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contents 03.16 Vol 7 IssUE 9
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EXCITING AND ELECTRIC AWOLNATION’s Aaron Bruno speaks exclusively with CULTURE about eclectic inspiration, independence and getting creative with cannabis.
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ON THE COVER: Photo provided by Red Bull Records
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contents
inside
03.16
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36 72
features 54
The Emerald Isle Wants Green Too! Ireland is making headway in medical cannabis access.
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The Complexity of Organic Cannabis Regulators begin weighing in on pesticides like never before.
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Indie Innovation The future of indie rock group Tacocat is going to be legendary.
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Embracing Heritage Gaelic Storm has been mixing traditional Irish music with modern influence for 20 years.
online Exclusive!
departments news
14 News Nuggets 16 By the Numbers 20 Local News 24 Legal Corner
28 Access Point Highlight 44 Entertainment Reviews Unknown
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reviews
32 Advocate Highlight 36 Strain, Edible & Concentrate Reviews 42 Cool Stuff
in every issue
71 Profile in Courage
72 Recipes
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68 Shooting Gallery
74 Washington Now!
69 Growing Culture 70 Destination
76 News of the Weird
d Scientists Isolate
The 'Paranoia Gene' in Cannabis Smokers d Facebook Attacks
Cannabis Collective Pages
Vol 7 IssUE 9
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CULTURE M
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Publisher Jeremy Zachary Editor-In-Chief Evan Senn associate Editor Ashley Bennett Editorial coordinator Victoria Banegas Editorial Contributors Sheryll Alexander, Marguerite Arnold, Jake Browne, Jasen T. Davis, Alex Distefano, David Downs, Natasha Guimond, Addison Herron-Wheeler, Anthony Herrold, Pamela Jayne, Heather Johnson, Joe Jatcko, David Jenison, Kevin Longrie, Emily Manke, Tyler Markwart, Meital Manzuri, Sandy Moriarty, Madison Ortiz, Denise Pollicella, 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 Justin Olson Account Executives Jon Bookatz, Eric Bulls, Kim Cook, Cole Garrison, Gene Gorelik, Emily Musser, Beau Odom, 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 Anna Logan, Chris Salazar Distribution Manager Cruz Bobadilla
Culture速 Magazine is published every month and distributes 25,000 magazines at over 600 locations throughout Washington. No articles, illustrations, photographs, or other matter within may be reproduced without written permission. Culture速 Magazine is a registered trademark. All rights reserved. 815 1st Ave | #220 Seattle | Washington | 98104 Phone 888.694.2046 | 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 WA House of Representatives Reviews Bill that will Allow Home-Grown Plants Although recreational cannabis is legal in Washington, growing the plant for recreational purposes is not, but House Bill 2629 hopes to change that. The bill was introduced to Washington’s House of Representatives and reviewed for the first time on February 2. The reason for this bill is that some residents may not have access to recreational cannabis because there aren’t any access points nearby, according to KVEW-TV. Although this would be a convenient change for Washington State residents, grower Pablo Gonzales is worried of the dangers revolving around home-grown cannabis. “Things such as mold, other bacteria, you know, and other chemicals people try to use (on their plants) that they may think is healthy but are possibly not,” said Gonzalez. Others believe that the movement would encourage people to become more educated on the plant. If the bill is passed, it will allow the cultivation of six cannabis plants per person, for recreational use.
Pharmacies in Croatia Set to Distribute Cannabis Capsules Cannabis capsules are expected to hit pharmacy shelves in Croatia sometime this month, according to Total Croatia News. With the help of a Canadian manufacturer, the Institute of Immunology will be distributing capsules with small amounts of cannabis oil, at less than one tenth the cost of capsules on the black market. According ˘ to Vecernji List, a monthly dose of capsules on the black market costs 15,000-20,000 kuna ($2,224-$2,965 USD). Director of the Institute of Immunology, Dr. Nevenka Kovac, states that their capsules will only cost patients 1,500 kuna for a monthly dose. Although there is not currently a set price on cost of the capsules, Kovac states that it will be determined based off of transportation costs and profit margins. Medical cannabis has been legal in Croatia since October 2015, however, substances like cannabis capsules will only be available to those suffering from AIDS, Multiple Sclerosis, cancer and Dravet Syndrome.
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Unexpected Motion Put in Place to Overturn Cannabis Ban in Yakima Recently, Yakima City Councilwoman Kathy Coffey presented a motion to overturn the city’s ban on cannabis. Although the motion was not scheduled for discussion at the Council meeting that night, Coffey decided to present the motion after several locals in attendance asked the Council to reconsider the ban, according to Yakima Herald. Coffey’s motion was passed by the council in a 4-2 vote and has been scheduled for a public hearing and approval by the City Planning Commission. As of now, the city of Yakima bans retail growing, processing and selling of cannabis. Coffey expects city staff to act quickly on the proposal, as changes in land use require a longer time to process. The Yakima ban was passed in January 2014 with a 6-1 vote, with Coffey being the only opposing member.
Senate Bill 73 Will Allow Patients to Legally Medicate in Utah Things are looking up for medical cannabis patients in Utah. With the efforts of Senator Mark Madsen, Senate Bill 73 was approved and will allow patients to ingest cannabis with recommendation from a certified physician. Under SB-73, cannabis can be ingested through vaporizing, oils and edible consumption, but smoking the plant is prohibited. Illnesses that qualify patients to legally use medical cannabis under SB73 include Alzheimer’s, AIDS, ALS, cancer, Crohn’s disease, PTSD, epilepsy, Multiple Sclerosis and chronic pain. Senator Madsen tried to make medical cannabis legal last year during a legislative session but was defeated in the senate. This year’s bill was approved because it was equipped with research from stakeholders, state agencies and industry leaders, as reported by KUTV. Like other medical cannabis markets, Utah’s will be highly regulated for patients, doctors and collectives.
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NEWS
The number of illegal cannabis delivery services operating in Seattle: (Source: KUOW)
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The number of votes, out of 6, from the Yakima City Council in favor of a draft ordinance that will overturn the city’s current ban on cannabis businesses: (Source: Yakima Herald)
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The current number of cannabis access points that can remain open during Tacoma’s newly instated moratorium on new storefronts: (Source: The News Tribune)
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The number of new cannabis access points that have been approved to open in Vancouver: (Source: The Columbian)
The average price, in dollars, for one gram of cannabis in Washington: (Source: Cannabis Now Magazine)
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The number of residents in Chicago, Illinois who qualify to receive medical cannabis from medical collectives throughout the state: (Source: ABC 7 Chicago)
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The amount of money, in billions of dollars, that was made from legal cannabis sales in the U.S. in 2015: (Source: CNBC)
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The estimated amount of medical cannabis, in tons, that was consumed last year in (Source: Arizona Daily Star) Arizona:
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The Cultivation Management Symposium
What: Cultivation Management Symposium. When/Where: Wed, March 16-Fri, March 18. Bell Harbor International Conference Center, 2211 Alaskan Wy., Seattle. Info: For tickets and additional information visit www.cannabisbusinesssummit.com.
The National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA) is North America’s only trade organization dedicated to ensuring that the country’s flourishing cannabis industry is expanded responsibly and under fair regulation. In conjunction with its efforts to create a sustainable cannabis industry, NCIA is holding a cultivation management symposium. This event will inform cultivators on where cannabis cultivation is headed and how to ensure that their
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practice is safe and sustainable for themselves and their surrounding environments. This is a rather scientific event, focused on different methods used to ensure the growth of healthy plants with some business aspects concerning marketing and team growth. As the most dependable source for those in the cannabis industry, NCIA has all of the resources needed to aid in building a successful career in cannabis, don’t miss out on this essential opportunity.
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NEWS
LOCAL
“. . . they wanted a stabilized, wellregulated market and, fundamentally, you don’t get there if the price is so high that you’re keeping organized crime in business.”
Cannabis Grand Cru
Delivering Change Representative Hurst is keeping an eye out for canna-business
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by Emily Manke
ave you ever been at home, ran out of cannabis, and wished you could have it delivered on demand? And if you’ve already experienced that pleasure, have you ever wished you could do so 100 percent legally, so even your delivery person didn’t have to worry? Well if you live in Seattle, that fantasy may soon be a reality. House Bill 2368 made its way to the House floor in January, and is still in review. Sponsored by State Representatives Christopher Hurst (D-Enumclaw) and Cary Condotta (R-East Wenatchee), the bill originally only allowed five cannabis retailers to offer delivery services. But, seeing as that wouldn’t even come close to meeting local demands, Representative Hurst amended the bill to allow as many retailers to deliver as the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board is willing to license. And that’s not all Hurst is doing to help promote canna-business in Washington. Hurst, along with several other State Representatives Including Condotta, has sponsored another canna-business friendly bill. House Bill 2347 aims to reduce the excise tax on cannabis sales from its current 37 percent, to a more reasonable 25 percent. Unfortunately, HB-2347’s deadline to pass the House Finance Committee by the Legislature’s was February 9, and the bill didn’t pass. Still, Hurst held out
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hope that it could be amended and eventually passed, but was unsure whether or not he’d follow-up on it. So, why is Hurst so passionate about creating a competitive business environment for our state’s cannabis producers processors, and retailers? He explained why in a statement made to the North Kitsap Herald. “We can’t get there if we price ourselves so much higher than the illicit market,” Hurst stated. “The criminals love the tax rate being high, because they don’t pay it, and it makes it so the legal people can’t compete with them.” “The voters, when they passed 502, didn’t say that they wanted more people smoking marijuana or people to smoke more marijuana,” Hurst went on. “What they said was they wanted a stabilized, well-regulated market and, fundamentally, you don’t get there if the price is so high that you’re keeping organized crime in business.” Hurst is somewhat of an unlikely advocate for cannabis. Back in 2010, Hurst voted no on HB-177, which called for the decriminalization of cannabis. During that time, he stated that he couldn’t in good conscience, pass a bill that conflicted with Federal law. Whatever his reason for changing his mind, legal cannabis supporters all over the state should be grateful that he did. Especially those trying to make money legally. c
There is always something to be learned about the cannabis industry in Washington and the Cannabis Grand Cru (CGC) is the perfect place for those looking to get up to date on the latest trends and innovations. While the CGC is only intended for members of the organization, it wouldn’t hurt to join. A couple of those in the industry have credited CGC with helping them get their foot in the door, because they were able to network and learn valuable information at their events. While it can be beneficial for those looking to take part in the industry, CGC is also a great place for cannabis loving adults to make casual connections with like-minded individuals. Whether you’re interested in business or pleasure, CGC has something for everyone to enjoy. WHAT: Cannabis Grand Cru. WHEN/WHERE: Sat, March 19. Fremont Foundry, 154 N. 35th St., Seattle. INFO: For tickets and details visit www. cannabisgrandcru.com.
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NEWS
legal corner
“Ultimately, the Puyallup compact leaves the door open for the Tribe to later seek to incorporate provisions regarding the cultivation, processing and/or retailing of cannabis.”
compact. Specifically, the Suquamish and Squaxin Island compacts allow those tribes to sell medical cannabis in concert with medical treatment on their tribal lands without assessing any tribal tax (unless the tribes opt to implement one). Nonetheless, the Puyallup compact stipulates that:
Puyallup Native American Tribe to Open Cannabis Testing Facility by Hilary Bricken
The Puyallup Tribe joins ranks with the Squaxin Island and Suquamish Tribes by signing a compact with the State of Washington to engage in its cannabis industry. However, the Puyallup Tribe is not going into business for the production, processing or retailing of cannabis, it is opening a cannabis testing facility. The tribe recently purchased the Trans-Pacific Trade Center at 3700 Pacific Highway E. in Fife with plans to turn it into a cancer treatment center. The Tribe’s lab (which will join the 14 other state-certified testing labs) will be owned and operated by PTOI Testing Lab, Inc., and will offer “safety and potency tests to holders of state marijuana licenses, among others.” Other clients could include universities conducting scientific research on cannabis. Rather than pursuing recreational cannabis’ economic development, the Puyallup 24
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Tribe is highly focused on developing medical cannabis. Under the compact, PTOI Testing Lab, Inc. is authorized to do only one thing: “Operation of a commercial testing lab that will, for a fee, conduct scientific and safety testing services for substances including cannabis.” The compact also mandates that the tribe will meet existing certified testing criteria, testing traceability, and quality assurance testing standards as set forth in WAC 314-55102 and 103, and it will submit to state inspections pending a heads up to tribal police beforehand. The compact mentions nothing about the Puyallup Tribe engaging in the production, processing and/ or retailing of cannabis. And though the Suquamish and Squaxin Island compacts make concessions for the tribes’ commercial medical cannabis activity, no such liberties are currently listed in the Puyallup
The parties anticipate that they will later amend this Compact to add other elements of the broader subject area of marijuana to the agreement, in order to ensure a lawful and well-regulated marijuana market, encourage economic development in Indian Country, and provide fiscal benefits to both the tribe and the state. Ultimately, the Puyallup compact leaves the door open for the tribe to later seek to incorporate provisions regarding the cultivation, processing and/or retailing of cannabis. Though it has been a mixed bag for tribes regarding federal intervention with tribal cannabis in states that have no or very loose state cannabis regulations, thus far those Washington tribes that have signed compacts with the state of Washington haven’t had any issues with Big Brother. The main question for Washington tribes continues to be what happens with the Feds if a tribe goes outside the state compact system to set up its own cannabis regime? We have yet to find out.c
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REVIEWs
access point highlight because MMJ is unique to each individual patient. Our number one goal every day is help our patients find the products that work best for them.
Seattle Quality Collective Interviewed: Ken Adams (Owner) 13760 Aurora Ave. N., Seattle, 98133 facebook.com/SeattleQualityCollective
How and when did your access point start up? Seattle Quality Collective was started back in 2011. I started it six months after I tried cannabis for the first time for pain relief after a skiing accident. I personally experienced the health benefits of MMJ and wanted to share it and help medical patients. At that time I was going through a career transition and saw that it was going to be
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the future of medical treatment. I became very passionate about the industry, really felt like it was my calling to try and help as many patients as possible. What’s the story behind the name of your access point? Well, Seattle to reference our location and Quality Collective to convey knowledge and the service aspect of the industry . . . I was raised to treat everyone the way I want to be treated and that is how myself and our staff treat every patient that walks in the door.
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What does your access point offer patients that they can’t find anywhere else? From the overall atmosphere, to choosing staff, to always carrying high quality products we have always striven to provide the most beneficial treatments and positive patient experience possible. In addition I think our product knowledge beats any shop out here. Taking a medical approach, we take the time with all of our patients to help find the most effective treatment for them and their individual needs. We have a return policy that if the cannabis product you select does not provide the correct medical result needed, the product can be returned. We do this not only for superior customer service, but also
How has the cannabis industry in Washington changed since you have been in the business? Where would you like to see it go? I am happy to say that the overall quality of products and industry knowledge has increased dramatically since we first opened our doors. Moving forward, I would like to see more trials and studies researching different cannabinoids. Because these are the individual properties found in cannabis. The most common are THC and CBD, however, those to individually are almost irrelevant by themselves. It is the other minor cannabinoids working with them that provide a wide array of different effects. What are the biggest challenges you face in this industry as an access point? Biggest joys? The biggest challenge we have right now is the perception that medical is disappearing here in Washington State with the shift to heavily state regulated recreational stores. We are working very hard with state law makers to insure that MMJ patients are still
catered to. Medical marijuana patients deserve affordable medicine, a large variety of products and in some cases stronger dosages past what recreational products currently allow in order to have their medical needs meet. My biggest joy is building personal relationships with our patients and seeing their overall quality of life improve because of our medicine. When you see someone every week and get to know them, you learn about their life and see them as a unique individual. It is extremely rewarding to hear firsthand from our patient how cannabis is helping their lives. It is always when a patient come in and says their tested came back and they are cancer free! c
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REVIEWs
advocate highlight
Lydia Ensley
Photo by Chad Scott Photography
Occupation: Operations Manager, The Center for Palliative Care (The CPC)
When and how did you become an advocate for cannabis? Ever since childhood, I found myself upset by injustices, more than the average person. As a teenager and growing into adulthood, I was often found holding a sign, megaphone or otherwise to express my concerns about war, women’s health or the state of our homeless community. Growing up in central Washington where values are much different than western Washington, I knew countless individuals who had gone to jail 32
for this plant. Almost all my friends had been convicted of marijuana possession or possession of paraphernalia by the age of 23. I knew I had to do something. How has cannabis benefited your life? My journey as an advocate only became solidified when I myself learned how to use cannabis therapeutically, rather than all the pain killers I had been taking over my lifetime struggle with skeletal abnormalities and degeneration of my tailbone. I would not be able to work 40 hours a week, raise my son and volunteer without it.
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What’s your greatest achievement for the cannabis cause? I have had the absolute honor of serving more than 5,000 patients in my years in this canna-evolution. I’ve seen this plant change many, many lives and by virtue touching me and propelling my commitment to
the people who need it. Building a strong connection with patients around the palliative properties of full cannabis extract oil has been life changing. Their success to live a healthier and happier life is my moral compass and whether that means ensuring suitable access to suitable products, science-based information or sensible marijuana policy, it effects those who affect me daily. How did that manifest? In 2009, I decided to put together a gathering of people holding signs in support of a senate bill that would legalize cannabis in Washington State. It just made sense. From there a whirlwind started and I opened my own advocacy center in Whatcom County. I sponsored events and became involved with other political efforts working for legalization. However, in 2009, it was clear that medical patients were still getting arrested for their use and that legalization was a ways away. I closed my Bellingham business and was
off to the big city of Seattle. Over the next four years, I sought out every individual in Washington State I knew who had experience with this plant and its applications. I worked in medical offices ensuring patients had access to doctors who were willing to talk about cannabis as an option for their health. I aided in many sit-ins, protests and general campaigns to ensure this plant would move forward. In 2013, I took on the responsibility of Operations Manager at The CPC (Center for Palliative Care) Who do you look up to or admire? I wish I had some flashy celebrity or industry leader I could throw this at, but ultimately I admire my patients. I admire their ability to smile, love and laugh about life while facing chronic illness and pain that is beyond comprehension. Their sheer fortitude is inspiring. If you could change one thing about the way cannabis is viewed and/or treated right now, what would it be? It’s not truly legal until we can all grow it. c
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REVIEWs
strain, edible & concentrate Cigaweed Cigaweed is feeling the much needed niche of discreet smoke-able cannabis products. Joints and pipes are so obvious, and sometimes you just want to sit on a friend’s balcony or front stoop without putting them in hot water with their neighbors. That’s where cigaweed comes in. Indiscernible from a tobacco cigarette, these little doozeys pack a punch without causing a stir. Additionally, they come in individually sealed and sturdy containers, or even equally discreet packs. And aside from their nifty appearance, they smoke great too! Smooth, tasty and fast-acting cigaweed offers the convenience of a cigarette with the long-lasting and enjoyable effects of cannabis. No rolling necessary just pack cigaweed in your bag and go. Perfect for any time you need to use cannabis without being noticed. Surely you can use your imagination to figure out when that would be.
Available at: Green Organics in Tacoma.
Available throughout: The greater Puget Sound area.
Hazy Train This Hazy Train is a sativa-lovers delight. At first glance, you can tell it’s a sativa. Large, well-formed buds, covered in light orange hairs, it’s a terrific sativa prototype. With only a small amount of Ahfgani in its heritage, this strain is rare in that it’s almost exclusively sativa. The leaf varies in color, from light, creamy green, to dark jungle green as the sugar leaf extends. Crystals are heavily dispersed all over the flower, but seem to congregate in peaks over certain areas, giving the appearance of little snow drifts on peaks. The fragrance of this Hazy Train is diverse, as is the flavor. With hints of pine, sweet, and an undetermined savory flavor, this flower was delicious. And the effect was wonderful too. It’s so rare that we get to indulge in such a sativa-dominant strain, and we enjoyed the experience immensely. Though not the most energetic of strains (it is bred with Trainwreck after all) the deliriously, silly gleeful feeling we felt after consuming this flower using a water pipe is not easily matched. Though this strain might not be the best for working out, it is completely suitable for daytime use as long as you’re not doing anything too strenuous.
CBD Dark Chocolate from Spot It’s rare that a product can be a confection and medicine all in one, but these CBD Dark Chocolates from Spot manage to be both of those things at once. Packaged in a re-sealable and attractive grey pouch, these powerful treats make it clear from the outset that they are not meant for kids. Each package comes with three squares of dark chocolates, each containing 3mg of THC, and 10mg of CBD. Spot is unique in that it uses butter for most of its treats, making the flavor decadent, rich and amazing. This chocolate wasn’t just good, “for an edible” it was good, period. Thanks to the clear dosage, it’s easy to know exactly how much to take. And one chocolate should be enough for just about anyone. Though low in THC, the CBD content makes these little zingers incredibly effective for pain management, insomnia and general relaxation. We were knocked out not too long after enjoying these. So, not the best for daytime use, but perhaps some of the most useful pain medicine, and delicious cannabis candy on the market.
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GET YOUR CLICKS
HERE
Available at: Greenside Recreational in Seattle.
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REVIEWs
Available at: Center Street Collective in Tacoma.
Dutch Unknown There’s only really one word for this Dutch Unknown flower, and that’s FIRE. Absolutely covered in layer after layer of crystals, the sugar leaf can hardly be seen under that Mt. Baker-esque snowpack. The smallish buds are magnificently dense. A cross between Dutch Treat and an unknown strain, the fragrance, flavor and appearance suggest that it may have some lineage in one of the diesel strains. Sweet, piney, pungent and with a light gas flavor this flower is a cannabis-connoisseurs dream. Not only is it gorgeous and tasty, but the high is pretty brilliant too. Bringing with it that unbelievable Dutch Treat versatility, this Dutch Unknown hit all the marks. Comforting, blissful, cheerful and even a bit of energy to boot, this flower really has it all. But it is incredibly powerful, making it not ideal for social interactions for inexperienced or low-tolerance cannabis users. Not because you’ll be nervous or uncomfortable, you’ll feel just fine. Enjoying this flower is just such an all-encompassing joyride you might be a little too in your head to be great company. But on second thought, go for it. Life’s too short to live for other people’s comfort.
Available at: Puff N Stuff The Kronic Connection in Tacoma.
“The Dre” Blue Dream Rosin “The Dre” Blue Dream Rosin is an absolute delight. Honey-colored and exquisitely flakey, this rosin is truly a work of art. The texture is light and delicate, crumbly yet easy to manipulate. Reminiscent of shatter that’s been in the freezer. Upon consumption, the flavor alone is intoxicating. The most prominent flavor is, of course blueberry, though this particular product also had a strong citrus flavor, with sweet hints of orange. In addition to the fruity flavors, it was a little spicy like a chai tea. Though obviously more powerful than its flower counterparts, this rosin lived up to its strain in terms of effect. Blue Dream really offers the best of both worlds in terms of its effect, which explains its continued popularity. The joyful, ecstatic and productive aspects of the sativa-dominant strain are in full force. But, as is the beauty of hybrids, the relaxing and pain relieving qualities of indica can also be felt and enjoyed. Though it is a concentrate, and thus very powerful, if you have a high tolerance, this rosin may even be suitable for daytime use. If you’re a light cannabis user however, this may be more appropriate for night time, or purely recreational use. However you choose to imbibe, you’ll no doubt enjoy “The Dre” Blue Dream Rosin. 38
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REVIEWs
For More Products Go To www.iReadCulture.com
3
1. Times Hemp Company T-Shirts
3. BULLET Bluetooth Earpiece
North America’s premium hemp apparel brand. From cut and sew to fabric dye, every manufacturing process is done by small business owners in L.A.’s Fashion District. Times Hemp Company is on a mission to utilize and promote the industrial use of hemp and other organic materials with their great hemp apparel. PRICE: $35 MORE INFORMATION: www.timeshempcompany.com
The BULLET Bluetooth Earpiece is said to be the smallest of its kind, featuring lightweight design at 3.5g and it's also comfortable. It will allow you to not only take calls with its built-in microphone, but also stream music when you aren’t chatting up a storm. It uses CVC noise reduction, and has crystal clear sound. While it has a battery that will keep going for about six hours, it makes sure you won’t be without as it comes with a capsule for charging that can juice it up four times over. PRICE: $150 MORE INFORMATION: schatzii.com
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2. Neyya Smart Ring Finally, one ring to rule all. The Neyya Smart Ring uses gestures such as swiping and tapping to let you have full control over presentations, calls, music, camera and more. It’s like a universal remote for your life! From your T.V. to mobile phone; and it’s ready to go, right out of the box. It also has the capability to give you notifications through vibration for smartphone alerts and reminders. There are options of silver sterling titanium or a medallion gold finish. PRICE: $139 MORE INFORMATION: www.myneyya.com
4. Thync System 2
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GET YOUR CLICKS
HERE
A wearable technology that can give you relaxation and calm you down or can boost your activity and give you energy. Thync uses neurosignaling to activate specific cranial and peripheral nerves to influence a shift to a state of relaxation or energy in just minutes. From the elegant and curved design and fit of the lightweight module, to the bio-friendly materials used in the strips, to the simplicity and groundbreaking technology of the app, Thync is one of the first to comfortably and effectively aid an active lifestyle through wearable tech. PRICE: $199 MORE INFORMATION: www.thync.com
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REVIEWs
entertainment
BOOK
WEED: The User’s Guide: A 21st Century Handbook for Enjoying Marijuana
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Release Date: March 8 Available on: PlayStation 4, Xbox One and PC
GAME
Tom Clancy’s The Division
David Schmader Sasquatch Books
Dev. Ubisoft Massive Pub. Ubisoft
In this busy and growing contemporary canna-culture craze, author David Schmader explores the cannabis culture in every facet, for a new and interested generation and audience. WEED explores the history, the uses, the medical and recreational effects and varieties of cannabis, as well as cannabis etiquette, what to do if you’re not having a good time while using, and what to do to keep yourself entertained while enjoying cannabis. With humor and factual information, this is a great new user’s guide to all things cannabis. (Alex Bradley)
New York is ravaged by a horrible smallpox virus that is spread on the infamous shopping holiday, Black Friday— five days later, the entire U.S. Government collapses. In The Division, you play as a member of a group of tactical agents who must prevent the fall of society at all costs. This thirdperson shooter offers highly detailed setting, including destructible environments and a unique weather system, and free-roaming capabilities that allow players to truly immerse themselves in the world. Team up with friends to take out those who are infected with the virus, as well as those behind its unleashing. (Nicole Potter)
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MOVIE
Black Mass Warner Brothers Pictures Dir. Scott Cooper Just in time for Saint Patrick’s Day, one of the most brilliant and dark depictions of Boston’s Irish Mob, Black Mass, is on the shelves. With a story that seems almost too scary to be real, Black Mass handily showcases not only its stars’ acting abilities, but truly brings to life one of the most terrifying marriages of law enforcement and organized crime. Featuring such megastars as Benedict Cumberbatch, Kevin Bacon and Johnny Depp, Black Mass takes viewers on a ride through the seedy bars, dark alleys and criminal underbelly of Boston’s Southie neighborhood circa the 1970s and ‘80s. (Simon Weedn)
MUSIC
Die Alone Gazebos Hardly Art Though Gazebos has only existed for a little over a year, the band has already firmly established itself as a force to be reckoned with in the Washington independent music scene. Aspects of glam, garage and psychedelia flow through Die Alone, yet the attitude, delivery and eccentricity feel just as punk rock as anything one might ever hear. Singer Shannon Perry’s voice can be both bluesy, soulful and soaring, as well as dark, moody and percussive. This is a record ideal for those looking for something different in their indie rock, and should certainly whet appetites for what will hopefully be many more releases. (Simon Weedn)
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By Addison Herron-Wheeler
Everyone in the 21st century is familiar with the feeling of
Aaron Bruno is no stranger to being in the limelight, but has
being roped into an awkward social situation and wanting
always preferred the D.I.Y. ethics of underground subgenres,
to leave to work on a craft, see a significant other or just go
an ethos Bruno brings to his high-profile status as leader
home and sit in front of the television. AWOLNATION has
of this wildly successful new band. While AWOLNATION
created an ode to that loner mentality with his music—his
may be experiencing pop stardom, Bruno keeps his feet
very name references the urge to suddenly go AWOL and
planted firmly on the ground. In between hiding out and
disappear, and reaching a whole nation of people who want
making awesome music, Bruno took the time to chat with
that same thing. As a seasoned hardcore and punk musician,
CULTURE about music, cannabis and success. >>
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Photos provided by Red Bull Records | Live photos by Matthias Heschl
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How does having a background in punk and rock inform what you do as the leader of an electronic band? How do you think those influences and the electronic elements of the band work together? I feel pretty lucky that I went down that path—I took that road in a lot of ways because it gave me a completely different perspective than someone who is aspiring to be in a big rock band or a big pop artist. I didn’t ever take those aspirations too seriously, but I felt at home in the hardcore scene and the punk rock scene. At that time, there was no way to really promote your band online; you had to go to local high schools, flier cars and get in trouble for that, or go to other concerts of minor bands, so if
nothing else I learned how to operate as a functioning band and how to do everything on my own, so the work ethic of that was great, feeling like it was you against the world. Those are things that are invaluable to me, and on an artistic or more musical tip, I feel there are a lot of great parts in a lot of the songs that I listened to my whole life that people haven’t heard, so I am lucky I have a library from that world of influences that maybe others wouldn’t pull from. I feel like it’s an advantage for sure.
Do you listen to mostly electronic music or rock? Have you always had an eclectic taste in music? I never listen to just one kind of music—I think there
is greatness in all forms and genres of music. I spend a lot of time trying to explore and look for new music—at least new to my ears. I am constantly trying to search for something that will mature my songwriting and craft. That’s always the hardest question to answer; I think it takes time to really decide if something lasts the test of time.
What is it like being signed to Red Bull Records? You’ve referred to that relationship as more of a “partnership” than a typical record deal— what do you mean by that? There are ups and downs just like everything else, but I think there would be a lot more downs if I was with a more traditional label. When they came to me they were
still new and hadn’t had any success with any of their bands yet. It has been really nice to kind of work together and navigate the wild west of the industry while we try to figure out how to have a presence in such an oversaturated marketplace. I didn’t want to do another major label deal because I had been involved in two prior and they didn’t work for me. When they came to me they offered to allow me to continue down this tunnelvision path I had in my mind which was to make a record with no compromises where I controlled the whole thing. It wasn’t that I had ego or wanted to be thought of as a solo artist—I just felt I didn’t want to have arguments and deal with the stress of having >>
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other bandmates. My other band had broken up and I saw that as an opportunity to just go at this alone and really put it all on the line and utilize everything I had seen along the way.
Rumor has it the band name comes from your high school nickname. How did that nickname come about, and what made you decide to use that as the band name? The nickname came from my name being Aaron and a play on the first letter of the word, like a lot of rappers that came up at that time. As a joke, I called myself that, and then it became somewhat relevant when I realized I am bad at saying goodbye and getting out of a social situation where you have anxiety and want to disappear but can’t. I find that your good friends will understand when you are in a situation where you just want to leave and you do. At a certain point I attached “Nation” to it because I thought you might as well go for it and I have this ambitious movement in my mind that I never thought would actually happen, and then six years on we have somewhat of that ambitious dream before us. I just figured there had to be a hypothetical nation of people who had the same feelings on certain issues in life, and that is sort of what the name means to me at this point. But everyone has an interpretation of what the name means, so I don’t want to change what that means to anyone in general. Sometimes it is disappointing to discover the meaning behind names or songs, so I want to remain deliberately vague about it.
Which album do you feel best represents your career, and how do you feel your sound has changed since AWOLNATION first got together? I am in love with the newest record and very proud of it artistically—I think it is one of the best records >> 50
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in years. Why do it if you don’t believe what you are producing is one of the best records of all time? I believe it; I really do; I don’t think anyone else is going to think so, but I still do believe it. I know a lot of artists who say they don’t like their records and I can appreciate that and relate to it, but it can be interpreted strangely because if you don’t think your music is good, does that mean you think your fans are lame for liking the music? I have a philosophy in my mind that I am very proud of the music I put out there.
What do you have in the works now—are you releasing a new album? I am of course producing and working and writing with two different artists—one’s name is Iron Tom and I am halfway done with their record—they are about to get some sort
of record deal and I just love them—I became kind of part of them. I threw everything I have into their songs—it has been a labor of love like everything else and has been my pleasure to mentor these kids who haven’t had the influence or help I had. I am very passionate and excited about the six songs they already have. People can look forward to hearing some of their stuff in spring or summer.
What do you have going on as far as tour plans or other projects? We are about to go on this arena tour with Fall Out Boy—they are so big that I don’t know if I’m even helping promote the tour (laughs). They have had this incredible career through the ups and downs and have lasted for a long time. It will be the first time we’ve played for a pop audience and gained
a few fans. I am still trying to get used to us being a headliner—a lot of times when we headline one of these bigger shows I am surprised that we are headlining.
Do any of you use cannabis recreationally or medically? Has cannabis ever been a theme in your music? I was completely sober until I was 21, when I had my first sip of alcohol and smoked weed for the first time. It seems to be the opposite for most people— they get in trouble at a young age and get caught smoking weed when they are 14, where I was too much of a nerd and was too afraid to try mindaltering stuff. It wasn’t until I was 21 and felt comfortable trying that stuff. It was a great experience, and there are so many benefits to it, obviously— but just like anything else, too much of any other thing can dumb down it being good.
It’s a weird question because I’d like to say it’s a good thing for everyone but it doesn’t necessarily work for everyone. Sometimes you are in a good headspace and sometimes you are not. There have been ups and downs, but mostly I find it to be a wonderful thing. And creatively speaking, everybody knows it’s great. Having said that I will tell you there have been many times that I thought something was incredible I had worked on and then listened with a sober mind and it was awful. (Laughs) It’s about finding the balance.
Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers? I always want to thank anyone who took the time to read this or be part of this interview and took the time to care about what I think in any way—it’s a pretty interesting feeling. c
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Medical Cannabis Gains Headway in Ireland Dr. James Linden is working hard to get Irish patients access to medical cannabis
by Victoria Banegas
In last year’s March issue of CULTURE, we told the story of Dr. William Brooke O’Shaughnessy, who introduced cannabis as a medicine in 1839. Over 100 years after O’Shaughnessy revealed to the western world the medical benefits of cannabis, his homeland remains in opposition of his findings, as cannabis is still medically illegal in Ireland. Cannabis became illegal in Ireland and the rest of the U.K. in 1928 following the 1925 Dangers of Drugs Act. However, doctors were able to prescribe cannabis for a while, until 1971 when the Misuse of Drugs Act was passed. Since then, cannabis has remained strictly illegal in Ireland, making access to the plant nearly impossible. Luckily, another Irishman and doctor, James Linden, has been leading the Dublin-based research firm GreenLight Health in a quest to make medical cannabis legal in Ireland, by highlighting its effects on various medical conditions. >>
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With a number of people in Ireland suffering from conditions like Multiple Sclerosis (MS), glaucoma and cancer, the black market is their only source to turn to for medicine. As of last year, being in possession of a substance like cannabis resulted in a €2,750 fine and up to 12 months in prison. Seeing these ludicrous penalties, Linden and his group began working a campaign to address this issue to the government. With hopes of utilizing some fundraiser money for its campaign, GreenLight Health created a page on fundraising Indiegogo, where they were only able to raise €147. Although the amount of financial support shown to GreenLight Health was null, the team has found other investors, Linden told CULTURE. In an effort to revolutionize Ireland’s medical cannabis market, Linden and the team at GreenLight Health have been working hard, “researching and developing effective and affordable cannabis medicines,” according to Linden. As the only Irish pharmaceutical company dedicated to producing medical cannabis products, the team is currently implementing a trial of supplements designed to treat joint and muscle pain, as well as arthritis. Not only does GreenLight Health hope to improve the lives of those affected by conditions that are seemly only treatable with cannabis, the company hopes to create 500 research and development jobs within the next five years. When asked why he decided to start up a cannabis research firm, Linden explained in the podcast Newstalk, “Cannabis gives people relief from symptoms of cancer but it also gives people relief from chemotherapy but there is also research that shows THC, one of the cannabinoids in cannabis . . . directly impacts tumors and can kill cancerous cells.” He finished by saying, “that kind of research is breaking through and we realize that there’s an opportunity in Ireland, an English speaking country, good pharmaceutical exporting country, great knowledge based around research, door steps of Europe and America, to get a very interesting cannabis research and development company going here.” While medical cannabis remains unobtainable for patients, in November 2015, the Irish government revealed plans to move towards decriminalization of substances like cannabis. Chief of Ireland’s national Drug Strategy Aodhán
“Not only does GreenLight Health hope to improve the lives of those affected by conditions that are seemly only treatable with cannabis, the company hopes to create 500 research and development jobs within the next five years.” Ó Ríordáin, even expressed plans to open injection rooms as a way to show empathy towards heroin addicts. If empathy can be given to addicts of a substance with no known medicinal value, patients in need of medical cannabis in Ireland should not have to suffer much longer. Hopefully, with efforts put forth by Linden and his team, patients will have access to effective and cost affordable medicine without having to pay the penalties. c Photo by Patricia Hofmeester
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Organic Rules
Just in time for planting season, state regulators weigh in on pesticides like never before
by David Downs
Washington State regulator Erik Johansen gives lots of public talks to farmers about pesticide use, and he expects a mute shrug or maybe one or two questions in response. Not with cannabis. “The enthusiasm for me to be there is just—they line up afterward to shake my hand, and they thank me,” said the Department of
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Agriculture policy assistant. “Cannabis growers have as many questions as you have time to answer. If you have handouts, every last one will be gone. They’re hungry for information.” Fact is: America’s amateur and professional cannabis gardeners are getting more state guidance than ever before. Medical and recreational cannabis laws in 35 states
have forced officials to weigh in on what should be allowed on cannabis crops—which can be tainted with dangerous chemical sprays. State agencies are responding with unprecedented, official lists of allowable pesticides. These guidelines are rudimentary, but they’re a historic start. State agencies in California, Colorado, Washington, Oregon and beyond are now routinely posting and updating
lists of approved pesticides. California’s Water Board released a modest, one-page list. Colorado’s allowable pesticides list is 26 pages long, and Washington’s list is 22 pages long. Oregon released a list of 257 allowed pesticides on February 5. America now has a patchwork of cannabis pesticide laws, with two New England states mandating their programs be completely organic. >>
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This guidance is the first minor step in cleaning up America’s cannabis supply. Thousands of consumers will likely sicken themselves or others either applying or consuming pesticides on cannabis. Significant amounts of black market cannabis, as well as medical and recreational supplies are tainted, experts say. Under total prohibition— cultivators face little official consequences for spraying. Some farmers will do anything to save the valuable crop, which is subject to infestation from dozens of pests and diseases.
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The United States’ first medical cannabis law in 1996 and adult use law in 2012 have helped ignite efforts to clean up legal supplies. Since cannabis is still federally illegal, no pesticide is federally approved for use on cannabis. So states are guiding growers to the most benign active ingredients already allowed for use on analogous crops like tobacco or herbaceous herbs. They’re adapting EPA guidelines of “minimal risk” natural pesticides exempt from mandatory approval—often essential oils, and beneficial molds, fungus, insects or
other animals. “Until things change federally—it’s kind of tough,” said Johansen who developed Washington’s allowed list. “It’s not a perfect system, but it’s a system that at least tried to address [the issue] by allowing things that are fairly low in toxicity.” Legalization regimes have also begun mandating testing of supplies, which have helped reveal commonly banned pesticides in use. Colorado’s mandatory pesticide screening has resulted in 19 product recalls in 19 weeks as of early February, affecting hundreds
of thousands of items in circulation, from vaporizer cartridges to edibles. In January, an Oregon lab caught the pesticide abamectin in supposedly organic “Guardian Mite Spray.” Washington State regulators verified the finding, leading to a national advisory and the pulling of Guardian from store shelves. Washington fined two commercial cultivators in the last year, but guidelines can have the most effect on home growers who now have a concise list of allowed products to use, Johansen said. >>
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Just Getting Started “There’s no reason at this point to open this industry to chemical dependency. That’s where the states should be right now. It’s a huge opportunity. I wish we had these opportunities in some other crops that don’t need pesticides.”
Washington cannabis farmers now have about 80 allowed active pesticide ingredients, versus about 1,000 for an apple farmer. The state is under pressure to add more allowed chemicals. “I think we’re being fairly conservative and there’s a reason for that. We just don’t have data to go any further,” Johansen said. Consumers who want to ensure they are inhaling clean products must either grow their own according to new guidelines, or buy products that come with an independent, third party certification for “organic”grade cleanliness. In Washington, two
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companies—Certified Dank and Clean Green—provide such certifications. “It’s tough right now, to be honest with you,” said Johansen. “I think we’re beginning to get a handle on it. The industry by and large has been very supportive.” In California, the Department of Pesticide Regulation will help set standards for allowable levels of pesticide residue this year, officials told CULTURE. Jay Feldman at the non-profit Washington D.C. advocacy group Beyond Pesticides said America has a golden opportunity to ensure the next major legal crop is fully organic. Colorado’s 26-page list is already too lax, Feldman said. States are giving users a false sense of security, when regulators should be enforcing federal law that no pesticide has been evaluated, let alone approved, for use on cannabis. Copying EPA recommendations from tobacco “is really un-protective of public health and the environment,” he said. “I would say it’s worse than nothing.” Beyond Pesticides advocates banning all pesticides on cannabis, except organic ingredients listed as OMRI-certified (minus registered pesticides) as well as the EPA’s “minimal risk” “25b” list. Cannabis has a chance to be a global agricultural role model, instead of another dirty crop, he said. “There’s no reason at this point to open this industry to chemical dependency,” Feldman said. “That’s where the states should be right now. It’s a huge opportunity. I wish we had these opportunities in some other crops that don’t need pesticides.” c
Usual Suspects Banned Pesticides Commonly Found in Cannabis Myclobutanil: Fungicide. Active ingredient in notoriously popular Eagle 20 pesticide. World Health Organization (WHO) considers it “slightly hazardous.” Label warns of nervous system problems and toxic fumes.
Imidacloprid: Insecticide. Found in popular Merit and Mellet brand pesticides. WHO considers it “moderately hazardous.” Considered moderately toxic in ingested or inhaled.
Abamectin and the avermectin chemical family: Insecticide. Found in Avid and Lucid pesticide brands. The Pesticide Action Network lists avermectin as a “bad actor,” and Avid is labelled as “harmful if inhaled.”
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When and how did Tacocat get its start? Eric Randall: Around 20072008, Bree and I, the bass player, started jamming together and having a good time. We thought we had something going, so we brought in Emily. Lelah and Emily had never played in a band before, but we had heard Emily singing in the car. And we thought she had a really good voice—and that was an understatement.
Spilling the Beans with Tacocat The local Indie Rock sensation that everyone can fall in love with by Emily Manke
Tacocat is on a roll. Not on a tortilla, contrary to popular belief. With an album coming out in April, and a tour spanning all over the U.S. and Europe, the future’s looking bright for Seattle’s hottest band. Catch it before it leaves on tour for its record release party in Seattle at Chop Suey March 31. Tacocat’s newest single off their upcoming album Lost Time is titled “I Hate the Weekend.” It brings with it Tacocat’s legendary energy, sass and noisy pizazz, but adds a contactable chorus and pop polish that makes it sure to be a hit. And just in time for spring break. So if you’re doing any partying this spring, be sure to bring Tacocat. It won’t disappoint. The album has the band working with a new producer, Erik Blood. Blood has lent his production talents to local bands The Moondoggies, and The Lights, among others. His production finesse, coupled with Tacocat’s hot buzz, make for some
enjoyable listening, and lead singer Emily Nokes agrees. “I would describe him generally as a beautiful wizard,” Nokes said to KEXP, “who, in our opinion, took the album to the next level. Wizard level.” But Tacocat’s fun, non-stop-party, spring-break-ready sound will come as no surprise to any of their fans. In fact, Tacocat even has a song called “Spring Break-Up”, a girl-powered break-up ballad that manages to be fun and true at the same time. With album names like Shame Spiral, and Take Me to Your Dealer and its edgy, bubble-gum pop rock sounds, it’s clear that Tacocat knows how to party well. Drummer Lelah Maupin, guitarist Eric Randall, singer and tambourine master, Emily Nokes and bass player Bree McKenna make up the quartet that is Tacocat. On the very selective list of Tacocat hearts listed on their site, weed was among them. Their cannabis-ready tracks make them a perfect fit for CULTURE. So, we snagged Eric Randall for a one-on-one about the band’s success, influence and favorite plant.
Where are you from? Lelah and I are both from Longview, Washington. We went to high school together. Bree is from Long Beach, California, and Emily’s from Butte, Montana. We’re West Coasters for sure. What artists have influenced Tacocat’s sound? The Ramones, Bikini Kill, The Go Gos and Joan Jett, to name a few. Has the cannabis culture of the PNW impacted your art? If so how? I’ve written a lot of my songs when I was stoned. And I love the culture up here, around it, to be honest. But I think it does make me more creative at times. Do you have a favorite piece of work to appreciate while under the influence of cannabis? I always like to listen to Andrew W.K. and then, I always like to listen to our new album because it’s like listening to it for the first time sometimes, you know? c IN PERSON March 31 Lost Time Record Release Party @ Chop Suey in Seattle
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Keeping the Irish Spirit Alive Irish band Gaelic Storm creates music for the people by Simon Weedn
“. . . the music just seems to bring the past alive and helps inspire this innate sense of coming together.”
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For many, it might be hard to believe that 2016 marks Gaelic Storm’s 20th anniversary as a band. What started out as a small group of friends playing their traditional Irish music at their favorite pub quickly burgeoned, with a little help from an appearance in the movie Titanic, into one of the most well-known and successful Celtic bands to rise out of America. While deeply rooted in Irish and Scottish musical influences, Gaelic Storm has distinguished themselves from the rest of the Celtic scene by not only composing great volumes of original material, instead of relying on tried and true traditional songs like countless other Celtic acts, but also by incorporating aspects of other musical traditions as well. Though the band’s line-up has undergone a few changes over the years, Gaelic Storm continues to be helmed by its two founders, Patrick Murphy and Steven Twigger, and the group remains just as strong and powerful, both on recordings and in concert. In light of this month’s St. Patrick’s Day holiday, CULTURE reached out for a conversation with Steven Twigger to hear all about the attraction and charm of Irish music, the band’s inspirations, and of course, his opinions on cannabis.
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Though a lot of your music is composed of original material, your sound is obviously very rooted in classic and traditional Irish music. What is it about that style and sound that you think people continue to find so alluring? Steve Twigger: You know, I think it’s a connection to the past. Especially in America here, people are fairly obsessed with their heritages. As one would be, this is a vast country and you can become anonymous very quickly here. So, to root themselves in their own history is an important part of connecting. The songs themselves are based on a storytelling tradition; a lot of our songs are story driven, so that’s easily relatable as well. Then, of course, there’s just the great party spirit of the jigs and reels that we play. Additionally, the Scottish pipes are just stirring in nature. So, I don’t know, the music just seems to bring the past alive and helps inspire this innate sense of coming together. >>
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We heard that your album Chicken Boxer was inspired by a trip to Ireland to reconnect with your roots. Have there been any other experiences that you or the band has had in recent years that have seriously inspired or affected your song writing? For that album, Patrick and I went off to Ireland and traveled around; I believe we did 1,100 miles in a week. As you said, a lot of songs came from that, and continue to come from that experience. But, we meet amazing people along the way all the time that inspire us. As we gotten older we’ve lost a few good friends, which inevitably happens, and songs like “What A Way To Go” are inspired by that, by the spirit of somebody else’s life. Songs like that are about the common experience. We get people that come up to us after our shows, shake our hands, and just say, “Thank you, thanks for the music it got me through this
band time,” or, “It helped me celebrate this good time.” People get married to our songs; people get buried in our songs. Just to know that we’re part of that very serious nature of life, we take that very seriously, because of that we try and take inspiration from our fans. They can just be ordinary people and ordinary lives, but we try and put that into song. You all tour the country extensively and get to see a wide variety of people and social movements. What are your thoughts on the cannabis legalization movement, happening around the globe? I’m not against it in the slightest, let alone for medical purposes. Anything that helps people I’m all for. It makes sense to me to legalize it, there are way too many people filling up the jails for what I’d consider minor offenses. Any type of musician is around marijuana all the time, everybody knows
“Anything that helps people I’m all for. It makes sense to me to legalize [cannabis], there are way too many people filling up the jails for what I’d consider minor offenses.”
that it’s all out there, and I’m all for legalizing it generally, and very specifically medically if it helps. Besides your current tour, does Gaelic Storm have any other ambitions for 2016? We started a documentary towards the end of 2014 where we started filming a tour up through Utah, The Rockies and way on up through Idaho and Washington State, and we interviewed various interesting people we met along the way. We did this to show the world all of the kinds of various characters we meet while we’re on the road. So, this is going to be an ongoing project, and what we thought was maybe going to be a yearlong project might turn out to be a five year project. Eventually though, we’d like to cover the whole country and show people the diversity of people whom we encounter. It’s tentatively titled, American Crossing. c www.gaelicstorm.com
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SHOOTING GALLERY
CannaCon
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culture growing RECIPES UNKNOWN DESTINATION
by Ed Rosenthal
Last month, I planted 35 different varieties in six-inch round containers. They include 3/8-inch braided nylon wicks that hang down into a reservoir of water/nutrient solution. This provides passive irrigation, keeping the soil moist by replacing it, as needed using capillary action. I carried out my plan to have the plants grow vegatatively for 10 days, and then force the plants to flower by changing the lighting regimen from continuous light to 12 hours of light and 12 hours of uninterrupted darkness. I kept to the schedule, despite some unanticipated problems. I had prepared the soil using fibrous and chunky coir, previously used planting mix and homemade compost. As soon as the plants came in contact with the mix they began showing symptoms of various nutrient problems including Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg) and Iron (Fe) deficiencies as well as unidentified fertilizer burn. At first I thought it was only a Ca/Mg deficiency, which sometimes occurs even in fertilized water here in the Bay Area, because of the low natural mineral content. This is common in water derived from snow run-off, the San Francisco East Bay’s water source. I decided to add extra Ca and Mg to the water using a fertilizer composed of the two minerals. This solved some of the problems but there were still signs of overfertilization as well as Fe deficiency. Analyzing the symptoms further, I realized that the planting mix was the cause of the problems. The coir had been washed before it was used so I didn’t
Nutrient Problem Symptom Ca-Necrosis of edges and then interior of new as well as older leaves. It appears as brown dried spots. Mg-Leaves in the middle first and then in upper leaves as well, the veins remain green while the tissue between turns yellow. Fe-Upper leaves grow bright pale yellow. Fertilizer burn-Leaves curl downward or upward, sometimes look ultra-dark green.
TIP OF THE MONTH FROM ASK ED® Use spring light to enhance your garden. During the spring, south facing windows, sun patios and greenhouses receive light at an oblique angle, so the light penetrates into the space from the side. In the southern tier of the country they can be placed directly outdoors when the temperature rises into the high 60s. If you are just starting plants or are growing just a few plants you can save electricity by moving the plants from the electrically lit grow area and placing them in the sunlit space. The plants are returned to the electrically lit area when they become shaded.
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.
Next month: Flowering in full bloom!
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Testing The Varieties: Part 2
think that it was excess salts left from the manufacturing process. Other plants were growing in combinations of my aged used planting mix so I didn’t think that was a problem. That left the homemade compost. It had been slow aged for over a year and was crumbly with a healthy earthy odor. However, it was probably absorbing the nutrients from the fertilizer and preventing the plants from getting proper nutrition. The solution: run nutrient water solution through the containers three times over the next few days. This provided extra nutrients to the planting mix so that it would absorb as much as it could use. At the same time, the roots were able to absorb nutrients directly from the water. Within days the new growth showed signs of total recovery. I decided to move the plants to a larger space because they were growing more vigorously than I anticipated, even though they were flowering. I removed them from the grow tent and the 35 plants were placed in a four-foot by eight-foot tray in a greenhouse giving them just a little less than a square foot per plant to finish flowering. Right now they are getting natural light enhanced with eight hours of a 1000W HPS lamp on a track. Another lamp will be added shortly. c
The garden, one week the light period was reduced to 12 hours to force flowering.
THC Bomb one week after the light period was reduced. Notice that the plant was suffering from nutrient deficiencies.
The garden two weeks later.
THC Bomb beginning to flower, and in recovery.
The garden a month from beginning flowering.
THC Bomb in full flowering and recovered.
THC Bomb close-up showing somewhat arrested flower development.
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culture
iReadCulture.com
HERE
if you go:
Illinois Lights Up for Spring by Sheryll Alexander
Illinois is known for baseball, farm fresh produce and road trips in spring, but this year, the “Land of Lincoln” has one more reason to visit: 25 newly-opened cannabis collectives. Although Illinois’ medical cannabis law went into effect in 2013, it took until late Fall 2015 for about nine collectives to go online in Evanston, Schaumburg, North Aurora, Addison and Ottawa while another dozen have opened in the greater Chicagoland area this winter. In Spring, Illinois comes alive again with loads of outdoor adventures. Baseball used to be the state’s most popular pastime, but new trends are emerging including farm-to-table experiences at top notch eateries such as Elburn’s Heritage Prairie Farm, Fairbury’s Slagel Family Farm,
Caledonia’s Kinnikinnick Farm and Effingham’s Epiphany Farms. Illinois is also a place to explore some of the nation’s best craft breweries and distilleries. In Chicago, check out Revolution Brewing or tour J.K. Williams Distilling in East Peoria. While there’s no mountains to climb in this plains state, Illinois is the perfect place for cyclists, rock climbers and even aquatic escapes and underground cave networks. Don’t miss Savanna’s Mississippi Palisades State Park, Harrisburg’s Garden of the Gods and Madison’s Old Chain of Rocks Bridge. Ready to head to Illinois farm land or the urban sprawl of Chicagoland this spring? Illinois has finally weathered its cannabis storm and is heading hopefully into the smooth waters of being a cannabis-friendly state. c
Actual medical cannabis dispensaries are so new to Illinois that it’s hard to gauge how a visitor should react. To get “licensed,” MMJ patients meet with a certified physician, fill out an application, pay $100 (fee is reduced to $50 for veterans) and provide an inordinate amount of documentation including an annoying fingerprint check and passport-sized self portrait. And even though Illinois’ has finally opened its dispensary doors, a historic anti-prohibition law was recently filed in the Illinois General Assembly. State Rep. Ken Dunkin filed House Bill 4276, which would allow adults 21+ to legally grow and consume cannabis. Illinois NORML says the bill also allows for “licensed retailers, commercial growers as well as private non-commercial production of cannabis.” The bill has some political backing as while lawmakers in Illinois are looking to add revenue to their state budgets and finding ways to create jobs, a recent study shows legalization in Illinois could add up to the beleaguered state’s $90 million in annual tax revenues.
Fun-Filled Facts
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Time to Go: Spring Weather: Mild, cardigan weather $$$$$
Celebrate Spring’s colorful beauty by attending the annual Chicago Flower & Garden Show. This year, the show heads to Chicago’s renovated Navy Pier from March 12-20. The show features 20 lush and fragrant gardens created by top landscape architects. There’s also art, free activities for kids, wine tastings, cooking demonstrations and loads of shopping for garden gadgetry. 1
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March 2016 iReadCULTURE.com
Illinois surprisingly has more than 100 wineries and vineyards located all over the state and even in Chicago itself. Just find the official Illinois Wine Country map to road trip through the state’s many vineyards or plan a wine-themed romantic escape to one of the state’s charming winery-based B&Bs. 2
culture PROFILEs
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COURAGE
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RECIPES
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Carlos Castro
Age: 27 Condition/ Illness: Lower spine nerve damage, fractured L1-L5 and S1 Using medical cannabis since: 2010
Why did you start using cannabis? I was at home still bedridden from my fractures and injuries and I was on pain medication— vicodin and morphine— and it always left me in depression, always feeling bad and with intense headaches. One day, my brother said “Why don’t you try marijuana? Maybe it will help with your pain.” When I did, not even five minutes later, my pain was subsiding and I wasn’t feeling depressed, and I was able to eat fine. Then, after a while, I let go of my pills and just stayed with the medical cannabis. It was the best decision I’ve ever made. I started seeing significant changes in my mood, I wasn’t
depressed as much and now, I’m able to sleep at night without any pain. Did you try other methods or treatments before cannabis? Yes I was on vicodin and morphine for awhile. I hated the feeling of it. What’s the most important issue or problem facing medical cannabis patients? The closed-minded people that don’t see past the “stoner” stereotypes. What do you say to folks who are skeptical about cannabis as medicine? I would say it works and I’m proof that it can really make a difference for people. Don’t judge so quickly and pick up a magazine, read an article about it, look online for more answers. You will be surprised by the great benefits of medical cannabis. 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
Canna-Pickled Vegetable
Infused Berry Perserves
RECIPES
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Canna-Dijon Mustard
For more of these recipes go to ireadculture.com
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Infused Roasted Fingerling Potato Salad
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Roasted Red Pepper Canna-Hummus
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Infused Kumquat Marmalade
March 20162016 february iReadCULTURE.com iReadCULTURE.com
Sweet & Spicy Infused Nuts
Menu:
Sweet and Spicy Infused Nuts Infused Kumquat Marmalade All About the Olive Tapenade
2 lemons, juiced 8 cups water, or as needed Directions
Payton Curry has a thriving non-cannabis restaurant called Brat Haus in Arizona, and works with dispensaries coast to coast developing local sourced, organically driven edible kitchens. He is hoping to broaden awareness of what he calls a “nutrient-rich vegetable” by writing the upcoming Nutritional Cannabis Cookbook. He teaches medical cannabis patients how to cook with cannabis and has partnered with the Epilepsy Foundation of Arizona to provide free cannabis and cannabis cuisine classes to parents of sick children and the sons and daughters of aging parents. Payton has also just launched a raw cannabis juicing platform, which Payton says “showcases the abilities of marijuana to oxygenate aging blood cells and improve motor function all without being psychoactive.”
Finely chop the kumquats and oranges, combine them into a large pot. Add 3 cups of water per each cup of fruit. Let soak in a cool place for 12 hours, or overnight. Bring the fruit mixture to a boil, reduce heat and simmer until the rind is very tender. Remove from heat, and measure cooked fruit. Add one cup of sugar to the pot for every cup of the fruit mixture. Mix in the lemon juice, about 1/4 cup. Return the fruit to the pan, add in infused honey, and bring to a boil once again. Boil, stirring occasionally, until the gel stage is reached (the temperature of the marmalade should be between 220 to 222° when checked with a kitchen thermometer). Remove from heat, and skim foam from the surface. Transfer the mixture to sterile jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace, and seal immediately. Process any unsealed jars in a water bath for 10 minutes. Refrigerate until needed, or after seal has been broken.
All About the Olive Tapenade Ingredients 1 cup mixed olives, pits removed
culture
4 tablespoons cannabis-infused honey
2 oranges, rinsed, sliced and seeded
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6 cups sugar, or as needed
Charcuterie boards are classic artisanal creations, with house-made pickles, roasted nuts, pâtés, cheeses and meats. You can usually find them at your local craft cocktail lounge or new hip neighborhood restaurant. Well, these boards are also some of the most fun ways to cater your own party with sophistication and ease. Cannabis Chef Payton Curry created the perfect cannasseur’s charcuterie and cheese board exclusively for CULTURE. Good for both canna-friendly guests and non-cannabis using guests alike, we’ve got the perfect charcuterie and cheese board with a few classic and easy cannabis-infused details like roasted nuts, fruit preserves, artisanal potato salad, pickled vegetables and tapenade. With a little help from your friendly grocer, you can find no-stress, high end breads, meats and cheeses to finish off this versatile platter.
24 kumquats, rinsed and thinly sliced
RECIPES
Recipes by Payton Curry
Ingredients
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Infused Kumquat Marmalade
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The Cannasseur’s Charcuterie and Cheese Board
Le Caviste 1919 7th Ave., Seattle (206) 728-2657 www.lecaviste.com Pacific Grill 1502 Pacific Ave., Tacoma (253) 627-3535 www.pacificgrilltacoma.com 208 Garfield 208 Garfield St. S, Parkland (253) 538-5990 www.208Garfield.com
1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
Sweet and Spicy Infused Nuts
Directions
Ingredients
1 teaspoon lemon juice
2 cup raw nuts (your choice of nuts)
Directions
1 tablespoon cannabis-infused olive oil t
Combine all ingredients in a food processor and pulse until chunky. Allow to rest overnight before serving.
1 tablespoon sugar 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Preheat oven to 325°. Toast nuts on a sheet pan in your preheated oven for about 7-10 minutes. Once the natural oils have come out, pull nuts out of the oven and drop temp to 225°. Toss nuts in medicated oil, and then the sugar/spice mixture while they are hot. Return nuts to the oven on a parchment-lined sheet pan for 10-15 minutes.
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.
t Additional recipe can be found at iReadCulture.com
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Local eateries with similar dishes
3 tablespoons cannabis-infused olive oil t
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2 garlic cloves
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2 tablespoons white onion, chopped
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washington NOW! event listings
Beat the Geek Trivia, Every Tuesday
If you feel confident that you have above average knowledge in a range of topics, then this is the pub game for you. Players can work solo or in teams to try and beat the game’s host in a two to three round trivia game. Yuppie Tavern, Everett beatthegeektrivia.com
Jersey Boys, March 8
featured event
An international success, Jersey Boys tells the story of music sensations Frankie Vallie and the Four Seasons. Featuring songs like “Sherrie” and “Big Girls Don’ Cry,” this musical reveals the group’s success and downfalls as one of the most memorable acts in music history. Paramount Theater, Seattle stgpresents.org
The Pancakes and Booze Art Show, March 12
“Atoms + Bytes: Redefining Craft in the Digital Age,” Ends June 26
Featuring 60 up and coming Seattle artists, The Pancakes and Booze Art is something you don’t want to pass up. Just think of how amazing it’ll be to enjoy free pancakes while taking in some awesome art. El Corazon, Seattle elcorazonseattle.com
This exhibit showcases international and local artists who create and craft artwork with origins that span thousands of years. With the help of modern technology these art forms push the boundaries of form and material. Bellevue Arts Museum, Bellevue bellevuearts.org
Jose Gonzales + ymusic, March 6
Singer Jose Gonzales gives his music a new sound as he tours with New York instrumentalists, ymusic. Enjoy this beautiful collaboration as Gonzales and ymusic create classical and delicate variations of his wellknown songs. The Moore Theater, Seattle stgpresents.org
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Bill Maher, March 27
As one of the comedians who set the standard for political humor, Bill Maher is truly a gem. With 23 Emmy nominations, this comedian doesn’t show any signs of slowing down soon. The Paramount Theater, Seattle stgpresents.org
Jamie Kennedy, March 18-19
Everyone knows Jamie Kennedy, whether it’s from a movie he starred in or a film/TV show that he has produced. Quirky and over the top, Kennedy is back doing stand up and he’s funnier than ever. Tacoma Comedy Club, Tacoma tacomacomedyclub.com
Bremerton St. Patrick’s Day Parade, March 19
If you don’t get a chance to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on or before the holiday, Bremerton’s got you covered. Enjoy St. Paddy’s Day activities the following weekend so you don’t have to worry about showing up to work hungover. Downtown Bremerton st-patricks-day.com
Sakura Con, March 25-27
Presented by the Asia Northwest Cultural Education Association Sakura Con is the oldest and most popular anime expo in the U.S. This year’s event will feature cosplay skit contest, a soku fashion show and the American debut of Japanese all girl rock band, BAND-MAID. Washington State Convention Center, Seattle sakuracon.org
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Chuck Shepherd's
News of the
Weird LEAD STORY—STREAMING NEWS u (1) The “public art” statues unveiled in January by Fort Myers, Florida, Mayor Randy Henderson included a metal structure by sculptor Edugardo Carmona of a man walking a dog, with the dog “lifting his leg” beside a pole. Only after inspecting the piece more closely did many observers realize that the man, too, was relieving himself against the pole. Carmona described the work as commentary on man and dog “marking their territory.” (2) A recent anonymously authored “confidential” book by a National Football League player reported that “linemen,
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especially,” have taken to relieving themselves inside their uniforms during games, “a sign that you’re so into the game” that you “won’t pause (even) to use the toilet.” CAN’T POSSIBLY BE TRUE u The popular Nell’s Country Kitchen in Winter Haven, Florida, was shut down again (for “remodeling,” the owner said) in December after a health inspector found that it had been operating for two weeks without its own running water—with only a garden hose connection, across its parking lot, to a neighbor’s spigot. It had also closed for a day earlier in 2015 because of mold, roach activity and rodent droppings (although management insisted that business had immediately picked up the day they reopened). u Oklahoma Justice: In 2004, abusive boyfriend Robert Braxton Jr. was charged with badly beating up the three children of girlfriend Tondalo
Hall, 20, with injuries ranging from bruises to fractured legs, ribs and a toe. Braxton got a deal from Oklahoma City prosecutors, pleaded guilty, served two years in prison, and was released in 2006. Hall’s plea “bargain” resulted in a 30-year sentence for having failed to protect her kids from Braxton, and she’s still in prison—and in September 2015 (following a rejected appeal and a rejected sentence modification), the Pardon and Parole Board refused, 5-0, even to commute her sentence to a time-served 10 years. GREAT ART! u Mike Wolfe, 35, of Nampa, Idaho, finally brought his dream to life for 2016—a calendar of photographs of “artistic” designs made by shaving images into his back hair. He said it took him about four months each for enough hair to grow back to give his designer-friend Tyler Harding enough to work with. (January, for instance, features “New Year” in lettering, with two
champagne glasses; July’s is a flag-like waving stripes with a single star in the upper left). “Calend-hairs” cost $20 each (with proceeds, Wolfe said, going to an orphanage connected to his church). UNCLEAR ON THE CONCEPT u Jamie, 29, and Abbie Hort, 21, an unemployed couple drawing housing and other government benefits, won a United Kingdom lottery prize in December 2014 worth about $72,000, promptly spent it all (including “some” on “silly” stuff, Abbie admitted), and according to a January press report, are angry now that the government will not immediately re-institute their benefits. Abbie said, as lottery winners, she and Jamie “deserved to buy some nice stuff” and go on holiday, but that now, except for the large-screen TV and Jamie’s Ralph Lauren clothes, the winnings are gone. Said Jamie, this past Christmas was just “the worst ever.”
u Public relations spokesman Phil Frame, 61, was arrested in Shelby Township, Michigan, after a Jan. 1 Sheriff’s Office search of his computer and paper files turned up child pornography. The Detroit News reported that Frame had already been questioned about child pornography, in September, by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and for some reason apparently was not intimidated enough (or was too lazy) to clear out his files. (The Homeland Security investigation is still ongoing). WRONG PLACE, WRONG TIME (1) Neighbors in Inola, Oklahoma, complained in December and January about a Union Pacific train that had been parked “for weeks” while tracks up ahead were under repair. Not only does the train block a traffic intersection, it triggers the ringing of the crossing signal. “It’s annoying, yeah,” said one resident, apparently a master
of understatement. (2) At a ski resort in western Vorarlberg, Austria, recently, as the ski lift was temporarily stopped (to address a problem elsewhere on the lift), one occupied lift basket came to rest directly in front of the industrialstrength artificial-snowmaking machine, drenching the two passengers in a severalminutes-long blizzard (of which, yes, Internet video exists). WAIT, WHAT? u Fort Worth, Texas, firefighters, responding to a suspected blaze in January at a grain elevator, encountered smoke on the structure’s eighth floor—along with a man “juggling flaming batons.” No explanation was reported (except that the man “did not belong there”). A department spokesman said his firefighters “put (the man’s) torches out.” u In December, animal protection officers in Halland County, Sweden, confiscated
two cats that the officers found being “mistreated” in a home—coddled (by two women) as babies in “pushchairs” and spoonfed while strapped in high chairs. Both cats had been encouraged to suck on pacifiers, and one woman reportedly allowed the cats to suckle her breast. The public broadcaster SVT reported that the cats were removed from the home because they were not being allowed to develop “natural animal behavior.” UNDIGNIFIED DEATHS u (1) A 40-year-old man driving a stolen truck was killed after a brief high-speed police chase on Jan. 14 in Alameda County, California. Police noted that the man had pulled to the side of Highway 238 to flee on foot, but fell to his death off a cliff—landing on the grounds of the San Lorenzo Pioneer Cemetery. (2) A coroner’s hearing in Folkestone, England, in January determined that a 16-year-old boy had died of accidental asphyxiation from
spray deodorant. According to the boy’s mother, he preferred massive application of the spray instead of bathing, and police recovered several dozen empty spray cans in his room. UPDATE u Marie Holmes, that 2014 Powerball winner in North Carolina whom News of the Weird had reported in September rapidly running through her winnings by bailing her boyfriend out of jail (alleged drug dealer Lamarr “Hot Sauce” McDow), had already tied up $9 million on two arrests. In January, Hot Sauce was arrested again (only for “street racing,” but that violated his bail conditions), and Holmes was forced to fork over another $12 million (as bond basically doubles with each violation, but Holmes would get about 90 percent back—if Hot Sauce shows up for court). (Holmes earlier addressed her critics on Facebook: “What y’all need to be worried about is y’all money ....”)
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