the beautiful, towering Rocky Mountains call to mind the Himalayas, and the liberal and healthy residents of Denver and Boulder love yoga, meditation and Eastern recipes. However, one aspect of Eastern culture that often gets overlooked is dance. Classical Indian dancing, while an ancient art form, is alive and well here in Colorado, and well known local dancer Swagata Banjeree has made this art form her life’s work. “I was only four years old when I started learning dance,” Banjeree told CULTURE. “I always enjoyed dancing but my mother was the first one to take it seriously and put me into a formal training program in one of the classical dance forms of India. From there the journey started and I ended up becoming
photos by Ananyo Banerjee
authenticates Odissi dance as one of the oldest surviving dance forms of India.” Banjeree currently has a lot of interesting creative projects in the works, as well as a successful career as a dance teacher. “Currently I am working on two projects,” she told us. “One is ‘the Odyssey of Odissi’ and the other one is ‘The Moods of Life.’ The first project
“I feel that since it’s been legalized there has to be a good reason behind it. I am hoping that just like other medical drugs this one will also create miracles to heal people.” what I am today, a classical Odissi dancer. My family are ardent followers of traditional music and dance. I have grown up listening to Indian classical music. My mother, Srilekha Banerjee, being a vocalist and specializing in a very rare field of traditional Bengali songs, has always been the biggest source of inspiration for me. I am also grateful to all of my teachers who have taught me throughout my 23 years of dance career.” “I practice a 2,100-year-old dance form known as Odissi,” she continued. “It had its origin in the temples of Orissa, a state from the eastern part of India. The sculptors in the temples depict different body postures and the sculptors come to life through the dancers when it is performed. Archaeological evidence 144
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focuses on the emergence of the style of Odissi, and basic postures, hand gestures and foot movements used in Odissi. The second project highlights how the moods in daily life influence dance expressions. Expression is one of the essential components of any classical dance forms. It is best portrayed when the dancer realizes that we are always using expressions in our everyday life. As Banjaree practices her craft, her goal is to spread the word about this type of dance and get others more educated and involved. “I teach Odissi in Colorado and perform and conduct workshops all around the country,” she stated. “My goal is to reach out to people around the globe and get them a feel of the intricacies of the ancient art form. I have been awarded the title ‘Singarmani’ for outstanding performance in Odissi dance by Sur Singar Samsad, a prestigious organization in India motivated to promoting Indian classical dance forms. I feel the best when I see my students’ keenness to learn the ancient dance form with enthusiasm. As I appreciate diversity, I am fortunate to teach a very diverse group of students in terms of age and ethnicity.” In addition to spreading the word about classical Indian dancing, Banjaree is also an advocate of legal cannabis. “I feel that since it’s been legalized, there has to be a good reason behind it,” she explains. “I am hoping that just like other medical drugs this one will also create miracles to heal people.” c www.swagatabanerjee.com
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“[Cannabis] expands my limitations of creativity as well as helping me find my center line on a day-today basis. It has so many good qualities that are extremely helpful in the creative process.”
Here for the Hustle Local rappers Kontrast & Fo Chief are driven to leave their musical mark on the scene by Addison Herron-Wheeler
To some, hip-hop may appear to be all about big money, success and glamour. But those who have chosen to make this music for a living know the truth: It takes hard work, hustle and sacrifice in order to have that ultimate payoff. Local rappers Kontrast & Fo Chief know all about this struggle, and are succeeding despite how many others are trying to make it in the rap game. “I started writing and recording music in 2006,” Fo Chief told us. “A longtime friend of mine, Paul Junior, had a setup that he was using to record his group at the time, On Point. It was then that I decided to start focusing on my own future in
music. Not long after that, a member of On Point stepped away from group so I decided to join the group and fill the space. Within a year or so after joining On Point, myself and seven other musicians collaborated to create a supergroup we called Fresh Breath Committee. In 2008, Fresh Breath Committee took off and that’s where it all began.” “[I’m] always working on new music,” Kontrast told CULTURE regarding their drive to succeed. “Music is something that I feel that I can’t ever really stop doing. As far what’s next, I think another main focus of mine and Fo Chief’s is creating visibility for our album,
Cannonball Soup: The Last Supper. This body of work is the result of a good two years of us in and out of studios, just making different songs that feel good to us. Now that we have this album out there, we want to make sure that this album is seen and heard.” In addition to being driven to make quality music, play shows and represent the local culture, both Kontrast and Fo Chief are also big advocates of legal cannabis, as well as big smokers. “Cannabis plays a key part in the creative process for me,” Fo Chief explained. “It expands my limitations of creativity as well as helping me find my center line on a day-to-day basis. It has so many good qualities that are extremely helpful in the creative process.” “Chief and I are both avid users of cannabis, and for me, personally, I’ve always seen it as a social thing,” Kontrast added. “Sure, I
photo by Ramiro Rodriguez
smoke by myself to relax, but my comment pertains more to the social atmosphere that it opens up for each individual. The actual act of smoking, passing a joint or a blunt or bowl around in the circle, and connecting with other people . . . it’s no different than cracking open a beer with someone at the bar. Creatively, I like to use it at the beginning of sessions. It allows the mind a little bit more detachment to float and think freely upon different social and cultural scenarios and truly analyze them from a non-objective standpoint, and it also makes the door for expression that much bigger to put onto the page when I write.” Watch for Kontrast and Fo Chief playing local shows this spring, and touring this summer, and look out for their new record, Cannonball Soup: The Last Supper, which came out at the end of last month. c
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culture growing
Testing The Varieties: Part 3 The plants have been flowering since February 18, but they have another three to five weeks before they ripen. There are several reasons why ripening has been delayed by a few weeks. First, this area has had multiple weeks of mostly cloudy or rainy weather, limiting the amount of light the plants received as compared with what they receive on sunny days. Even in the low light months of February or March. Secondly, about three weeks into flowering the lighting schedule failed due to a mal-functioning timer. The plants received two to four extra hours of light each day for five days. This probably delayed ripening for 10 to 12 days. The plants were started in a tent with a four-by-four-foot canopy but were moved into the greenhouse four weeks ago because they were outgrowing their quarters. The move doubled the canopy size to four-by-eight-feet. They have filled that space too, but they have stopped growing larger and are concentrating their energy on flowering. The greenhouse receives light only from the top and the front. The other sides are building walls. To supplement the natural light two 1000-Watt HPS lamps switch on from 10a.m. to 4p.m. One is on a light
TIP OF THE MONTH FROM ASK ED®
When the buds are near ripening there are a few advantages to keeping the temperature high day and night. With CO2 enrichment the plants grow fastest and yield the most when the top leaves have a surface temperature of about 85 degrees. During the dark period lower the temperature by 10 degrees. The high temperatures are above the preferred range for both powdery mildew and botrytis so an attack is much less likely to occur.
Copyright by Ed Rosenthal. All rights are reserved. First North American Magazine rights only are assigned to culture Magazine. No other reproduction of this material is permitted without the specific written permission of the author/ copyright holder.
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mover and the other is attached to the back wall to light the darker back part of the greenhouse. There are 35 plants in the garden. Each is a different variety. All were purchased as clones from local dispensaries. Each plant has just less than two square feet of space, a square measuring almost 18 inches per side. The purpose of the experiment is to get an idea in miniature of how each variety would perform if it had more space and time to develop into a larger plant. To do this, I forced the plants to flower when they were still small, only 10 days after they had been transplanted into six-inch containers. The lighting was switched from being on continuously to a split cycle of 12 hours on and 12 hours of darkness. Almost all varieties start to flower when they receive a minimum of 10 to 11 hours of uninterrupted darkness daily. Since the plants are close to one another, the sides of the plants and the understory leaves and branches don’t get much light. Since light powers both the plant’s growth and its metabolism, these parts don’t contribute to the plant’s growth. Instead they use energy produced by the canopy to fuel their metabolism, and they hinder the free flow of air between the plants. Removing them, which I did for this article, helps the plants by easing crowding, facilitating airflow and lessening the energy load nonproductive parts use. Save all the leaves from the pruning process and run them through the juicer to make a healthy drink. Some people use the fresh leaves as medicine for debilitating chronic medical conditions. At the end of this experiment I will have an idea of each variety’s morphology, the amount of space it requires, its yield, the quality of the bud and its cannabinoids and terpenes. c
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The greenhouse. Besides the 35 experimental plants, six plants that were living outdoors to get an early start on the summer have taken up temporary residence to stay out of the rain.
The plants in the garden before pruning away the lower branches.
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After pruning the air flows freely and the plants have a bit more space.
Five of the varieties being tested; THC Bomb, Sour Diesel, Kosher Kush, Sunset Sherbet and Purple Urkle.
Young bud of Sour Diesel close-up.
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Photo by Andrey Bayda
How to Plan for a Spring Trip to Australia’s Nimbin
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A trip to Nimbin during Australia’s tropical version of autumn (our spring months) is still filled with '60s hippie culture gone wild as well as some of Australia's most relaxing and breathtaking natural adventures. Plus, now is the time when cannabis enthusiasts all over the world gear up for Nimbin’s annual MardiGrass Festival, which will be held this year from April 30-May 1. The two-day festival is replete with events like the Nimbin Cannabis Cup, the Hemp Olympix, a protest rally complete with
“ganja faeries” and nightly musical entertainment. While the days of drinking a flat white with a slice of cake and openly smoking at Nimbin’s Hemp Bar may be over for now (after an infamous police raid several years back), the toking continues in private. Still, the ability to stock up on vacay stash in Nimbin any time of year is rather simple these days (quietly ask around town or enlist aide at the Nimbin Hemp Embassy). Day trippers and vacationers flock to Nimbin and the surrounding countryside for easy-to-score
cannabis, the village’s eclectic hippie-frontier vibe and the natural beauty of this place, which is ringed by mountain forests and lush valleys while nearly empty, pristine shoreline is but an hour’s drive away. Don’t just think Nimbin is some New Age Nirvana. The central village has attracted a nefarious drug culture in the past decade or two so visitors must be on their toes. Truly, Nimbin is a fun, cheap and mostly safe way for cannabis-seeking travelers to explore all of the delights of New South Wales’ northernmost country lifestyle. c
Fun-Filled Facts Nimbin has few accommodations, so planning ahead is essential during festival time especially. More and more visitors are opting for private rooms or entire mountain forest or beachside cottages via Airbnb rather than B&Bs near town. 1
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Hiking upstream to a fresh water river’s deep pond and then spending time swimming and sunning is a favorite pastime of outbackers in Australia. Nimbin is surrounded by some of the country’s best “holes” such as Dalwood Falls, Marom Falls, Tosha Falls and Killen Falls. 2
Time to Go: Spring Weather: Warm with high humidity and nearly constant rainfall. Budget: $$$$$
if you go: Australia’s Parliament finally made an amendment to its Narcotic Drugs Act on February 24 to allow for legally growing of cannabis for medical and scientific purposes. Pro-cannabis proponents called it a “historic day,” however, what happens next for MMJ patients is rather murky. So, buying, growing and consuming cannabis are still illegal as of today. Nimbin is quite the exception as this faraway tropical town was literally built as a pot paradise. Ever since a crackdown in 2008, the good ol’ days of lighting up inside cafes and outside on the frontier-style sidewalks are gone. In addition, a very unfortunate fire in 2014 took out the city’s priceless cultural artifacts at the Nimbin Museum. Fortunately, the free-wheeling spirit of the original hippie village remains and is resparked every year during the city’s high-flying MardiGrass Festival.
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culture growing
Douglas Szklarski
PROFILE
IN
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DESTINATION
UNKNOWN
RECIPES
Age: 51
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Condition/Illness: Disease in the spine, arthritis, carpal tunnel, chronic migraines, cholesterol issues, cirrhosis of the liver, pancreatitis, and other issues. Using Medical Cannabis Since: 2007
Why did you start using cannabis? The pills weren’t working and someone brought me a joint in 2007—and afterwards, I realized I wasn’t in any pain. I was using cannabis as a subsidy because of cost and didn’t use it full-time until the VA threw me in the psych ward for three days, claiming that I said I wanted to commit suicide, which was a result of all of the pills I was taking. Cannabis has restored me—you can take care of anything by smoking the herb, but the true healing power comes from the oils. Did you try other methods or treatments before cannabis? Pills like vicodin, methadone, shock therapy, creams, lotions— my skin was so sensitive. The balance in my body was totally off because of the medical treatments, and my body is finally
getting back some kind of balance now—it feels pretty good. What’s the most important issue or problem facing medical cannabis patients? The most important issue is that cannabis should be legalized across the country. No more of this hiding and telling lies. So, the big thing is having people being taught how to properly use cannabis, grow cannabis and be able to heal from cannabis, because it’s going to take the medical field about five to 10 years to catch up. The high CBD plants just do a wonderful job. I think that when people complain about plant counts in people’s homes—I look at them as heroes, especially for our veterans. What do you say to folks that are skeptical about cannabis as medicine? Look at the research— what they are doing with research now is phenomenal. The truth is finally coming out, but there is still a lot of negativity. There are too many toxicities out there for us—that’s why a variety of cannabis works, because our body builds up an immunity to it. I need 16-20 different strains of cannabis to help my various ailments. c
Are you an MMJ patient with a compelling story to tell? If so, we want to hear from you. Email your name, contact information and details about your experiences with medical cannabis to courage@ireadculture.com.
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culture
Savoring the Season of Spring
Seared Salmon with Pea Puree Brown CannaButter Asparagus Arugula Bruschetta
recipes by Laurie Wolf photography by Bruce Wolf
April is a lovely time of year for eating seasonally. Asparagus, peas, baby arugula and wonderful wild salmon—no heavy sauces required. Let’s let the freshness and flavor of these natural ingredients shine through this spring. We suggest a teaspoon of canna-butter or canna-oil per person, going for a dose of about 10 percent THC. The CBD percent is your call. There seems to be no question that those two cannabinoids, along with lots of others, can work wonders on what ails you. Less is more, and have fun.
RECIPES
growing
Menu:
Seared Salmon with Pea Puree
UNKNOWN
Ingredients 4 teaspoons canna-olive oil t 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped 3 sprigs of thyme 8 scallions, trimmed, halved and cut in thin strips
DESTINATION
2 cups fresh peas (or 10-ounce package frozen) 2 tablespoons plain yogurt 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon canola oil 4 6-ounce pieces of salmon Salt Pepper
Serves
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t Additional recipe can be found at iReadCulture.com
Instructions In a large skillet, heat the canna-olive oil. Add the garlic, thyme, scallions and peas. Sauté for 7-9 minutes, until the peas are tender and the scallions have softened. In a food processor, process 3/4 of the pea/scallion mixture. (You just want to have enough left in the pan to garnish the salmon pieces). Add the yogurt and lemon juice to the pureed mixture and process until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste. In a skillet, heat the canola oil. When hot, place the salmon, skin side up in the skillet. Cook over medium high heat, for 4-5 minutes. Turn and cook an additional 3-4 minutes. Spread the green sauce over the bottom of four plates. Place a piece of salmon in the center of each. Top with a sprinkling of peas, scallion and thyme. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, if desired.
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Ocean Prime 1465 Larimer St., Denver (303) 825-3663 www.ocean-prime.com Canino’s Italian Restaurant 613 S College Ave., Fort Collins (970) 493-7205 www.caninositalianrestaurant.com
Brown CannaButter Asparagus
JaJa Bistro 5641 S Nevada St., Littleton (303) 789-5389 www.jajabistro.com
Ingredients
culture
4
growing
Local eateries with similar dishes
Serves
2 tablespoons butter
4 teaspoons canna-butter t 1 teaspoon lemon zest Sage for garnish
Instructions
Arugula Bruschetta Serves
4
Ingredients 8 slices bread, toasted 2 garlic cloves, peeled 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 cups baby arugula
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1/3 cup thinly sliced red onion 10 cherry tomatoes, halved 4 tablespoons goat cheese, crumbled 4 teaspoons canna-oil t
Instructions Place the toasted bread on your work surface. Take the garlic cloves and rub the cloves on one side of the bread. Drizzle with the olive oil. In a large bowl, combine the arugula, onion, tomatoes and goat cheese. Place the lettuce mixture on the bread slices. Drizzle with the infused oil.
Legal Disclaimer Publishers of this publication are not making any representations with respect to the safety or legality of the use of medical marijuana. The recipes listed here are for general entertainment purposes only, and are intended for use only where medical marijuana is not a violation of state law. Edibles can vary in potency while a consumers’ weight, metabolism and eating habits may affect effectiveness and safety. Ingredient management is important when cooking with cannabis for proper dosage. Please consume responsibly and check with your doctor before consumption to make sure that it is safe to do so.
COURAGE
Salt and coarse black pepper
IN
Laurie Wolf is a regular recipe developer and edibles contributor to The Cannabist, High Times, Oregon Leaf, and Cannabis Now. She graduated from the Culinary Institute of America and worked as a chef, caterer, and food stylist in New York before relocating to Portland. She is a published author—recent works include A Food Lover’s Guide to Portland and The Portland, Oregon Chef’s Table. She is currently co-authoring two cannabis cookbooks including HERB, a crowdfunded cookbook from the folks behind The Stoner’s Cookbook. Laurie has been a trained chef, food stylist, food editor, recipe developer and cookbook author for over thirty years. Her company, Laurie and MaryJane, is dedicated to producing high-quality medicated food. Laurie’s passion for cannabis as treatment stems from her exposure to her father’s endof-life care as well as her own successful management of a seizure disorder.
PROFILE
In a large skillet, heat the butter. Add the asparagus and sauté over medium heat, shaking the pan gently to cook evenly, 5-7 minutes. Place the canna-butter in the pan, sprinkle with the lemon zest and cook an additional minute or two. Garnish with the sage.
DESTINATION
1 pound asparagus, trimmed
UNKNOWN
RECIPES
6 sage leaves, chopped
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colorado NOW! event listings
“Masks,” Ends May 6
Local artists are called together to contribute up to 200 masks that will be on display at the Fort Collins Museums of Art. These masks showcase the abilities of local artists and help raise funds for the museum through a silent auction. Fort Collins Museum of Art, Fort Collins ftcma.org
Bud Comedy Presents: Boulder VS Longmont Showdown, April 13
featured event
Two cities go head-to-head to see which is equipped with the best comedians. This is an adultfriendly show where audience members will be able to vote to determine which of the two cities comes out on top. Dickens Opera House, Longmont www.thedickensoperahouse.com
College Night, Every Tuesday
Too broke to afford delicious pizza and beer? Fret not, Woody’s Woodfire Pizza has got college students covered every Monday night, as they offer allyou-can-eat pizza for only $7 and beer specials that can’t be beat. Woody’s Woodfire Pizza, Golden woodysgolden.com
Homebody, April 6
Homebody has been working hard touring the entirety of Canada and major cities in the U.S. Catch this local Denver band as it hits home to perform its chill surf rock. Walnut Room, Denver www.thewalnutroom.com
Second Saturday Swing Lessons, April 9
Enjoy free swing lessons and delicious cider at Stem Ciders’ Second Saturday Swing Lesson. This a free lesson, show your appreciation and support by tipping the band and buying some brew. Stem Ciders, Denver www.stemciders.com
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ACT Human Rights Film Festival, April 15-22
Join Colorado State University as it holds its first annual Human Rights Film Festival. Featuring 15 curated films from across the world, this event is intended to inform viewers of injustices brought upon citizens of the world and how we can work together to change these conditions. Colorado State University, Fort Collins www.colostate.edu
Third Thursday Arts and Ales, April 21
Enjoy delicious beers crafted by Left Hand Brewing Company while mingling with local artists, you may even go home with a work of art for sale by one of the many artists doing live demonstrations. Left Hand Brewing Company, Longmont artslongmont.org
Top Chef of Northern Colorado, April 16
Colorado’s best chefs compete to earn the title of “Top Chef” at this exciting event that will offer up plenty of food and drinks with local celebrity guests and music. Proceeds from the event will go to abuse and negligence organization, A Kid’s Place.
Island Grove Exhibition Hall, Greeley greeleygov.com
Stanley Film Festival, April 28- May 1
Horror film fans unite at the hotel where Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining was filmed. Engage with film-
makers and actors while enjoying film screenings and exclusive parties and other events at one of Colorado’s most iconic sites. Stanley Hotel, Estes Park stanleyfilmfest.com
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Call to Action
Pesticide Recalls in Colorado Now a State-Wide Problem by Addison Herron-Wheeler
Over the past year, it has been impossible to look up local cannabis news in Colorado without coming across something about pesticide recalls. What started as a few isolated incidents with dispensaries in the Denver area now appears to be a state-wide problem, and finally, the state is stepping in to deal with this issue. Up until recently, the pesticide issue had been largely unregulated on a state-wide level, and Denver was dealing with grows and dispensaries they felt had violated local laws by using unapproved pesticides. However, a recall in Colorado Springs this February finally got the notice of the state’s health and safety advisory section of the Marijuana Enforcement Agency. According to the Denver Post, this is the first time that state officials have gotten involved, and Governor Hickenlooper has declared the pesticide issue a “public safety risk.”
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Officials of the MED were made aware of the problem by the Colorado Department of Agriculture, and have vowed to try and put an end to this issue once and for all. “We want to ensure we’ve been very thorough about the underlying circumstances and the use of the pesticides, and that we’ve identified all the product that’s been affected by this,” Lewis Koski, who serves as deputy senior director for the Colorado Department of Revenue’s enforcement division, told the Denver Post. Most recently, the MED got involved with a massive pesticide recall in Denver. MGI Inc., also known as Kindman, is being accused of using unauthorized pesticides in their grows. According to the Denver Post, this recall is being classified as a public safety hazard, and is part of the MED’s ongoing mission to deal with the pesticide issue on a statewide level. However, Kindman is denying that they used the pesticide in question at all.
“We are contesting these findings and are attempting to have the hold released,” Ryan Fox, owner, claimed in an official statement. “We believe the test process is faulty and that the Colorado Department of Agriculture has potentially cross-contaminated our samples during testing.” One of the pesticides they are being accused of using is known as imidacloprid, and is thought to be responsible for the declining bee population. Lab tests are currently unclear on whether or not the grow was using unauthorized amounts of this and other restricted chemicals, but the matter is still under investigation. The biggest issue with determining pesticide levels and what should be allowed is that Colorado is largely pioneering this area of research. There are obviously no federal presidents about cannabis pesticides, so local researchers must set the standard for pesticide use. “The Colorado Department of Agriculture created a list
of pesticides that are not disallowed for use on cannabis in early 2015,” John Chandler, vice president of Cultivation Technologies for UrbanGrow, told CULTURE. “It’s a touchy and grey subject, because the federal EPA regulates pesticides, and as it’s a federal agency, they don’t recognize cannabis as a legal crop. as such, EPA-registered pesticides don’t list cannabis as a crop that pesticides can be used on, so the CDA had to draw a line in the sand, determining which pesticides to be used on cannabis.” “Most producers are following the CDA rules,” he added. “In perspective, there is a lot of cannabis being produced in Colorado. Only a small fraction is being recalled. Some of it is old product grown before the CDA issued its pesticide list, and at least one recall was involving a pesticide that was approved, but had an illegal ingredient in it. Some pesticides are very persistent and can stay in the plant for long periods of time and may be carrying over from prerule days. It’s a very complex situation, so I wouldn’t go right to demonizing the producers.” As far as future pesticide use goes, Chandler predicts that more people will try for organic alternatives that won’t be blacklisted. “Certainly there will be less non-organic pesticides being used on cannabis in Colorado,” he told us. “Whether that is positive is subjective.” Like with most aspects of the cannabis industry, there are so many grey areas with the Colorado pesticide issue that is it doubtful things will be fully resolved until there is federal precedent. However, all things considered, Colorado is taking the fall for other states by being one of the first to pioneer cannabis pesticide use, and their trial and error is once again pushing the state towards D.I.Y., green and alternative solutions. c
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Chuck Shepherd's
News of the
Weird
LEAD STORY—CHANNELING GEORGE CARLIN u “Military Intelligence”: The head of U.S. Navy intelligence has for more than two years been prohibited from accessing classified information (as the Pentagon disclosed to The Washington Post in January). Vice Admiral Ted Branch came under investigation in 2013 in a corruption scandal involving a foreign defense contractor and various Navy personnel and might have been suspended from all duties—except that, given the political gridlock in Washington, no consensus candidate has emerged.
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No charges have been filed against Branch, but before he enters any room at the Pentagon, classified material must be stowed away. RECURRING THEMES u New World Order: (1) Yet another woman gave birth to her own granddaughter in January. Tracey Thompson, 54, offered to be the surrogate mother for her fertilitychallenged daughter, Kelley, and delivered a 6-pound, 11-ounce girl at The Medical Center in Plano, Texas. (2) After notable successes in the United States, Latin America claimed in December its first transgender pregnancy after Ecuadorean Fernando Machado announced he was expecting a child with his partner Diane Rodriguez. Fernando used to be “Maria”; Diane used to be “Luis”; and though both undergo hormone therapy, they have retained their birth organs.
u Perspective: On the heels of a similar program in Richmond, California, Washington, D.C.’s D.C. Council authorized funding in January to pay stipends to notorious criminals if they stop committing crimes. Police would identify up to 50 residents likely to violently offend again in 2016 and offer them periodic cash payments plus special training and educational benefits— as long as they stay out of trouble. Officials in Richmond (once overwhelmed by gun deaths) say their program, commenced almost 10 years ago, has produced a 76 percent drop in gun-related crime. u In January, 15-year-old Anthony Ruelas, trying to rescue a classmate gasping from an asthma attack, became the latest casualty in public schools’ relentless insistence on “zero tolerance” of any deviation from rules. Gateway Middle School in Killeen, Texas, suspended Ruelas for two days for what others called his “heroic” assistance in gathering the girl in his arms and taking her to the nurse’s office—while the teacher, following “procedure,” waited passively for a nurse to email instructions. (Ruelas had defied the teacher, declaring, “(F-word) that—we ain’t got time to wait for no email from the nurse.”) The school district’s superintendent later cited a federal law that he interpreted as justifying the procedure. LEADING ECONOMIC INDICATORS u Amazon.com has riled up Buddhist temples in Japan, according to a January Associated Press dispatch, by offering traveling monks rentable online to conduct funerals and other rituals. The monk would go to a home, grave or funeral home, at fees and upgrades ranging from the equivalent of $300 to about $8,500. (Many of Japan’s 75,000 Buddhist
temples are struggling financially and destined to close. Complained a spokesman for the Japan Buddhist Association, what Amazon is facilitating “is allowed in no other country in the world.”) u In February, Gawker. com introduced the semiserious Lube Crude Index as a poignant indicator of how far the price of oil has fallen. Comparing the world price of a standard 42-gallon barrel of crude (about $31) with that of a 55-gallon barrel of Passion Natural Water-Based Lubricant (retailing as, when packaged in smaller quantities, a sexual aid) shows that “sex lube” is more valuable than crude oil by a factor of 28—a barrel’s worth of the lube recently priced at $1,175 versus crude’s barreladjusted $41. As recently as June 2014, the Lube Crude Index was near 1. (Gawker reported that only two actual barrels of Passion Natural could be found and that the price would likely rise further if one of them were sold). UNCLEAR ON THE CONCEPT u (1) Angel Rivera, 49, was arrested in December in Orlando, Florida, on allegations that he punched a child in the face because the boy was not getting dressed for church fast enough. (The boy was wearing an ankle brace, which slowed him down). (2) Ryan Dailey, 28, was arrested in Las Cruces, New Mexico, in February on several charges after, police said, he beat his mother by pounding her with a Bible. His explanation, police said, was that when he asked her who her soul belonged to, she repeatedly declined to answer. WHO KNEW? u The much-maligned pigeon was recently found by researchers to be as skilled as humans at distinguishing between slides of benign versus malignant human breast iReadCULTURE.com april 2016
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tissue. Writing in the journal PLOS ONE, specialists from the University of Iowa and University of California, Davis lauded the birds’ processing of color, contrast, brightness and image compression, marveling that pigeons see more wavelengths of light than humans, even though their brains are one-thousandth the size. (Birds are already known to distinguish “hostile” humans in celebrated dive-pecking incidents). POLICE REPORT u A near-certain robbery of the PNC Bank in Zebulon, North Carolina, on Jan. 28 was prevented, with employees treated to an almost-slapstick scene in which the bank manager kept the suspect outside by winning a tug-of-war for control of the front door. The manager had grabbed the door after noticing an armed, masked man approaching from the parking lot just after the bank opened. (The frustrated perp fled emptyhanded, but was at large). u Awkward Moments Ahead in Lockup: (1) Joel Sloan, 51, was booked into jail for DUI by a sheriff’s deputy in Birmingham, Alabama, in February. Sloan was dressed head-to-toe as a clown. (No explanation was offered). (2) Vaughn Tucker, 23, was booked into jail in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in February
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on drug charges. He was wearing a T-shirt with large lettering on the front: “I Would Cuddle You So Hard.” u Didn’t Think It Through: The robbers of the electronics store Compucell in Springfield, Massachusetts, in December came up empty, but are still at large. A man with a gun jumped the counter and demanded that the employee give him money from the locked cash register. The gunman moved to the back door to let in his accomplice, but that merely allowed the employee and two customers to run out the front door, and the accomplice fled, too, sensing that, with no one to unlock the register, the “robbery” was going nowhere. PERSPECTIVE u American hunters are so trophy-kill-obsessed that, in the decade ending in 2014 (according to Humane Society figures), they averaged nine imported carcasses a day among the “Big Five” African species (lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos and African buffalo)— most of which require special U.S. and foreign permits, with “conservation” conditions. Some countries endanger their own dwindling herds just to sell the lucrative permits, and South Africa even offers 150 captive lions a year to make trophy kills easier. (Total hunting imports of all animal trophies averaged 345 a day, mostly from Canada and Mexico).
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