Culture magazine colorado june 2016 by Culture Magazine

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contents 06.16 Vol 7 IssUE 12

KEEPING ROCK ALIVE

CULTURE takes a look at the Thin Lizzy Legacy, and chats with the band about new shows, old memories and their feelings on cannabis legalization.

ON THE COVER: p h o t o c o u r t e s y o f T o ta l G u i ta r M ag a z i n e

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inside

contents 06.2016

features 60 64

Constant Change Colorado police want changes to cannabis laws to stop.

Easy Livinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a resident or a visitor, there are plenty of things to do this Summer in Colorado.

Industry Insider Nate Winokur of the renowned SC Labs is helping to lead the pack with technological innovation and proper testing for cannabis products.

Living Social Social media is at the heart of the cannabis community, and its importance will only increase as cannabis becomes more widely accepted.

Healing Miracles After testing out a variety of medicine on her son Abram, Erin Miller found a miraculous solution with CBD oil.

Knowledge Abounds The Cannabis Business Summit & Expo returns for another year full of industry-related seminars and discussion.

Outside Influence Artist Juan Usubillaga absorbs the world around him to create meaningful abstract paintings.

Musical Spectrum Hip-hop group Future Heroes embraces cannabis as a theme for its music.

Mixing And Mingling Retrofette gets its audiences ready to dance with high energy synth-pop.

online Exclusive!

departments news 12 News Nuggets 18 By the Numbers 22 Local News 24 Legal Corner 26 Healthy Living reviews 28 Dispensary Highlight 30 Advocate Highlight 32 Strain, Edible & Concentrate Reviews 38 Cool Stuff 40 Entertainment Reviews in every issue 84 Shooting Gallery 86 Growing Culture 88 Destination Unknown 90 Profile in Courage

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92 Recipes

96 Colorado Now! 98 News of the Weird

d Former LAPD Leaders

Back Cannabis Movement d Colorado School District

Implements Medical Cannabis Use Policy

Vol 7 IssUE 12

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CULTURE M

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, Meilani Darby Regional Manager Kim Cook Account Executives Jon Bookatz, Eric Bulls, Cole Garrison, Gene Gorelik, Teddy Helms, Emily Musser, Beau Odom, Justin Olson, Jim Saunders, Chris Thatcher 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 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

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NEWS

nuggets Charlo Greene Hosts Cannabis Diversity Summit in Denver

Charlo Greene, the Alaskan news anchor who famously quit on-air while reporting on her own cannabis company, hosted the very first cannabis diversity summit in Denver this past May. Greene who has gone on to found Go Greene, a company dedicated to “cultivating diversity, unity and opportunity in cannabis to help rebuild the communities harmed by prohibition most” created the summit to educate those who attend on many aspects of the cannabis industry, from the perspectives of industry leaders and advocates who are people of color. In February, Greene stated that she would offer resources for minorities to gain opportunity in the cannabis industry, which she has succeeded in doing. Speakers at the summit included Colorado NORML President Jake Cabrera and Our Cannabis Culture owner Draya Sallis.

Oklahoma House Approves Bill that will Expand Age Range for CBD Use Oklahoma has not been shy about its opposition towards cannabis, but recently the state has learned to embrace the plant and its therapeutic benefits. In May, the Oklahoma House voted 69-14 to pass a bill that will expand the use of CBD oil, according to KOCO. Previously, CBD oil was only administered to cannabis patients under the age of 18, but the recently approved bill removed that age restriction. Conditions that qualify patients to medicate with CBD oil are those hoping to treat spasticity associated with Multiple Sclerosis and paraplegia, and those looking to alleviate symptoms of chronic wasting disease. This decision came shortly after Governor Mary Fallin signed House Bill 2154, allowing children with severe epilepsy to medicate with CBD oil. The House’s decision currently awaits approval from Governor Fallin.

CO Looking to Hire Individual to Analyze Effects of Cannabis on Public Health The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) is looking to hire a “marijuana health effects and research manager,” that will “provide oversite of public and environmental health issues as a result of recreational marijuana,” as stated in the online job posting. This person will be responsible for reporting the health consequences of legalized cannabis, collecting data from hospitals, and leading an advisory committee that is expected to report on its findings, according to The Gazette. Not anyone can apply for such a position though, the job posting states that those interested in the position must be licensed to practice medicine in the State of Colorado, must have a master’s degree and also two years of public health experience. Mike Van Dyke of the CDPHE stated that those qualifications allow state officials to “ . . . really have those physician-tophysician conversations, which are important.”

Eighth Annual Cannabis Liberation Day Celebrated in the Netherlands Since the Cannabis Cup left the Netherlands, there is only one event in the country that celebrates cannabis: Cannabis Liberation Day. Now in its eighth year, the festival, which is organized by the Union for the abolition of cannabis prohibition (VOC), includes a variety of guest speakers and musicians from the Netherlands and abroad, all coming together for the advancement of cannabis reform. While there are still serious issues revolving around cannabis reform all across the globe, organizers of Cannabis Liberation Day created this event with the intent of creating a positive culture surrounding cannabis. Guests can enjoy the event’s Hemp Market and Cannabis Film Festival while checking out vendors and attending lectures. With the recent and unexpected passing of VOC founding member Josep Oomen, a tribute will be held in his honor.

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NEWS

The amount of money, in dollars, that Colorado is willing to pay annually for its newly opened “marijuana health effects and research manager” position, which is one of the highest salaries in the state government: (Source: Colorado Springs News)

215,124

The amount of money, in millions of dollars, that Aurora will use in cannabis tax revenue to help lowincome residents with housing and community services: (Source: The Independent)

1.5

The estimated number of children living with their families in Colorado who will be able to have better access to medical cannabis if Governor Hickenlooper signs HB-1373: (Source: Drug Policy Alliance)

300

The number of active hemp growing registrations, as reported by the Colorado Department of Agriculture, that are currently pending to legally grow hemp in Colorado:

The percentage of Colorado cannabis sales that involve edibles such as food, drinks or pills, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: (Source: CTV News)

347

(Source: The Pueblo Chieftain)

The number of medical cannabis dispensaries in Vancouver, Canada that have been issued development permits under the city’s regulations: (Source: CFJC Today)

The amount of money, in millions of dollars, that Illinois made from medical cannabis sales in April, 2016: (Source: Fox 32)

The percentage of British people who support medical cannabis: (Source: International Business Times)

26th Annual ICRS Symposium on the Cannabinoids WHAT: 26th Annual ICRS Symposium on the Cannabinoids. WHEN/WHERE: Mon, June 27-Thurs, June 30. Hotel Bukovina, Sportowa 22, 34530 Bukowina Tatrzańska, Poland. INFO: For registration and additional details visit www.icrs2016.org. The International Cannabis Research Society (ICRS) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to research in all fields of cannabis science. This includes biochemical, chemical and physiological studies of the endocannabinoid system. While the ICRS is a great resource in cannabis studies, it also serves as a platform for other researchers to share their findings in cannabis science. With over

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500 international members each year the ICRS brings together like-minded individuals in the cannabis research for its annual symposium on cannabinoids. In its 26th year, the ICRS will be hosting this event in Poland at the lavish Hotel Bukovina. Guests will be able to enjoy the many luxuries of Hotel Bukovina along with the culture of the Polish city Kraków, where guests can bus from.

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NEWS

LOCAL

Suburban Sprawl Denver suburbs may allow legal cannabis

by Addison Herron-Wheeler or a while, the easiest way to get cannabis in Denver was to stay within the confines of the city itself. Most of the outlying suburban metro areas, although often very close to the urban center itself, did not allow legal cannabis. Now, many of these areas are thinking about allowing cannabis, in light of the success of recreational stores in Denver. Currently, Englewood, Sheridan, Littleton and Longmont are considering opening up retail cannabis outlets. Lakewood plans to vote this fall to see if the community wants to allow recreational stores to open up in the area, according to The Denver Post. “It’s becoming evident to a number of local communities that it is safe to opt in,” Michael Elliott, who currently serves as the executive director of the Marijuana Industry Group, told The Denver Post. “They’re looking at their neighbors, seeing that the sky isn’t falling and they’re saying, ‘What’s the big deal?’” This would mean that the outlying areas in Denver, especially the south side of the city, will be able to access cannabis much more easily. Given the fact that over $587 million worth of cannabis was sold last year in Colorado, it is not surprising that these locations want to get in on the action. These counties are also probably looking to outlying areas that already allow legal cannabis, such as Edgewater and Aurora. These places boast high tax revenue from their businesses, and because Edgewater allows dispensaries to be open until midnight instead of 7PM like Denver, they are able to tap into the late-night market. “We’ve had our time to hesitate, we’ve had our time to study it—I think there’s enough evidence out there that recreational marijuana can be done safely and responsibly,” Emmett

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Reistroffer, from the Englewood Liquor and Medical Marijuana Licensing Authority, told The Denver Post. “The conversation shouldn’t be about allowing the industry; it should be about embracing it.” “We do not seek revenue,” Michael Penny, City Manager for Littleton, explained to the Post. “We are a beneficiary of the success of our businesses and will provide the highest level of service delivery possible on the revenue we receive from our businesses.” “Citizens in these outlying locations don’t just want to have easier access to cannabis stores—they also resent the fact that Denver is getting all the revenue from people who live in outlying areas, since they have to trek downtown to buy cannabis,” explained Rudy Ellen, General Manager for Verde, a newly opened dispensary on Colfax, in an interview with CULTURE. “If these areas allowed recreational stores, they could keep their money and put it towards things like schools and helping the areas thrive.” “Our schools could use the money to actually expand our school building,” Sophia Vamvakias, an 18-year-old from Englewood, explained in an editorial she wrote titled “Where’s our pot money?!” “Right now, the high school has three hallways and not enough classrooms for all of the teachers. Chemistry is more fun when the science department can afford to buy resources for different labs. English is easier when each student can have a book.” Only time will tell if each of these locations will choose to vote on legal cannabis, but due to the success in Denver and the outcry from citizens, it seems very likely that outlying Metro areas have increased cannabis access in their future. c

Cannabis Charity Open While the cannabis industry in Colorado has earned the state a good amount of revenue to help fund local projects, Premium Pete’s Cannabis and High Roller Dispensary feel like it could help benefit non-profit organizations such as the Denver Colorado AIDS Project (DCAP). Both cannabis companies are working to raising funds that will help those with HIV/AIDS live more comfortably. The DCAP has been helping those with HIV/AIDs through counseling and offering resources like transportation, housing and free testing for over 30 years, and events like this help with its longevity. Come out to the golf course and participate in helping those diagnosed with one of the world’s most significant public health challenges gain support and access to much needed research and care. WHAT: Cannabis Charity Open. WHEN/WHERE: Sun, June 26. Park Hill Golf Club, 4141 E 35th Ave., Denver. INFO: For tickets visit. eventbrite.com.

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NEWS

legal corner

PARENTAL ADVISORY Parents must be cautious when using cannabis around their children

by Ann Toney

ather’s day is in June, and the role of a father is different for every family. The one thing that is ever present is a father’s interest in protecting his children. What has also evolved over the past years in Colorado is the legalization of cannabis for both medical and recreational use. As the legal use and acceptance of cannabis has increased the issue of having adults using cannabis in the

home where children (under 21) live has sparked discussion and controversy. There is the zealous protection of the child against exposure to cannabis balanced with common sense use of cannabis and the right of the parent to use cannabis. What could happen to a father or mother, and it has happened throughout states that have legal cannabis, is the parent could be charged ranging from criminal charges by the District Attorney of

child abuse to being charged by Child Protective Services with civil “dependency and neglect” which means the child was “dependent” and the adult “neglected” the child. Both could mean the child is taken away from the parents during the proceeding or if serious enough, for a longer period of time. Simply having cannabis out in the open in your house could trigger child protective services opening an investigation on your family. If you are charged with Driving Under the Influence of Drugs (DUID) and you have a minor in the car, the driver can also be charged with child abuse. So, what can you do to protect both you and your child against this government intrusion? There are some guidelines to address use and storage of cannabis. Do not leave paraphernalia around the house. Particularly in a common area such as the living room. Store cannabis in an appropriate area based on the age of your children. If you have toddlers then putting your paraphernalia and cannabis on a shelf in

your bedroom closet would be sufficient. If your child is a teenager, you may need to keep your paraphernalia and cannabis in a locked container in a hidden place in your house. Never underestimate the curiosity of a child. Children also go to school and talk about what happens at home. In one case a child in New York went to school and talked about “hemp” at home. This opened a child protective services investigation. If you have younger children you may want to refer to your cannabis in a different way around the house. If you use cannabis by smoking or vaping, having a designated area such as in the garage or on the back patio can be beneficial if you have to show to an authority how you are careful with cannabis. Needless to say, using cannabis around any child would be grounds for at least an investigation by child services. Be extra careful when using edibles as they look like any other food product and need to be clearly kept separate from other foods and kept secure. c

Colorado Brewers’ Festival WHAT: Colorado Brewers’ Festival. WHEN/WHERE: Fri, June 23-Sat, June 24. Fri, 12pm to 6 pm . Sat, 12pm to 5 pm . Washington Park, 321 Maple St., Fort Collins. INFO: To purchase tickets visit downtownfortcollins.com. The Colorado Brewers’ Festival (COBF) returns for another year and will feature over 90 beers from 40-plus Colorado breweries. This event is more than just an opportunity to get a little tipsy and have a good time; this year’s COBF will feature a beer school with tastings and demonstrations, for those taking baby steps into the world of craft beer. Some other awesome features at this

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year’s fest will be performances by local Northern Colorado musicians, vendors and gourmet food trucks. While there is no admission charge to enter the event, guests will need to purchase a tasting package in order the sample delicious beers. Those who purchase a tasting package will receive a 16oz. souvenir tasting cup and 10 tasting tickets, good for food or beer. Don’t miss out on the biggest beer fest in town!

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NEWS

healthy living

Cannabis and Your Heart

Is It Much Ado About Nothing? by Lanny Swerdlow, RN LNC

Should cannabis smokers be concerned about the effects of their use on the health of their hearts? Although there have been a number of studies on the issue, there is still no definitive conclusion. In France, health care providers are legally required to report serious cases of substance abuse. An article in the Journal of the American Heart Association examined this data from a five-year period and identified 1,979 cases of “marijuana abuse” in which 35 cases involved cardiovascular complications. From this small number of cases the authors concluded that cannabis use might contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) among young and middle-aged adults. Another study came to the opposite conclusion. Published in the American Journal of Cardiology, researchers reported that a 15-year longitudinal study of 3,617 young adults found that high blood pressure or other cardiovascular risk factors are not associated with heavy cannabis use. A 2008 report issued by the National Institute of Drug Abuse stated that heavy cannabis use can boost blood levels of the protein apolipoprotein C-III which can cause increased levels of triglycerides. High levels of triglycerides can contribute to hardening of the arteries or thickening of the artery walls raising the risk of stroke, heart attack and heart disease. It should be noted that the subjects in this study were really heavy cannabis consumers averaging 78 to 350 cannabis cigarettes smoked per week—that’s 11 to 50 joints per day! Although the study did not look at whether the heavy cannabis users actually had heart disease, another study published in the America Heart Journal did. Assessing the survival rates of 3,886 heart attack survivors over an 18-year period, investigators at the Harvard Medical School concluded, “There was no statistically significant association between marijuana use and mortality.” Coincidentally another study done at Harvard Medical School and published in the American Heart Association journal Circulation concluded that cannabis increases the risk of having a heart attack within the first hour of 26

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smoking to five times that of non-smokers. The reported five-fold cannabis risk statistic is an average. Lead researcher Dr. Murry Mittleman emphasized that “as with any risk factor for heart attack, or for heart disease in general, the risks become more pertinent as we grow older. Marijuana use is no exception.” It should be noted that the five-fold cannabis risk is about the same as strenuous exercise and a bit higher than the heart attack risk for sexual intercourse—activities that doctors usually encourage. Although smoking cannabis could increase the chance of a heart attack, another study found that heart attack patients with a history of cannabis use are less likely to die during hospitalization. Research scientists from the University of Colorado compared the hospital records of over 3,800 heart-attack patients who had consumed cannabis to those of over 1.2 million similarly matched controls. The data showed that the patients who had used cannabis had a lower mortality risk during hospitalization and were at lower risk for intra-aortic balloon pump placement compared to controls. There are a plethora of other studies that show positive benefits and negative consequences from cannabis use in relation to cardiovascular health—everything from a reduction in metabolic syndrome (increased blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat, abnormal cholesterol levels—all a precursor to CVD) to second-hand cannabis smoke leading to hardening of the arteries and resultant CVD. The bottom line of all the studies is there may be some risk and there may be some benefits, but the ultimate bottom line is that whether its yea or nay, the benefits and risks are fairly minimal. This is especially true for patients who use cannabis to reduce or replace prescription pharmaceuticals for pain, depression, anxiety and insomnia—all of which are arguably more life-threatening than any of the cardiovascular problems associated with cannabis use. If you are using cannabis to just party and have CVD, you might want to consider moderating your intake of cannabis. Of course, if you turn to alcohol to party instead of cannabis, then (since many studies that document alcohol’s deleterious effect on the heart) maybe you should continue using cannabis. c

Elevate and Align: A Ganja Yoga Retreat Nothing is more relaxing than cannabis and yoga, so why not indulge yourself in a three-day retreat? In its second year, Twisted Sister Yoga’s Elevate and Align retreat will start at the Twisted Sister Yoga Studio in Denver, where participants will begin the retreat with a cleansing restorative class. After the class Twisted Sister will take its guests to DANK, one of Colorado’s finest dispensaries, where they will be welcome with a VIP meet and greet. At DANK, participants will get a tour of the dispensary’s cultivation facility and get insight on its wide selection of edibles. Lastly, the retreat will head over to Aspen Canyon Ranch where guests will enjoy a spiritual experience high in the mountains where they can not only enjoy and practice yoga, but also participate in a cannabis cooking class. WHAT: Elevate and Align: A Ganja Yoga Retreat. WHEN/WHERE: Fri, June 10-Sun, June 12. 8 pm4:20 pm . Twisted Sister Yoga Studio, 3825 Elm St., Denver. INFO: Visit twistedsister. yoga to register for this event.

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REVIEWs

dispensary highlight place so that we can bring our customers the cleanest, safest marijuana possible. This also lets us produce extracts that are safe, clean and have a strong bouquet to them.

Strawberry Fields (Pueblo North)

Interviewed: Mike Kwesell, OWNER 2285 N. Interstate 25, Pueblo, 81008 (719) 471-2837

Top Selling Concentrate: Strawberry Fields Extracts

www.strawberryfieldsmmj.com

How and when did your dispensary start up? We started Strawberry Fields in 2010. My brother and I decided to get into the marijuana business in late 2009. We took a few retired couples who wanted us to grow for them to go see a doctor in Southern Colorado so they could get their medical cards and make us their caregiver. From there we drove straight to Denver and bought six clones and that was the very beginning of Strawberry Fields. From that point we just kept reinvesting every dollar we could scrape together and today we employ upwards of 60 people spread out throughout our stores, grows and labs.

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What’s the story behind the name of your shop? In the beginning, it seemed like every single shop was some kind of clever combination of the words “cannabis,” “care,” “green” and “wellness” and so we wanted something that was completely different and that would stand out. What does your dispensary offer patients that they can’t find anywhere else? We control 100 percent of our own supply chain, so we are able to offer our customers a product that we can truly stand behind. We use zero pesticides at our production facilities and have a rigorous bio-control program we have put into

What are the biggest challenges you face in this industry as a dispensary? Biggest joys? There are several big challenges we face in this industry. Some of our biggest hurdles are the monthly excise taxes that stand-alone production facilities face, year-end taxes once 280e has been considered and human resource management. We have some of the best people we’ve ever met working for us but it’s still a challenge keeping everybody focused and motivated at the workplace. We always try to reiterate professionalism and create an environment where our employees are challenged and can thrive. Some of the biggest joys we get from our work is making our customers happy and seeing repeat business— for us, there is no greater compliment. We also get tremendous satisfaction out of the fact that our little company supports a lot of families throughout the state and we have people who are thriving in their roles as employees and managers. What is the one thing you want patients to know about your dispensary? We feel it’s important that our patients know that we have been operating in the Colorado regulated environment for almost eight years and that we have learned how to comply with all the state’s laws while still being able to bring a fabulous array of products to market, everything from bud to concentrates. When

patients come into our stores, they are greeted by highlytrained support staff wearing a professional uniform and a smile and who are all trained to make our customers feel like they receive the royal treatment. If someone wanted to open a dispensary and get their feet wet in the industry, what advice or counsel would you give them? I would encourage them to strongly consider what their motivations are for getting into this industry—nine out of 10 times people fall prey to the false illusion that one can make a quick fortune in the marijuana business, which is simply not the case. These days, we’re basically selling produce at produce margins by the time all taxes and overhead are accounted for. Add that to the whole issue of legal liability plus the regulated environment in which the industry exists and the potential for pitfalls and the whole idea can deflate itself pretty quickly. If one can step back and really look at this industry from a disinterested, objective standpoint, it becomes readily apparent that there are much safer bets out there in traditional, time-honored markets and industries. What is the most important thing you hope to accomplish while in the MJ/MMJ community? We have already witnessed first-hand the multitude of ways that marijuana has benefited our patients and customers. We have loyal customers that have been coming to us for years that have been able to conquer their addictions to narcotic-based pain killers. We strive every day to continue this trend. Additionally, we want to build the type of company where our employees can make a sustainable income and build a life for themselves that is fulfilling and in which they have the time and resources to enjoy their lives. c

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REVIEWs

advocate highlight

Mark Slaugh Occupation: Founder and CEO of iComply, LLC and Executive Director of the Cannabis Business Alliance (CBA)

When and how did you become an advocate for cannabis? I have been against the war on drugs for over 15 years, but started in activism with Students for Sensible Drug Policy while attending the University of Colorado in Colorado Springs. After graduating in 2010, my passion drove me to volunteer for over three years to help usher in the legalization of medical and

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retail cannabis in Colorado. I served as Membership Director for the Colorado Springs Medical Cannabis Council, advocating for the rights of businesses and patients at local and state government levels. I also served as the Southern Colorado Regional Coordinator for Amendment 64, helping to lead volunteers across Southern Colorado to securing and achieving the majority vote in conservative El Paso County and Colorado

Springs on the historic amendment. I have volunteered my time to represent and testify at the Capitol and on many working groups with state policy makers to better our regulations and laws. I am also privileged to help serve other communities outside of Colorado in understanding, implementing, and liberating medical and retail cannabis for people everywhere through sensible policy. My company helps cannabis businesses show compliance with these regulations and, in doing so, ensures a future of continued liberation and prosperity for the plant. How has cannabis benefited your life? Cannabis has benefited

my life in countless ways, from giving me a purpose, to healing and balancing my mind, body and spirit, to helping me achieve Summa Cum Laude honors at graduation and helping my loved ones and beloved patients with their ailments from arthritis to cancer. What’s your greatest achievement for the cannabis cause? It is continuous, arduous work to ensure legalization across the United States and the world. I am presently engaged with lawmakers and government officials in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico with the responsibility of establishing the laws and regulations to assist as the primary consultant to implement the medical marijuana model. On an island still arresting citizens for felony possession of even one gram of marijuana, I am honored to be influential in changing the landscape and developing the first, freemarket marijuana regulatory model in Spanish. If you could change one thing about the way cannabis is viewed and/ or treated right now, what would it be? I wish we could instantly take away the stigmatization and marginalization of the plant, its users and its legal status. I especially wish policy and law makers would take the time to actually visit a cannabis business, serve as a caregiver to a patient and live as one of the oppressed victims of the drug war. It is sad how little they know about what they are developing policy around, and how easily they choose to remain ignorant because the status quo is more comfortable and promising for re-election. c

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REVIEWs

strain, edible & concetrate Denver Kush Colorado natives can agree on many things, including how great the Broncos are and that far too many people are moving here. The latter won’t stop anytime soon if strains like Denver Kush from Denver Kush Club keep popping up, though, as this is a strain worthy of the name. A slightly indica-dominant hybrid, the cross of Tom Hill’s Haze and Pakistani Chitral Kush has tremendous balance both visually and physically. Opening the jar and the haze is immediately apparent, with buttery vanilla notes and a hint of citrus smelling delicious enough to eat. Adding some kush, however, helps fatten out the normally thin buds, giving appealing structure to the lime green nugs. Initially, testers felt mentally engaged and dialed in to projects that might ordinarily be hard to focus on, making it a strong choice for those who need a boost in productivity. Throughout the effect, most noted a looseness of limbs and muscles that can tighten up when you’re spending the day at your desk. Denver Kush should be enjoyed all day long, but be cautious at night, as this city does still sleep.

Available at: Denver Kush Club in Denver.

Kush Kleaner

Available at: Strawberry Fields in Colorado Springs.

Despite having a name that sounds like a housekeeping service you’d call after a raging 420 party, Kush Kleaner is the perfect strain for helping you get the job done yourself. Coming to us from Strawberry Fields in Colorado Springs, we loved how much they managed to coax out the traditional Jack Herer smells in the Jacks Kleaner and OG Kush hybrid. The unmistakable notes of citrus and Pine Sol mix well here with more OG notes of rubber, like a race car fueled by the contents of your sink cabinet. Well-manicured, the cloudy trichome heads indicate the exact cure we want from a sativa dominant hybrid like this. If you’re behind on your spring cleaning, though, your house won’t know what hit it. Filled with effervescent energy and body movement, you’ll float effortlessly around to whatever task needs to be done and take pleasure in doing it. More industrious reviewers preferred the Kush Kleaner before a morning session at the gym, which is totally fine as long as they remember to wipe down the machines after.

Black Forest With graduation just behind us, it’s time to reflect on the hard work that comes with growing up. A perfect example is Blue Kudu, a company that—much like their logo—has taken the leap to the next level with their new Black Forest CBD bars. Gorgeously packaged, the combination of black cherries and dark chocolate perfectly compliment the bar’s incredibly mild “green” taste. Marked specifically for CBD dosing, in six servings, the bar boasts 60mg of CBD, and only 1mg of THC. The medicinal effects were loved by testers whether consumed when waking up or finishing a long day. Within 30 minutes of consuming Blu Kudu’s Black Forest bar, we felt a calm mood boost that didn’t feel too jumpy or overly energetic. The winning qualities of this bar were its ability to relieve pain and eliminate anxiety, providing a solid distraction for hours. Instead of tossing our hats in the air, we’ll simply tip them.

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Available wherever: Blue Kudu products are carried.

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REVIEWs

Available wherever: Keef Cola products are carried.

Bruce Banner Oil Stix Cool fact about Marvel’s Bruce Banner: He once participated in a study on hallucinogens at Harvard. Here his namesake is aptly added to one of our favorite inventions, Oil Stix, by the makers of Keef Cola, which can be used in a multitude of ways. Cooking? Check. Dabbing? Double check. Our go-to use quickly became refilling vape pens, because the injector makes it painless and avoids the entire cleanup that comes with trying to restock your own supply. Activated oil can be tough to find, especially as a CO2 extract. A true hybrid, there’s a lot to love about Bruce Banner Oil Stix from Keef Cola. This oil caused a pulsing head rush that can make you feel like a tiny nuclear bomb just detonated in your head, making you feel creative and energetic. Soon after, you’ll transition like a reverse Hulk into a more relaxed body effect that isn’t sedative, which is ideal for being outdoors and active. Chock full of cannabinoids, even our high tolerance reviewers recommended taking it slowly or risk waking up the next day with no clue of what happened.

Available at: Secret Stash in Colorado Springs.

Grape Ape Colas If you’re a giant purple primate, riding on top of a car all day can be tough on the knees. Not to mention all the bugs that are bound to accumulate in your fur. Knocking out joint pain was easy this month, thanks to Grape Ape Colas from Secret Stash in Colorado Springs. The gorgeous branch we picked up looked like we could swing from it, with sprouts of orange hairs looking much more like an Owl Monkey. While the traditional grape smell is definitely present, we appreciated the hint of Middle Eastern spice and kaffir lime that hit us breaking up the supple nugs. Wrapping up the day, we took a few hits and marveled at how well the flavor translated in the smoke, a sign of an excellent cure. We didn’t marvel at much after that, as the effects were quick to knock us onto the couch while doing an equally strong number on deep joint and muscle pain. For those looking for a full night of sleep even in the darkest of jungles, Grape Ape Colas is the way to go. 34

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REVIEWs

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3. Malin + Goetz Cannabis Hand and Body Wash

1. Fresh® Cannabis Santal Eau de Parfum Cologne For the cannabis-loving man looking to class things up a bit, checkout Fresh’s Cannabis Santal Eau de Parfum Cologne. The original fragrance in Fresh’s cannabis-inspired line, Cannabis Santal has a woodsy scent with top notes of bergamot and black plum, and has received wide popularity amongst fragrance lovers. Like most designer fragrances, Cannabis Santal, gives off an irresistible, masculine scent that leaves a lasting impression on those who encounter its distinct aroma. Made with natural ingredients Cannabis Santal is a must have fragrance designed by renowned fragrance designer Caroline Sabas that is perfect for any man. PRICE: $50 MORE INFORMATION: www.fresh.com

Start off this summer with beautiful skin that is nourished and hydrated with Malin + Goetz Cannabis Hand and Body Wash. Unlike most body washes that dry skin, Malin + Goetz Cannabis Hand and Body Wash gently cleanses and balances skin without stripping it of its essential oils. Although this product does not contain any extracts from the cannabis plant, it contains a Cannabis Eau de Toilette Fragrance that leaves skin slightly scented. While this product works great as a hand or body wash, it can also be used in a relaxing bubble bath. PRICE: $22 MORE INFORMATION: www.malinandgoetz.com

4. The Healers Gem Natural Crystal Pipes

2. Cannadent Hemp Toothpaste Most major toothpaste brands contain unnatural chemicals or substances that aren’t ideal to go in your mouth. To save you from submitting yourself to unhealthy dental habits try Cannadent, a hemp toothpaste produced by European cosmetics company Cannaderm. With ingredients like pure hemp oil, grapefruit seed, oak-bark and rosemary extracts, Cannadent is gentle on the mouth but cleanses effectively. Not only does this toothpaste help keep your mouth clean and odor free, it aids in calming and preventing tooth sensitivity, canker sores and bleeding gums. Give your mouth the care it deserves and enjoy the miraculous benefits of hemp hygiene. PRICE: $14.90 MORE INFORMATION: www.cannabis-cosmetics.com 38

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We love our crystal collection, but these gorgeous natural crystal pipes are more than just pretty. The Healers Gem is a custom crystal jeweler business and a natural stone artisan, and recently has begun to create amazing gem and crystalbased smoking apparatuses. Still firmly rooted in healing crystal therapy, the artisans from The Healers Gem craft each and every object with precision, love and intention. Handmade in Boulder, Colorado, lead artisan and owner, Mark Anthony also includes a velvet bag, certificate of authenticity, instructions for care, and additional details when requested. His most popular pipe tends to be the Amethyst pipe, engaging the Crown Chakra, and offering spiritual protection, spiritual cleansing and engages the third eye when used in crystal therapy—and is a great addition to any cannabis therapy! PRICE: $65-120 MORE INFORMATION: www.etsy.com/shop/ TheHealersGem

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GET YOUR CLICKS

HERE

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entertainment

REVIEWs

BOOK

Marijuana Horticulture Fundamentals K of Trichome Technologies Green Candy Press If you know your cannabis cultivator trivia, Trichome Technologies’ breeder “K” is a legend in growing. This new book by K is an easy-to-understand guide for any level of horticulturist. It goes into great detail about every level of growing cannabis, teaches the useful information about the plant and exactly how to grow your perfect strain of cannabis, whatever that means to you. Marijuana Horticulture Fundamentals is a great book for anyone looking to improve their cultivation or start one! (Alex Bradley)

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Release Date: SUMMER 2016 Available on: PS4 and PC

MUSIC

GAME

No Man’s Sky Dev. Hello Games Pub. Hello Games Survival games have their appeal in the gaming world, but none more than the upcoming science fiction game, No Man’s Sky. Players are introduced to a massive universe with 18 quintillion different planets to visit, which they will navigate using their own spaceships to investigate planets with their own unique plants, animals and atmospheres. Explore this seemingly unending universe in search of ship upgrades, and best of all, you can either travel the stars with friends or make it a single-player adventure with offline mode. (Nicole Potter)

MOVIE

Deadpool 20th Century Fox, Marvel Entertainment Dir. Tim Miller

Combining intense action, witty, dark humor, and actor Ryan Reynold’s knack for comedic timing and delivery, Deadpool hits hard and delivers like few in the X-Men franchise have been able to so far. Unburdened by the need to seek a PG-13 rating, Deadpool is able to be the no holds barred fight/laugh fest. Reynolds’ delivery of the character is mesmerizing, and a supporting cast of brilliant young character actors, including T.J. Miller (Silicon Valley), Karan Soni (Safety Not Guaranteed) and Morena Baccarin (Serenity), ensure the film’s perfection. (Simon Weedn)

Magnetize déCollage Misra Records No one captures the sparkling sights and sounds of Denver better than local psychedelic band déCollage. This vibrant band is a member of local musician collective Moon Magnet, and its latest record, Magnetize, features collaborations with local groups Ancient Elk and Wild High. The new record boasts such awesome tracks as the uplifting opener “Crystal Choir,” the catchy and addictive “Denver Hustle” and the title track, which is definitely the stand-out song on the album. Stay tuned for more great music from déCollage and Moon Magnet, as well as appearances around town. (Addison HerronWheeler)

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by Simon Weedn hen it comes to classic hard rock acts, few are thought of so highly and loved by so many as Irish rockers, Thin Lizzy. Managing to transcend their own genre and endearing themselves with punk rockers, metal heads and rock and roll enthusiasts of nearly any variety, Thin Lizzy took the world by storm in the 1970s and ‘80s. The band, through years of hard work and relentless touring, became extremely well known for bringing a thunderous maelstrom of driving, frenetic rhythms and bass lines, blistering dual guitar leads, and some of the most brilliantly authentic, honest and personal lyrical story telling of the genre and time. Unfortunately, Thin Lizzy’s trajectory was ground to a halt in 1984 when an array of personal turmoils forced the band to split. Then two years later, the unexpected and sudden passing of founding member, front man, and primary songwriter, Phil Lynott, denied the prospect

of any immediate reunions for the group. However, even with Lynott’s untimely passing, Thin Lizzy’s legacy had already been firmly cemented, and songs like “The Boys Are Back In Town,” “Whiskey In The Jar,” “Jailbreak” and “Waiting For An Alibi” have become hard rock staples over the years and are played by bands, both popular and obscure, nightly, all over the world. In recent years, Thin Lizzy guitarist, Scott Gorham, has taken it upon himself to reform the band with its surviving members every so often, to perform reunion shows to celebrate both Thin Lizzy’s legacy and music, as well as the life and legacy of the late Phil Lynott. Recently, CULTURE was able to catch up with Scott and hear all about the band’s upcoming shows, his memories of recording the Jailbreak album which turned 40 this year, his feelings about cannabis, and his recollections about his beloved friend and bandmate, Phil Lynott. >> iReadCULTURE.com JUNE 2016

You mentioned the whole “third record” aspect of things. Do you think that pressure also contribute to the heightened energy on Jailbreak? Were you as a band sort of at your hungriest at that point because of that pressure? Yeah! You know, I think the fear factor makes you concentrate a hell of a lot more. It didn’t feel like playtime anymore, all of a sudden everything got real. I think the other helpful side of it was that we already had two albums under our belt together, so we kind of knew each other’s moves, it was easier to play with each other, and it was easier to come up with suggestions and not feel embarrassed about it. So, I think the experience from the previous two albums really helped a lot and the fear factor gave us a kick in the ass.

First and foremost, you’ve got some dates coming up to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Jailbreak as well as 30 years since the passing of Phil Lynnot. Is it at all surreal for you that it’s been four decades since Jailbreak’s release? Scott Gorham: You know something, it really is. I hadn’t even realized it until last year when a journalist said to me, “Wow, so 40 years since Jailbreak came out.” And I said, “No, no, no, that can’t be right.” But, then I counted back and I said, “Holy crap, you’re right! It’s been 40 years!” So it is strange, that all of these years have been reeled off, and you’re not even thinking about it, then all of the sudden your bones start to hurt. It is amazing that people still want to come out and see the band play, buy the records, and talk about it. It doesn’t get much better than that. Do you still have any particularly strong memories about recording the album? I do! This was our third album. Back then in the ‘70s, it was kind of expected that if you hadn’t made it on the first or second record, that you’d better make it on the third or you were out the door. I mean, there was no talking about it. People kept saying this to us, things like, “You know this is the third album man, and you haven’t broken through yet.” The pressure was building on us to really turn this into something special. So, what we did is, we went out and bought an eight-track, we rented a farm house out in the country, that way nobody could disturb us and there’d be no distractions, and Phil, myself and the two Brians went out there and started 46

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“We were a band who wasn’t afraid of this new regime that was sweeping through the rock world, which was really scaring the shit out of a lot of the hair bands.”

writing. We ended up writing about 15 songs all in all, and then we had to carve out a list of ten that we were going to take into the studio and record. Of those 10, the song “The Boys Are Back In Town” was not included. So, one of our managers came down and said, “I’ve heard the 10 that you guys want to do, and they sound great, but let me hear the other five that you don’t want to do.” So we played them for him and he went straight to “The Boys Are Back In Town” and said to us, “You know, there’s something about this song I really like. Can we add this to the list?” And we said, “Sure! Why not? There’s at least one guy who likes that song.” And if that song hadn’t made it on the list, you and I probably wouldn’t be talking right now.

Was there any sense, once you all got into the studio and fleshed things out, that the record was going to be as successful as it became? No, not at all. I mean, you gotta remember, on the first two albums we, the guys in the band, were the ones that chose the singles and, obviously, they totally and horribly flopped. So on this third album, we decided we’d let the record company choose them this time, and they picked the title track, “Jailbreak,” for the first single. But, it was two disc jockeys out of Louisville, Kentucky that latched onto “The Boys Are Back In Town” and played it to f*cking death. To the point where other radio stations around them caught on, and they started playing it heavy, and it began this huge spiral thing across the whole of America. It was really cool to see that happen. So, it really had nothing to do with us or the record company picking things, they didn’t really do any PR on it or anything; it came down to the listenership of all of these different radio stations. Were you guys on tour at the time this was happening? How did you all find out the song was taking off? Well, we were on tour, and I remember distinctly that we were playing at this club and one of the managers walked in and said, “Well guys, it looks like we’ve got a hit single on our hands!” And we said, “Re-really? Wh-what song?!” And that’s when he told us it was “The Boys Are Back In Town.” That’s incredible; I bet you guys must have felt so relieved. Oh, the weight off our shoulders was immense. >>

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What does it feel like for you nowadays to play through these songs? To pick up your guitar and run through these riffs? Well, you know, it’s not like I fall down on my knees and thank the Lord every time I play one of these songs [laughs]. But, because we’ve been playing these songs for such a long time, we know the reaction we’re gonna get when we strike up the chorus to “The Boys Are Back In Town,” “Jailbreak,” “Emeralds” or any of the songs on our list because the audiences are really familiar. So, there’s a lot of confidence with our set. I mean, we can go out there, play for an hour and a half or and hour and 45 minutes and, really, nobody is gonna get disappointed. That’s the great thing! You all have Scott Travis from Judas Priest on drum duty for the majority of these upcoming shows and that’s pretty spectacular. How did Scott’s name come up when deciding on a drummer? Well, you know, in 2011 we toured with Judas Priest for about four weeks. It was a great tour, and we got to know all of the guys in the band. It’s funny, I’ve got a real thing about drummers and I don’t laugh at drummer jokes and all that because, to me, they’re the real back bone of the band. Guitar players, we’re kind of just the fluff on top. So I kind of gravitate towards those guys. When we were touring with Judas Priest, I kept checking out what Scott actually did and how well he did it, and I remember thinking, “Wouldn’t it be great to do something with this guy! I don’t know how, when, why or where, but doing something would just be a really cool thing!” So, here comes the opportunity, and when we reached out to Scott, his exact words were, “I’m into this onethousand percent!” You’re also going to have Tom Hamilton, a founding member of Aerosmith, on bass, another stellar addition to your line up. Can you tell us a bit about how it was decided that he was going to join you as well? You know, we put a wish-list together and he was literally the first name on the list, and Tom stepped right up to plate and started swinging. He said, “I’m in! When are the dates? Where are we going? Who else is on the bill?” And as soon as I heard those questions I knew he was in for sure. It’s all happening really quickly and in a really good way, and right now all of the band is nailed down and we’re just getting ready for rehearsals. >> 50

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D a v i d F o wler

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Will you guys be playing exclusively Jailbreak material, or will there be other tunes worked in as well? Oh no, it’s going to take-in all of the albums. It’s hard to make a concert from just one album. At most, you have maybe 40 minutes of music on there, and we plan on being up there for nearly two hours. It’s going to be like Live & Dangerous was; it took in songs from a lot of different records. During this hour and 45 minutes or so, we’ll probably be adding in some songs that we have never really played on stage before. So that should be cool too! As somebody who’s been playing music all over the world for quite a long time now, you’ve gotten to see a great variety of cultures and social movements of all types, including the growing cannabis legalization movement. You’re prolegalization, right? Well, I’m definitely pro medical marijuana! Obviously, my background has a lot to do with having problems with drugs in the past, but the medical marijuana thing—that’s a whole different ballgame. Now we’re trying to get people out of severe pain, if this is the way to do it, then absolutely by all means. I’m sure people will be using it recreationally, I’m quite positive of that. But, when somebody has a real honest-to-God ailment and their quality of life is shit, then let’s make it un-shit. Let’s get them relief from the pain from whatever the problem might be. I am pro-legalization. We’ve been seeing some gorgeous re-issues of Thin Lizzy records on nice 180 gram vinyl on record store shelves everywhere we go. Do you enjoy knowing that a new generation of fans are getting the chance to enjoy your band’s music on the medium you all were originally releasing your music on years ago? 56

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“I am definitely pro medical marijuana!” It is pretty cool! You know, if you ask any musician of any age who was around when the album thing was still happening, they’ll tell you that was the coolest thing. You took the cellophane off of the record, slipped out this big huge square cardboard thing, and all of the artwork that the band put into it was really worth it because you could see it all in detail. Is it cool knowing this new generation of fans is getting that same experience with records that you had as a kid, or that you and the band had when you released this material for the first time? I think that’s a really great question, and a really good point. It’s like, “This is what we went through, what do you guys think?” You know, when I look down from the stage, I see fathers with their sons and uncles with their nephews, its people of all ages these days. So I think it’s kind of cool that the next generation gets to experience how we listened to records and learn the ritual of wiping the record off, dropping the

needle on, and then sliding it carefully back into its case so you don’t scratch it. It seems like, while many of your band’s peers seem to fade from the contemporary musical lexicon, Thin Lizzy’s name and music continues to be prominent and relevant. What are the qualities that you think have made Thin Lizzy’s music so timeless and have contributed to its staying power? That’s a really good question, and one I’ve never really been able to answer, because I can’t look at it objectively; I’m too close to it. I think some of it is from us being semi-connected to the whole punk thing. We were a band who wasn’t afraid of this new regime that was sweeping through the rock world, which was really scaring the shit out of a lot of the hair bands. As soon as they saw the Sex Pistols come out, they sort of knew it was over; whereas, we embraced it. In fact, we even started a band with Steve Jones and Paul Cook called The Greedy Bastards.

When you think of Phil Lynott, what are the strongest memories that come back to you? Well, what immediately comes into my head is how he didn’t want Thin Lizzy to become a one man show. He always said, “If I wanted it to be a one man show, I’d call it “Phil Lynott’s Thin Lizzy.” But we’re not, we’re a band.” He was constantly trying to include everyone into the songwriting and he wanted to make sure that each guy in the band had his own set of fans and all that. He’d always make sure that interviews were set up for everyone in the band, some people were good at it, some were not so good, so that kind of got paired down to me and Phil after a while [laughs]. But, he was really generous that way. He figured that if everybody in the band succeeded, then that meant that the band would succeed; and him along with it. He was that guy. He was the fearless leader who kept it all together and wanted everybody to do well. So, how cool to be working with someone like that, right? c

thinlizzyband.com

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Constant Change Colorado police want changes to cannabis laws to stop

by Addison Herron-Wheeler

In addition to all the good things that come with legal cannabis in Colorado, it has also been incredibly frustrating for everyone, from growers, consumers and entrepreneurs to law enforcement officials and judges, to keep track of the ever-changing regulations of this emerging industry. Now, prosecutors and police officials in Colorado are asking the state to please put a twoyear moratorium on changing any laws, in order for everyone to catch up and get educated. The Denver Post reports that a letter from law enforcement to lawmakers last month explained that police “cannot keep up with the quantity and speed of constantly changing marijuana law.” It’s not surprising that police and other law enforcement agencies are having trouble keeping up—in the past four years alone since legalization first took off, there have been 81 bills introduced to the Colorado legislature that had to do with cannabis. Because

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of this, it is very conceivable that police could get mixed up and let someone go for something that should be a cited offense, or detain someone who is actually in the legal right. “Regulation seems to change on a daily basis, and this process must be slowed down,” explained the letter. It asked for a two-year moratorium on “any changes to current law with regard to marijuana legalization, unless a strong public safety nexus is established,” in order to allow law enforcement to catch up. The letter was handed down officially from the Colorado Association of Chiefs of Police, the County Sheriffs of Colorado, and the Colorado District Attorneys’ Council. It was sent because the offseason legislation committee in Colorado is currently setting an agenda for attaining a cost-benefit analysis of cannabis legalization. The letter also asks for legislators to fund two different work groups within law enforcement to keep track of the impact of cannabis legislation,

“Regulation seems to change on a daily basis, and this process must be slowed down.” and also to train law enforcement officers on how to deal with cannabis legislation, and to create a liaison for law enforcement. “Ever-changing cannabis regulations create the same challenges for law enforcement as they do for business owners,” explained Mark Slaugh, Executive Director of the Cannabis Business Alliance, to CULTURE. “The cannabis industry has to follow a very complex and complicated code that looks very much the same between medical and retail but is slightly nuanced and different. Most local governments don’t have the resources to adequately enforce the regulations. There could be better training for law enforcement as a solution, especially with harmonizing that training with state and local regulators to ensure there is consistency in enforcement.” While all of the changes to cannabis legalization have been necessary to regulate and keep track of this new industry, a lack of constantly-changing laws could be beneficial for everyone. If this moratorium passes, Colorado cannabis law will stay as-is for the next two years. c

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by R. Scott Rappold

Summertime and the Livin’ is Easy Colorado has so much to offer residents and tourists alike for Summer around Aspen. On the Western Slope, Orvis Hot Springs in Ridgway has more of a commercial feel, but it’s still lovely.

Congratulations. Since you’re reading this, there’s a good chance you’re in Colorado, it is summer and you’re armed with a fresh bag of herb, purchased legally. Colorado and its majestic mountains offer limitless opportunities for outdoor activities, and for all but the most urban stoners, a cool buzz tends to magnify the awe and sense of one-ness with nature. Whether you’re on vacation to Colorado, one of the hordes of folks who have moved here in the past few years or a local just looking for something new to do, here are some of the best options to get out and experience our beautiful state. Just remember, it’s illegal to puff publicly, and there are also rangers in the national forests who would love to write you a ticket for possession on federal lands, so be cool.

details. Remember, even “easy” 14ers claim lives each summer, so as the Boy Scouts say, “be prepared.” If you don’t have a hike in you, you can drive to the top of Mount Evans (less than an hour from Denver) or Pikes Peak (just west of Colorado Springs).

Soak Naked in a Natural Hot Springs

The same earthly forces that shaped the Rocky Mountains left faults and fissures in the rocks that allow geothermally heated mineral water to rise to the surface. There are dozens across Colorado, ranging from posh resorts to small puddles along a river. To truly be one with nature, lose the bathing suit and take the healing waters as Native Americans have for centuries. Valley View Hot Springs, a rustic collection of cabins and a dozen scattered pools 3.5 hours southwest of Denver, is the best clothing optional resort. Visit olt.org/ vvhs for more details. If you feel like a long hike, try Conundrum Hot Springs

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Have a Colorado Craft Beer at the Top of the World

No other state has as many peaks above 14,000 feet as Colorado. Despite the image of mountaineering, many are simply walk-ups, no ropes required. And only two states have more breweries than Colorado. So carry a delicious craft beer (or three) up to that elevation, and we can pretty much guarantee it’ll be the best tasting beer you’ve ever had. The website 14ers.com is a great resource for information and trail

Get Drenched at Red Rocks

No matter who’s playing the show, a concert at Denver’s famed Red Rocks is worth the price of admission. Thanks to monsoonal storms over the mountains, it usually rains in the afternoon. Don’t run. Embrace it and dance in the rain. It usually clears up by sunset and rainbows over the Denver skyline are common. >>

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People Watch on Pearl Street

Boulder, a regular stop on the hippie highway, is in a class of its own in Colorado. On Pearl Street, closed to cars, you’ll find what local boosters call “the best dining, shopping and people watching in the West.” Street musicians to nudists and everything between can be found here, stomping grounds of the biggest collection of oddballs this side of Vegas.

Catch a Rockies Game

Yeah, Denver’s Major League Baseball team the Colorado Rockies are perennially bad. But they still rank in the top 10 in attendance each summer, largely for the experience. Party beforehand in Denver’s chic LoDo neighborhood and watch the sun set over the mountains from the bleachers in a ballpark with an old-time feel. You may even forget there’s a baseball game.

Take a Cannabis Tour

If all this seems intimidating, many private companies offer tours to drive and show you the sights. Some partner with cannabis-friendly hotels. Tour packages can be pricey, but there’s no better way to do an all-inclusive Colorado cannabis vacation.

Raft the Arkansas River Listen to John Denver Around a Campfire

Sure, you can do this anywhere. But even if you despise country or folk music, you’ll get chills when “Rocky Mountain High” comes on and you’re surrounded by a ring of peaks or beneath an ocean of stars. The singer was called before Congress for the line “friends around the campfire and everybody’s high.” He claimed it was about elevation and not cannabis.

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Pee in Both Oceans

The Continental Divide bisects the state, and there are many places reachable by car where you see the most amazing view of your life. Water in one direction goes to the Pacific Ocean and in the other to the Atlantic. For easiest access, drive Loveland Pass an hour west of Denver off Interstate 70, Hoosier Pass just south of Breckenridge or Independence Pass east of Aspen.

Just a couple hours west of the Front Range cities, between the towns of Buena Vista and Canon City, is the mostrafted river in the nation. Rafting famed whitewater runs like The Numbers or The Royal Gorge is like riding a roller coaster without the harness or seat belt. Ice-cold water pelts your face. The raft plunges through rocky chutes at impossible angles. Don’t worry. There’s always a guide present, so it’ll be alright. For a mellower float (at least after the spring runoff ends) try Brown’s Canyon. c

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“We’re talking about something that didn’t have any regulations, any thought to what the future of the product might be, and I saw a massive void in the ability to have a special brand and the ability to start regulating (THC) dosages.”

ndustry nsider

Nate Winokur of SC Labs by R. Scott Rappold

When Nate Winokur first got into the cannabis game, the industry in California had yet to evolve beyond the Ziploc baggie as proper storage. It was 2008, and Winokur began asking himself

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just what they were selling to people. “We’re talking about something that didn’t have any regulations, any thought to what the future of the product might be, and I saw a massive void in the ability to have a special brand and the ability to start regulating (THC) dosages,” recalled Winokur, 36. “People in general couldn’t tell you how many milligrams were in a product. They could only sort of tell you how bad they thought it would mess you up. That wasn’t a very acceptable scale to start working from.” Things have changed, in large part thanks to cannabis enthusiasts like Winokur who have moved out of the kitchen or grow room and into the laboratory. For five years, he has been working for SC Laboratories, one of the largest cannabis testing companies in California, where he is the Operations Manager for Southern California. Such laboratories have helped growers and edible makers learn about the good, the bad and the ugly of what’s in their products. While such testing is still voluntary in California, big changes are on the horizon. And Winokur says those who aren’t prepared could be in for a big shock. >>

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as a result, regulations are growing more stringent regarding testing. California has none. But that will soon change.

In The Kitchen Winokur cut his teeth in the industry selling pipes and working at a head shop. That evolved into a distribution business, and then an edibles company. He launched his own product line, Pacific Sweets, in 2008. It got him thinking about concepts like decarboxylation, the heating that releases the THC in the making of edibles, and how many milligrams were in the products he sold. With little formal scientific training, he began reading everything he could about the science involved. Winokur then began looking for a way to use his acquired knowledge in a bigger way for the industry and consumers. He’d grown well-connected in the southern California cannabis scene, and through these connections got a meeting with SC Labs in 2011. The interview consisted of visiting several dispensaries, where he made an impression by how well he knew and worked with the other players. He got the job.

Marketing, Not Regulation In those days, having edibles or cannabis flowers tested was mainly a marketing gimmick, something a product line or dispensary could use to set them above the pack. “They went for what was marketing friendly, and that was largely potency tests,” said Winokur. Though the technology was available to test for contaminants, why would they bother? Winokur’s first large client to take an interest in safety testing was the Emerald Cup cannabis competition. Along with

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showing the THC content and terpene profile—terpenes are what defines taste and smell—they could now conduct residual solvent tests for extracts and edibles. It’s still the most popular safety test SC Labs performs. “In this setting of living and being in a developed country that we’ve been able

“In this setting of living and being in a developed country that we’ve been able to maintain, people deserve and should be only consuming safe goods.” to maintain, people deserve and should be only consuming safe goods. And the idea of a residual solvent test is taking these types of extracted products and making sure these extracted products are safe for consumption,” he said. Winokur convinced more and more growers and producers to submit to voluntary testing. Meanwhile, testing and product information was creating a connoisseur class of cannabis users. They wanted to know the terpene profile. They wanted to know it was free of contaminants. All sorts of pathogens, such as E. coli, were found in samples. Residual solvent tests revealed chemicals like phosphorus. Dangerous pesticides were present. Fungus, bacteria and yeast were all found. In all, about 20 percent of samples fail as unsafe for human consumption, said Winokur. The situation is not unique to California. Colorado has experienced some eye-opening testing results, and

Regulation Looming California’s Medical Marijuana Regulation and Safety Act won’t be implemented until 2018, and there is uncertainty about what it means for testing. Another wild card is this year’s statewide referendum on legalization of recreational cannabis and what testing requirements it could involve. But the bottom line, said Winokur, is that mandatory testing is coming to the Golden State. That’s why he encourages businesses to get a jump on regulations by submitting samples to a lab. Sure, it’s good for business, and SC Labs has grown by a factor of 50 since he’s been there. But he sees the stakes as nothing less than the industry’s survival. “We’re going to see people caught with their proverbial pants down. We’re talking about markets that have been able to survive for years without actually having any level of regulation to truly worry about and at the end of that is going to be the other end of the spectrum,” he said. “We’re going to have something where a producer or grow operation is going to be sending their stuff down river to a distributor and if that distributor has to test something . . . they’re either going to get a letter back saying that their whole crop, their whole product was torched and that everything was incinerated or they’re going to get a check back. That’s going to be a large change from what a lot of these grow operations and producers have seen.” As for the consumer, they’ll not only be getting a safer product, but they’ll be able to make better-informed decisions, on everything from taste and smell to extracts that mimic the effects of smoking a certain strain. That’s a long way from buying whatever your dealer had at the time like in the old days. As an enthusiast, Winokur can’t wait for it to happen. “Yeah it’s a big deal, in terms of just something that’s a little skunkier than the last batch he had but what the hell you’ll take it anyway because it’s not like you have another choice. We’ve come a very long way in terms of what’s available to us, what will be available.” c

iReadCULTURE.com JUNE 2016

by Madison Ortiz The cannabis community has exploded onto the internet by way of social media. Though every platform offers something unique, there’s a shocking presence of patients, artists, dispensaries and brands, standing strong and making us proud, everywhere we look. Instagram (arguably) dominates the majority of the cannabis community’s interactions, if nothing else acting as a home base to return to. Reviving the days of snail-mail and pen-pals, an extremely common trend within this community is to send and receive non-medicated treats via post. These packages often include stickers, art, apparel or small gifts from fellow IG accounts—a truly brilliant and simple form of promotion, as upon receiving the mail, documentation and sharing surely occurs. Many brands set up affiliate programs or provide discount codes for influential accounts to share with their unique audiences. Equally so, many patients and advocates have been able to generate a part-time income and beyond, for proving their promotional value to the right brand(s). Though the cannabis community is clearly present on Facebook, we don’t seem to be as overly boisterous about it on our personal posts. Maybe because there are private groups and

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pages made specifically for this topic, or maybe, just maybe, both mom and grandma have come around to figuring “this contraption out” causing us to be way more courteous of the content we share. Because we are most likely connected with family members or potential employers on platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, "closet medicators," or simply those who have to be a bit more concerned about associating themselves with cannabis, have found platforms/apps that are directly intended for this community, such as @Leafly (116k), @WeedMaps (10.8k), @MassRoots (411k), as well as platforms that offer a bit of anonymity like Reddit, Forums and Private Chat Communities, or even apps that offer a sense of impermanence such as SnapChat. Our community has also found ways to connect by means of video dominant platforms. Owner of @SocialEyesLash (53.1k) and YouTube icon @KarissaPukas (369k) encourages her fans to educate themselves about cannabis and hemp. In addition to dominating Instagram with her beautiful botanically dominated photography, @SheSmokesJoints (257k) content is received very well through Vine and Periscope.

“As acceptance of legalization sweeps the nation, it’s incredible to see where the growth of our community is not only appreciated, but most easily nurtured. All of these social media platforms provide us with rabbitholes of information to absorb an eternity-of-clicks worth of friends to connect with.” As acceptance of legalization sweeps the nation, it’s incredible to see where the growth of our community is not only appreciated, but most easily nurtured. All of these social media platforms provide us with rabbit-holes of information to absorb an eternity-of-clicks worth of friends to connect with. Grateful for the acceptance, understanding and camaraderie we’ve found in one another, it is up to us all to remain responsible with our usage of these platforms, as deactivation still happens often. Please, continue to use these tools and wisely, friends. Gratitude to all the friends we’ve mentioned and so many more for setting a good example for your peers in this community. Keep up the great work. >>

iReadCULTURE.com JUNE 2016

Our friends in this community have found such an incredible way to bond through Instagram over the past few years. Sure, at first glance there are lots of butts and bongs, but we’re proud to share that we’ve dug deep and see so much more development than that: We laugh at ourselves via meme, by way of accounts such as @WeedHumor (1.5m).

We indulge our cravings, with friends like @ItsDelisiouslyDee (30k), by following along with recipes through her blog as “The Happy Chef”.

We meet mothers like @_MotherGreen (62k), who work hard to show the world that cannabis cures, by nurturing education based communities such as @ ParentsForPot (20.6k).

We get a peek into the lives of patients such as @Princess__High (63k) who push past chronic, (often invisible) illnesses, sharing their daily thoughts and lives as catalysts for positive discussions with their peers.

We also see patients such as @HappyTokes (53.4k), blossoming into natural activists, creating communities and becoming representatives for both patients and brands, alike. @HappyTokesTribe member, @HoopLoveFireAndFlow (3.2k) regularly goes above and beyond with political based activism—We especially loved watching her recent video hula-hooping with Bernie Sander’s wife (Jane) and daughter (Carina) during the Alaska caucus.

JUNE 2016 iReadCULTURE.com

The brands that are available to interact with on Instagram are endless: For rolling papers and basic herb related accessories, check out @FuturolaUSA (41.3k). For a reliable brand that offers discreet medication, check out @OpenVape (15.9k). If novelty accessories are up your alley, boss-up with a 24k gold joint from @ShinePapers (167k), or get insanely playful with some @Monkey_Os (16.3k). Plenty of one-stop, online-shops with visually stimulating documentation of brands you know and love, such as @ BillowbyCo (11.8k). Subscription services like @MyBurnBox (10.7k) offer discreet monthly shipments of non-medicated smoking products and accessories, delivered to your door. Though you can’t get medicated treats like @KushCakePops (94k) delivered, due to legality issues, brands like these are great at sharing appealing visual content for their current and future customers.

The creators within this community are also getting a spotlight on Instagram: Glass artists such as @ElboGlass (153k) & @MikeShelbo (63.4k) are iconic visual staples within the community. Digital illustrator @Trevolution_Art (43.3k) reimagines his follower’s selfies as aliens, warriors, and galactic goddesses. The presence of cannabis leaves, joints and smoke are common. Stunning organic jewelry crafted from the center of the world’s densest pinecone comes from @ThirdEyePinecones (143k). Look for these spiritually bonding pieces decorating the necks of others, and you’re sure to see the very cannabis friendly “pinecone family” is everywhere. c *Follower counts were all referenced from Instagram, despite the platform being discussed.

iReadCULTURE.com JUNE 2016

Abram’s Biggest Advocate Erin Miller Discovers the Healing Properties of CBD Oil for her Young Son’s Rare Condition

by Jamie Solis

When Erin Miller first brought Abram home from the hospital, she knew something was wrong. Her newborn son was inconsolable and screaming constantly, however his doctors were not concerned about Abram’s behavior. At 10 months old, Abram got sick, which led him to seeing a new pediatrician who instantly noticed something wasn’t right. Abram was

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referred to a neurologist, who found a cystic pineal tumor. This type of tumor is dangerously located on Abram’s pineal gland in the middle of his brain. Erin explained, “The brain surgery is so dangerous, they wanted to wait for worsening neurological symptoms before they would perform surgery. We were warned the tumor would cause seizures, so when Abram started having seizures, we thought it was because of this mass.” Abram’s seizures started around his

first birthday in June 2014. By October, his seizures took a turn for the worse. Abram was diagnosed with a generalized seizure disorder and epilepsy, and he was prescribed Klonopin. Erin said, “The first month on Klonopin was awesome. We were really excited because he fed himself for the first time with a spoon. It seemed like it was going in the right direction. But then suddenly he started having more seizures, different kinds of seizures, >>

iReadCULTURE.com JUNE 2016

“Right after the very first dose, he stopped signing ‘ouch.’ For the two weeks after that he had maybe two absent seizures where he would just kind of stare off, and then they were gone. He hasn’t had a physical seizure ever since.” worsening seizures, and the more the seizures came, the more Klonopin they would give him.” At just two years old, Abram was taking more Klonopin than most adults are prescribed. Erin recalled, “I found out later that Klonopin had never been tested or approved for kids under 18.” While Abram was on Klonopin, he lost his words and ability to walk or crawl. His symptoms worsened over time, and Erin brought him back into the ER. The following day, his regular neurologist admitted that Abram’s case was over his head, and the family would be referred elsewhere. Before Abram was moved to a level 4 epilepsy hospital, Erin recalls the neurologist’s life-saving recommendation, “Our neurologist came in and was whispering, ‘You guys need to go to Colorado, and you need to try cannabis.’ Even though I was really angry with him for not knowing how to help Abram when I felt like he should have been helping, I’m so grateful for him telling us to try cannabis oil, because that is exactly what helped my child.” Once they were transferred to a specialized hospital in Minnesota, Erin hesitantly inquired about cannabis for her son. Instead, doctors prescribed Abram with Keppra. Abram’s side effects were terrible and B6 was added. This resulted in 14 days straight of Abram screaming constantly and even ripping his hair out. Erin realized cannabis oil might be Abram’s only hope. Although CBD oil is legal for medicinal use in Iowa, the state doesn’t have dispensaries. Erin explained,

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“My only choice was hemp that could be shipped. I ordered Charlotte’s Web Oil. The first day I finally decided to do it, he was hitting his head and signing ‘ouch.’ Right after the very first dose, he stopped signing ‘ouch.’ For the two weeks after that he had maybe two absent seizures where he would just kind of stare off, and then they were gone. He hasn’t had a physical seizure ever since.” June 27th marks Abram’s one-year of being seizure free. Around Christmas Abram switched strains to Hayley’s Hope out of Colorado. After this change, he started giving kisses for the first time. Abram also started laughing, giggling and making more sounds. Since they’ve started cannabis oil one year ago, Abram has been weaned off three-fourths of Benzodiazepines, and they have one milliliter of Klonopin to wean. “We actually saw his neurologist last Monday, and I told him, ‘I don’t want him on this Benzo anymore. I want to see what happens if we take him off. I feel like that is what took his words. Maybe if we take him off of it, maybe he’ll get his words back.’ Crazy enough, his neurologist

agreed that in November, once he hits the 18 months seizure-free mark, he is willing to have my son on cannabis only.” Abram’s “official” diagnosis is UBE2A X-Linked Syndromic Intellectual Disability or UBE2A Syndrome for short. Although this condition is super rare, as the Millers are only the third family in the world to have this particular spontaneous gene mutation, Abram’s story is making a huge difference in the lives of countless others. Erin is part of a group called concerned Iowans 4 Medical Cannabis, which gives Erin the opportunity to advocate for all children and adults in need of medical cannabis. c

“Since they’ve started cannabis oil one year ago, Abram has been weaned off three-fourths of Benzodiazepines, and they have one milliliter of Klonopin to wean.”

iReadCULTURE.com JUNE 2016

Cannabis Business Summit & Expo

Join fellow industry professionals in celebrating and discussing the future of cannabis

The progression of the cannabis industry is in its prime right now, and a decade from now when many more states will likely legalize cannabis, they’ll look back and see that that progress came from industry events like the Cannabis Business Summit & Expo. This year’s Summit is making its mark amongst the greatest cannabis events with a long list of unique seminars, workshops and a large trade show floor to explore. Anyone who wants to better their business, learn about new trends and network with a wide variety of business

professionals will find themselves right at home here. An estimated 3,000 people will be attending this year’s Summit, bringing business men and women who work as growers, dispensary owners, infused product manufacturers and many other careers. Those who attend are invited to check out a variety of workshops, panels and lectures, which will be led by professionals, speaking about topics ranging from the role of cannabis nursing in the industry, banking, technological advances for businesses, all the

way to sustainable approaches to cannabis cultivation. Tours will also be available throughout the first day (limited to 20 people per tour) which will take attendees out to famous and successful local cannabis businesses such as Harborside Health Center, Analytical Laboratories, Berkeley Patients Group, Steep Hill Labs and Dark Heart Nursery. Following the end of the day’s events, attendees can spend a few hours exploring the show floor, and check out a great welcoming reception. It isn’t until the “General Summit Day One,” technically the second day of the event, where the Summit truly shines. Following exciting keynote speeches by Ahmed Rahim, cofounder and CEO of Numi Organic Tea, and Gavin Newsom, Lieutenant Governor of California, the show floor will officially open to all attendees, allowing everyone to explore the Summit’s countless vendors, and make a few networking friendships in the process. The seminars include: “The Fine Print: Money, Law and Your Business,” “Cultivation & Processing,” “Running Your Cannabusiness,” “Policy & Reform” and “Leading Edge: Emerging Topics in the Cannabis Industry.” “General Summit Day Two” will continue at the same pace, opening up with Cody Bass of Tahoe Wellness Collective and Steve DeAngelo of Harborside Health Center in the morning, and offering even more seminars regarding the previous days’ unique topics, with the addition of the “Medical Applications of Cannabis” category. At the heart of the event are the many well known and well respected industry experts who have been invited to speak. Rob Kampia of the Marijuana Policy Project, Sue Sisley M.D., the Director of Medical Plant Research at HelioSpectra, Attorney Hillary Bricken of Harris Moure PLLC, are just some of the amazing individuals representing their niche expertise in the industry. There is an astounding amount of knowledge to be had at this year’s Summit. c

WHAT: Cannabis Business Summit & Expo. WHEN/WHERE: Mon, June 20-Wed, June 22. Oakland Marriott City Center, 1001 Broadway, Oakland, California, 94607. INFO: Visit cannabisbusinesssummit.com for details.

JUNE 2016 iReadCULTURE.com

iReadCULTURE.com JUNE 2016

OUTSIDE IN/ INSIDE OUT

Local artist Juan Usubillaga is inspired by the world around him, and our larger humanity by Addison Herron-Wheeler

Our artistic output is fueled by the inspiration around us—from the music we listen to and the things we study to the city around us, art always reflects what we see and do. Juan Usubillaga is a painter who allows these outside influences to wash over him, and drive him to create meaningful abstract paintings. “I have been working on a series of paintings that reflect my interest and passion in psychology, science and music,” Usubillaga told CULTURE. “I am very intrigued and inspired by the effects of art on the psyche, especially feelings of euphoria. My new series is strongly influenced by electronic music. I’m trying to translate that energy onto canvas through composition and designs with colors—represent the beats, waves and vibrations flowing through space. My work is very inclusive and a mirror of everything that I experience in Denver and Boulder. That’s why I often times will write directly on the canvases.” Unlike many visual artists who knew they wanted to paint from a very young age, Usubillaga is rather so moved by the world that it drove him to make visual art. “I haven’t always had passion for art,” he explained. “It grew out of necessity, expression, and rebellion which led me to drop out of school at the young age of 12—with blessing from my mother. During this time I would wander around the streets, go to libraries, public art museums, take art classes, paint and draw at friends’ houses and in the streets. I like to represent the energies I experienced in the streets with spray-painted words and phrases. These express the memories and values I’ve developed growing up in different settings. Then, I use brush strokes and acrylic paints to add the spiritual element I’ve found in nature. The interplay

incarnates the words with extraordinary energy, and gives the paintings a dreamlike atmosphere. I want to connect the viewer with a given piece, evoking a visual and mindful experience; I aspire to connect people with an experience that lets them feel that they too belong to art.” “I would describe [my style] as non-figurative or contemporary abstract,” Usubillaga added. “I like to bring two opposing realities to the canvas from my upbringing: A dense Latin American city, and a small town on the edge of the rain forest. In the city I was exposed to street graffiti with its social commentaries, much like here in Denver. My work is also reminiscent of growing up in a small town, Maracay, Venezuela, where I was influenced by the exuberance of the cloud forests, and the beliefs held by the natives.” As far as cannabis use and inspiration, Usubillaga has included cannabis in his work as a theme, and has drawn inspiration from the plant to use in his work. “When I was in art school, before going to college, I did a series of small paintings on canvas about the feeling of intoxication and the awakening of all sensory faculties, especially the auditory and kinesthetic,” he explained. “The paintings looked like a map of symbols that represented cultural references, like the Hindus and Sadhus. The colors that I used were also symbolic, but at that time I found it extremely difficult to represent cannabis with any sort of justice in accordance to the magnitude and impact of the intellectual and sensory inspiration I received from it.” “Cannabis definitely influenced growth in my work, and opened me up to roots of ancestral culture from the rain forest, such as the Los Curanderos and shamanic tradition that still exists in present-day Venezuela,” he added. “It also inspired me to listen to myself: The environment, personal experiences and intuition.” Look for Usubillaga’s work in galleries around Denver and Boulder, and follow him online for details about his upcoming projects. c

“I am very intrigued and inspired by the effects of art on the psyche, especially feelings of euphoria.”

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www.usubillagaart.com

iReadCULTURE.com JUNE 2016

Hip-Hop Heroes

Pop appeal and underground style, Denver’s Future Heroes has the makings for greatness by Addison Herron-Wheeler

Denver hip-hop spans the spectrum from popular and accessible to underground, and local hip-hop duo Future Heroes meet somewhere in the middle. Producer/rapper combo Future Heroes aren’t afraid to throw in a little pop appeal, despite their connection to underground rap and hip-hop. “I would describe our sound as a middle ground between underground beat culture and mega-popular rap music,” explained Ken Deezy, one half of the duo, in an exclusive interview with CULTURE. “Like, imagine if Drake finally did a song with Kaytranada or if Kid Ink got together and made a record with Djemba Djemba. Bridging the gap and finding the niche between the two is what

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both come from hip-hop backgrounds, and joined forces to create a collective that draws on a myriad of sounds and experiences. “I have been surrounded by music since a young age,” Deezy explained. “My mom played piano for several bands and church groups, and taught lessons we represent in our music, throughout my childhood. our brand and our lifestyle. I always wanted to start A lot of my influences a band and perform on originate from some level, but popular music— could never get Kanye West and friends together J Cole are some often enough of my biggest to practice “I don’t think inspirations as far enough to as being rappers sound well I’ve ever wrote a who produce their together. So song that didn’t own music and I decided to have experienced start producing mention or hint at success on a huge instrumentals cannabis in some level. I also draw when I was 17 way. It’s always inspiration from and reaching the West Coast out to singers been a part of the beat culture of and rappers to way I’ve created collectives like write lyrics on Soulection, Team them. Later on my music and has Supreme, and Mad when I started always been an Decent.” my freshman Deezy and year of college influence on the Mario “Mars,” the I began to rap final product that two members of and sing on is released.” Future Heroes, my own beats.

I released music in two different duos with other artists before joining Mars and carrying on a concept he had been developing, Future Heroes.” When it comes to the influence of cannabis and cannabis culture on Future Heroes’ music, Deezy cannot say enough good things. “Cannabis is always a theme of our music,” he explained. “It is part of our creative process; it is a part of our lives. I don’t think I’ve ever wrote a song that didn’t mention or hint at cannabis in some way. It’s always been a part of the way I’ve created my music and has always been an influence on the final product that is released.” “It’s a huge part of how I have developed my sound as a producer and rapper,” he added. “It opens my mind to new sounds, textures, rhythms that I’d have thought of or been able to pull out before. However, I also believe that it’s important for me to take a step back from my music without the influence of cannabis to be able to receive the messages from my songs the way people who don’t use cannabis would. Some people smoke, some people don’t, the same way some people drink coffee, some people drink tea, some people drink kombucha. It’s important to see and understand the world and your creative work from different perspectives.” Future Heroes released a six-track EP, titled Word Art, last month. The record is available on Spotify, Soundcloud and iTunes, featuring all-original production by Deezy. Check out their new record online now, and be on the lookout for their name on hip-hop bills in the Mile High City. c

www.facebook.com/futureherokids

iReadCULTURE.com JUNE 2016

Dark and Dancey

Denver’s Retrofette is bringing electro-pop to a venue near you by Addison Herron-Wheeler

Denver is certainly a place of contrasts—300 days of sunshine mixed with brutal snow throughout a major part of the year, transplants from all over intermingling and mixing, and miles of mountains and isolated countryside surrounding a vibrant and thriving city. This mix of extremes is exactly what fuels local synth-pop group Retrofette and their dark and dancey music. “Xavier [Provencher, synths] and I met in college and bonded over a mutual love of the synthesizer and 80s bands like New Order and The Human League,” Sean Culliton, vocalist and synth player, told CULTURE. “We both played jazz saxophone at the time but decided we wanted to create a project that was more relatable and dancey. After experimenting with new sounds and instruments we ended up finding a drummer and bass synth player to help round out the lineup [Ben Weirich, bass and synth, Dylan Johnson, dums].” “We love classic ‘80s new wave,” Culliton continued, “and current bands like LCD Soundsystem, Hot Chip and Holy Ghost! are big inspirations too. As a singer I learned a lot from David Bowie and David Byrne of the Talking Heads. We’re a high energy, electropop band that takes influence from classic ‘80s synth music. If you’re listening, you’ll probably have trouble not dancing.” The group has been working hard playing shows around the city and recording music, and they are currently preparing for their EP release. “We’re extremely excited to announce the release of our first EP on June 10,” Culliton explained. “We’re headlining the Lost Lake Lounge that night with a great lineup. [The EP] features three songs that we’ve been playing live for a while, and we can’t wait to show the world the recorded versions.” Retrofette also recognize that the blossoming art and music scene they are a part of here in Denver wouldn’t be possible without the help of cannabis and legalization. “So far I think it’s been a really positive thing for the city of Denver,” Culliton told us regarding legalized cannabis in

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“Legalization brings not just big acts into town but attracts a slew of smaller artists and musicians. I like that it’s made Denver a melting pot of American cultures too with so many people from all over moving here.”

IN CONCERT June 10 @ Lost Lake Lounge in Denver

the city. “It has obviously brought in a lot of tourism and revenue for the state. Beyond that, I think the art scene has truly exploded in the last two years. Legalization brings not just big acts into town but attracts a slew of smaller artists and musicians. I like that it’s made Denver a melting pot of American cultures too with so many people from all over moving here. Also, I’m a huge fan of tax revenue going towards public schools.” “[Cannabis] is definitely all around us in Colorado and legalization probably affects me in many ways I’m barely aware of,” he added. “I know I’ve met people I would’ve never had the chance to if it weren’t for legalization in Colorado and the culture that it helps foster. Personally I don’t smoke a lot but I do use cannabis to help me approach songwriting problems from different angles. It has definitely helped me finish a few songs.” c

soundcloud.com/retrofette

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SHOOTING GALLERY

EXPOCAÑAMO 2016

photos courtesy of EXPOCAÑAMO 2016 84

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culture growing RECIPES

Testing The Varieties: Part 5 In January, clones of 35 varieties were started n a 4’ x 4’ tent under a 1000 watt HPS lamp. After two weeks the adolescent plants were forced to flower by changing their light cycle from continuous light to 12 hours of light and 12 hours of uninterrupted darkness. At the same time the fertilizer was changed from a vegetative to a flowering formula. The plants were still growing as they flowered and they were getting crowded, so in late February I moved them to a 4’ x 8’ section of a dimly lit greenhouse and provided the plants with five hours of supplemental light daily to elevate the intensity and increase the day length to 12 hours. The harvest began on March 25 and ended three weeks later. The plants were slowly dried in a cool room with temperatures under 70 0 most of the time.

TIP OF THE MONTH FROM ASK ED® This is the ideal time to get your plants outside for a big harvest in the fall or a smaller, but more potent harvest in late summer. Whether you have adolescent plants, clones or seeds, now is the traditional time to plant. The day length is long so the plants will grow vegetatively to start. The strong stem will support branches and leaves for now. The flowers will grow later in the season. Most people start seeds in containers and then transplant them. Living plants can be planted directly in the soil or grown in containers. Enjoy!

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.

PROFILE

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DESTINATION

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by Ed Rosenthal

They were hung in tents with a gentle draft generated by an oscillating fan. After drying and curing, the plants were manicured and weighed. The results were not impressive, which was a result of low total light level during flowering and harvest. The outdoor plants were also manicured and weighed, all of which are being tested for cannabinoid content and the results will be published next month. Meanwhile, my five-plant spring garden is coming along. The varieties are Romulan Grapefruit x2, Sour Grapes, Killawatt and Sour Tangie. They are all in five-gallon soft containers in a 2’ x 4’ tray mounted on rolling tray. They started flowering in early April soon after they were placed outdoors. Although it was past the Equinox and the plants were receiving fewer than 12 hours of darkness, they are flowering profusely. Their critical dark period is shorter than that, probably 9½-10½ hours, although it could be even shorter. Thought of another way, the plants could probably be induced to flower under a regimen of 13½-14½ hours of light daily. Many outdoor varieties start to flower in early August, when the light period is still considerably longer than 12 hours. When the plants were placed outside, the dark period was just under 12 hours. Now dawn to dusk in San Francisco (as of May 9) it is 15 hours and 3 minutes. The dark period is only 8 hours and 57 minutes and the plants will soon be heeding the signals of the shorter dark period to revert to vegetative growth. For this reason, I will be providing the plants with a custom-made darkroom. From this point on, the plants will be wheeled into the dark space nightly anytime after dusk. They will be wheeled out again 12 hours after dusk, which occurs now at 8:37pm . Dawn lights up at 5:34am, but the plants will be napping until 8:37am, when they will be wheeled out to the sun for another fine day of sunbathing and photosynthesizing. c

Close-up of dried Harlequin Bud.

Close-up of dried Grand Daddy Purple.

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Plants were measured and photographed to picture their shapes. This is a Sour Diesel.

Plants on wheels (a dolly) can be moved as the sun’s position changes or pushed into the darkroom.

The plants in the tray are basking in the sun.

These Sour Tangie buds indicate that the plants are well into flowering, with about five weeks to go.

iReadCULTURE.com JUNE 2016

PROFILE

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UNKNOWN

RECIPES

growing

culture

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Photo by Sean Pavone

Photo by Tumar

Berlin and Hamburg Bloom in June by Sheryll Alexander

With Germany set to legalize medical cannabis in 2017, did you know Berlin and Hamburg are the country’s two top cannabis-friendly travel destinations? And it’s no surprise either as these freewheeling German metropolises—Berlin and Hamburg (which are just a two-hour train or threehour car drive away from one another)—are filled with summertime revelers in June as outdoor art, dance, music festivals, markets and even nightlife abound. This summer, the celebrations of summer in cannabinoid-loving Germany (cannabis is more popular even than in neighboring Holland)

may be ever more raucous as health minister Hermann Gröhe recently announced the country will pass a law by early 2017 to create a national medical cannabis policy. Not only will chronically sick and terminally ill Germans supposedly be able to buy cannabis in local drug stores, but Germany will be the first European nation to allow the medicine to be covered by health insurance. This, in turn, will help cannabis patients cut down on their medication costs. So, why Berlin and Hamburg for an uber-cool summer getaway? Dubbed “the other city that doesn’t sleep,” Berlin blooms in June as the gateway to summer’s many frivolities. Berliners

begin to wake up in June as summer’s warmth brings them out of doors for smoking in parks (especially at the notorious Görlitzer Park where illegal and mostly immigrant cannabis “dealers” sit at benches to offer their wares) and at the season’s many public classic cultural and pop culture events. Because of a legal loophole, Berliners cannot be arrested if they are found with 16 grams or less. Perhaps it is Hamburg’s location as the “gateway of the world,” which makes Germany’s second largest city so vibrant. Situated east of Amsterdam, west of Berlin and south of Copenhagen along the city’s mostly industrial harbor, Hamburg sits in the very center of Northern Europe. Just like Berlin, cannabis is easy to get in certain public parks and it is legal to carry up to six grams of cannabis flowers. Ready to relax and revel in Germany’s lax cannabis cities such as Berlin and Hamburg? Summer is definitely the time to visit these urban wonderlands where cannabis is about to take the stage as a viable medical option for medical cannabis patients. c

Fun-Filled Facts Both Berlin and Hamburg are centers for Germany’s lively and sometimes queer community. The Berlin LGBT bar and nightlife scene is legendary while Hamburg is better for romance with its picturesque harbor. 1

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Don’t miss a day touring Berlin on any Sunday in summer. Open-air markets of all types—especially flea markets full of cheap retro items and antiques—can be found in every neighborhood along with quirky festivities such as karaoke at Mauerpark’s stone-laden amphitheater in northern Berlin (near Gesundbrunnen station). 2

GET YOUR CLICKS

HERE Time to Go: June and through autumn Weather: June begins the summer season in Germany with an average of 14 days of rainfall and temperatures ranging from a low of 63F to a high of 72F. Budget: $$$$$

if you go: Cannabis is smoked rather casually in Berlin and Hamburg’s vast open public spaces, but tokers are smart. They mind the cops and avoid mothers with kids, schools, government buildings, libraries and classic restaurants and cafes. Open air beer gardens and temporary al fresco dance halls seem to not mind groups of smokers either. While studies show 30 percent of Germans are proponents of full legalization, it seems the upcoming 2017 legislation will usher in a state-controlled system of cannabis at dispensaries and pharmacies, which could usher in the legal sale and consumption of medical grade THC and CBD products (and bring a whopping €1-2 billion in annual to the government’s coffers). Perhaps soon, the eternal question one hears at Germany’s parks—Want ganja? or Alles klar?—may no longer be necessary once Germans can buy their medication cheaply and easily at state-supplied pharmacies.

iReadCULTURE.com JUNE 2016

culture PROFILE

COURAGE

DESTINATION

UNKNOWN

RECIPES

growing

Libbie Whited-Seabourn

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Age: 47 Condition/Illness: Calciphylaxis, chronic pain, chronic migraines, high blood pressure Using Medical Cannabis since: 2012

Why did you start using cannabis? My cousin had told me to try smoking cannabis to see if it would help alleviate the pain caused by the calciphylaxis. Did you try other methods or treatments before cannabis? I tried Percocet, Vicodin, (I soon found out that I am allergic to those), dilaudid, imitrex (which I am also allergic to), hyberbaric oxygenation treatments and an internal pain pump.

What’s the most important issue or problem facing medical cannabis patients? Not being able to obtain the medications legally. What do you say to folks that are skeptical about cannabis as medicine? I tell them what I deal with on a daily basis and how cannabis has helped me to live a little more of a normal life. Without cannabis, I am a hermit because I am unable to go out and do the things that I used to do. I am unable to be the mother I need to be to my children— although my older two are grown—without the help from 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 growing

Menu: Lemon Curd Tart Sweet Potato Croquettes with Honey Mustard Sauce Grilled Apricot with Fresh Ricotta and Lemon Vinaigrette

I absolutely love Summer. When CULTURE asked me to do a few recipes for their June issue, I jumped at the chance to bring something light and vibrant to the culinary side of the cannabis industry. Citrus and stone fruit sings Summer to me, which is why I have chosen to make those my focal points for the articles. All my recipes are meant to be very light doses, meaning a maximum of 10mg THC for one serving. Enjoy!

UNKNOWN

RECIPES

Swing in to Summer with The Herbal Chef

recipes by The Herbal Chef™ aka Christopher Sayegh

At his core, The Herbal Chef™, aka Christopher Sayegh, is a passionate science and biology student who turned to the chemistry of food and herbs to feed the intellectual side of his creations. A walking brand full of charisma and charm, Chris has pioneered cannabisinfused fine dining in an effort to elevate the perception of cannabis through mainstream media. Currently, Chris is producing gourmet edibles, frozen CBD- and THCinfused dinners, as well as catered and private dinners. With the innovation of Chris’ frozen, infused meals, coupled with two shows currently in production, Chris has already been able to solidify his space as the #1 cannabis infusion chef. With a seemingly endless supply of passion and drive, Chris has his sights set on leaving a positive impact on the world through his medium of choice, food. Having faced intense struggles to pursue this commendable dream, leaves him open to sharing his vision with the world that is The Herbal Chef ™.

DESTINATION

Lemon Curd Tart

Who doesn’t love a good lemon meringue tart? So simple, incredibly refreshing and perfect for a passed dessert.

Ingredients 1 tablespoon lemon zest 1 cup fresh lemon juice

COURAGE

9 tablespoons soft butter 1 tablespoon cannabis butter (equaling 20mg total) t 4 egg yolks 1 egg

Directions

PROFILE

Beat the eggs with the sugar until lighter in color, and then add the lemon juice and zest. Put that into a pot on low-medium heat and continually stir for 2 minutes until combined. Add butter and slowly incorporate into mix. Cook down until the curd is a thick consistency. It will thicken up as it cools. Empty the curd into a bowl, in an ice bath and let cool completely.

Legal Disclaimer Publishers of this publication are not making any representations with respect to the safety or legality of the use of medical marijuana. The recipes listed here are for general entertainment purposes only, and are intended for use only where medical marijuana is not a violation of state law. Edibles can vary in potency while a consumers’ weight, metabolism and eating habits may affect effectiveness and safety. Ingredient management is important when cooking with cannabis for proper dosage. Please consume responsibly and check with your doctor before consumption to make sure that it is safe to do so.

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t Additional recipe can be found at iReadCulture.com

iReadCULTURE.com JUNE 2016

culture

Sweet Potato Croquettes with Honey Mustard Sauce

growing

Sweet potatoes are so in right now. They are also high in complex carbohydrates, if anyone was wondering. Potatoes like these are also sensational when paired with a sweet and tangy honey mustard. Great for an appetizer!

Ingredients 3 sweet potatoes

3 cups Panko bread crumbs Salt, to taste

Honey Mustard Sauce

Great for a home-style sharing appetizer, or you can add some of your favorite sliced prosciutto, balsamic reduction and make it a dish!

Ingredients

2 ounces (1 jar)

4 fresh apricots (or peaches)

Pepper, to taste 1 quart soy bean oil

The Herbal Chef’s Whole Grain Mustard t

1 cup whole milk

1/3 cup your favorite honey

½ cup heavy cream

½ tablespoon sherry vinegar

3 tablespoons lemon juice

1 pinch salt

1 tablespoon olive oil to brush

1 teaspoon pepper

on the halves of apricot

Directions for Croquette

Peel potatoes and cut into one-inch cubes. Add to a medium pot and cover with water. Add a tablespoon of salt and bring to a boil, turn the heat down to a simmer and cook until tender. Drain well and put sweet potatoes into a food processor. Add in herbs, almond flour, egg and parmesan. Mix well, then add salt and pepper to taste. Put in a container and let set in the fridge for 4-5 hours. Heat the soy bean oil to 350-375 degrees. Set up a breading station of almond flour, whisked eggs and Panko bread crumbs. Form the sweet potato dough into small circles. Cover with flour, then egg wash, then coat with Panko. Set in the fridge for 30 minutes. Fry until golden brown and hot on the inside (about 3 minutes), finish with sea salt.

Directions for Honey Mustard Sauce

Put all ingredients into a bowl and whisk together. Add dijon mustard if you want it a little spicier, or add more honey if you would like it sweeter. 94

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1 tablespoon (per half) The

UNKNOWN

3 tablespoons grated parmesan

Grilled Apricot with Fresh Ricotta and Lemon Vinaigrette

Herbal Chef’s Lemon Haze Vinaigrette t Salt, to taste

Directions

Bring the milk and cream to boil, turn off heat and add lemon juice. Stir until you see the curds separate from the whey. Secure the cheese cloth on a bowl with a rubber band. Remove the whey liquid from underneath and strain for 3 minutes before emptying the cloth into a glass bowl. Fold in salt to taste. This is such a light, fresh mixture, and I would caution using more than 1.5 tsp. Put in the fridge to cool. Cut the apricots in half and brush with olive oil before putting them on a hot grill. Don’t move the apricot around after you have placed it on the grill, you want the heat to caramelize the sugars in the apricot. Leave on the grill for 3-4 minutes or until the apricot can be easily removed. Put the apricot down with a heaping spoonful of ricotta and drizzle with a tablespoon of The Herbal Chef’s Lemon Haze Vinaigrette.

COURAGE

1.5 eggs

Special Equipment: • Cheese cloth or a fine mesh strainer (cheese cloth preferred) • Grill

3 tablespoons almond flour (fine)

PROFILE

5 leaves sage (finely chopped)

DESTINATION

8 sprigs thyme (stems removed and finely chopped)

RECIPES

1 tablespoon salt

iReadCULTURE.com JUNE 2016

colorado NOW! event listings

Bands on Bricks, June 8

This summer, visit the Pearl Street Mall as it will be hosting a 10-week concert series featuring some of the best local talent. This week’s performers will be The Railsplitters. Pearl Street Mall, Boulder www.therailsplitters.com

Second Fridays at the Firehouse, June 10

The Firehouse Arts Center has been a great resource and inspiration for local artists since 1986. Every Friday, the public is welcome to checkout its artists’ studios as well as a “Meet the Artists” reception. Firehouse Art Center, Longmont firehouseart.publishpath. com

The Hits Album Release Party, June 11

Besties with Testies Car Show, June 12 Raise funds and awareness for testicular cancer at the third annual Besties with Testies Car Show. Not only will you get to check out some cool classic cars, there will be plenty of fun stuff to do. Wheatridge Lanes, Wheatridge www.wheatridgelanes.com

9 to 5, Ends June 12

“All New Women,” June 11-Sept. 18

This exhibit features two Colorado Springs artists, Lyle Ashton Harris and Sara Howsam, who are showcased alongside John Singer Sargent and Cindy Sherman, and explore the influences of trailblazing women in art. For this exhibit, Harris and Howsman turned to historical female figures in Colorado Springs to find inspiration for their work. Fine Arts Center, Colorado Springs www.csfineartscenter.org

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featured event

The Hits is an all-woman band that originated in Denver in 2011. Since then, the band has gone through some changes but continues to create great music. Join in the celebration of The Hits’ new album, REVIVED! Lost Lake Lounge, Denver lost-lake.com

The Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center Theater Company presents its rendition of the hilarious musical 9 to 5. Based off the blockbuster film of the same name, 9 to 5 tells the story of a group of women working to get even with their boss while getting ahead in life without a man’s help. Colorado Springs Theater, Colorado Springs www.csfineartscenter.org

Megan Burrt, June 15

Denver native, Megan Burtt is a singer/song-writer who made a comeback after recovering from a serious illness. Aloft Broomfield Denver is the perfect relaxed environment to see this artist perform.

Denver Comic Con, June 17-19

Are you a nerd who happens to love everything popculture? Checkout Denver Comic Con, a three-day event filled with pop-culture and comic book legends as well as other nerds dressed as their favorite characters from film, television and beyond. Colorado Convention Center, Denver denvercomiccon.com Aloft Broomfield Denver, Denver meganburtt.com

Town Hall Arts Center, Littleton www.townhallartscenter.org

Legally Blonde, The Musical, Ends June 19

Denver Taco Festival, June 25-26

Originally the Littleton Town Hall, the Littleton Town Hall Arts Center is a great place that’s dedicated to bringing arts and culture to the local community. This month join the center in its production of Legally Blonde, The Musical, which tells the story of a ditzy blonde who earns a spot in Harvard Law School.

Nothing is more fun than Mariachis, Chihuahuas and Tequila, add tacos to the mix and it’s a full on fiesta. Denver Taco Festival will feature some of the best taco makers in town with $2 tacos available all day on top of other festivities. Glitter Dome, Denver denvertacofestival.com

iReadCULTURE.com JUNE 2016

News of the

Puerto Rico VA office had earlier hired a convicted sex offender, and the office’s hospital director, recently charged with DUI and drug possession, avoided VA discipline because of technicalities about the traffic stop.

LEAD STORY—THE POWER OF PRECEDENT u Department of Veterans Affairs employee Elizabeth Rivera Rivera, 39, was fired after her arrest (followed by a February guilty plea) for armed robbery, but when she was sentenced only to probation, an arbitrator ordered the VA to rehire her—and give her back pay she “earned” while sitting in jail awaiting trial. (She had been the driver for a man arrested for a street robbery in San Juan, Puerto Rico). Rivera’s union had demanded the reinstatement without salary penalty—for “fairness”—because the same

EVOLUTION OF THE CIVIL RIGHTS STRUGGLE u Turmoil in Selma, Alabama, March 1965: The historic “Bloody Sunday” at the Edmund Pettus Bridge ultimately became a turning point in the battle for voting rights. Turmoil in Selma, Alabama, March 2016: The town is riven by demands for stricter enforcement of the ordinance requiring horses on the street to be wearing diapers—a campaign led by Ward 8’s Councilman Michael Johnson (an AfricanAmerican): “I’m tired of it because there’s other things I could be doing than dealing with horses.”

Chuck Shepherd's

Weird

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BREAKTHROUGHS IN SCIENCE u German researchers, publishing in March, revealed that female burying beetles uniquely discourage their mates from pestering them for sex after birth—thus explaining how the male of this species is observed actually helping with child care. The females apparently release a chemical “antiaphrodisiac” to the father’s antennae. Said the lead researcher (a woman), “They are a very modern family.” Said another biology professor (also female), “Burying beetles are supercool.” u The Emerging American “Right” of Rejecting Science: In 2000, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention declared that measles had been eliminated in the United States, but by 2014 Americans had resurrected it (677 reported cases), and researchers from

Emory University and Johns Hopkins set out to learn how—and recently found the dominant reason to be the purposeful decision by some Americans to refuse or delay widely available vaccinations (especially for their children). (The researchers found similar, but less-strong conclusions about whooping cough). UNDIGNIFIED DEATHS u (1) An 86-year-old woman died in February in New Cumberland, Pennsylvania, when she tripped and got her medical alert necklace caught on her walker, strangling herself. (2) A 25-year-old off-duty New York City police officer was killed on a highway near Elizabeth, New Jersey, in March. According to the police report, the officer had rearended another car and had gotten out to “discuss” the matter, then suddenly pulled his service revolver and threatened the driver using

road rage-type language. As the officer backed up while pointing the gun, a passing driver accidentally, fatally struck him. FINE POINTS OF THE LAW u Joe Vandusen said he has had no contact whatsoever with his estranged wife for “16 or 17 years” and that both moved long ago to other relationships (Joe currently living with a woman, raising both his two children and her two, as well). Nonetheless, Vandusen’s “real” wife recently gave birth, from another father, and, without claiming Vandusen as the father, filed in February for child support from him. In the Vandusens’ home state of Iowa (like the law in many states), he must pay, irrespective of any DNA test (unless he gets an expensive court order to “deestablish paternity.” IRONIES u (1) Ervin Brinker, 68, pleaded guilty to Medicaid

fraud as CEO of the Summit Pointe health care provider in Michigan and was sentenced in January to 32 months in prison. He had embezzled $510,000 in “mental health” payments and apparently spent it all on a Florida fortune teller. (2) Two of the three candidates for the Republican nomination for county property appraiser in Erwin, Tennessee, in November died before the election, leaving Rocky McInturff the only survivor. However, he is ineligible for the nomination because he lost badly on election day by one of the two dead candidates. LEAST COMPETENT CRIMINALS u Albuquerque police encountered Leonard Lopez, 26, inside a Chevy Cobalt car (that was not his) just after midnight on March 30 after neighbors reported a man screaming inside, flashing the car’s

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headlights. A panicked Lopez was upside down, with his feet on the dashboard and his head and shoulders wedged under the steering wheel, hands and arms tucked inside his sweatshirt. He was charged with burglary, and police guessed he was probably going through opiate withdrawal. RECURRING THEMES u (1) Yet Another Way to Tell If You’re DUI: Maryann Christy, 54, was arrested in Roselle, Illinois, in January when police spotted her driving through town with a 15-foot-tall tree firmly lodged in the grille of her car, sticking straight up. She was apparently too intoxicated to recall where she “acquired” the tree or how many minutes earlier that was. (2) Peak Truck-Spill Karma: On March 23 on Interstate 95 near Melbourne, Florida, two tractor-trailers collided, spilling their contents on the road. One truck was carrying Busch beer and the other various Frito-Lay products. A NEWS OF THE WEIRD CLASSIC (JANUARY 2012) u Anti-Theft ID Breakthrough: For people who become stressed when asked to prove their identities by biometric scans of fingerprints, hand prints or eyeballs, Japan’s Advanced Institute of Industrial Technology has developed a chair frame that authenticates merely by sitting down: a buttscanner. Professor Shigeomi Koshimizu’s device produces a map of the user’s unique derriere shape, featuring 256 degrees of pressure at 360 different points and could be used not only to protect vehicles from theft, but also, when connected to a computer, to prevent log-ons by those with unauthorized posteriors. TORCH PASSED TO A NEW BODY-MODIFICATION EXEMPLAR u Eva Tiamat Medusa, 55, of the Phoenix area, has almost 100

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completed her journey (she calls it “transspecieism”) to become a “mythical beast”—like a dragon videogame character—through purposeful facial scarring, surgical implants and even removal of both ears. “Tiamat” was born Richard Hernandez before becoming female and now sports such features as reptilian-style skin “scales,” green-colored “whites” of the eyes, “horns” on her forehead and, of course, breasts. (However, she is perhaps so far satisfied with one part, as she is still a “pre-op” transsexual). GOVERNMENT IN ACTION u The Pentagon admitted recently that it has no way to know how many parts or devices are in its equipment inventory—except by going through its estimated 30 million contracts (on the text-unsearchable electronic database) one by one. For a recent Freedom of Information request from a software developer (for the Pentagon’s number of “HotPlug” powerextenders for computers), it quoted a retrieval price of $660 million to cover 15 million hours of work. u Wait, What? (1) The most recent problem with the Defense Department’s prospective, ultra-modern F-35 fighter jet, revealed in March, is that its “radar control” sometimes malfunctions and that system updates will not be ready until 2020. In the interim, an Air Force official advised that, as a workaround, the radar could be turned off and then back on again (similar to restarting a glitchy computer). (2) Michael Ford, 36, a U.S. Embassy staff member in London, was sentenced in March to 57 months in prison for having run a “sextortion” email scheme preying on young girls—from his heavily monitored embassy computer workstation, operating undetected for

two years. (One workday last April, for example, he sent 800 emails from his desk “phishing” for gullible social media users). POLICE REPORT u Ms. Charli Jones Parker, a teacher and girls’ basketball coach at the Pickens Academy (Pickens County, Alabama) was arrested on March 28 and charged with having sex with an underage male student. Her husband, James Parker, a math teacher and coach at Pickens, was arrested two days later and charged with having sex with an underage female former student. The district attorney said the incidents were unrelated and resulted from separate investigations. LEADING ECONOMIC INDICATORS u Inequality on Parade: (1) The city council in Palo Alto, California, trying to retain some of its Silicon Valley non-millionaires, proposed a subsidy plan in March to help with steep housing costs. In a town where tiny homes sell for $2 million (and are immediately knocked down and rebuilt), subsidies will be available even to families earning $250,000 a year. (2) In February, a family court in England reduced the child-support payments from hedge fund financier Christopher Rokos to the mother of his 7-year-old son from the equivalent of about $17,000 a month to about $11,300—though that amount includes more than $1,200 a month for “wine” (perhaps, in case the kid is a handful). u The giant HSBC Bank, which was let off the hook in 2012 for its money-laundering by paying a $1.9 billion settlement and promising to vigilantly guard against future money laundering, was revealed in March to be regressing. HSBC’s monitor said that the bank somehow failed to stop transactions by a company whose professed business

included exporting miniskirts to Iran (which would be against international sanctions but also not exactly smart business). In another incident, a 19-year-old Mexican man in the drugcartel-intensive Sinaloa state was allowed to open a privatewealth account with just a bagful of cash, claiming to be a “shrimp farmer.” SCIENTIFIC BREAKTHROUGHS u Downloads and Uploads: (1) A new weight-loss device being tested in the U.S. (“AspireAssist”) is billed as a less-expensive alternative to bariatric surgery, with the ability to evacuate up to 30 percent of recently eaten food from the stomach before digestion. A tube, through a port in the stomach, sucks (“aspirates”) the food. (2) Researchers at HRL Laboratories in California, in a recent journal article, reported that test subjects without airplane-pilot knowledge nonetheless performed flight simulations 33 percent better than a control group after the researchers uploaded electrical signals to certain piloting-helpful areas of their brains. O CANADA! u Latest Behavior Standards: (1) The town council in Bracebridge, Ontario, approved a new municipal bylaw in March ending existing prohibitions on people engaging in “yelling, shouting, hooting or similar noises.” (Other noise controls, such as on audio devices, or by humans between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m., remain in effect). (2) Also in March, the city council in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, was considering a proposed antibullying bylaw prohibiting gossip or (according to the National Post) “rumormongering, name-calling, taunting, mocking and ostracizing”—not only in the streets and parks but in “public” places such as bars and restaurants. iReadCULTURE.com JUNE 2016

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