Culture Magazine Michigan December 2017 by Culture Magazine

DECEMBER 2017 CultureMagazine.com

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DECEMBER 2017

contents

inside

12.2017

At The Height of Success Whoopi Goldberg is one woman who needs no introduction—read what she has to say about her line of cannabis products for women and the future of the industry. O n t he C O V E R :

T i mot h y G r ee n f i e l d - S a n d e r s

24 Holiday Gift Guide

CULTURE provides you with some of the best gifts to "wow" your family and friends this holiday.

features 36

Altruistic Aid Cannabis businesses continue to prove that they are not causing the homelessness problem—in fact, they are part of the solution.

Strong and Successful An inside look at some of the cannabis industry’s most prosperous women of color.

The Right Dose Like dogs, cats can also benefit from CBD medicine to cope with joint pain, cancer and more.

departments news 10 News Nuggets 12 By the Numbers 14 Local News reviews 16 Dispensary Highlight 18 Strain Reviews 22 Entertainment Reviews in every issue 48 Growing Culture 50

08 Letter from the Editor

Recipes 53 Profile in Courage 53 News of the Weird

DECEMBER 2017 CultureMagazine.com

# tgs

Online Exclusive! d Cannabis Opportunity Comes to NYSE d Republicans Block Cannabis Banking Bill

Vol 9 IssUE 6

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DECEMBER 2017

Editor-In-Chief Jamie Solis associate Editor Ashley Bennett Editorial coordinator Benjamin Adams Editorial Contributors Matthew Abel, Devon Alexander Brown, Jasen T. Davis, Alex Distefano, Keira Fae, Caroline Hayes, Addison Herron-Wheeler, Pamela Jayne, M. Jay, Heather Johnson, Emily Manke, Meital Manzuri, Madison Ortiz, R. Scott Rappold, Paul Rogers, Ed Rosenthal, Alexa Steinberg Lanny Swerdlow, Simon Weedn, Amy Witt, Laurie Wolf Photographers Kristen Angelo, Steve Baker, Kristopher Christensen, John Gilhooley, Joel Meaders, Tonya Perme, Josué Rivas, Mike Rosati, Eric Stoner, Bruce Wolf Art Director Steven Myrdahl production manager Michelle Aguirre Graphic Designers Payden Cobern, Nathan Hernandez sales director Joe Larson Account Executives Alex Brizicky, Molly Clark, Eric Bulls, Kim Cook, Chantal Jura, Monte Lee, Lee Moran, Casey Roel, Garry Stalling, Annie Weber, Shayne Williams, Vic Zaragoza general Manager Iris Norsworthy office manager Mikayla Aquilar INTERN Sophia Rybicki, Tyler Shultz Distribution Manager Cruz Bobadilla Publisher David Comden

Culture® Magazine is published every month and distributes magazines at over 500 locations throughout Michigan. No articles, illustrations, photographs, or other matter within may be reproduced without written permission. Culture® Magazine is a registered trademark. All rights reserved. 36500 Ford Rd #348 Westland, MI 48185 Phone 888.694.2046 Fax 888.694.2046 www.CultureMagazine.com

CULTURE® Magazine is printed using post-recycled paper.

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DECEMBER 2017

L E TT E R

FROM

THE

EDITOR

Justice and E q ua l i t y

his month’s issue is one of CULTURE’s best. First and foremost, we scored an exclusive interview with the one and only Whoopi Goldberg. Goldberg gracing the cover of our magazine is iconic for many reasons. Goldberg’s name has been synonymous with cannabis advocacy before it became trendy for celebrities to openly embrace the plant, let alone venture into the world of cannabis entrepreneurship as Goldberg has. Between her countless awards for acting and being the most recognizable actress in modern history to embrace cannabis, there is no person we would rather feature on the cover as we wrap up 2017. Goldberg isn’t just famous for being a cannabis entrepreneur and esteemed actress. She is an activist who has helped to pave the way for other women and people of color on the silver screen and in business. While she has succeeded and made a name for herself over the course of her career, there is still much progress to be had to ensure justice and equality for people of color. Unfortunately, institutionalized racism continues to target minorities in so many facets of American society, with incarceration for cannabis-related offenses still disproportionately affecting people of color serving as just one example. Recent evidence of this was published last month in a Policy Brief by Partnership for the Public Good, which found that Black, African American and Latinx people made up 80 percent of low-level cannabis possession charges in New York State in 2016, while it was reported these groups only made up 31.1 percent of the state’s population, according to the United States Census Bureau.

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These facts are appalling. In the words of Martin Luther King, Jr. in a letter from Birmingham City Jail, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” People in the cannabis industry must remain dedicated to not only ending racism, but also making the changes necessary to ensure those who have been disadvantaged by the “War on Drugs” are given the opportunities they deserve to succeed. Much like Goldberg said in her interview with CULTURE in regards to the representation of women and people of color in cannabis business and the silver screen, “ . . . lots of things have changed, lots of things have not.” Even though we have moved forward, there are still miles and miles for us to go in terms of progress. Take a moment to recognize the people in the industry who are driving us toward positive change. Support politicians who acknowledge and work to change racial disparity in our nation. Most importantly, let’s continue to support and celebrate the power that we each have at an individual level to demand a more equitable future for each and every human on Earth. On behalf of CULTURE, we hope you have a beautiful holiday season with your family and friends, and don’t forget to continue fighting the good fight and loving your neighbors. c

Cheers!

Jamie Solis Editor-in-Chief

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DECEMBER 2017

NEWS

nuggetS

Northern Michigan University Offers Four-Year Degree in Cannabis Chemistry Northern Michigan University undergraduate students can now pursue a four-year degree in Medical Plant Chemistry. The curriculum will include cannabis biology, chemistry and how to apply that knowledge in a professional setting. “There is currently a renewed and enthusiastic interest in medicinal plant chemistry

as it relates to the herbal extract market and more recently to the emerging cannabis market,” the school stated on its department website. “With nearly half of the 50 United States currently recognizing the valid and legal therapeutic applications of cannabis, including eight states and the District of Columbia now fully legalizing both medicinal and recreational consumption of cannabis products, a national shift in policy away from the prohibition of cannabis has been signaled.” Students can expect to earn a salary of $70,000 per year straight out of school, the program’s creator Brandon Canfield said.

Michigan Coalition Collects Enough Signatures for Rec Cannabis Initiative The Coalition to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol has collected enough signatures to put the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act on the 2018 ballot, which would effectively legalize cannabis in Michigan if passed by voters. The campaign has well over the 252,523 signatures that are required by law. “Our campaign to end marijuana prohibition is at a critical stage as we

New York Governor Signs Bill to Add PTSD as Qualifying Condition On November 11, New York Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo signed five bills supporting veterans. One bill in particular, Senate Bill S5629, added Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) to New York’s list of qualifying conditions for medical cannabis. “Our veterans risked their lives in order to defend the ideals and principles that this nation was founded upon and it is our duty to do everything we can to support them when

DECEMBER 2017 CultureMagazine.com

prepare to turn in over 360,000 signatures to the secretary of state for certification,” the campaign stated in a press release. “For the past five months, activists, volunteers and donors have stepped up to the plate and gotten us this far—but we’re not there yet.” The next step will be for the signatures to head to the Michigan Secretary of State, and as of midNovember, the campaign needs about $30,000 more to cover expenses before the legislative process can continue.

they return home,” Cuomo stated. “From improving access to healthcare treatments and services, to removing barriers to employment, all five of these bills take important steps to ensure that veterans have every opportunity to continue succeeding when they return home.” In addition, Cuomo launched a new series of license plates honoring the 770,000 military veterans that call New York home. An estimated 19,000 of those veterans suffer from PTSD and could benefit from having access to medical cannabis.

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DECEMBER 2017

The ranking of Michigan on a list of states with the highest number of medical cannabis patients: (Source: State News)

The estimated number of jobs that will be provided at a new multi-functional cannabis development in Eaton County: (Source: MLive.com)

1,000

The amount of money, in millions of dollars, that one Michigan farmer is asking for in the sale of his 82-acre cannabis farm: (Source: MLive.com)

The estimated number of people who attended medical cannabis education sessions in November, which was hosted by the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs: (Source: Detroit Free Press)

1,200

The amount of money, in millions of dollars, that is planned to fund development for a new hemp processing plant in western Kentucky: (Source: WKMS)

The number of companies that have already applied for permission to cultivate cannabis in Denmark: (Source: The Copenhagen Post)

The estimated percentage of government employees who work in Washington D.C. and have purchased legal cannabis: (Source: Forbes)

Michigan State Spartans Hockey vs. Michigan Wolverines Hockey WHEN: Sat, Dec. 9 WHERE: Michigan State Munn Ice Arena, 509 Birch Rd., East Lansing WEBSITE: www.msuspartans.com

Ice hockey is a unique sport—while competitive, many might argue that hockey players are the most appreciative of their fans. Compared to other Americans sports, there is nothing quite like it. This holiday, take a friend or family member out to support the local collegiate hockey team, the Michigan State Spartans, who are heading off against Michigan Wolverines. 12

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Both teams just recently began the season in early November and will continue the fight to beat out all other college competitors through February. Taking place on the Spartans’ home turf, it’s your turn to show your support for local college sports and to add a bit of action to your life while you wait for Christmas and New Year’s Eve.

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DECEMBER 2017

NEWS

LOCAL

Citizens for Sensible Cannabis Reform Spokesman Jonathan Barlow places campaign poster in Detroit neighborhood

The Pathway to Victory Detroit voters approve Proposals A and B By Benjamin M. Adams

etroit voters sounded their voices loud and clear on November 7 when they voted in favor of lifting multiple restrictions on medical cannabis collectives in the city. The citizens of Detroit effectively accomplished what the Detroit City Council could not accomplish. Before the approvals, Detroit’s restrictive regulations made it almost impossible for medical cannabis collectives to thrive without being in a state of constant worry. The victory is in part due to the tireless efforts of the men and women behind Citizens for Sensible Cannabis Reform. “The committee [of Citizens for Sensible Cannabis Reform] was the sole party responsible for developing, executing and deploying resources necessary to successfully pass Proposals A and B on November 7 in Detroit’s election,” Citizens for Sensible Cannabis Reform Spokesman Jonathan Barlow told CULTURE. Proposal A requires the city of Detroit to opt into the state’s highly regulated medical cannabis program and its five license types. The proposal expands the acceptable hours of operation for collectives. The hours have been extended from 10 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Now collectives can operate from 9 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., adding two hours of sales per day. It also drops buffer requirements for collectives near parks, daycare centers, liquor stores and arcades. Finally, it reduces

DECEMBER 2017 CultureMagazine.com

the buffer zones around churches and competing dispensaries from 1,000 feet to 500 feet. Sixty percent of voters approved Proposal A, and 39 percent rejected it, with all precincts reporting. “The legislation was passed to allow for equal and fair access to open and operate dispensaries in Detroit,” Barlow added. “This new ordinance will allow for a slightly different process, which will hopefully allow for more to operate a dispensary as well as any of the other four licenses recognized by the state of Michigan.” Proposal B expands the acceptable zones for medical cannabis facilities and drops the Board of Zoning Appeals application review that required public comment. The proposal also drops public nuisance regulations that could have been a roadblock for many collectives. Proposal B was a more narrow victory, with 58 percent of voters in support, while 41 percent voted “no.” Since March 1, the city of Detroit has shut down 186 of the city’s 283 collectives that were in operation. That number, according to the city’s interactive map, constantly changes. “Data concerning that number of closings can only be derived by the number of applications denied,” Barlow confirmed. “That information can be found on the city of Detroit’s website.” “Now what?” is the question we asked Barlow regarding the committee’s next projects. “Multiple city and statewide initiatives are ongoing. But our next step is to take this campaign’s story, strategies and many successes, and bring [it] to other urban cities to learn from and adopt.” According to Barlow, medical cannabis is the city’s best economic opportunity. By highly regulating the collectives in Detroit, it opens the door to business and makes it easier for collectives to stay open. As of mid-November, there are only nine medical cannabis collectives that have been approved by the city, according to the city’s interactive map, while 90 more facilities are waiting for approval. Now that Proposals A and B have passed, it will be much easier for collectives to open and for patients to have adequate access. c

The 17th Annual Billie Holiday Tribute performed by Sky Covington & Club Crescendo Celebrate the life and music of one of America’s finest jazz musicians at the Tangent Gallery’s Annual Billie Holiday tribute. The concert will include Holiday’s songs from her times at Columbia, Commodore, Verve and Decca, including hits such as “Body and Soul” and “Strange Fruit.” Performing the tribute to Holiday’s music is Sky Covington, Detroit Music Award Recipient for Outstanding Jazz Vocalist, and her band, Club Crescendo. Vendors will be available for holiday shopping before the show, as well as an art exhibit entitled “Love Letter to Jazz” by fine artist Kunle. (Tyler Shultz) WHEN: Sun, Dec. 17 WHERE: Tangent Gallery & Hastings Street Ballroom, 715 East Milwaukee Ave., Detroit WEBSITE: www. tangentgallery.com

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DECEMBER 2017

REVIEWs

dispensary highlight To p-Sellin g Str ain: Sativa-Hybrid Blue Cheese and Holy Grail or Indica-Hybrid White Walker

To p-Sellin g Co n centr ate: West Coast Meds Wax

To p-Sellin g Edible: THC Kool Aid and Chocolate Brownies

West Coast Meds 8620 Lyndon St., Detroit | (313) 740-2903

West Coast Meds is a small family business. We are open seven days a week (except Christmas) from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Our goal as a small business is to one day become a corporation that provides a friendly and professional environment with quality products. West Coast Meds is known for its excellent service, knowledge of cannabis and quality organic products. Our goal is to become one of the largest caregiver centers in the metro Detroit area, and as we expand, we would like to provide more jobs for local Detroit residents. West Coast Meds will ensure quality service and products.

What’s the story behind the name of your collective? Our mission is to be the most essential Medical Marihuana Caregiver Center within the state of Michigan. We believe in the healing powers of cannabis and its natural benefits. We put patients first by providing top quality organic medicine and cannabis products at reasonable prices. West Coast Meds’ name 16

originated as a result of the knowledge that high quality products came from the West Coast, and we wanted to provide our customers with that same quality. What does your collective offer patients that they can’t find anywhere else? We offer our customers a wide range of products other than medical marijuana from gas masks,

DECEMBER 2017 CultureMagazine.com

pipes, pens, oils, edibles, wax and much more. As a family-owned business, this is providing us an opportunity to not only strengthen our family core but also the community we serve. We often do events to give back to the kids in our community. Our latest big event we were able to provide over 300 book bags filled with school supplies for the kids in the neighborhood in which we do business, and we plan to continue to give back within our own community; that is most important to us as owners. How has the cannabis industry changed since you have been in the business? Where would you like to see it go? Since we began our business the industry has moved towards more legalization, and we anticipate that more local business owners will join in. Moving forward, expanding our business also means that we can bring more Detroit residents into our

family unit by increasing jobs within our neighboring community. What are the biggest challenges you face in this industry as a collective? . . . Biggest joys? At West Coast Meds we understand that our biggest challenge is changing the mindset of individuals that we are not a “Trap House” or “Street Vendor” but a legally owned corporation that has every intention of serving the greater Detroit area with a honest, friendly and safe location for the purchase all medical marijuana products. If someone wanted to open a collective and get their feet wet in the industry, what advice or counsel would you give them? For anyone wanting to join the industry, we would say that professionalism and safety are the keys to being successful in this industry, as well as knowledge of your customers and product. Giving back to the community we serve is also important. c

CultureMagazine.com

DECEMBER 2017

REVIEWs

strain

Holy Headband

Available at: ArborSide in Ann Arbor.

Many patients struggle with depression, chronic pain, PMS, PTSD and more. This sativa-dominant strain 40/60 is known to offer much-needed relief in the form of a dense nug that’s dusted in a heavy coat of trichomes. Gifting effects that are out-of-this-world, it’s clear why this strain is considered holy. Of course, the cannabinoids and lemony citrus and piney terpenes must first be heated and inhaled (22.9 percent THC). Lineage of Holy Headband is as follows: Kosher Kush (DNA Genetics) male x 818 Headband (Cali Connection) female. The grower notes that the nutrients used are by General Hydroponics, while the plants were grown in the ProMix Medium.

Available at: Motown Meds in Detroit.

Ahamdeo’s Glue This specimen is an indica-dominant (60/40) house strain, likely an offspring of some Gorilla Glue genetics. Truly a beautiful offering visually, this strain is bursting with light-green knobby calyxes that are dusted with tons of trichomes. The bud is soft with a dense core, and with a slight pinch, a familiar “glue” aroma escapes—a pungent earthy pine. Break up this nug with your hands, and you’re sure to see why this strain has “glue” in its name—it’s super sticky! The grower notes that this strain is soil-grown, using the House and Garden nutrients line. Patients looking to alleviate stress, chronic pain, insomnia and lack of appetite will find these indica-dominant effects to provide relaxed and uplifting euphoria—maybe even a well deserved nap!

Available at: Hello Wellness in Detroit.

Detroit Glue This gigantic fluffy nug, reminiscent of a life-sized Squidward’s nose, has to be one of the largest we’ve documented out of Michigan in quite a while. As a sativadominant hybrid (30/70) the uplifting cerebral effects may offer relief to patients struggling with depression or lack of appetite. This phenotype contains one percent CBD, which slightly softens the psychoactive “spacey” effects from the THC. Parent strains Detroit Diesel and Gorilla Glue were crossbred to create this strain, which is appropriately after “Motor City.” This vibrant strain packs a piney aroma with a punch of pleasing diesel undertones.

DECEMBER 2017 CultureMagazine.com

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DECEMBER 2017

REVIEWs

Available at: Holistic Earth in Davison.

Thin Mint Cookies A beautiful phenotype of the commonly known strain Girl Scout Cookies, this 50/50 hybrid is a crowd favorite that demands respect. Durban Poison and OG Kush were crossbred to create this delightfully dank offspring. This strain’s dark green leaves are loaded up with a heavy coat of trichomes, and without even pinching the nug, there is a pungently sweet and minty aroma. The fullbodied effects that patients receive from this strain are highly attributed to its popularity, with 24 percent THC. Many patients have found legitimate relief with Thin Mint Cookies, including those with chronic pain, nausea, inflammation, insomnia and appetite loss.

Available at: We Grow in Flint.

Glue Berry OG These tiny nugs pack quite a punch. Light green calyxes are dusted in a light coat of trichomes with light brownishorange hairs peeking out—they practically beckon you. Parent strains Gorilla Glue and Blueberry were crossbred with OG Kush to create this uniquely delicious offspring, Glue Berry OG by @budwhitegenetics. A slight pinch of the nugs will release an OG aroma with a kiss of blueberry undertones, which rang true to the strain’s name. Patients looking to alleviate nausea, lack of appetite, anxiety and depression will find the well-balanced effects of this hybrid strain are filled with relaxed and happy euphoria. 20

DECEMBER 2017 CultureMagazine.com

CultureMagazine.com

DECEMBER 2017

REVIEWs

entertainment

Release Date: december 1 Available on: Nintendo Switch

BOOK

Grass Roots: The Rise and Fall and Rise of Marijuana in America Emily Dufton Pub. Basic Books The “War on Drugs” covered many gains and losses for the cannabis community over the years. Historian Emily Dufton highlights the correlation between the state of cannabis today with the state of cannabis 40 years ago, when legalization seemed inevitable. We too soon forget that the swinging 1960s were a long, forgotten memory by the time the Reagan era had returned to demonizing cannabis. Dufton’s book helps us learn from the mistakes of the past knowledge and apply that to the movement to legalize cannabis. (Richard Saunders)

GAME

Xenoblade Chronicles 2 Dev. Monolith Soft Pub. Nintendo Further proving how the Nintendo Switch is the more exciting console of this generation, the arrival of Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is definitely giving open world action role playing game fans something to look forward to. The rest of the human population is now living on the back of massive monsters called Titans, and three main characters set off on a quest to locate a paradise called Elysium. The game is fully fleshed out, complete with a constant cycle between day and night, seamless connection between new zones and environments, plenty of unique items and weapons—and so much more. (Nicole Potter)

DECEMBER 2017 CultureMagazine.com

MOVIE

Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets Dir. Luc Besson EuropaCorp Distribution The science fiction genre is experiencing a kind of renaissance at the moment with some of the most fantastical universes and worlds ever dreamt up and realized on the big screen. Perhaps one of the most ambitious of these worlds is the one in Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets. Helmed by director Luc Besson (The Fifth Element, Léon: The Professional), the film follows characters Valerian (Dane DeHaan) and Laureline (Cara Delevingne) as they take a visually psychedelic thrill ride to save one of the most important cities in the universe. (Simon Weedn)

MUSIC

Turn Out The Lights Julien Baker Matador Records Julien Baker has returned once again to follow up on the surprise success of her debut album with an incredibly impressive sophomore record, Turn Out The Lights. Though the new album only raises the production of the recordings ever so slightly, the results add even more power and intensity to Baker’s brand of raw, stripped-down acoustic music. The record is hauntingly beautiful and seems to improve on all of the aspects, which made Baker’s debut, Sprained Ankle, so captivating. (Simon Weedn)

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DECEMBER 2017

GUIDE! 2017

Whether you’re buying the latest gear, tools and accessories for a friend or putting cannabis-infused goodies on your personal holiday wish list, here are the CULTURE-approved musthaves to help you wrap up your holiday shopping.

Pulsar Go Series Wax/Smoker

In space, pulsars are white dwarf or neutron stars that emit a beam of electromagnetic radiation, and this vaporizer company’s products are similarly powerful. Can’t decide between a vaporizer or a pipe? Pulsar has you covered. The Pulsar Go Series Wax/Smoker is dual purpose, and it can be utilized for both your dry herbs as well as your wax. There is a separate coil for vaporizing as well as another coil for smoking dry herbs. Just change out the coils. It provides discreet relief and relaxation while delivering the most versatile solution. #EnjoyHigherCulture www.pulsarvaporizers.com

Toker Poker®

Bring cheer to every toker on your nice list! Whether you vape, dab, toke or roll, the Toker Poker® is your go-to tool. Finally, your poker, tamper, hemp wick and lighter are all in the same place. This soulfully designed lighter sleeve provides all of the essential tools needed to enjoy your smoke. Glow-in-the-Dark, Artist Edition, Sparkle and other limited styles are now available online. Your stocking stuffer search ends here! Use “CULTURE25” at check out for 25 percent discount online at TokerPoker.com (offer expires 12/31/17). www.tokerpoker.com

DECEMBER 2017 CultureMagazine.com

Pulsar RIP Knuckle Bubbler

The brass knuckle-styled design is definitely something that our reviewers at CULTURE have never seen before. Everybody loves a mini-bubbler, and the Pulsar RIP Knuckle Bubbler is the perfect size to fit in the palm of your hand. One size fits most, and you hold it like you would hold brass knuckles. It can be used to smoke spliffs or cone blunts as well. The bubbler is available in many different colors, or you can opt to consume cannabis in the dark using the glow-in-the-dark neon green colored Knuckle Bubbler. #EnjoyHigherCulture www.pulsarvaporizers.com

CultureMagazine.com

DECEMBER 2017

Cheech & Chong™ Glass Labrador Grande Hand Pipe

Breaking the Grass Ceiling

Named after the famous scene from Up In Smoke, the Labrador Grande Hand Pipe is a larger version of the wildly popular Labrador Hand Pipe. The Labrador Grande looks more like the original from the movie, making this hand pipe a must-have for any Cheech & Chong fan. Available in color changing or white glass, the Labrador Grande features a bigger bowl for bigger sessions that are sure to get the job done, even if you don’t have any dogs around. www.cheechandchongglass.com

Breaking the Grass Ceiling is a biographical collection featuring 21 powerhouse women who own and operate companies in the cannabis industry. From Dr. Sue Sisley and her efforts taking on the DEA to Wanda James, the first black woman in America to own a licensed edibles company, each woman lends her unique story, triumphs and challenges while working to promote gender-equality in the industry. One-hundred percent of proceeds will be donated to California Grower Association’s Fire Relief efforts. Snag a copy today on Amazon Prime, at grassceilingbook. com or email us at hello@grassceilingbook. com to learn more about the Dispensary consignment program! grassceilingbook.com

Pulsar Flow Dry Herb Vaporizer

GUIDE!

Pulsar APX Vape The Pulsar APX Vape is one of the first exclusive units from Pulsar, and online reviewers have been raving about it. Choose your weapon of choice in brushed aluminum and in colors of black, blue, gold or silver. It’s also available in artistic designs including Skulls, Tie Dye, Wood Grain, THC Molecule and the new Urban Design that will impress your friends. It heats up in a mere 30 seconds. This is a heavy-duty hitter with an enhanced LED display and ergonomic mouthpiece. #EnjoyHigherCulture pulsarvaporizers.com

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2017

The Pulsar Flow Dry Herb Vaporizer re-envisions the shape of a vaporizer, and it transforms it into a shape that slightly resembles an elongated Millennium Falcon. It quickly heats up your dry herbs in 40 seconds using its 1600mAh battery. The chamber is lined with quartz and designed to last. Its unique embossed vaporcooling internal airflow pattern produces solid hit after hit, without the heat. The vaporizers are available in wood grain, carbon filter, black-on-black, silver or black-on-silver colors. The kit comes complete with accessories and cleaning supplies. The lid is also conveniently magnetic. #EnjoyHigherCulture pulsarvaporizers.com

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DECEMBER 2017

Daily High Club

A monthly subscription box for cannabis consumers, the Daily High Club monthly package provides various price plans that include a variety of necessities and new accessories for cannabis consumers. Daily High Club’s cheapest plan provides a couple of packs of rolling papers from various brands, while the most expensive plan provides a multitude of accessories in addition to a glass piece. If you aren’t sure what to get the cannasseur in your life, a Daily High Club subscription is the gift that keeps on giving. dailyhighclub.com

Shine 24K Gold Rolling Papers

GUIDE!

Although living the rapper lifestyle isn’t for everyone, Shine Gold 24K Rolling Papers make you feel like a “baller” even if you’re on a budget. They can be used to add a little bit of elegance to a smoke session, or they can be used to make all of your haters jealous. The wraps are covered in edible 24K gold and give off a realistic golden shimmer. Shine Gold Rolling Papers also have a distinct taste to them—ensuring consumers get a real taste of the high life. www.shinepapers.com

2017

Coil Pipe

Small, discrete and ribbed for your pleasure, the coil pipe brings an updated design to a classic pipe shape. The coil pipe provides a unique feel for the consumer looking for a pipe that strays from the traditional. Each pipe is hand crafted by ceramicist Christina Haines and is small enough to fit in a pocket or purse for any cannabis consumer on-the-go. www.shop-tetra.com/collections/ christina-haines

DECEMBER 2017 CultureMagazine.com

3-D Printed Dubbler

Headdies’ Dubbler, as its name suggests, doubles as both a dabbing rig and as a micro-bubbler. Simply exchange the Dubbler’s flower side components with the concentrate dish to turn the Dubbler into a portable, micro dabbing rig. The Dubbler is scientifically engineered to minimize splashing and also integrates a spill proof design that will make the Dubbler one of the cleanest pieces in your collection. The attached lanyard provides convenience and makes the piece perfect to travel with. www.headdies.com

Spirited Star Whoopi Goldberg is a powerful force of talent and entrepreneurship By Addison Herron-Wheeler

woman who truly needs no introduction, Whoopi Goldberg is one of the most beloved and recognized actresses on the silver screen. As the winner of a Grammy, a Tony Award, an Oscar, two Golden Globe Awards and nine Primetime Emmy nominations, Goldberg is hands-down one of the most celebrated entertainers. From a lifelong fascination of Star Trek that led her to a recurring role in Star Trek: The Next Generation, to a voice role in The Lion King, to her heart-wrenching, breakthrough performance in the film adaptation of The Color Purple, it is an understatement to say that Goldberg has had a varied and rewarding career. However, Goldberg is more than just an iconic figure who is incredibly talented. She is also a spirited advocate for cannabis and other causes that she believes in. Throughout her career, she has been known to speak up for human rights and stand up for both women and people of color. She also used her influence to become an outspoken cannabis activist. Recently, she has turned that advocacy into action, with Whoopi & Maya, her line of cannabisinfused premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menstrual pain relief products that she co-founded with Maya Elisabeth, the successful entrepreneur behind Om Edibles. Launched in 2016, Whoopi & Maya products have already gained a loyal following in California among women who seek menstrual relief. Now, Whoopi & Maya is expanding its line from California into Colorado and partnering with GroundSwell Cannabis Boutique. Available now in select Colorado locations, the line offers medicated raw cacao, an herbal tincture for pain relief, a lavender bath soak and a body balm that can be applied topically to help relieve cramps. Whoopi & Maya’s aesthetic appears to be simple, tasteful and above all, medicinally beneficial. Goldberg was kind enough to give CULTURE the inside scoop on the expansion, the inspiration behind menstrual relief products and the future of legalization.

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What inspired you to launch your own line of cannabis products? What is your history with cannabis, and why did you want to get involved in the industry? I’ve always had cannabis products in my life because I’m old [laughs]. The way I got involved was hearing people say, constantly, “Oh, this guy is in the industry, or this guy is doing this.” I finally said to my friend Rick (who would say this to me all the time), “Is there anybody doing anything for women, for cramps or anything?” And he said to me, “It’s a niche market,” and I said, “It’s a niche that is half the population; that’s ridiculous!” So, I asked him to find someone who could help me do this, which is how I got involved with Maya, and I wanted to be sure we had something medicinal, for people who have cramps, something they could rub on, and also something for young people, women, who are getting their period for the first time. Our products don’t get you high, but they will relieve pain for lots of people. What can we expect from your company in the future? What are your goals? We want to make sure

that we get Whoopi & Maya around the world. With Colorado being our first dispensary area outside of California, we are on our way. We are all over California, and with GroundSwell, we will be all over Colorado. Their sensibilities match ours; we are not trying to be big and flashy. We just want people to know that if they are having cramps and issues like that, they can get help. We liked the fact that GroundSwell represents a lot of different folks.

“We are not trying to be big and flashy. We just want people to know that if they are having cramps and issues like that, they can get help.”

let

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Even though women are helping to lead the cannabis industry, there aren’t many products out there that are specifically marketed for PMS and menstrual relief. Why did you think it was important to market that way, rather than just labeling your products as effective for pain relief? Because I didn’t have it when I was growing up, and I had horrific cramps, and most people don’t believe they are real, so you are sort of getting the same reaction from different people. You even get it from women who haven’t had cramps. But for me, when you do your homework, the Pamprin and Midol were created in the 1960s and 1990s. People didn’t really give a lot of thought to that kind of pain for us until then. So I felt it was important to isolate it, because no one else was doing it; it was very generalized. So for me to participate in the cannabis industry, I felt this would be the way I could do it. How do you feel about cannabis legalization so far? What do you think could be done better or differently? I thought we were doing really well 32

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and then we had a big change in Washington, and having to re-educate and re-explain to people after that has been a challenge. Because if you are treating it from a medical perspective, you have to treat it a lot like penicillin; it used to be legal and got a really bad rap by and from the government, and there are all kinds of conversations people have about it being a gateway drug. Well, if you have an addictive personality, everything is a gateway drug. You have to get people on board with what [cannabis] has been able to do, especially for kids, cancer patients and women with cramps. Now, getting the states to say these are the things that are covered treatment-wise, is the next big move as far as things are concerned,

“The way I got involved was hearing people say, constantly, ‘Oh, this guy is in the industry, or this guy is doing this.’ I finally said to my friend Rick (who would say this to me all the time), ‘Is there anybody doing anything for women, for cramps or anything?’ And he said to me, ‘It’s a niche market,’ and I said, ‘It’s a niche that is half the population; that’s ridiculous!’”

because [when it comes to what types of cannabis are medically legal], they will say it doesn’t cover this and that, so you can’t get any help for it. But not everyone gets help the same way, so you have to be a little smarter. States will say you can’t smoke it—well, some people can only smoke it. You and your doctor should have that conversation, and that’s it. However, we deal with what we have now. Some places are great for recreational, too. I just prefer to look at it from a medical perspective. What is your favorite strain? I’m really just about my own product, but I like Girl Scout Cookies. I think that strain is wonderful, but I can’t smoke anymore. Once I stopped smoking cigarettes, I can only do the vaping. I can only put things in my pen; so that’s how I do everything. As an iconic film star, how do you feel about the representation of women and people of color in TV and film since your career started? Do you think representation has improved, and how can representation improve even further? The answer to both of those things is, there is a long way to go. Yeah, a lot of things have changed, but I don’t really stop to look at what is happening. But, it’s kind of great to see more and more women in the cannabis business. I met with these wonderful women from CBD For Life, and that’s all women-run. They are reaching other women and coming around wanting to know how we do what we do. As far as Hollywood is concerned, you really have to talk to the people who cast the movies; that’s who it is. Anyone could have been in La La Land. So, lots of things have changed, lots of things have not.

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It Takes Two

Experienced cannabis entrepreneur Maya Elisabeth steers her business partner Whoopi Goldberg toward success

What can we expect from you and your company in the future? Do you have anything new in the works? Right now we are in Colorado, and it’s great. Eventually we are going to move into other states and work with the legislators. Most people don’t have menstrual cramps listed as something you need relief from, and we’d like to see that change. So, aside from trying to do world domination, no not really much [laughs]. We’ve also been adding to our line, and we have new containers; you can pop ‘em in your pocket book. It’s kind of great. You have a pretty interesting collection of shoes that you’ve 34

made public. How did this interest come about, and what is your favorite pair? I couldn’t tell you what my favorite pair was right now, but I looked over one day and saw that all these women had really great clothing, looked really svelte, really great, and I thought, “Gee, maybe I should find some fun shoes or something.” So, I started doing it to make myself laugh. They all exist at work. I don’t have them at my house, ‘cause at my house I just wear Birkenstocks. It’s crazy! Is there anything else you’d like to add? We are going to be all over Colorado! We are really happy that we found GroundSwell,

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and we’ll be making partnerships hopefully in places like Reno, Nevada, Oregon and wherever we can get to. This is what we are trying to do, because I believe every woman should have relief from cramps, so we are kicking ass and taking names. We used to just have a tub of our product; we had tinctures and soaps, but now you can put the new, smaller version in your bag, so you can just rub it wherever you are. You can have it at work since it’s in a smaller jar, and then productivity comes back because women aren’t missing two days of work every month if their cramps are bad. We are trying to save the world—one rub at a time. c

Whoopi Goldberg may be the face of the brand behind Whoopi & Maya, but Maya Elisabeth is equally important to the entire operation. While Goldberg brings her unbridled passion for cannabis and women’s health to the table, Elisabeth brings an impressive background of experience in the cannabis-infused edibles industry. As founder of Om Edibles, Elisabeth won several High Times Cannabis Cup awards for her company’s products, and she gained a rocksolid reputation in her home state of California. She was a clear choice for a partnership with Goldberg, and her insider knowledge combines well with Goldberg’s passion and experience to form a strong duo. “Whoopi is amazing. She is truly inspirational and I look up to her so much,” Elisabeth explained to CULTURE. “I think our partnership is really positive. One of the things we have in common is our business, and also our connection being women. Being a pair is actually really beautiful because we get along.” In addition to serving as company cofounder, Maya also serves as the company’s infuser—she is the woman in charge of ensuring proper dosing for the contents within every product. As Elisabeth explains on the company’s website, she got her start in the cannabis industry working in a dispensary, but didn’t feel that she was entirely putting out her own product. She eventually became a cultivator and edibles manufacturer, putting a personal touch in every product. Now that the brand is expanding from the market in California to Colorado, Elisabeth is ready to share her product with even more eager women and spread the word about natural menstrual pain relief. “We are most excited about making our products available and accessible to more women countrywide,” Elisabeth said. “We are all about safe access and education, and we couldn’t feel happier about expanding to the Colorado market.” Whoopi & Maya products are now available in select stores in Colorado, and these two women are proud to provide relief to a wider pool of women.

+ whoopiandmaya.com

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The Evidence is Clear

A Magnanimous Gesture

While homelessness is an ongoing issue, cannabis businesses are set to support the homeless community By Amy C. Witt

ontrary to what some have speculated, cannabis legalization has not contributed to an increase in homelessness. Back when recreational cannabis sales first began, skeptics believed that legalization would have a negative impact. They predict-

ed that homeless people across the state and the country would invade regions with legal cannabis. But in reality, if cannabis has done anything, it has created a connection of love across almost every demographic. The homeless population has not affected the industry negatively, and some cannabis businesses recognize that their efforts could be a helpful solution to improve the lives of people who are homeless.

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Dr. Donald Burnes, executive director and founder of Burnes Center on Poverty and Homelessness in Denver, Colorado at the University of Denver, agrees that there is a misguided impression on the correlation between cannabis and homelessness. Through his research, data shows that at least in the state of Colorado, there is no evidence that people “flocked to the state” and have become homeless. Burnes also noted that like many other avenues of revenue that flow to other statewide funds, even more tax money from legal cannabis sales should be put toward improving the lives of those who are currently homeless. “Clearly, the arena of extreme poverty and homelessness is competing with other important local issues, such as education, transportation, infrastructure, climate change, etc., and we are interested in maximizing the flow of dollars to ad-

dress the issue with which we are engaged,” he said. Through cannabis tax revenue, states like Colorado are taking action in developing resources for their communities. On May 26, 2017, Gov. John Hickenlooper signed the SB-17-254 “2017-18 Long Appropriations Bill” into law, which aims to “provide permanent supportive housing and rapid re-housing assistance for individuals with behavioral health needs, and for individuals experiencing or at-risk of homelessness.” In California, Attorney Marc Wasserman from Pot Brothers at Law, one of California’s leading medical cannabis law firms, provides pro bono criminal defense cases if a homeless person is charged with a crime. Wasserman believes that “ending cannabis prohibition will help the homeless,” and that the cannabis community will be a strong force for change through their charitable actions. It’s no longer just about business, but about caring for people in need.

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Taking a Stand The cannabis community has recognized a need to take further action in contributing its efforts in highlighting the benefits cannabis has for all, as many companies are giving back to their communities. With the holiday season in full swing, this time of year is all about giving thanks and giving back. From monetary donations to product and customer involvement, these are just a few businesses that go above and beyond to change or rebuild the lives of individuals, families and animals. For instance, Kaya at Southwest Alternative Care is on a constant mission in improving healthy, happy and safe environments throughout the community. Through the company’s efforts, Kaya Cannabis claims to be the first company in the industry through its Grow it Forward projects, to donate a percentage every month for every purchase to four local organizations that are improving individuals' lives in Colorado. CEO Amanda Gonzalez believes that her company is one of many to set out to assist the homeless population. “We hope that our company can help be part of the work to end homelessness in Denver and that our contributions continue to make Colorado a more vibrant place to live, work and play, in general,” she said. California’s Potters Cannabis Co. and Golden State Greens Point Loma partnered this November, as they helped assemble lunch bag meals and distributed them to those in need throughout San Diego while teaming up with #Hashtag Lunchbag, a humanity service movement dedicated to empowering and inspiring humanity to reap the benefits of giving through the use of social media. “Some people that we handed a lunch to, hadn’t eaten in five days or more,” said Heidi Rising, general manager and event coordinator for Golden State Greens Point Loma. “We love to help our community. It keeps us going, and it feels good to give back. We never know what another person is going through or 38

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what has put them in [that] situation. Love does not cost anything, and we all have a little extra to share, so go share it.” One of Organa Brands’ core values is being a strong representation and leader in the local community. From hosting charity golf tournaments, volunteering time, helping victims affected by Hurricanes Maria and Irma, to local coat and food drives, the company feeds and clothes hundreds of people. Chris Driessen, president of Organa Brands U.S., spoke about how his company is making waves in the community’s representation of altruism. “We are extremely proud of the success we’ve had as a company—but with success, comes huge responsibilities. We feel a real onus to serve the communities in which we operate in a meaningful and positive way. Things like the coat drive and partnerships with organizations like Grow For Vets help establish the cannabis industry as an asset to the areas in which we operate.” Not only does the cannabis industry give support to those who are homeless, but it supports humanity and dignity overall. On its own, cannabis creates unity, love, relationships and connections. Cannabis is the gift that keeps on giving, and it will continue to do so as long as members of the community care. c

“We love to help our community. it keeps us going, and it feels good to give back. We never know what another person is going through or what has put them in the situation.”

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Powerful Presence

“I believe people should be educated about the plant, especially people of color. There’s just not enough people of color who are engaging in the industry, because they’re not educated on what this plant really does.”

Leading women of color are some of the most successful entrepreneurs in the industry By Devon Alexander Brown

The normalization of cannabis is ushering in an era of unprecedented economic opportunity. And like Whoopi Goldberg, there are many women of color who aren’t taking a backseat. According to the Women & Minorities in the Marijuana Industry Report, published by Marijuana Business Daily, over five percent of senior positions in the cannabis industry are held by

women of color. Also, the U.S. Census’ Survey of Business Owners and SelfEmployed Persons reported that companies owned by women of color jumped 67 percent between 2007 and 2012. Although minorities face a slew of barriers that disproportionately affect their entrepreneurial potential, these women are at the helm of the green rush. And they plan to cultivate a lot of cash.

Whitney Beatty Whitney Beatty is the CEO of Apothecarry, a provider of luxury cannabis storage and accoutrement based in California. A former television executive, Beatty grew up a firm believer in Nancy Reagan’s “Just Say No” antidrug campaign and never envisioned that she would be running an ancillary cannabis company. It wasn’t until she received an anxiety diagnosis that she began exploring the world of cannabis. Now she seeks to normalize cannabis culture and educate connoisseurs about properly storing their flower to avoid mold growth and a loss of potency.

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“No one is talking about how to keep their meth fresh, because meth is considered an illicit drug,” Beatty said. “Back in the day when cannabis was considered an illicit drug, people weren’t talking about how to keep their plant fresh either. I keep my wine in a wine fridge, I keep liquor in bars, I keep my cigars in a humidor, but I was hiding cannabis in a lovely shoebox under my bed. That’s not right.” The Apothecarry case features airtight humidity jars that keep cannabis flower from drying out or molding, dab sticks, grinders and nooks for organizing pipes, papers and vaporizers.

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Marvina Thomas Marvina Thomas is the nervous type, but you would never know it. Owner of 420 Skincare and Start Living Inc. Recovery Home, Thomas is also market leader for the Phoenix chapter of Women Grow, an organization focused on female leadership in the cannabis space. Thomas, a former nurse, spent years honing her skills while crafting artisan soaps and creams. When a patient developed a fungal infection on her face, Thomas decided to add cannabis oils to her products. When they proved to be a success, she moved to a licensed kitchen

to perfect her line and the rest is history. 420 Skincare offers CBD-infused bath bombs, soaps, body butter and creams. All products are handmade using the hot process method and contain natural, organic ingredients. THC-infused options are also available in 20 dispensaries throughout Arizona. Fifty percent of all profits from 420 Skincare go toward Start Living Inc. Recovery Home, where she helps patients find employment and procure medical cannabis cards to combat alcohol and opioid addiction.

Bonita “Bo” Money Bonita “Bo” Money is a cannapreneur and founder of Women Abuv Ground, a networking organization designed to position women of color in cannabis companies, and That Glass Jar, a cannabis-infused topical developed to combat the drug-resistant bug MRSA. A California native, Money spent decades working in the entertainment industry where she often came face-to-face with racial and gender discrimination. After transitioning into cannabis she saw patterns of the same behavior and founded Women Abuv Ground in 2015 to combat industry-wide

inequity. She also developed That Glass Jar out of necessity. When a close friend contracted MRSA and fell gravely ill, the odds looked grim. So Money turned to cannabis as a last resort. After using their makeshift topical for four days, her friend’s MRSA disappeared. “I believe people should be educated about the plant, especially people of color,” Money said. “There’s just not enough people of color who are engaging in the industry, because they’re not educated on what this plant really does. They’re excluding themselves because of this.”

Tanganyika Daniels Tanganyika Daniels is the founder of Jayn Green, a gender-neutral cannabis-infused skincare line offering beard balms, beard oils and body butters. And cannabis is her lifestyle. A United States Marine Corps veteran, Daniels spent most of her life thinking negatively about cannabis. After graduating from film school in Washington, D.C., she sold her home to move to California to pursue a career in film. But while in California she landed a job with TKO Edibles and discovered the medical benefits of cannabis—which she said saved her life and led her down a path of wellness and advocacy.

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“I got into this by trying to treat my symptoms of PTSD,” Daniels said. “Joining the industry I was able to jump in and find out what worked best for me, and I used that to start my line and help others.” Despite economic barriers, Daniels hopes to serve women of color as a cannabis consultant and eventually wants to open a cannabis day spa. “There’s a lot that goes into being an entrepreneur in this space,” Daniels said. “Not only the uncertainties, but you have to worry about law enforcement, you have to worry about the stigma from your family, your church members. But I want people to know that there are people in this space that look like them.” c

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“We have been using HempRx to treat arthritis, anxiety, cancer, seizures and IBD in [cats].”

The Purr-fect Dose I mp rovin g the life of f el in e pet s t hrough m edi cal c a n nabis

By M. Jay here are many companies that are developing cannabis medications for pets, including both the canine and feline varieties. Some of these companies include Seattle-based CannaVet, True Leaf Pet, Pet Releaf, infusedPets and Canna-Pet, to name a few. CULTURE connected with Canna-Pet to learn more about the efficacy of medical

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cannabis for cats. Established in 2013, this company offers hemp-derived products for pets. Samantha Wormser, spokesperson for Canna-Pet shared more about the effectiveness of her company’s products. “More than two dozen cannabinoid, terpenes and flavonoids are found in our products,” Wormser said. These cannabinoids have been proven to work for treating multiple symptoms.

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Some of the most profound results from cannabis use can be seen in cats with seizures. Cannabinoids work by activating the brain’s CB1 receptors, thus reducing the length and frequency of a seizure. Often, CBD completely dissolves the occurrence of seizures altogether. What other kinds of issues does cannabis help with? “There are definitely a lot of different ailments that are treatable with Canna-Pet. But, the top would be anxiety, gastro issues (lack of appetite, diarrhea, etc.) and pain and seizures,” added Wormser. There are many feline owners who have already found success in treating their companions with CBD. According to one company that manufactures CBD medicine for pets, it has the potential to turn some pets’ lives around. One anonymous cat owner provided a testimonial about their pet’s improvement with Canna-Pet’s medicine. The pet owner’s cat, Spider, was suffering both from cancer as well as a lack of appetite. “About a week after starting my 17-year-old tabby boy Spider, on Canna-Pet, he started acting like a new cat!” the owner

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wrote. “He has always been a picky eater, and over the last year he has at times completely stopped eating and lost weight.” Since Spider started consuming cannabis, he was reported to also be more cuddly and active, in addition to putting on some weight. Many veterinarians recognize the effectiveness of medical cannabis as well. Dr. Angie Krause of Boulder Holistic Vet in Colorado is one of many who treats cats with cannabis. “We have been using HempRx to treat

“Since Spider started consuming cannabis, he was reported to also be more cuddly and active, in addition to putting on some weight.”

arthritis, anxiety, cancer, seizures and IBD in [cats],” she told CULTURE. Most commonly, she’s witnessed cats experiencing arthritis and pain. Fortunately, she added that there isn’t normally a problem administering CBD medicine to cats. “I have seen very few side effects and most cats find the oil palatable.” For those who are interested in giving their cat cannabis, Dr. Krause recommends starting off slow. “Start with a CBD-only product and ensure the potency is therapeutic,” she noted. “While there are beneficial properties of THC, our [cats] can’t tell us what they are feeling. These [CBD-only] products are also more available in all 50 states. Good farming practices and extraction methods do make a big difference in the quality of the product.” Some domestic felines have been known to live up to 30 years. While the secret to this longevity is unknown, what we do know is that older cats especially are in need of medicine to help them live healthier, longer and happier. Thanks to CBD treatments, many felines are able to go about their daily lives and stay with their families longer. c

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culture g r o wi n g RE C I P E S C OUR A G E IN P RO F I LE

Tweaking Bud Potency Using Light By Ed Rosenthal People used to think that plants were vegetables; that they have no way of reacting quickly to their environment and were more like couch potatoes with very slow reactions. There were always signs in clear sight that this isn’t necessarily so. Sunflowers move so they always face the sun. The Venus flytrap closes on its victims the second its prey touches it. A fraction of a second after lights are turned on, plants start photosynthesizing. Mimosa pudica, also called “the sensitive plant,” quickly collapses its leaves upon being touched. However, when it is touched repeatedly by the same stimulus, it becomes habituated and stops reacting. After not stimulating the plant for weeks, it still “remembered” the stimulus and didn’t react. It had “learned.” Rhodopsin is a pigment that is very sensitive to light. A version of Rhodopsin is found in bacteria, and it is used in our sophisticated sight system. It’s also found in plants and helps cannabis regulate its flowering by distinguishing light from dark periods. Plants also share stress responses with animals regarding UV light. In animals, dark skin has high melanin content to protect against UV light. Light skin develops more intense stress reactions and respond to the light by producing melanin, causing tanning, or more severely, sunburn, which actually results in destruction of layers of skin and other destructive reactions. Plants growing under natural sunlight develop resistance to these harmful UV rays in several ways. They grow longer protective cells (palisade cells) to disperse the light

to minimize its intensity, and they produce higher levels of pigments, flavonoids and terpenes as sun shields. In various experiments and anecdotal reports THC production increased by 10 percent. Terpene levels also increase significantly. There are positive effects in other plants, too. For instance, tomatoes grow thicker skins and contain more flavonoids. When plants grown indoors are placed outdoors in late spring or summer, they sometimes get sunburned. Their leaves droop or dry out, and they suffer tissue damage. Whether or not they survive and thrive, they are set back. For this reason plants should be gently, gradually introduced to direct sun, perhaps first placed in the shade or by using shade cloth to protect against the sun’s intensity. You might think that plants in greenhouses are getting full sun. However, most plastics and glass are opaque to UV light. One exception is acrylic sheet, often known by its brand name, “PLEXIGLAS.” Indoors, fluorescents and HPS lamps produce no UV light. Metal halide lamps often produce small but significant amounts of UV, but the plate glass required for safely enclosing the lamp in the reflector is opaque to it. Some LED manufacturers include the spectrum in their mixes, but emitters in these spectrums are still costly. The lamps need only be used during the last 10 to 15 days of flowering, for six hours a day. For instance, plants growing outdoors receive the highest amount of UV light in the summer when they are in the vegetative stage. I haven’t seen the results of any experimentation on this. This is an area where there is a lot of room for experimentation. c

This room is illuminated using tanning lamps. Usually they are used five hours a day in conjunction with HPS lamps. In this photo the HPS lamps have been turned off for illustrative purposes.

A view of the room showing the six-foot tanning lamps.

A tanning lamp with reflector

Reptile lights can be used to supply UV light.

Garden of the Month® Coral Cove Greenhouse, Jamaica

Copyright by Ed Rosenthal. All rights are reserved. First North American Magazine rights only are assigned to culture Magazine. No other reproduction of this material is permitted without the specific written permission of the author/copyright holder.

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Menu: Honey Butter Glazed Ham Beef Brisket with Onions Classic Champagne Cocktail

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culture

Tis the Season

C OUR A G E

1/2 cup honey

P RO F I LE

Honey Butter Glazed Ham

Classic Christmas Recipe

Ingredients: 1/4 cup cannabutter

Instructions: 1. Preheat the oven to 325°. Melt the butter in a small microwavesafe bowl. Stir in the honey, brown sugar and mustard until smooth. Stir in thyme and garlic; set aside.

2 teaspoons minced garlic

2. Place the ham in a roasting pan large enough to hold it with room on the sides. Score the top surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, making the cuts about 3/4” apart. Spoon half of the honey butter mixture over the ham.

3-5 pound fully cooked half ham

3. Roast the ham, uncovered, for

2/3 cup brown sugar 2-3 tablespoons Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves

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The holidays are a celebration recognized by many different cultures with traditions that span generations, and the food that is served during this time of year is no exception. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah or nothing at all, there is no better time to make a thoughtful, special meal for your friends and family—especially when it's infused with a little bit of cannabis cheer. Embrace the sweet and savory flavors of a traditional Christmas ham, delight in the scents and flavor of a juicy brisket, and top it all off with the clinking of Champagne glasses to ring in the New Year. Sprinkle with joy, laughter and fun— and you have the ultimate recipe for an enchanted holiday season!

20 minutes, then spoon over the rest of the butter mixture. Roast for another 20 minutes, then baste the ham with the pan drippings. 4. Roast for another 20 minutes (for a 3-pound ham), 40 minutes (for a 4-pound ham), or 60 minutes (for a 5-pound ham) or until the ham reaches 145° and is glazed. 5. Baste every 15 minutes with drippings. Slice thinly to serve. Serve this ham with scalloped potatoes, sautéed green beans and some big dinner rolls with lots of butter for a great holiday meal.

Beef Brisket with Onions Ingredients: 2 teaspoons Kosher salt

2 teaspoons thyme, chopped 1 teaspoon oregano, chopped 1 tablespoon sweet Hungarian paprika 1 6-pound flat-cut brisket 1/2 cup dried porcini mushrooms

2 tablespoons olive oil 2 cups dry white wine 1 cup chicken stock 2 cups diced canned Italian tomatoes, (drained) 3 bay leaves 3 medium onions, thinly sliced 2 tablespoons garlic cloves, chopped

Note: Like most braised dishes, this brisket is best made a day or two in advance. Look for a leaner, flat-cut or first-cut brisket with a layer of fat that is at least one-eighth inch thick. If you can’t find a 6-pound piece, buy 2 smaller pieces.

Classic Champagne Cocktail Instructions:

1 THC-infused sugar cube

1. Place the sugar cube in the bottom of a Champagne flute. Saturate the cube with bitters. Add the brandy.

2-3 dashes Angostura bitters 1 ounce brandy

2. Fill with Champagne and watch the sugar cube dissolve. Garnish with an orange peel or maraschino cherry.

culture

Ingredients per drink:

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1 cup hot water

3. Add the brisket, fat side down. Cook over moderately high heat until well-browned, about 8 minutes per side. Transfer brisket to a plate and pour off any excess fat from the casserole. Add the wine and chicken stock, then pour in the reserved mushroom soaking liquid. Scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the casserole and stir in the drained tomatoes, porcini and bay leaves.

5. Transfer the brisket to a carving board and cover loosely with foil. Simmer the sauce for a few minutes, season with salt and pepper to taste, if needed. Discard bay leaves. Carve the brisket across the grain into 3/8-inch thick slices and arrange on a large, warm platter. Spoon sauce and onions over the meat and serve. If cooking the brisket ahead, let the meat cool in the sauce before refrigerating. Skim the fat from the surface and slice the brisket, then rewarm the meat in the sauce.

RE C I P E S

1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

1 tablespoon cannabisinfused olive oil

C OUR A G E

Classic Hanukkah Entree

2. After 20 minutes, remove the mushrooms from the soaking liquid; rinse and coarsely chop them. Reserve the soaking liquid. Preheat oven to 350°. While the oven is heating, heat oil in a large enameled cast-iron casserole until shimmering.

1. In a small bowl, combine salt and pepper with the thyme, oregano and paprika. Rub the seasonings all over the brisket. In a medium heatproof bowl, cover the porcini mushrooms with hot water, and set aside until softened, about 20 minutes.

4. Return the brisket to the casserole, fat side up. Scatter the onions and garlic over the meat and into the liquid and bring to a boil. Cover and cook in the oven for 1 hour. Uncover and cook for 30 minutes. Spoon the onions on top of the brisket and cook for about 30 minutes longer to brown the onions. Push some of the onions back into the liquid, return the cover to the pot and braise for another 2 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender.

P RO F I LE

Instructions:

4-6 ounces Champagne Orange peel or maraschino cherry

Note: It’s best to add the Champagne at the very last minute.

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P RO F I LE

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culture

aulo Lacerda Sobral

Age: 35 Condition/Illness: ADD Using Medical Cannabis Since: 2013 Why did you start using cannabis? I got curious about cannabis when I was 31 and watched a documentary about psychedelics. At the time I was just diagnosed with adult ADD and got into meditation. Cannabis made me more aware of my body and mind and actually helped me focus. An added benefit I didn’t anticipate was that it made for an excellent pre-workout. When I work out high, I’m completely focused and more aware of my individual muscles and joints. When I play basketball high, I feel like the defenders are in slow motion, and I’m operating in a flow state. The day after grueling workouts I go to CBD, and I can walk with little discomfort. Did you try other methods or treatments before cannabis? I put my health above anything, and other methods and treatments might cure a certain symptom, but then cause 10 other negative side effects. Even when I

would have surgeries or sports injuries, I refused opiates and other pain killers. The main side effects I could find with moderate cannabis use is that some strains cause some people to feel sleepy. What’s the most important issue or problem facing medical cannabis patients? Stigmas which lead to shame—my fiancé’s mother just passed away from cancer, and her pharmacist told her that medical marijuana was bad for her health. Our government has really done its citizens a disservice by not sharing medical research on the benefits of cannabis. I now work in sales for Bloom Farms, a cannabis startup in California. I hope by being open about my cannabis use and showing that I’m an active, professional member of society, I get more people curious about cannabis. What do you say to those who are skeptical about cannabis as medicine? “Medicine” is a loose term. Almost anyone can agree that stress causes excess cortisol in our bodies, which has many devastating effects on your general health. If you do nothing else but smoke a joint after a long day of work, you’re getting medicinal benefits. c

Are you an medical cannabis 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.

News of the

Weird

By the Editors at Andrews McMeel

LEAD STORY—TRADITIONS The 72nd annual Yellville (Arkansas) Turkey Trot, which took place on Oct. 14, is famous for its Turkey Drop, in which live turkeys are dropped from a low-flying airplane and then chased by festivalgoers. This year, KY3. com reports, several turkeys were dropped during the afternoon despite animalrights activists having filed a formal complaint with the sheriff’s office, saying the pilot “terrorized” the birds. But pharmacist and past pilot Dana Woods told the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: “We treat the turkeys right. That may sound ironic, but we don’t abuse those turkeys. We coddle and pet those turkeys. We’re good to them.” Wild turkeys can fly, but in 2016, about a dozen turkeys were dropped and not all survived the fall. According to The Washington Post, over the past several years, local sponsors and the chamber of commerce have distanced themselves from the Turkey Drop, now more than five decades old. The Federal Aviation Administration is checking to see if any laws or regulations were broken, but said it has not intervened in past years because the turkeys are not considered to be projectiles. ‘TIS THE SEASON Could turkeys be sensing the peril of the season? Police in Bridgewater, Massachusetts, tweeted a warning to the town’s

residents on Oct. 15 about aggressive wild turkeys, WBZ-TV reported. As proof, an accompanying video showed four turkeys chasing a Bridgewater police cruiser, but police were not as amused as their Twitter followers. “Aggressive turkeys are a problem in town,” the department tweeted. “State law doesn’t allow the police or (animal control) to remove them.” UPDATE In 1990, Marlene Warren, 40, answered her door in Wellington, Florida, and was shot in the face by a clown bearing balloons (one of which read “You’re the greatest!”) and flowers. On Sept. 26, Palm Beach County Sgt. Richard McAfee announced that Warren’s widower’s current wife, Sheila Keen Warren, 54, had been arrested for the murder, 27 years after the fact, and taken into custody in Abingdon, Virginia. Sheila Keen married Michael Warren in 2002, NBC News reported. (Warren went to prison in 1994 for odometer tampering, grand theft and racketeering in connection with his car rental agency.) Sheila had worked for him, repossessing cars, and they were reportedly having an affair when the murder took place. While Sheila had always been a suspect, new technology finally allowed prosecutors to retest DNA evidence and build a case against her. SEX THERAPY Zookeepers believe China’s four-year-old giant panda Meng Meng, currently on loan to the Berlin Zoo, displays her displeasure with her surroundings, food or caretakers by walking backward. “Meng Meng is in puberty,” Zoo Director

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Andreas Knieriem explained to the Berliner Zeitung newspaper on Oct. 22. “The reverse walk is a protest.” To address the situation, zookeepers will introduce Meng Meng to Jiao Qing, a male giant panda three years older, who presumably will ease her frustration by engaging in sexual activity with her. LUCKY! Kenyans Gilbert Kipleting Chumba and David Kiprono Metto were among the favorites to win the Venice Marathon on Oct. 22. Instead, Eyob Ghebrehiwet Faniel, 25, a local running in only his second marathon, took the prize after the lead runners were led several hundred meters off-course by an errant guide motorcycle. Faniel is the first Italian man to win the Venice Marathon in 22 years. “Today’s race shows that the work is paying off,” Faniel said following his victory. Uh, sure. MOST CONSIDERATE CRIMINAL Nelly’s Taqueria in Hicksville, New York, suffered a break-in on Oct. 3, but the burglar redefined the term “clean getaway.” Surveillance video showed a man donning food-service gloves and starting a pot of water to boil before hammering open the cash register. He secured $100 in his pockets, leaving a dollar in the tip jar, then started “cooking up a storm,” owner Will Colon told Newsday. Cameras recorded as the thief cooked beans, sauteed shrimp and chicken, and helped himself to a cold soda before enjoying his meal standing up. “The way he handled that pan, man, the dude had some skills,” Colon said. Afterward, he carefully stored the leftovers 54

in the refrigerator, cleaned his pans and wiped down all the surfaces he had used. Then he took off through the back window, the same way he had come in. PEOPLE DIFFERENT FROM US In Lissone, Italy, 40-yearold fitness instructor Laura Mesi made news when she married herself in late September. “I told my relatives and friends that if I had not found my soul mate, I would marry myself by my 40th birthday,” Mesi said, according to The Independent. She spent more than 10,000 euros ($11,700) for the occasion, which included a white wedding dress, a threetiered cake, bridesmaids and 70 guests. Mesi is part of a self-marrying movement dubbed “sologamy” that has followers all over the world. Her marriage holds no legal significance. “If tomorrow I find a man to build a future with, I will be happy, but my happiness will not depend on him,” Mesi declared. An anonymous collector from Palm Beach, Florida, was the winning bidder in an Oct. 11 online auction for a half-smoked cigar that British Prime Minister Winston Churchill enjoyed during a 1947 trip to Paris. AP reports the 4-inch cigar remnant brought just over $12,000 in the auction managed by Boston-based RR Auction. The company says Churchill smoked the cigar on May 11, 1947, at Le Bourget Airport. A British airman, Cpl. William Alan Turner, kept the cigar after he and his crew flew Churchill and his wife between Paris and London. The label on the Cuban stogie includes Churchill’s name.

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LEAST COMPETENT CRIMINAL Greensburg, Pennsylvania, police made a traffic stop on Oct. 19 and found drug paraphernalia in plain sight on the car’s front seat. When police asked where the occupants had obtained the heroin found in the center console, they said they had bought it from someone named Cody in the maternity ward at the Excela Health Westmoreland hospital in Greensburg. Officers arrested Cody R. Hulse, 25, at the hospital after he admitted to possessing and selling heroin just feet away from his newborn daughter. The TribuneReview reported that police found 34 stamp bags of heroin, four empty bags and multiple hypodermic needles in Hulse’s possession. “I have an issue myself with drugs . . . heroin,” Hulse told them. “I really didn’t want to bring it in.” Hulse’s girlfriend, the mother of the newborn, said she did not know he was selling drugs from the room. CRIME REPORT Coroner’s pathologist Elmo A. Griggs, 75, was arrested Sept. 12 in Morgan County, Indiana, for drunken driving, but it was what was rolling around in the back of his pickup truck that caught officers’ attention. Along with a half-empty vodka bottle, Griggs was transporting several labeled totes, according to the Indianapolis Star, containing organic material. Marshal Bradley K. Shaw of the Brooklyn Police Department said early investigations showed the totes contained brain and liver samples. Griggs’ wife posted on

Facebook that he “had a bad day and had a couple of drinks before driving home,” but court documents revealed he failed all field sobriety tests. IT’S GOOD TO HAVE GOALS Alysha Orrok of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, will head to Las Vegas in February to compete for the $10,000 prize in the National Grocers Association 2018 Best Bagger contest, reports The New York Times. Orrok, who recently won the New Hampshire competition, is a teacher who moonlights at a Hannaford Supermarket. Competitors are judged on multiple skills, including speed, weight distribution, appearance and technique. GOOD-NATURED WEIRDOS Three teenagers from Rahway, New Jersey, who call themselves the Rahway Bushmen, have been discouraged from their signature prank: dressing up as bushes and popping up in Rahway River Park to say “Hi!” to unsuspecting passersby. NJ.com reported in October that the Union County Police Department warned the Bushmen that they would be arrested if caught in action. The high school students started by jumping out to scare people, but decided to soften their approach with a gentler greeting. “We were trying to be harmless,” one of the Bushmen said. “It’s more or less an idea to try to make people smile.” But Union County Public Information Officer (and fun sucker) Sebastian D’Elia deadpanned: “It’s great until the first person falls and sues the county.” Or puts an eye out.

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