“People have gotten in trouble just for carrying a doobie on them. That, I definitely think is crazy.”
KushCo CEO Nick Kovacevich Shares Success Secret
JASON MEWES LASTING ICON
MASTERS NEW ROLE WITH DIRECTORIAL DEBUT
Journalist and Chef Warren Bobrow Talks Cannabis Cocktails
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inside
contents 12.2019
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FULL CIRCLE
Actor and director Jason Mewes shares about his history with the Clerks series, his directorial debut and the three new strains in his line of cannabis. ON THE COVER:
PHOTO BY JOHN GILHOOLEY
features 18
Holiday Gift Guide Make the holidays merrier with CULTURE’s 2019 Holiday Gift Guide!
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12 Days of Giving During the holidays, explore these 12 cannabis businesses and organizations that are giving back to local communities.
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Practical Growth KushCo Holdings CEO Nick Kovacevich has grown his niche of the industry into a massive empire.
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departments
news 10 News Nuggets 12 By the Numbers 14 Local News reviews 16 Entertainment Reviews in every issue 46 À La
Carte 50 Growing Culture 52 NorCal Now! 54 News of the Weird
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46 Online Exclusive! d Medical Cannabis Applications Open in West Virginia d Celebrate Hanukkah with Infused Recipes
VOL 11 ISSUE 6
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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jamie Solis ASSOCIATE EDITOR Ashley Kern EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Benjamin Adams EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Matthew Abel, Hilary Bricken, Devon Alexander Brown, Jacob Cannon, Alex Distefano, David Edmundson, Caroline Hayes, Carl Kozlowski, Alison Malsbury, Kiara Manns, Madison Ortiz, Denise Pollicella, Nicole Potter, R. Scott Rappold, Ed Rosenthal, Lanny Swerdlow, Simon Weedn, Laurie Wolf PHOTOGRAPHERS Steve Baker, Kristopher Christensen, John Gilhooley, Joel Meaders, Mike Rosati, Eric Stoner, Bruce Wolf ART DIRECTOR Steven Myrdahl PRODUCTION MANAGER Michelle Aguirre ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Kim Cook, Casey Roel OFFICE MANAGER Mikayla Aguilar
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NEWS
NUGGETS
Contra Costa County Bans Vape Product Sales On Nov. 12, the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors unanimously voted to ban the sale of cannabis vape products and flavored tobacco products. At the meeting, students and local residents flooded the building to participate and testify against the dangers of vaping. “This is a health crisis; there are potentially fatal
consequences,” said Supervisor Candace Andersen. “We are seeing people die, and I would much prefer to have us err on the side of protecting the public.” The ban comes amid reports of around 40 deaths and hundreds of cases of lung illnesses linked to vaping. The ban on sales of flavored tobacco and cannabis vaping products took effect on Nov. 18 for unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County. Incorporated areas of the county, including about 20 cities that are not under the county’s jurisdiction, will not be affected.
Cannabis Store Becomes Certified Green Business One of the largest cannabis retailers in Santa Cruz County, KindPeoples, recently announced that it has been named a Certified Green Business for its commitment to save the environment. The achievement fulfills a goal of the company’s founders. “We knew when we opened KindPeoples on Ocean Street in April it had to be a flagship for our values,” said Khalil Moutawakkil, founder and CEO of KindPeoples. “Becoming a Green Certified Business is the first step in implementing green practices that make a lasting 10
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impact on our community, our staff and business partners and our planet. This is just the beginning.” KindPeoples worked with Certified Green Business Program in the City of Santa Cruz to install energy-efficient lighting, use paper products, minimize waste, promote alternative transportation and establish a company-wide Environmental Policy in order to meet the standards required for certification .
One of Europe’s Largest Medical Cannabis Trials Launches in U.K. According to a Nov. 7 press release, Project Twenty21 will determine medical cannabis’ therapeutic effects in an attempt to become Europe’s largest medical cannabis study on chronic medical conditions. Researchers will look at 20,000 patients and observe the effects of medical cannabis for chronic conditions, with the hope of influencing the British government. “Medical cannabis is still out of reach for far too many,” stated Professor David Nutt of Drug Science, one of the U.K.’s leading independent scientific bodies and the organization behind Project Twenty21. “Patients are left untreated, in significant debt from the cost of private prescriptions, or criminalised as they are forced to turn to the black market. They don’t deserve any of this, and the situation with prescribing desperately needs to change.” So far, the project has gained support from The Royal College of Psychiatrists, The British Pain Society and the United Patients Alliance.
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The number of years that the Emerald Cup has held its cannabis event and competition in Santa Rosa: (Source: The Bay Area Reporter)
16
The number of legal cannabis businesses in California that had permits suspended in early November: (Source: Los Angeles Times)
394
The number of Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors, out of 5, who cast their votes in favor of approving a new ordinance in the city that prohibits the sale of flavored tobacco and cannabis vaping products: (Source: NBC Bay Area)
The number of signatures that are required in order to place the “California Psilocybin Decriminalization Initiative 2020” on the ballot: (Source: Decriminalize California)
5
623,212
The estimated amount of money, in dollars, that Florida’s agriculture commissioner believes hemp crops will be worth per acre: (Source: Fox Business)
25,000
The estimated percentage of Americans who support legalizing recreational cannabis nationwide: (Source: Gallup)
66
The amount of money, in millions of dollars, that consumers have spent on medical cannabis in Arkansas over the past six months: (Source: KARK)
18
The number of British patients who will be among the first to participate in a major medical cannabis trial: (Source: Daily Mail UK)
20,000
HIV Grand Rounds: Integrating Cannabis Into Clinical Care WHEN: Wed, Dec. 18 WHERE: Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, 1001 Potrero Ave., San Francisco WEBSITE: medicine.ucsf.edu/events Join Donald Abrams, M.D. to explore how cannabis could be used to ease the symptoms of HIV and AIDS. After all, people with AIDS were among the first driving forces of medical cannabis reform in the Bay Area and across the state. Recent studies have suggested that cannabis can treat HIV-related inflammation and increase or preserve brain 12
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function. Early evidence also suggests that cannabis may slow the progression of the virus, as observed in monkeys with an HIV-like virus. There is a swath of studies that could further the medical community’s knowledge of how cannabis interacts with HIV, so get up-to-date on the latest trends and information that could be beneficial for certain individuals.
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NEWS
LOCAL
Endless Opportunity
Concord City Council to release recreational cannabis ordinance
C
By Benjamin M. Adams oncord city leaders recently approved a plan to draft a revised ordinance to adjust to recreational cannabis sales and production. City leaders have grappled with the decision to allow recreational cannabis after Proposition 64 was approved by voters in 2016, but they may soon cave. After Proposition 64 took effect across California, Concord leaders implemented a temporary ban on cannabis activities, including retail businesses, but allowed medical cannabis distributors, manufacturers and testing laboratories. Concord is a family-friendly destination, geographically separated from the urban sprawl of Oakland and Berkeley. The city has been hesitant to open the doors to recreational cannabis sales until recently, especially considering that local residents protested and called the implementation of adult-use a “slippery slope.” On Nov. 5, the Concord City Council voted to introduce an ordinance to amend Concord Municipal Code Chapter 5.80 and upgrade from medical to recreational cannabis. The City Council agreed to add adult-use to the ordinance and increase the maximum number of licenses for manufacturing, distribution and testing laboratories. The ordinance is expected to allow for five manufacturing licenses, up from two, as well as three licenses for retail businesses without storefronts and three retailers with storefronts. It would also allow for two 14
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microbusinesses. There would be no cap on testing laboratories. The ordinance is also expected to establish 600-foot buffer zones around sensitive areas including schools and daycare facilities. Coleman Frick is that senior planner of Community and Economic Development for the City of Concord. “The next meeting is tentatively scheduled for Feb. 5, 2020 at the Planning Commission, where a recommendation will be made to the City Council regarding changes to the Development Code that are necessary for new cannabis business types to be located within certain areas of the city,” Frick told CULTURE. “The tentative date that the Ordinance will be considered by the City Council is March 24, 2020, the first reading of the Ordinance.” District 3’s Councilmember Dominic Aliano was slow to accept cannabis activity in the city, but later admitted that it’s better to regulate cannabis than to keep things as they are—which involves people obtaining cannabis illegally through the black market. Frick clarified that the cap will not be raised until an ordinance amending city code has made its way through the city government and passed through all appropriate committees. “Note that the cap has not yet been raised; rather the Council has provided direction to bring back amendments for their consideration at a future meeting,” Frick added. The designated available areas for cannabis business locations are already thoroughly defined. Businesses would be able to open in Concord’s approved industrial areas, which include a northern section of the city, north of Arnold Industrial Way and west of Port Chicago Highway. Acceptable areas would also include a small light-industrial area immediately east of Buchanan Field, a small light-industrial area surrounded by Interstate Highway 680, State Highway 242 and Willow Pass Road, and finally, a small light-industrial area south of Monument Boulevard near a Costco. A city staff report also indicated that Concord could place a cannabis tax revenue measure before local voters in the near future. There are several more steps that lie ahead before recreational businesses can apply for licenses, once the amendments are approved. c
Cannabis, CBD, Hemp PitchForce: San Francisco Do you think you have what it takes to survive a Shark Tank-type challenge in a room full of tough investors? Entrepreneurs and startup owners get a chance to deliver a four-minute elevator pitch to a panel of seasoned angel investors. In total, 10 startups will get to present their pitches under a fair amount of pressure. While the event is open to anyone, the presenters are exclusively companies that have CBD-, cannabis- and hemp-related products. Presenters will receive instructions on eight key points to cover in their pitches, as well as a sample pitch. Max Shapiro, CEO of PeopleConnect, is producing the event. PitchForce is designed to assist high tech startups of all industries achieve their goals, but this particular event is all about cannabis and hemp. WHEN: Tues, Dec. 17 WHERE: Techcode, 385 Moffett Park Dr., Suite 105, Sunnyvale WEBSITE: pitchforce.com
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REVIEWS
entertainment
BOOK
Finding Your Higher Self:
RELEASE DATE: DEC. 3
Your Guide to Cannabis for Self-Care
Sophie Saint Thomas Simon & Schuster Get a step ahead before the New Year begins. After all, selfcare is the ultimate buzzword you’ll be hearing in 2020. Now, you can learn how to incorporate cannabis into self-care routines courtesy of a book that just launched this month—Finding Your Higher Self: Your Guide to Cannabis for Self-Care. Don’t be intimidated by the concept of taking time to improve your body and mind. Let this book guide you with more than 100 activities that marry cannabis into healthy routines from meditation to bathing and yoga. For far too long, consuming an alcoholic beverage has been associated with the practice of unwinding. Change this mindset by embracing THC and CBD products instead in your daily self-care practices. (Jacob Cannon) 16
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GAME
Arise: A Simple Story Dev. Piccolo Pub. Techland Publishing Every year, AAA video game titles reign supreme in holiday sales—but every so often, an independent game shows that it can push the envelope. Enter Arise: A Simple Story, the tale of an old man who passes away but immediately wakes up in limbo. Players control this sole character (or can play with one friend) and manipulate time while gazing in awe at the simple but beautiful world. The music in this game taps into the emotions of the man’s life and journey, all while exploring an uncomplicated and surreal art style through snowcovered forests and vibrant springtime flowerbeds. (Nicole Potter)
MOVIE
The Peanut Butter Falcon Dir. Tyler Nilson, Michael Schwartz Roadside Attractions For most, Shia LaBeouf is known for his childhood role in Even Stevens and blockbuster roles in the Transformers franchise. However, in recent years LaBeouf has stepped back from the mainstream and invested himself more in smaller, independent films. The Peanut Butter Falcon is LaBeouf’s best film to date as he stars alongside Zack Gottsagen and Dakota Johnson in a coming-of-age tale of sorts about a young man with Down syndrome (Gottsagen) and his journey to become a professional wrestler. The first feature-length film of writers/directors Michael Schwartz and Tyler Nilson, The Peanut Butter Falcon is touching and beautiful. (Simon Weedn)
MUSIC
MAGDALENE FKA twigs Young Turks Five years since proving herself as one of the pop world’s most unique artists with her captivating debut, FKA twigs returns with an astonishing follow-up entitled, MAGDALENE. Built around the same experimental R&B that dominated 2014’s LP1, FKA twigs continues to blend genres and push boundaries to great effect. Lush, enveloping and wholly original, MAGDALENE is not just great music but one of the most singular albums released by a popular artist in years. The album brilliantly weaves elements of pop, R&B, hip-hop, electronica and triphop into a work so exceptional it seems to transcend any of its influences. (Simon Weedn)
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Harvest Holiday Hats, Finger-Less Gloves and Scarves The Harvest Holiday Hats, Finger-Less Gloves and Scarves are all made from 100 percent acrylic material, which has a soft, lightweight feel. The hat is one size fits all and has braided accents. The scarf features Harvest’s limited-edition holiday pattern with fringed ends. The gloves feature sewn cuff labels and a fingerless style, perfect for that holiday smoke break! MORE INFORMATION: harvestswag.com/collections/holidaze
Holiday Punch Camino Gummies Get all the feels of Christmas morning with Kiva’s limited edition Holiday Punch Camino gummies. Each delicious gummy contains 5mg of THC and boasts energizing terpenes with notes of cranberry and cinnamon that will have you leaping out of bed with joyful anticipation. Welcome to the most tailored edible experience on the market. PRICE: $18 MORE INFORMATION: kivaconfections.com
NUG Vape Carts Pure Cannabis, Pure Innovation, Pure Convenience—NUG’s vape carts are the perfect union of state-of-theart cannabis extraction and innovative cartridge technology. With the casual consumer in mind, NUG vape carts utilize an all ceramic k-coil heating element. The cartridges come in six flavors featuring a live resin or NUG refined finish. #NUGpure #NUGvape PRICE: $45 for NUG Refined, $55 for Premium Live Resin MORE INFORMATION: NUG.com/ wegrowcalifornia
Spectrum King LED SK402 We have a gift for that special someone in your life who has a green thumb. This is an all white, highly reflective 460 watt patented Full Spectrum LED Grow Light that is made in the USA. The all-around white coating gives better intensity on the outer edge of your canopy. Can be used for both vegetative and flower growth, and it’s perfect for plants that are particularly sensitive while only using a fraction of the energy. Guaranteed to lower your overall ambient room temperature, you can choose to add a manual dimmer, which enables turning the power down to as low as 10 percent for more control when needed. PRICE: $749 MORE INFORMATION: spectrumkingled.com
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Harvest Holiday Pre-roll Cards Make the season cheery and bright with these three limited-edition cards that feature a pre-roll holder. A clever holiday collab with 420Cardz, these Harvest Holiday Pre-roll Cards will have the cannabis consumers on your holiday shopping list feeling the love. The pre-roll joint is not included. MORE INFORMATION: harvestswag.com/collections/holidaze
Toker Poker Your stocking stuffer search ends here! For only $10 the Toker Poker will certainly bring cheer to that special stoner on your list (even if that is you). This soulfully designed lighter case has everything you need and nothing you don’t. Finally, your poker, tamper, hemp wick and lighter are in the same place. Use promo code CULTURE20 for 20 percent off at tokerpoker.com (offer expires 12/31/2019). PRICE: Starting at $9.95 MORE INFORMATION: tokerpoker.com
House of Saka Pink Infused Beverage House of Saka Pink is an infused beverage crafted from grapes picked at the peak of ripeness from select vineyards in California’s iconic Napa Valley. The grapes are pressed and fermented in stainless steel for optimal flavor and aroma extraction before being infused with House of Saka’s proprietary CBD:THC formulation. Nonalcoholic, micro-dosable and naturally low in calories, House of Saka’s Infused Beverages deliver a controlled yet elevated cannabis experience. PRICE: $49.99 MORE INFORMATION: houseofsaka.com 20
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Airgraft Clean Vaporizer Airgraft Clean Vaporizer is a next level pod vaporizer that works with the verified SecurePod, the only vaporizer cartridge with crypto-strength security that prevents counterfeiting. A range of live resins extracted from single cultivar flower are perfectly served by the ZeroBurn dynamic vapor engine that heats each oil with the optimal temperature profile. The result is no burn in your vapor or throat for a smooth, clean taste. PRICE: $98 MORE INFORMATION: airgraft.com
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Kannastor® GR8TR® V2
An update on the classic GR8TR® model, the V2 features food-grade anodized aluminum, interchangeable grinder plates, anti-residue and friction rings, and the signature versatile design. What makes the GR8TR® so adaptable? In addition to delivering the smoothest ground herb, this iconic Kannastor® accessory can be easily broken down into a storage puck for easy traveling. No other grinder on the market has this many versatile configurations. For 25 percent off, use promo code at check out: RYOTHOLIDAY. MORE INFORMATION: kannastor.com
KRYPTO-KIT™
The RYOT® Krypto-Kit™ is the most popular pocketable storage system for glass bats and small vapes ever designed. Released in 2000, the Krypto-Kit™ was the company’s first invention. Today the Krypto-Kit™ has been redesigned with smaller specs for extra pocketability, odor absorption technology, and optimized storage for smoking accessories. The Krypto-Kit™ is the perfect solution for the daily smoker! For 25 percent off, use promo code at check out: RYOTHOLIDAY. MORE INFORMATION: ryot.com
LOCK’R BOX™
An all-in-one smoking station, the elegantly crafted RYOT® 11” x 10” Solid Top Locking LOCK’R Box™ with Walnut Rolling Tray and 3 Storage Jars comes with three storage containers and a removable, easy scoop walnut tray. RYOT® Prep Trays feature handcrafted over-vert walls, giving you the perfect angle to collect your herb without creating a mess. Additionally, the expertly designed corner funnel allows you to move excess herbs back into a RYOT® jar or box for later use. For 25 percent off, use promo code at check out: RYOTHOLIDAY. MORE INFORMATION: ryot.com
RYOT® VERB™ DHV
INTRODUCING . . . THE RYOT® VERB™ DHV. With so many dry herb vapes on the market, the experts at RYOT® sat back and expected somebody to make a pocketable vape that was easy to load, easy to use and gave a hit that could truly satisfy. After years of waiting, they realized that no one was going to produce a vape “For Smokers By Smokers.” So that’s what they’ve done. HIT IT! Features include an innovative stay cool smooth draw mouthpiece, easy load funneled oven chamber, integrated stainless steel poker tool, rapid heating temperature control, OLED Display and slim hips, plus a limited two-year warranty. For 25 percent off, use promo code at check out: RYOTHOLIDAY. MORE INFORMATION: ryot.com
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KushyCBD CBD Gummy Formula KushyCBD’s classic peach gummy is made with organic ingredients, natural flavoring and tapioca syrup instead of fructose or corn syrup. It harnesses all the goodness and true potential of the plant by preserving the cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids associated with broad spectrum oil. PRICE: $19.95 per gummy MORE INFORMATION: kushycbd.com
STIIIZY’s Liquid Live Resin Extracted directly from locally-sourced cannabis plants, STIIIZY’s cannabis derived terpenes capture the full terpenes profile of each strain, offering exceptional synergy both flavor and potency. Extracted directly from freshly harvested, flash-frozen cannabis plants, STIIIZY’s Liquid Live Resin preserves the authentic taste profile and delivers a full spectrum cannabis extract. Introduced seasonally, in small batches, this craft cannabis provides a synergy between cannabinoids and terpene for the ultimate entourage effect. Visit www.STIIIZY.com and follow @STIIIZY (IG, FB and Twitter). MORE INFORMATION: STIIIZY.com
DAVINCI IQ Do you want your vape hits to be as smooth as butter this holiday season? If so, DAVINCI IQ’s technology will take consumers to the highest of highs without any choking or coughing as a result. This intelligent vaporizer delivers Smart PathTM temperature settings, which means each draw off of the vape is precise and pure. Plus, this clever technology is compatible with a Bluetooth app that gives the user complete control over tracking their sessions. Available in three colors—Stealth, Gunmetal and Blue, opt for a customized engraving on the DAVINCI IQ to make it ultra-personal for that special someone in your life. PRICE: $274.99 MORE INFORMATION: www.davincivaporizer.com
Mood Bars by Chill TM Introducing Mood Bars by ChillTM chocolate! Each Mood Bar is handmade using the finest quality, strain specific, full spectrum cannabis oil. Fall asleep effortlessly with the 4:1 Dream bar, brighten your day with the 2:1 Inspire bar, or experience cannabis-CBD’s true restorative “entourage effects” with the 20:1 Peace bar. Let Chill chocolate help you set the mood this holiday season! Visit www.thehighestchocolate.com. PRICE: $15 MORE INFORMATION: thehighestchocolate.com
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Marley Natural TM Core premium pre-rolls are made exclusively from locallysourced and sustainably-sungrown whole flower. Each pre-roll is carefully hand-filled in unbleached paper with a crutch filter for that smooth Marley smoke. Each reusable tin includes three 0.5 gram pre-rolls, which are perfect for any occasion. Available in Sativa, Hybrid, Indica and CBD. Learn more at www.marleynatural.com. PRICE: $16 MORE INFORMATION: www.marleynatural.com
Suddenly Stoned Once you’re stuffed with turkey and all the fix-ins from your classic holiday feast, the best way to round out any celebration is by playing a card game with the adults. Give the gift of fun, as players take turns drawing cards from the Suddenly Stoned deck. Each card will have a seemingly simple task that will only get more complicated as more cannabis is consumed. Get ready for some side-splitting laughs as players try to do things like “correctly guess what time it is” or “call a family member.” PRICE: $15 MORE INFORMATION: www.suddenlystoned.com
Mind Your Head TM Your guide to cannabis-enhanced consciousness. Legendary explorer and artist living at the “Edge of Magic,” Grateful Dead drummer Mickey Hart invites all adventurous spirits to follow their sense of wonder. Find your groove and beckon the muse with Mind Your HeadTM Magic Minis, 10 1/3 gram pre-rolls expertly packed with stimulating whole flower Chemdog. Each reusable tin is adorned with Hart’s celebrated artwork. Visit www.mindyourheadcannabis.com. PRICE: $30 MORE INFORMATION: mindyourheadcannabis.com
Fruit Notes Experience rhapsodies of flavor this holiday season with Coda Signature’s new Fruit Notes. A great stocking stuffer for every adult member of the family, these flavor infused sugar confections are all-natural, vegan and gluten-free. Available in 5mg THC pieces and five unique flavor pairings, there is sure to be an option for everyone on your list! MORE INFORMATION: codasignature.com/product_cat/fruit-notes/
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HANDLING THE HELM
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Photos by: John Gilhooley
Jason Mewes gets real on acting, directing and his latest projects in the film industry
D
by Benjamin M. Adams
Deep down, actor, comedian, director and film
After all, many of us were
producer Jason Mewes was shaped by his humble
originally introduced to
background growing up in a working-class
young actors such as
neighborhood in Highlands, New Jersey, before
Jason Lee, Ben Affleck,
being thrust into the glamour of Hollywood in the
Ethan Suplee via the
mid-’90s. His best friend Kevin Smith cast him
View Askewniverse. Seth
as Jay, an extension of Mewes’ true personality,
Rogen, Will Ferrell, Alanis
for Smith’s debut film Clerks—a film that would
Morrisette and Rosario
become the definition of a cult classic.
Dawson co-starred with him
Clearly, Clerks was only the beginning. The
as well. Mewes’ directorial
View Askewniverse, encompassing characters
debut, Madness in the
such as Jay and Silent Bob began to take form. A
Method, was released last
series of smash hit comedies followed, including
August and most recent
Mallrats, Chasing Amy, Dogma, Jay & Silent Bob
film Jay & Silent Bob
Strike Back and Clerks II. By then, Mewes was
Reboot was released
sought after by other film executives—landing
last October. Mewes
roles in films such as Scream III and Bottoms
took the time to discuss
Up. In 2002, Mewes joined High Times to star in
directing, his recent films
High Times’ Potluck. He also starred in numerous
and past experiences
recurring roles on television.
with cannabis before
It is difficult to overstate the overall influence that Mewes has played on modern comedy.
embarking on a sober lifestyle six years ago.
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“[KEVIN SMITH] SAW THE MOVIE SLACKER AND SAID, ‘THIS COUNTS AS A MOVIE?! I WANT TO TRY TO MAKE A MOVIE. I KNOW THAT I COULD DO SOMETHING LIKE THIS.’ SO, YOU KNOW, THAT’S WHEN HE CAME UP WITH CLERKS.”
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Jay & Silent Bob Reboot is about how the duo wants to stop Hollywood from filming a reboot of their movie. Do you think there are too many reboots today? Not really. It’s fun for me to see what people do and where they go with it. It’s really just Jay and Bob making fun of remakes, but not making fun of [specific movies] at the same time. For me, it’s interesting to see that they want to try to reboot something and bring it back. I definitely think they shouldn’t touch certain movies, but at the same time, it’s always important to say, “Oh, I wonder if it’s going to turn out good? Is it going to be bad? Is it going to be decent?” So no, I don’t personally think so. But over 10 actors/voice actors have played Batman. I see, but I feel like if they would stick with the same man, and I could be wrong, it wouldn’t [be as great]. I think that they redid Batman because they wanted to tell a new story, or the person just didn’t want to be Batman anymore. I feel like if someone in Spider-Man starred in a movie, if he loves being Spider-Man, and they’re going to do 10 [films], then maybe he’ll do 10. I know as far as the studio is concerned, it might be the studio’s decision. But I feel like a lot of times the actor just decides, “Oh, I don’t wanna do that anymore.” And they want to make a new move. So, to me, the old Batmans are awesome and then the new Batmans were cool to see. Everyone has their own favorite. I didn’t think anyone could do a better Joker than Jack Nicholson, and then you had Heath Ledger, who was awesome. I wouldn’t say he was better than Jack Nicholson, but he definitely did his own Joker. And now we get to say, “This Joker is amazing, or this Joker is amazing,” but they were different. If they decided not to do a new Batman, we would’ve never got to see the Batman with Ledger, and we would’ve missed that brilliant performance.
Did Jay & Silent Bob begin as a skit? No. Kevin said, “Hey, I’m writing a movie.” He tells the story best, but he saw the movie Slacker and said, “This counts as a movie?! I want to try to make a movie. I know that I could do something like this.” So, you know, that’s when he came up with Clerks. He came up with Jay, because he always thought I was funny, and he wanted to find out if other people also found my sense of humor funny. Not just him, but people in our neighborhood in New Jersey. “Will people in Portland find us funny? Will people in Los Angeles find us funny?” So, you know, that’s how he came up with the character Jay. That was based on exactly how I was at the time, at the age of 13 up to 17, when we filmed the movie. So, is Clerks 3 a for sure thing? It seems that way. I know Kevin is definitely writing the script. I think it’s a really good idea for a script. I know he spoke to Jeff [Anderson] and Jeff’s in. And why it didn’t happen last time—there was a script there, and you know, we had a place to shoot it, and the money was there. But with Jeff, I don’t know what happened at the time, but he was busy. Something happened, and we had to move on. So, then we were going to do a Mallrats [sequel], and Mallrats didn’t happen, because Universal owned the rights to Mallrats and didn’t want to make the movie. CultureMagazine.com
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Tell us about your three new strains. Kevin met with Mike [Brunson], who’s a big part of that, and he loved his stuff. He was telling me that he’s been wanting to do a Jay and Bob line. And Mike was like, “I can totally make that happen.” So, he sat down and made three brand-new strains of the sativa, hybrid and indica, and we got to put our names on them, with Snoochie Boochies, Snoogans and Berzerker. It just came about with Kevin having a conversation and wanting to do it for a long time. But also trying these other strains and falling in love with them. What do you think about America’s cannabis laws? Are they too harsh? I’ve always thought it’s been crazy. People have gotten in trouble just for carrying a doobie on them. That, I definitely think is crazy. I get it when someone’s doing backroom deals with pounds and pounds and the danger of doing something sketchy, but yes, I definitely think it’s too harsh. I remember when we got arrested once when I was in Highlands, New Jersey. I believe I was about 17 or 18 years old. We were coming back from the beach and my buddy had smoked, and when he threw the roach out the window, it blew back in the window, and it was on the floor when we got pulled over. They brought us all down to the police station for just a roach—and I mean, there wasn’t like any weed left in it, in the paper. It was pretty much just an empty soggy piece of paper with the resin on it. My buddy looked at the cop and said, “Hey, it’s my car.” We had no idea it was on the floor and we’d get in trouble. He ended up getting on probation and community 34
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service or something crazy like that. That, to me, is ridiculous. So, you know, it’s pretty awesome that you can go to certain states and just walk in a store with your ID. You recently directed Madness in the Method. What is the film all about? [Directing] is something that I’ve wanted to do for a while, because I got to mess around with Kevin a few times, and he let me direct some excerpts. As time went on, as I do movie after movie, I started thinking like a director, like, “Hey, why would I come through this door? Wouldn’t I rather come this other way?” That’s what happened. It was because I wanted to challenge myself and do something different. That’s what [Madness in the Method] is all about—an alternative version of Jay Mewes, and how people always ask him to play those “Snoochie Boochies guys.” Do you plan on directing more movies? I would love to. It’s just a matter of if someone wants to give me another opportunity. I wish I could write and do what Kevin did with Clerks. I sort of did that with this movie, but I had my friend write. I think that once things have calmed down with Jay & Silent Bob Reboot, and we’re done touring, I can really sit down and try to figure out a plan. Or I’m hoping that someone sees the movie and already has money and a script, and just wants me to direct their movie. You’ve been doing the “Jay & Silent Bob Get Old” podcast for nearly 10 years now. Why do you think it’s lasted so long? I think because we just kept
touring with it. It started off at the Black Box Theater. Kevin had opened up called SModcastle. That’s where the idea sort of stemmed from. Kevin was doing a couple of live shows. It looked like so much fun, and I said I really wanted to do a podcast. And he said, “What are we going to talk about?” I said “I don’t know.” Then he said, “You were four years sober, and relapsed, you were doing so good, so why do you think you relapsed?” I explained that I wasn’t accountable to anybody.
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I stopped going to meetings. I didn’t have any support system. So he said, “Let’s do the podcast. We’ll talk about your stuff. You’ll never forget about it, because we’ll be talking about it so much. And you want to go back there and doing that again—you know, living in an apartment with no heater. And you’ll be accountable to the listeners.” So it started off with 40 people, and others started to download it. We downloaded it on SModcastle. It sold out like in a week. We had no idea that that many people would want to watch. Then we moved up to the Jon Lovitz Comedy Club, which held 160 people. And that was selling out every week. We decided if we’re doing it in New York, we might as well go to Florida. We just started setting up the tour, and I think a combination of keeping the stories fresh each time and being able to tour to different cities. Then we went to Australia and London and Scotland. That’s all part of why [it lasted]. What upcoming projects do you have to announce? Reboot Roadshow will be on in a city near you. Besides that, there are no movies I’m locked into now. I’ve been streaming on Twitch. I build Legos. I do IRL, like backpacking and doing different things. And I also play video games. JayMewes is my Twitch channel. Kevin and I are actually doing something this week together, so I’m trying to do collabs with people, and there’s a couple of them set up. Keep an eye out for them. Besides the Reboot, the movie, and doing press, I’ve been mainly streaming in my free time. c www.jmewes.com
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Fabled Filmmaker Kevin Smith discusses vape-related lung illness epidemic amid cannabis line release by Benjamin M. Adams
Kevin Smith is undoubtedly Jason Mewes’ true partner-in-crime, and the two have remained friends through thick and thin—both on and off the screen. Smith’s more recent film, Jay & Silent Bob Reboot, was released theatrically in the United States on Oct. 15, and he is currently working on the upcoming comedy horror anthology Killroy Was Here and writing the script for Clerks III, which he hopes to release soon. In addition, Smith is working on his Netflix original animated series Masters of the Universe: Revelation, a reboot of the classic 1983 TV show. Anyone who is familiar with the View Askewniverse knows that Smith adores the leafy green plant. Smith and Mewes recently collaborated with Caviar Gold’s Mike Brunson to create three strains: Snoogans, Snoochie Boochies and Berzerker. The strains are infused with 95 percent pure organic THC distillate and are rolled in kief for a product that resembles moon rocks. The strains are sold in pre-rolls or in 3.5 gram jars. CULTURE recently snagged Smith at Herbarium, one of his personal favorite dispensaries in West Hollywood, California. In the wake of the nationwide vaping scare, Smith provided some insight about his thoughts on the epidemic, as entrepreneurship within the cannabis industry often overlaps with the vaping industry. “Well what happened is the government said a couple days ago that ‘we’re taking vaping off the market’ and a lot of states are dropping it instantly like a hot rock, in such a way,” Smith explained. “There have been six to 10 deaths—which are heartbreaking—but the way they were like ‘we’ve got to get rid of this instantly,’ you’d think they know something that we don’t. Like that vaping causes vampirism or makes you turn into a werewolf. But instead they called it a public health hazard.” “The only question that I have is, and I’m not a vaper myself, is that 10 people have died from vaping,” Smith added. “But how many people died from smoking a cigarette yesterday? Where’s the public crisis for this? It just makes no sense.” Since speaking with Smith, there have been more incidents totally to a several dozen total vapingrelated lung illness deaths—but as he said, it pales in comparison to cigarette deaths. According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cigarette smoking is responsible for 1,300 deaths per day worldwide. The real crisis, he explained, would be better suited to focus on the prevalence of cigarettes or one of the many deadly substances such as alcohol or opioids. Smith has ventured into the cannabis industry multiple times before. Los Angeles, California-based Bud & Roses, for instance, sold two strains several years ago that were named after Smith’s outrageous comedy-horror film Tusk. His latest foray into the industry likely won’t be his last. c
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12 DAYS OF Pay it forward by supporting these 12 altruistic cannabis companies and charitable organizations
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By Caroline Hayes
The nation’s cannabis industry is a tight-knit one, and it’s in full effect in many states. Various cannabis companies are consistently working together to improve laws, innovate and come together for philanthropic efforts. The industry generates a lot of revenue, allowing the profitable companies to use their powers for good and give back from local to global levels. CULTURE highlights several companies for our 12 Days of Giving special that are focused on charity in the cannabis space. Compassion leads to healing, and it’s happening just in time for the holidays.
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Bloom Farms Bloom Farms, a cannabis- and hemp-derived CBD company, is committed to helping solve the problem of food insecurity in the states that the company operates in, year after year, by partnering with local food banks. Bloom Farms proudly announced in November that it served its two-millionth meal as a direct result of its 1-1 meal program, which launched in December of 2015. For every Bloom Farms product sold, the company donates one meal to a local food bank in California or Nevada. Michael Ray, founder and CEO of Bloom Farms told CULTURE that the 1-1 program is part of the company’s infrastructure. “We are seeing firsthand the lightbulb go off for some people when they realize they can contribute to real change simply through purchasing decisions that have some kind of social giveback, and we think it raises their expectations for what companies across all industries should be doing,” Ray said. Bloom Farms encourages donations to local food banks nationwide. Visit bloomfarms.com to sign up as a volunteer, and purchase Bloom Farms products in stores to contribute to the 1-1 meal program.
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Cannabis Doing Good Awards Other ways the cannabis industry is feeling the effects of dogooders is by celebrating them in an event that supports even more organizations. The 2019 Cannabis Doing Good Awards was a gala that supported Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains and was a celebration of cannabis companies’ charitable movements. Courtney Mathis, CEO and co-founder of Cannabis Doing Good told CULTURE, “When we set out to create the awards, one of our primary goals was to give consumers, patients and other businesses a way to identify impactful product or partners in our industry. I think we’ve done that and given folks a fun,
“[…] We have made an impact by creating bridges of trust between cannabis and noncannabis organizations, which have been difficult to navigate because not every organization wants to accept cannabis dollars or be associated with cannabis companies.” accessible way to celebrate the good our industry is doing. We are thrilled to have our first-year awards go out to Sana Packaging, Last Prisoner Project and Lightshade. These companies and the people behind them absolutely uphold our core value—that serving people, planet and communities is a privileged opportunity, unique to this industry, to deploy economic, political and social change-making. Businesses for good are no longer the future, they are the right now.” Cannabis Doing Good is inspiring social responsibility in the cannabis industry and encouraging companies to give back. Visit cannabisdoinggood.com to view upcoming events where just your ticket purchase gives back.
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CBD Daily Unfortunately, there is a large population of Individuals Experiencing Homelessness (IEH) in the U.S., but companies like CBD Daily are working hard to provide assistance to those in need. CBD Daily makes a line of CBD-infused body, skin and hair care products, and a portion of the proceeds
are donated to the Get Together Foundation (GTF), which provides aid in the forms of housing, food, clothing and music to IEH. CBD Daily is a love child from Earthly Body, which is a parent company to several different brands, all of which donate proceeds to various associated charities. Kevin and Mare Wachs saw a need for naturally-derived products that were safe and effective for everyone to use and also envisioned an opportunity to generate funds to help those less fortunate. This led them to creating Earthly Body, GTF and CBD Daily. CBD Daily products are made from hemp-based CBD and don’t contain any THC, so they can be purchased online and delivered nationwide. Earthly Body is a company that was designed to give 100 percent of its donations to appropriated charities. Visit cbddailyproducts.com to purchase with the satisfaction of knowing you are supporting people who need help.
4 Elixinol
Elixinol is a hemp-derived CBD company with a vision to positively give back on a global level by donating a portion of every purchase to a nonprofit organization, giving the buyer the choice of which organization to donate to. When you make an online purchase, you choose from one of the listed nonprofits to benefit from the portion of your sale. Currently on that list are The Realm of Caring, Wounded Warrior Project, Autism One, Vote Hemp, American Brain Tumor Association and The Cancer Cure Foundation. Elixinol is driven by a team of visionaries who advocate for natural health and believe in teamwork, which makes their dream of giving back work so well. The company’s 7 Pillars of Success guidelines highlight its sincere cause to give back worldwide and promote good health. Nationwide, consumers can give back simply by purchasing products at elixinol.com. CultureMagazine.com
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Last Prisoner Project The Last Prisoner Project (LPP), founded by Harborside’s Steve DeAngelo, is a diversely-run nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting those who have been negatively affected by the “War on Drugs.” The nonprofit group raises money to benefit their efforts. Earlier in 2019, nearly $30,000 was collected to benefit the LPP from a swanky dinner party featuring a famous chef and a few Hollywood names. In addition, the efforts from LPP’s partnership with the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) led efforts to create equity and re-introduction into the cannabis industry for those who are low-income, people of color and have had their lives derailed by minor drug charges. LPP and ACLU host forums to educate local townspeople how to restore justice in the cannabis space now that legalization and decriminalization are sweeping the country causing some crimes to be no longer illegal. In addition to providing education, the LPP is providing assistance with donations to help those affected by the “War on Drugs” get back onto their feet. The LPP took home the Change Maker Award at the 2019 Cannabis Doing Good Awards. Donate at lastprisonerproject.org.
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Lightshade Lightshade, a Colorado dispensary chain, is taking care of those who need a little extra help this holiday season and all year long. For this season of giving “Lightshade [will] sponsor nine families with young children through Colorado Homeless Families and integrate all of our employees in shopping for, wrapping presents and presenting to the recipients,” Lisa Gee, director of marketing and CSR for Lightshade told CULTURE. Lightshade regularly donates clothing, toiletries and food to Aurora’s homeless population, and once a year, the company hosts Aurora Warms the Night, where Lightshade provides a shower trailer complete with actual restrooms. Lightshade collects warm clothing during its The Season of Giving
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“We are seeing firsthand the lightbulb go off for some people when they realize they can contribute to real change simply through purchasing decisions that have some kind of social giveback, and we think it raises their expectations for what companies across all industries should be doing.” Campaign. Also, when temperatures drop below 20 degrees, Lightshade funds hotel rooms for the homeless. Also noted by Gee are the monthly donations to The Gathering Place, a day shelter for women, children and LGBTQ people in Denver. In 2019, Lightshade provided 3,492 hours of volunteer work, donated more than $120,000 in in-kind donations and nine percent in financial donations. Lightshade won the Good Neighbor Award at the 2019 Cannabis Doing Good Awards. You can support this notable company by simply shopping at its stores and contributing when Lightshade holds food and clothing drives at its various storefronts.
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MagicalButter MagicalButter is a DIY-botanical extractor, designed for making cannabis butters or oils right at home. Every year in December, the Florida-based MagicalButter team comes together and chooses a charitable cause for its Cheers to Goodness! program. In 2016,
Puerto Rico legalized medical cannabis, which began the uprising of its cannabis industry. In 2017, Hurricane Maria wreaked havoc on the island and destroyed the building of processing facilities, equipment, greenhouses and storefronts. This was a major setback for their medical cannabis patients. For its 2018 Cheers to Goodness! program, MagicalButter chose to show Puerto Rico some love. Garyn Angel, CEO and founder told CULTURE, “As you are well aware, Hurricane Maria ravaged Puerto Rico. MagicalButter couldn’t stand by and watch. We immediately wanted to help and flew down to the island many times in the storm’s aftermath with much-needed supplies. Beyond the basics, [we] donated 420 MagicalButter machines directly to medical cannabis patients. Together we win.” Support MagicalButter’s Cheers to Goodness program this year by purchasing your own Magical Butter maker at magicalbutter.com.
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Sana Packaging It’s no secret that the cannabis industry, like so many other industries, generates a lot of one-time use waste. Contributing to the Earth’s well-being all year long is necessary for a healthy planet. Sana Packaging is dedicated to creating sustainable and compliant packaging for the cannabis industry. Founded by college buddies James Eichner and Ron Basak-Smith, Sana provides an alternative to plastics and a desire to drive business in the U.S. “Localization is incredibly important as our goal is to create cannabis packaging for a circular economy. As we expand globally, our goal will be to localize our supply chains and manufacturing in different regions where we have a strong presence,” Eichner explained. Sana Packaging products are made from U.S. sourced hemp and reclaimed ocean plastics from Oceanworks, a California company that deals in reclaimed and recycled ocean plastics on a global level. Not only does the company care about the environment, it cares about contributing to cannabis advocacy and reform. The National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA) and Students for Sensible Drug Policy benefit from Sana’s donations. Sana won the Love Your Planet award at the 2019 Cannabis Doing Good Awards. Visit sanapackaging.com to learn more about a better alternative to traditional plastic.
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The Sublime Foundation The cannabis industry has an apparent disconnect between people who need cannabis and those are actually able to access it. The Sublime Foundation is a subgroup of Sublime Canna, a cannabis product company in California. The foundation was created to promote philanthropic programs to help medical cannabis patients gain access to the meds they need to feel better. The Sublime Foundation strives to create equity and good health in the cannabis workplace in hopes that those efforts will assist its goals of helping people get back on track, whether it be in the workplace or healing with cannabis. In addition, The Sublime Foundation supports those 42
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whose lives have been negatively affected by the “War on Drugs” by encouraging social equality in the workforce. The Sublime Foundation’s vision proudly states, “We envision a cannabis company that promotes the physical, mental and financial wellbeing of underserved communities worldwide.” Reach out to The Sublime Foundation to donate, or if someone you know could benefit from these services, visit sublimefoundation.com.
10 Tokeativity®
Tokeativity® is a nonprofit, global women’s social club that supports a few different women empowerment programs. Founders Lisa Snyder and Samantha Montanaro told CULTURE that Tokeativity® donates to the ACLU, Planned Parenthood, Warrior Sisters and Women Leaders in Cannabis. “We focus on organizations that will have the largest impact on women in our local communities,” the founders said. Tokeativity® also hosts a scholarship program in addition to the retreats it hosts several times a year. “Access and lack of funds is one of the biggest barriers for women to pursue personal and professional growth. The biggest impacts we have seen have been low income and minority women being able to access connections and resources through our Tokeativity® global network. Additionally, we have made an impact by creating bridges of trust between cannabis and noncannabis organizations, which have been difficult to navigate because not every organization wants to accept cannabis dollars or be associated with cannabis companies,” the founders said. Visit tokeativity.com to acquire more information on how to get involved with the group or start your own chapter.
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Veterans For Cannabis Sick from the prescription meds given for PTSD or pain, U.S. veterans are requesting better access to clean, affordable, medical cannabis. Veterans For Cannabis (VCF) has created a system that benefits
veterans’ needs. VFC teamed up with Medical Genomics and Potent LTD to create a three-step approach for cannabis for veterans. The goals are as follows: 1) Consistent, good quality CBD oil with specific dosing guidelines and a way to track progress through the VFC foundation, 2) Working to create consistent, DNA sequenced certified cannabis strains in stores in states with medical cannabis so veterans can be sure they are getting the same exact product every time, and 3) Getting VFC certified cannabis in dispensaries in states with recreational cannabis that will be sold at a lower cost for veterans. There is an epidemic with the quality of health among veterans in this country. The accidental overdose death rate from prescription drugs is higher in veterans than any other social group, and the VFC’s website reports that 22 veterans die by suicide per day. There are a variety of cannabis for veteran projects circulating the country. Look into how you can assist our nation’s heroes this holiday season by donating at vfcusa.com.
12 Weed for Good
Weed for Good is a nonprofit organization that contributes its time to helping chronically or terminally ill patients who can’t afford cannabis medication in California. Cannabis products can be pricey, and no matter how much they might improve one’s health, many can’t afford to use them regularly enough to benefit from the relief. Weed for Good provides free or low-cost medical cannabis to those in need with donations from local cannabis companies and business partnerships with local organizations, hospitals and clinics. The organization also relies on cash donations from its community, and it benefits from licensed volunteers donating their time. Head to weedforgood.org to donate, volunteer or request services. Because of current federal laws, Weed For Good can’t offer its services to anyone not in California, but it does run throughout the entire state. c
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In d u s try I n s id er
Striking Gold
KushCo Holdings CEO Nick Kovacevich dominates the green rush without ever touching the plant
By R. Scott Rappold When the California Gold Rush broke out in 1848, the first millionaire didn’t get rich by mining or prospecting. San Francisco businessman Samuel Brannan made the first million dollars selling equipment to the frenzied hordes who descended on California with gold in their dreams and money bursting out of their pockets. He went on to become one of the world’s richest men. A different sort of rush is happening now in California and the other 10 states that have legalized cannabis. It’s been called the “Green Rush,” and like Brannan, one California company is proving you don’t need to grow, sell, extract or even touch the plant to be successful. “We have a small part of more legal cannabis transactions than any other company in the world,” says Nick Kovacevich, 33, chairman and CEO of KushCo Holdings. “Maybe 44
we provided them with the vaping pen. Maybe we provided them with the packaging. Maybe we provided them with branding services.” In just five years the company has grown from practically nothing to $145 million in annual sales providing packaging, branding, vaping products and myriad other services to the burgeoning legal cannabis industry. “One way or another, if you’re picking up a product, there’s a high likelihood we had something to do with it. Because we’re working with 6,000 cannabis businesses throughout the world, we’re getting our fingers and hands on a lot of these transactions. By being an ancillary company, we don’t actually touch the plant.”
“When people were looking at growing and opening dispensaries, we were looking at how do we build a set of products to support those endeavors?
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E ntrepreneurial Spirit A born entrepreneur, Kovacevich launched his first company in 2007 with a college friend. PackMyDorm provided college students at four California campuses with packing materials, scheduled movers, arranged storage between semesters and scheduled movers for the return to school. He wasn’t lifting heavy boxes, though. The actual moving was contracted out. He sold the company in 2010. Around that time, Kovacevich grew interested in the cannabis industry. He’d been raised by his district-attorney father to see it in a negative light and as an athlete in college he rarely partook. It was while recovering from knee surgery he decided to try it again and “quickly realized a lot of the information I believed was false.” Ever the entrepreneur, he decided after selling PackMyDorm he would launch his own company in 2010.
Medical cannabis was booming in places like California and Colorado, but he didn’t want to join with the rest of the herd and run a farm or store. “When people were looking at growing and opening dispensaries, we were looking at how do we build a set of products to support those endeavors? What are they going to need on a daily basis that we can provide?” he recalled. So Kush Bottles was born, designing and selling packaging for cannabis products and helping to make childproof packages the industry standard. He took over as CEO in 2014 and has since renamed the company KushCo Holdings, because these days, the company is about way more than just bottles.
E xponential Growth Today, Kovacevich’s company is actually several smaller companies: Kush Supply Co. provides vaporizer products, packaging, supplies and accessories. Kush Energy sells ultra-pure hydrocarbon gases and solvents. The Hybrid Creative is a design agency for cannabis and non-cannabis brands. Koleto Innovations focuses on research and development. From his humble beginnings, his companies have sold more than 1 billion units, with 220 employees spread across five facilities in five states with legal cannabis. Never heard of these companies? Not surprising. They don’t sell a single product containing THC. That’s up to their customers. He credits his success to foresight and customer service. KushCo Holdings had a warehouse in Colorado within a few months of legalization there. It had one in Washington years before legalization. It had one in Massachusetts three months before legal cannabis sales began there. And having customers who are also growing exponentially helps too. “All our customers, for the most part, have been growing. So, when our customers grow, they buy more from us, which means we grow.”
T aking on the Black Market There are still threats to the industry, but Kovacevich sees none greater than the black market. “The black market, especially in California, is very rampant. People in this industry are used to buying through informal sources like dealers, but they’re also used to going to pop-up medical shops, which are now servicing rec,” he says. This year, the United Cannabis Business Association released an analysis that found there were 2,835 illegal stores and delivery services in California, more than three times the 873 legal sellers.
“One way or another, if you’re picking up a product, there’s a high likelihood we had something to do with it.” Kovacevich says these illicit operations often sell vaporizers and other products that are untested and potentially unsafe, contributing to the wave of vapingrelated illnesses sweeping the nation. He blames the fact that California doesn’t have enough retail cannabis stores to meet the needs of the state, and many cities have none at all, since the state left it up to municipalities to determine if they would have dispensaries. “There are not enough stores from the convenience standpoint and because of the testing requirements and all the onerous red tapes, pricing is significantly higher, so the black market is winning on convenience and price,” he said. “The key to taking back the market is to make it more convenient, by allowing more retail stores, and driving the cost down by lowering taxes.” He sees the need for the federal government to begin regulating the industry to ensure what’s in cannabis and vaping products is safe. Of course, that would involve removing it from the list of Schedule I drugs. He pointed out that research has shown teen use decreases in states that establish legal, adultsonly stores. “Everyone is looking for a reason to say legalizing cannabis is a bad idea, but I think if we can create fair, strong regulation, we can make sure the integrity of these products is kept,” he said. “The question is, ‘Why would you not legalize?’ You’re reducing the likelihood that kids will get involved. You’re reducing the crime aspects and you’re making safer, more effective products available for adults who choose to use it.” c www.kushco.com CultureMagazine.com
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The Cocktail Whisperer Warren Bobrow will make your holidays merry with cannabis spirits
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By Addison Herron-Wheeler
t’s once again the season to be merry, and for a lot of adults, that means more cocktails at holiday parties and family gatherings. But some people would rather light up around the Christmas tree than drink alcohol and be subject to the inevitable after-effects. Those folks are in luck, because Warren Bobrow, a cannabis cocktail master, is here to make that tradition a thing of the past. Bobrow has used his unmatched cannabis mixology know-how to write a book on the craft called Cannabis Cocktails, Mocktails & Tonics: The Art of Spirited Drinks and Buzz-Worthy Libations. He’s also a master menu-creator when it comes to infusions with cannabis. CULTURE chatted with the “Cocktail Whisperer” about how to keep things merry and bright this season with a little bit of liquid cheer.
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How did you first get interested in mixology, specifically with cannabis? I had experimented with mixing cannabis with craft spirits after visiting New Orleans during Tales of the Cocktail in 2016. I had scheduled a book signing at the Pharmacy Museum for my third book of six, Bitters and Shrub Syrup Cocktails. At the same time, the museum was holding an exhibit on cannabis in the early apothecary.
My dream was hatched! As a master mixologist and cannabis smoker since the tender age of 12 and the eldest grandson of the owner/manufacturer of Geritol, my inspiration was at hand with several books on healing measures, such as my first book, Apothecary Cocktails. The only ingredient missing in that early cocktail book (2013) was cannabis. In the early apothecary, cannabis was probably the only ingredient that actually did anything!
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What about cannabis cocktails do you think invites creativity and experimenting? The feeling of the crossfade is the most intriguing thing. You just don’t get that euphoric feeling from CBD; that’s why I hardly work with it. I like the feeling that I get from THC. And I believe for the entourage effect to be most pronounced, you need THC and CBD—not just CBD. It’s a balance. Like life itself. Tell us about your writing career— how did you start writing? I was initially a trained chef from dish sink on up. I have an incredibly deep knowledge of food journalism and writing. Clementine Paddleford was an early inspiration, as was Penelope Casas. I’ve always been comfortable writing in blogs, but never in the “real world.” After losing my fresh pasta
How did you first start using cannabis, and how did it influence your life and creative process? I was at a good old Grateful Dead show in 1972 at Roosevelt Stadium in Jersey City, New Jersey. The cannabis may or may not have actually been cannabis. It might have been gerbil droppings for all I knew. But there was something in there that made me more relaxed than I had ever been. Our plant brought me relief of the pain of being Warren. It helped me focus and drill down into my own history. What is your favorite strain or product, and what’s your favorite cannabis cocktail? My favorite cannabis cocktail is the Mezzrole Cocktail, named for Mezz Mezzrow, a jazz-era musician, who not-so-coincidently was Louis Armstrong’s weed dealer in the ’20s
“You just don’t get that euphoric feeling from CBD; that’s why I hardly work with it. I like the feeling that I get from THC. And I believe for the entourage effect to be most pronounced, you need THC and CBD—not just CBD. It’s a balance. Like life itself.” business in hurricane Hugo in 1989, I was forced by necessity to pay off my loans by working in a series of private banks for 20 years, all the while nurturing a career working in wine and spirits on my days off and as a private chef. But it was not fulfilling. I needed to write, but I didn’t know how. I ended up taking some food writing classes, one at the New School with Andy Smith and the other at the then French Culinary Institute for Alan Richman. Alan said I would be making a big mistake by going back into banking. He was right! 48
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and ’30s. A particularly well-rolled cannabis joint was known by the “Hep Cats” as a Mezzrole. A joint or a reefer might get you arrested if you asked the wrong person for one, like a policeman. But a Mezzrole was the hip codeword for reefer in the Jazz Era. What do you think the world of legalization will look like in five or 10 years? Do you think ordering a cannabis cocktail in a bar will ever become the norm? I hope that the stigma dissipates somewhat along with legalization as it spreads around the country. Unfortunately, there are many
preconceived notions about cannabis cocktails. Most importantly, “Will I get destroyed?” That is a real possibility, but I suggest taking the Thai food approach. Never would you go to a Thai restaurant for the first time and order your food five star, Thai Hot. It’s just not done; you’d be destroyed! Cannabis cocktails are the same. You want to start really slowly. They hit pretty fast, so less is definitely more. You can always add, never subtract. But should you take too much, some CBD or a combination of peppercorns and lemon juice work just fine. Don’t be like those folks on VICELAND Live (I made them a THC/ CBD cocktail with Barrell Bourbon and oven-caramelized blood orange juice) who had way more than one per hour. Each drink was at least 100 milligrams of THC . . . They had several in the first 15 minutes or so . . . and then they went out on live TV. It was memorable. Is there anything specific you want to announce, focus on, or highlight right now? I’m doing a mocktail for TSO Sonoma in December, and I’m releasing a liveresin, ready-to-drink mocktail into the market shortly in California. Stay tuned! It’s unlike anything available with an onset time of just a few short minutes, and it’s delicious. My triedand-true recipes. I’m always focusing on the sales of my book, Cannabis Cocktails, Mocktails and Tonics. It’s available on Amazon, Barnes/Noble, Indigo Books in Canada and most indie bookstores globally. Is there anything else you’d like to add? Don’t be afraid of cannabis cocktails. They were making them over 100 years ago in pharmacies. They work for me with my glaucoma, and I hope they offer a non-confrontational approach to “taking your medicine.” At least no one would know that your Vietnamese iced coffee had both THC-infused, condensed milk and Rhum Agricole from Martinique in it. c
cocktailwhisperer.com
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Grow a Winter Crop
GROWING CULTURE
The Autumn Garden
E
By Ed Rosenthal very part of North America has its own unique climate. Oakland, California near San Francisco, has an unusual post-summer glow, and the wind changes direction around Labor Day. Rather than blowing ocean-cooled air onto land—creating the Bay Area’s famous fog—the wind changes direction, creating a clear and sunny September that often stretches into October. My home garden, surrounded by structures and trees, loses direct light due to the autumn sun moving closer to the horizon each day. However, a licensed outdoor garden is on flat land with no obstructions, so it stays sunny the whole day. It seemed like the only solution for this lonely post-harvest farm was to get it working again. I was able to locate 6,000 clones, which were placed three per container. To do this, the soil was broken up a bit using a pitchfork, then the clones were planted by hand. It took three people about four days to accomplish this task. Then the containers were watered using
The buds were set out in midAugust, three per pot.
Plants being harvested. 50
Some were planted even before the last crop was totally harvested.
A floral bouquet.
drip emitters that were installed for the last crop. During the first week, the dark cycle was broken using an HPS lamp mounted on a wooden pole that was permanently secured to a wagon using cement. I was wheeled through aisles in the field so that all the plants got a full light bath twice each night. Each time the light hit the plants they restarted the chemical process that triggers flowering. The plants do not receive a long enough stretch of uninterrupted darkness, preventing the plants from flowering. After one week of vegetative growth in their new quarters, the lights were turned off. The dark period (dusk to dawn, about 9.5 hours) was long enough to induce flowering. The clear sunny weather and daytime temperature in the range of 65 to 75 degrees, was perfect weather for plant and flower growth. As the plants flowered they continued to grow a bit so each triad filled the containers. Bud stretch, common when buds grow in hot weather, was absent. These buds were tight nugs, covered with trichomes and extremely fragrant. c
Field of plants ready to harvest.
Each container contained three plants.
Containers being wheeled to the processing/ drying area.
Plants being hung.
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Example of a ripe bud.
Powerlift is used to reach upper levels.
You can grow plants indoors if you have a sunny south-facing window or enclosed patio. Start with seeds or clones. Using clones cuts the time to harvest by two to three weeks. Plant them in one to five-gallon containers filled with a premium planting mix for indoor cultivation. Since the days are short, which induces flowering, break up the dark cycle two or three times each night using a small wattage bulb such as a compact fluorescent (CFL) on a timer. The light needs to flash on for as little as a minute to keep the plant from flowering. Once they have grown a bit, stop the light enhancement and keep the plants in the dark all night. In about eight weeks the buds will be ready to harvest. The plants and the buds probably won’t be giants, but they should be high quality and fresh.
Example of a ripe bud.
Example of a ripe bud.
Plants hanging on 3 levels.
Dried Mochi bud.
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NORCAL NOW! EVENT LISTINGS
East Bay Alternative Book and Zine Fest 2019, Dec. 7 Whether a zine is printed on quality paper, or if it’s merely a photocopied black and white stapled zine—it does not matter at Zine Fest. This is where underground publications are not only invited, but promoted and celebrated in a non-judgmental environment. Omni Commons, Oakland eastbayalternativebookandzinefest.com
WiLD 94.9 Jingle Ball, Dec. 8 Join Lil Nas X fresh off of his record-breaking number one single release, “Old Town Road,” as well as Charlie Puth, Quinn XCII and other top musical artists. Sponsored by iHeartRadio and WiLD 94.9, this will be one of the busiest annual hip-hop and pop music events to hit the Bay Area this holiday season. The Masonic, San Francisco sfmasonic.com Bobby Lee, Dec. 14 MADtv’s former star Bobby Lee is back, following his numerous appearances in cannabis-centric films such as Pineapple Express and Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle. You should already know why Lee is considered one of the funniest standup comedians around, plus his appreciation for cannabis is an added bonus. The Punch Line San Francisco, San Francisco punchlinecomedyclub.com 52
Emerald Cup, Dec. 14-15 Northern California’s premier cannabis cultivation tournament event is back in its full glory to represent the best of "The Emerald Triangle," composed of Humboldt, Mendocino and Trinity counties and nearby areas. See who will win this year, with some of the best organic and outdoor cannabis that California has to offer. Sonoma County Events Center, Santa Rosa theemeraldcup.com
Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Dec. 19 Layzie Bone of Bone Thugs-N-Harmony eerily predicted the future when he told CULTURE in 2010 that “there have always been marijuana advocates with rap. If the government regulates the product and makes it legal, the profit won’t stop.” The hip-hop group has reunited for more rhymes and revelations. Mystic Theatre, Petaluma mystictheatre.com Berner, Dec. 21 Berner graced the cover of CULTURE for the July 2016 710 issue, due to his affinity for high quality cannabis products with strong potencies. Berner’s latest solo album La Plaza was released on Nov. 11 and features former CULTURE cover celebrities Wiz Khalifa and Snoop Dogg. Warfield, San Francisco thewarfieldtheatre.com
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featured event
TREVOR NOAH, DEC. 7
Late night television was never the same after Trevor Noah took over the helm of The Daily Show following Jon Stewart’s departure. Noah is known for his political commentary, impeccable news briefs and skits on Comedy Central, as well as his ability to have the same impact as Stewart. Chase Center, San Francisco chasecenter.com Cannabis Nutrition, Dec. 21 This free event will help attendees learn how to maximize the healing powers of cannabis in a healthconscious manner. It will include an educational Q&A session with cannabis industry experts, plus THC/CBD tasting and a complementary salad to boot! Ohana Cannabis Co., Emeryville ohanacannabis.com New Year’s Eve Fireworks Celebration, Dec. 31 Start the New Year off the right way, by enjoying a dark night sky full of exploding fireworks. If you’re single and dating, this might be the perfect night to get
cozy and intimate with your significant other in a potentially romantic setting. Central Waterfront, San Francisco sfport.com/events/ calendar New Year’s Eve International Ball, Dec. 31 You don’t have to compromise with class if you attend the New Year’s Eve International Ball’s red carpet event. There will be 10 worldrenowned DJs, including Aykut, KBLO, DJ Santero, DJ Kevin Armstrong, D Double J and DJ Dr. T, as well as a premium open bar and over 4,000 balloon drops. Palace Hotel, San Francisco aykutevents.com/nye
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NEWS of the
WEIRD
BY THE EDITORS AT ANDREWS MCMEEL
LEAD STORY— INEXPLICABLE Mothers Lounge, a company catering to new mothers, has conceived some awkward conversations for women on the receiving end of a recent marketing campaign. The company sent out maternity congratulations cards signed by “Jenny B” that included gift cards and coupons for products attractive to pregnant women. The problem is, as the BBC reported, many of the recipients aren’t pregnant. A woman in Memphis, Tennessee, tweeted: “Who the hell is Jenny B and why did she send me $245 in gift cards to my childhood home congratulating me on my pregnancy?! This is literally how my mother thought she was finding out that I was pregnant. I’m calling the FBI.” Another woman’s mother was “immediately so excited and freaked out . . . I had to quickly tell her I am not in fact pregnant.” Mothers Lounge spokesman Scott Anderson explained that a third-party marketing company provided the mailing list. Sounds like a false-positive to us. AWWWWWWW Faith the one-legged mallard duck, of Gardner, Maine, will soon have more than one leg to stand on, thanks to Loni Hamner. Faith lost her leg in a fox attack last year but has been making do, Hamner 54
told the Bangor Daily News: “She has taught herself how to stand and balance on that one leg.” PUTTING OFF THE INEVITABLE Convicted bank robber and career criminal Michael Jauernik, 71, received a sentence of more than 12 years in prison in Germany on Oct. 7, but managed to stall his incarceration by delivering a five-day-long closing statement that included anecdotes about his career in crime and details about his fitness routine. Twenty hours into the soliloquy, the judge finally cut him off, saying she wished she had done so earlier in light of his “excessive digressions,” The Guardian reported. Jauernik, who wore sunglasses throughout his trial, told the court, “I am more intelligent and clever than any employee of the criminal police agency, that much is sure.” IT’S HARD TO FIND GOOD HELP After six years of litigation, six men were found guilty of attempted murder in late October in Guangxi, China, for participating in a chain of subcontracted murderfor-hire plots that never resulted in a death. Businessman Tan Youhui started the chain by hiring a hit man to “take out” a rival identified only as Mr. Wei, reported the BBC. That hit man then subcontracted a second hit man to do the dirty deed. Hit man No. 2 subcontracted with hit man No. 3, who then reached out to hit man No. 4. After getting the nod from No. 4, hit man No. 5, Ling Xiansi, decided
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on a different scheme: He contacted the target, Mr. Wei, and proposed they fake the murder and take the cash, which by this point amounted to 100,000 yen. Wei agreed, then reported the case to the police. Tan and the five hitmen will serve sentences ranging from 31 months to five years. LEAST COMPETENT CRIMINAL Miguel Angel ReyesAvila, 23, of Half Moon Bay, California, waited patiently until his neighbors took their dog for a walk on Oct. 6, then pounced, according to the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office. The San Jose Mercury News reports Reyes-Avila then allegedly entered their home through an open window and lifted about $4,000 worth of jewelry, plus the keys to their 2009 Mitsubishi. When the neighbors returned home and found their car gone, they called police, who asked neighborhood folks to share their security footage. Most helpful was the video from Reyes-Avila’s own home, provided by another resident who was happy to help law enforcement. The camera caught a suspect driving away in the car, and sheriff’s office spokesperson Rosemerry Blankswade said officers recognized Reyes-Avila from earlier incidents and arrested him on Oct. 10 on charges of felony burglary and grand theft auto. PRECOCIOUS PET Archie, a French bulldog/ Boston terrier mix who lives in Melbourne, Australia, with his human, Dee Borkowski, is in the doghouse after a fiery
event on Oct. 16. As Borkowski watched Archie via her home security camera, he contentedly lounged on the couch, chewing on a cigarette lighter. Suddenly, United Press International reported, the lighter ignited, and her couch burst into flames. Borkowski called the fire department, and the 10-month-old puppy escaped unhurt, although her apartment suffered thousands of dollars of damage. Borkowski has changed Archie’s Instagram handle to “Archie the Arsonist.” PEOPLE WITH ISSUES Residents of the Oakland neighborhood in Topeka, Kansas, called police just after midnight on Oct. 27 to report that someone was driving construction equipment around the area. The Topeka Capital Journal reported that when officers arrived, they found 46-year-old Shane Dee Funk behind the wheel of a loader, a piece of heavy equipment, driving it through yards and streets and damaging property. Police Capt. Colleen Stuart said Funk refused to stop for officers, and “numerous residences in the loader’s path were evacuated for safety purposes.” When Funk turned the loader toward police, they fired nonlethal bean bag pellets at him to disable him. Funk was treated at a hospital, then booked into the Shawnee County Jail on charges of felony theft, criminal damage to property, aggravated assault to a law enforcement officer and fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement.
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