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inside
contents 4.2019
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L IF E OF A L EGEND
Janis Joplin is one of the most famous female rock stars of all time—her talent as a singer and musical legend is unparalleled, she was far ahead of her time when it came to equality, and she is still a popular figure in cannabis culture to this day. ON THE COVER:
P H OTO BY DAV I D G A H R /G E T T Y I M AG E S
features
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departments news
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Time Flies In just 27 years, Janis Joplin’s lifetime was dotted with many exciting milestones.
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Beginner Friendly Everything you need to know about cannabis if you’re new to the scene.
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Spiritual Connection Cannabis-cultivating nun, Sister Kate, discusses the story of the Sisters of the Valley and their new documentary, Breaking Habits.
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10 News Nuggets 14 By the Numbers 18 Local News reviews 22 Company Highlight 24 Strain, Edible & Concentrate Reviews 26 Cool Stuff in every issue 56 À La Carte 60 Growing Culture
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Online Exclusive! d Study States That Medical Cannabis Increases Productivity d
Ultimate 420 Playlist
VOL 10 ISSUE 10
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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, David Edmundson. Caroline Hayes, Carl Kozlowski, Alison Malsbury, Emily Manke, Kiara Manns, Madison Ortiz, Denise Pollicella, R. Scott Rappold, Ed Rosenthal, Kimberly R. Simms, 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 Alex Brizicky, Angie Callahan, Eric Bulls, Kim Cook, Casey Roel OFFICE MANAGER Mikayla Aguilar
CULTURE® Magazine is published every month and distributes magazines at over 600 locations throughout the Southern California. No articles, illustrations, photographs, or other matter within may be reproduced without written permission. CULTURE® Magazine is a registered trademark. All rights reserved.
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NEWS
NUGGETS
Mountain View City Council Upholds Cannabis Ordinance Despite a heated protest from parents and residents who rejected the idea of allowing cannabis businesses, the Mountain View City Council on March 5 kept most of the language in Ordinance No. 10.18 intact. Over 130 people spoke out and mostly opposed allowing cannabis businesses in the city, and the hearing lasted four-anda-half hours. “Given the fact that
marijuana has garnered almost twice as many votes as every single one of you councilmembers, every time it has been on the ballot, I seriously think you should consider your course of action,” Mountain View resident Andrew Gasperini warned at the city council meeting. However, the council did approve extended buffer zones around schools as asked. The city will keep its four planned retail cannabis businesses. Only Mayor Lisa Matichak and Margaret Abe-Koga voted to ban retail shops, while the remaining five councilmembers opposed the ban.
Antioch’s First Dispensary Approved by Planning Commission On March 6, the Antioch Planning Commission approved the city’s first dispensary in one of the two zones approved for cannabis businesses. Located at a former Goodwill store, a company called One Plant plans on selling cannabis products in a 2,500-foot designated area within a 17,000 square-foot warehouse. “There’s always been a stigma to the cannabis industry, so we try to alleviate that stigma by keeping our operational protocols in line with what the community wants,” Chris Hester, owner of One Plant, said at the meeting. “We are usually 10
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not disturbing industrial business parks with our operations.” The team behind One Plant believes that they could attract 300 to 400 customers per day. The company plans on hiring two armed guards and worked closely with the Antioch Police Department to develop trust. The company also plans on offering a corresponding delivery service. The dispensary must now receive approval from city council.
Alaska Becomes First State to License Onsite Cannabis Consumption While individual cities like San Francisco, California and Denver, Colorado allow smoking or vaping in certain cannabis lounges or dispensaries, Alaska is the first state to implement a statewide policy allowing consumption on-site. Alaska Lt. Gov. Kevin Meyer signed regulations on March 12, allowing licensed cannabis stores to apply for on-site cannabis consumption. “When these rules go into effect, Alaska will be the first state to finalize and approve statewide rules for on-site consumption,” said NORML Executive Director Erik Altieri. “We expect more to follow suit in the not too distant future. Allowing social consumption is sensible from a business perspective, particularly for states with large amounts of tourists who otherwise have no place to legally consume, but it also has an important social justice component.” Licensed retail businesses can apply for an onsite use endorsement beginning on April 11.
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The approximate number of cannabis-related convictions that San Francisco prosecutors announced in late-February are eligible for expungement: (Source: NBC Los Angeles)
The estimated number of Mountain View residents who attended a city council meeting about a cannabis ordinance in early March: (Source: Mountain View Voice)
9,300
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The number of votes, out of four, that the San Rafael City Council cast in favor of allowing recreational cannabis businesses to operate within city limits: (Source: Marin Independent Journal)
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The estimated amount of money, in millions of dollars, that the Bureau of Cannabis Control allocated to give to a variety of Californian cities in order to help fund equity programs: (Source: Bureau of Cannabis Control)
The amount of money, in millions of dollars, that Oklahoma recorded in medical cannabis sales during the month of February:
7.2
(Source: CBS Local)
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The number of votes from the Florida Senate, out of 112, that were cast in favor of repealing the state’s ban on the smoking of medical cannabis: (Source: Forbes)
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The approximate number of cannabis-related jobs that became available in 2018 in the U.S.:
64,389
(Source: Yahoo! Finance)
The approximate number of people in Switzerland who consume cannabis regularly: (Source: Associated Press)
200,000
420 Hippie Hill WHEN: Sat, April 20 WHERE: Sharon Meadow, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco WEBSITE: 420hippiehill.com The legendary free event dating back to the ’70s, 420 Hippie Hill, is expected to attract up to 20,000 cannabis consumers this year. In years past, Hippie Hill was an unofficial gathering, but it is now permitted as of 2017, with increased fencing, emergency services and porta-potties in its effort to keep the event from being shut down. Cannabis cannot yet be purchased inside the event, as California is still in the process of defining event 14
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regulations, but consumption will be widespread. Don’t miss out on spinoff events like the infamous New Year’s Eve-styled 3rd Annual 420 Hippie Hill Bud Drop. Don’t be fooled by counterfeit tickets that are circulating as none are needed to enter the event. You merely have to pass through secured entrances. The event location, Sharon Meadow, is home to one of the longest-running drum circles around.
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NEWS
LOCAL
420 Trippie Hill
FAIR AND SQUARE
L e g i s l at i o n t o b l o c k c a n n a b i s businesses from pushing out and e v i c t i n g d i s a d va n ta g e d t e n a n t s moves forward By Benjamin M. Adams
T
he lucrative nature of the cannabis industry and the inevitable “Green Rush” are great news, but it’s important to respect other industries and individuals that aren’t as financially secure. Sadly, the growth of some successful cannabis businesses in Oakland ends up pushing out lower income tenants who can’t afford to compete for the same properties. Oakland tenants such as upand-coming artists in studio spaces who live in live/work properties were hit especially hard. Oakland Councilmember-at-Large Rebecca Kaplan and co-author Councilmember Dan Kalb introduced amendments to city code to prevent cannabis businesses from pushing out tenants from business fields that don’t rake in as much cash as the cannabis industry can. It’s important to not overlook underdogs who work and live outside of the cannabis industry. One example involves The Cannery, an inexpensive live/work hybrid warehouse that was home to several struggling artists who live and create art in the same loft or studio spaces. Then Green Sage came along, a large Denverbased cannabis company, and purchased the entire building. The artists who live there say they are now facing eviction, because they simply can’t compete with the kind of money that a cannabis business can yield. Kaplan told local media outlets that there are 25 other live/ work locations like The Cannery that are found within Oakland’s “Green Zone” with tenants who could eventually face the same fate. The amendments don’t have any effect on existing eviction law. Instead, cannabis
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businesses will be denied permits if they are found to be unfairly displacing tenants. It’s an effective way to stop the businesses from overreaching and bullying poorer tenants. Sadly, the legislation is needed. But according to Attorney Josh Kappel, it’s not so much the cannabis businesses that threaten tenants, but the limited amount of acceptable “Green Zone” areas that end up causing disputes. Still, Kappel supports the measure, because it promotes fairness. On March 8, the Oakland City Council held a special meeting and approved amendments to the city’s cannabis ordinances, Oakland Municipal Code Chapters 5.80 and 5.81. Permits may be issued under Chapters 5.80 or 5.81 to applicants for properties with live/work or residential uses, the legislation explains, so long as the applicant mitigates potential impacts on existing tenants. Certain exemptions apply, such as legitimate evictions, as long as cannabis business operators and landlords are being reasonable in their actions. Julie Wedge is Chief of Staff for Councilmember-at-Large Kaplan and a point of communication for the office. She confirmed that the legislation passed its second and final reading and is now law. “There are no further actions needed by council. This ordinance has passed and is law,” Wedge told CULTURE. “However, the council is the legislative branch. Enforcement of laws is done by executive branch so that would mean the chain of command on implementation would be [Assistant to the City Administrator] Greg Minor, [City Administrator] Sabrina Landreth and the Mayor.” While the cannabis industry continues to become stronger, we can’t forget about how it affects our neighbors. Cannabis industry professionals must work together to promote a good reputation for the industry—and the future of the cannabis industry depends on its integrity. Councilmember-at-Large Kaplan and Kalb’s successful legislation is the first-ofits-kind in the United States, according to KQED. Other cities may take note and pass similar legislation to ensure that cannabis businesses are operating fair and square, and not considered nuisances by neighboring tenants. c
With a firm focus on consuming cannabis, 420 Hippie Hill’s sister event is 420 Trippie Hill. Headlined by former CULTURE cover Berner, the event will also feature performances by Nef the Pharoah, Los Rakas, Kool John, Cellski, MistaRogers and Guapdad 4000. There will also be several DJs spinning including DJs Amen, Shabazz, Aux Cord, Sean G, Umami and Jay Neal. Berner’s Cookies is a powerful sativadominant strain that has become popular around California, with notable clients like Wiz Khalifa. If you’re lucky enough to find this strain, stock up. In addition, Berner’s clothing and accessory brand Cookies SF is a recognizable cannabis-friendly brand logo you can find throughout many dispensaries and smoke shops. Join several rappers and DJs as they gather to unify and support California’s cannabis industry on 420. WHEN: Sat, April 20 WHERE: The Midway, 900 Marin St., San Francisco WEBSITE: themidwaysf.com/ events
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REVIEWS
company highlight
G r e en L e a f L a b Sacramento (916) 924-5227 www.greenleaflabs.com
How would you describe your company? What is your specialty? Green Leaf Lab is a pioneer in cannabis and hemp testing. Established in 2011, Green Leaf Lab is the first cannabis analytical laboratory in the nation to be licensed and accredited by a state agency. We are a full-service analytical laboratory with an emphasis in product development and product testing. We have laboratories located in Oregon and California. What do you offer clients that others don’t? We see ourselves as a partner with our clients. Their success is our success. From the start of sampling, 22
through the testing cycle, and even after reports have been sent out, we go above and beyond to educate and assist our clients with their individual needs. How and why did your company start up? When Rowshan Reordan, the founder and CEO, was growing medical marijuana, she learned that one of her terminally ill patients was exposed to potentially harmful chemicals when consuming cannabis. She realized that the industry needed access to important information regarding potentially harmful compounds that are associated with cannabis production and processing. This knowledge inspired her to open a cannabis analytical lab. Access to education and information for the industry, as well as consumers, has always
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been integral in the mission of Green Leaf Lab. With the changing landscape of medical and recreational cannabis, what do you see as the biggest challenges to your progress as a company? Any advantages? As national legalization occurs, we will be faced with more corporate competition. However, we have learned that having roots in the cannabis industry gives us an advantage over corporate competitors who do not understand our culture or the issues associated with running a cannabis business. What words of advice would you offer anyone seeking to enter the world of cannabis business? One must have the ability to constantly overcome roadblocks and pivot due to the constant change and evolution in the industry. Treat your employees well along the way. Stay involved
with the community. It is important that we all support each other’s efforts. What are the goals and vision moving forward, for your company? Where do you see your company in five years? We recently expanded from Oregon and opened a new laboratory in California. Our goal is to continue offering accurate and consistent science, as well as unparalleled customer service as we continue to grow. We plan to continue this growth and open more laboratories in the next five years. What do you hope to accomplish in the cannabis industry? We hope to continue being leaders in analytical cannabis science and continue to educate the industry in understanding the value and importance of quality control testing for a safe product and happy and healthy consumers. c
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REVIEWS
strain, edible & concentrate
Pineapple Wonder by WILLIE’S RESERVE™ Cannabis is quickly becoming an industry that defines what it means to be American. Nowhere else can cannabis be so freely accessed with a variety of landrace and creatively cultivated new strains—and nowhere else can a partnership between Willie Nelson and up-and-coming country singer Margo Price begin to bud. Price’s namesake product, a sativa cartridge filled with Pineapple Wonder, is a great reflection of the “All American Made” line of products grown by Moon Made Farms. This product is a cannabis distillate that contains 85.12 percent THC from a relatively new strain developed specifically with her in mind. One drag of this cart, and consumers are set to feel energized to do anything! Pineapple Wonder is also a great motivator and mood booster, arriving just in time for spring. The subtle sweetness of this concentrate is definitely one to be added to your collection.
Available wherever: WILLIE’S RESERVE™ products are carried.
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1:1 Vegan Peanut Butter Chocolate 10mg THC/10mg CBD Bag
Available wherever: Dr. Norm’s products are carried.
Consuming cannabis with a balance of THC and CBD has never been tastier, with a blast of peanut butter and chocolate in every bite. Dr. Norm’s Veganfriendly bite-sized cookies come in several varieties, but the 1:1 Vegan Peanut Butter Chocolate cookies each contain 10mg of THC and 10mg of CBD for a total of 100mg THC and 100mg of CBD per bag. Other decadent flavors include several chocolate chip varieties, CBD-only, THC-only and non-medicated. These carefully-measured cookies make titration a breeze, and the discreet packaging doesn’t include any gimmicks or colors that might appeal to children, which is critical for homes with little ones. Each bag conveniently and clearly displays the manufactured date, date tested, expiration date, dosage and the complete analysis of cannabinoid content. Dr. Norm’s continues to prove that the edibles game in California is unsurpassed.
Camino Gummies When it comes to edibles, you can’t go wrong with classic gummies—but Kiva Confections has a whole new inspiration to share. These Camino Gummies, which are offered in the flavors of Pineapple Habanero, Sparkling Pear and Wild Berry, are actually inspired by sights that can be witnessed along California’s famous El Camino Real. This 600-mile stretch links the southernmost part of San Diego to the northern reaches of Sonoma County. Each Camino Gummy pulls inspiration from a location along California’s coast, in an attempt to place the consumer into a “California State of Mind.” Made with all-natural ingredients, these gummies are carefully curated with specific terpenes to create delicious and location inspired experiences. Pineapple Habanero is an uplifting sativa gummy, carefully microdosed with 5mg THC per gummy, which is inspired by the beautiful marriage of sweet and heat, as seen in the beauty of the Mojave Desert. Sparkling Pear contains 2mg THC and 6mg CBD per gummy, and it utilizes the stereotypical flavors of Napa Valley Wine Country, such as crisp pear mixed with a fresh, bubbly glass of sparkling wine. And lastly, Wild Berry attests to California’s northern forests, offering 5mg of THC per gummy. Take a stroll, be one with nature, and enjoy slight hints of pine trees, sea air and flavors of blackberry and raspberry. 24
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Available wherever: Kiva Confections products are carried.
Available at: Dispensaries throughout California.
Sativa Pure Roll Make everyday life your special occasion, and mark the festivity with a Sativa Pure Roll. Packed with 0.6 grams of premium flower, at first glimpse of the attractive packaging of this joint, you know you’re in for Pure quality. Ripping open the branded bag reveals a cute box that perfectly contains one pre-roll and two matches—complete with a coarse striking service right on the box. Get ready for a heady and creative cerebral effect from this pre-roll, which is hinted courtesy the embossed and subtle seed of life design on the box as well. With 420 just around the corner and containing everything you need for an epic smoke session, CULTURE reviewers noted that sharing this joint between three friends led to instant uplifting and energetic bliss. Get ready to socialize, dance and party at your 420 celebration, thanks to the geniuses at Pure.
Available wherever: Dixie Brands products are carried.
Sour Smash Gummies The gummy game is on point these days. The Sour Smash Gummies from Dixie Brands are soft and gooey, just how we like them. They are infused with high quality CO2 extracted hybrid oil for a balanced effect. They come 10 to a container, at 10mg THC per piece, which is a standard dose to most. The Sour Smash Gummies come in three flavors—cherry, lime and blue raspberry. We each ate a full 10mg gummy and settled in for the ride. Although they are called Sour Smash, they will not make your lips pucker and they tasted delicious. The hybrid effect was balanced, not too stimulating and not too sleepy. We didn’t feel any anxiety, and once they fully kicked in, about one hour later, we felt uplifted and relaxed. Although the Sour Smash Gummies didn’t have any CBD, we noticed they reduced the inflammation we were feeling in our knees after a long day of hiking. Stop by your local dispensary to see if they carry Sour Smash Gummies or visit Dixie’s website to see where they are sold.
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REVIEWS
1. Ultramarine Triangle Pipe Expertly designed in New York City, New York and carefully crafted in Portland, Oregon, the Ultramarine Triangle Pipe is all the functionality you need in a well-made quality ceramic pipe. It won’t ever tip over, and its artsy, yet chic design makes it a real conversation piece, which is best for use when friends are over. The pastel color choices appeal to any artist or prop stylist who wants a beautiful, yet functional piece to have on display on a mantle or wherever you want to draw attention. Best of all, you don’t have to fuss with confusing, hard-to-clean areas often found in pipes. Price: $68 More information: yewyewshop.com 2. Mini CFL Sherbet Glass Pencil Dab concentrates with a utensil that is a little more eclectic. Sherbet Glass is famous for its clever pencil dabbing tool designs, available in glass or titanium. Using its impressive compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) color-changing glass, this particular unique dabbing tool operates like any glass wand. It’s shaped and colored like a pencil, complete with the pencil tip and eraser, but it is made out of quality borosilicate glass that won’t easily shatter with a little care. The pencils illuminate and change colors underneath a black light. The mini pencils are only three inches long, so they can fit into most dab wand holders. Price: $70 More information: sherbetglass.com 26
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3. Wulf Micro Vapers, unite! It’s 420, and it no longer means that it’s time to secure massive amounts of flower and blaze all day. Give your lungs a break, and pack your favorite pre-filled cartridge into the Wulf Micro. This handy vaporizer means you can take your 420 celebration to the tallest mountain, or at least on a walk around the neighborhood. As one of the smallest vaporizers we have ever seen, this adorable vape still packs a punch. At two inches tall and one inch wide, this vape will fit discreetly in the palm of your hand and stores conveniently in your pocket or in the small zipper inside your bag. What’s best about this mini vape is that you can enjoy a discreet vaping experience while still having a full-size cart on hand, which is perfect for your daylong 420 shenanigans. Price: $24.99 More Information: wulfmods.com
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4. Silverton Smell-proof? Check. Lockable? Check. Your new favorite cannabis companion just in time for 420? Absolutely! Let us introduce you to the Silverton, a state-of-the-art stash bag made by an innovator in the stash bag game, Stashlogix. Rubber seals and an odor-trapping, heat-resistant liner are not only easy-to-clean, they keep nosey neighbors from knowing what you’re carrying, which is great for car rides, bus rides, skateboard rides—it would even come in handy on a vespa. Just remember to never toke and drive, and keep your most precious goods organized in the Silverton’s removable or adjustable interior divider system. Price: $69 More Information: stashlogix.com
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JANIS JOPLIN REMAINS AN ICON OF MUSIC AND CANNABIS CULTURE By Simon Weedn A little over 50 years ago, Janis Joplin landed like a meteorite in San Francisco, California’s bustling, late ’60s arts and music scene. Armed with one of the utmost powerful and explosive voices in music history, she quickly became one of the most popular and iconic acts to emerge from the Bay Area, as well as one of rock music’s first female stars. Sadly, just a few years into her career, and right as she was truly coming into her own as an artist, her life was cut tragically short at the age of 27. Though Janis Joplin’s brilliance as a musician continues to live on through recordings that find new fans year after year, her strong presence as a woman in a male-dominated industry, her choice to never hide her romantic relationships with women, and her outspokenness about ending cannabis prohibition are often not as well-known and are woefully underappreciated.
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P H O T O B Y E V E N I N G S TA N D A R D/G E T T Y I M A G E S
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Born in Port Arthur, Texas in 1943, Joplin’s early years in the 1950s American South were marked by bullying and alienation. Because of an early love of African American blues music, she was teased and harassed by racist peers, but this passion for the blues would develop into inspiration to become a singer herself. As early as 1962, Joplin’s reputation as a singer would begin to precede her—she became known for carrying an autoharp and performing folk songs around the University of Texas at Austin where she was attending school. However, it wasn’t until after she’d hitchhiked to San Francisco, California in 1963 with old friend and future concert promoter Chet Helms that she began to have a career as a performer. In 1965, Joplin performed her blues song “Mary Jane” alongside The Dick Oxtot Jazz Band. A live recording of the song was later part of the 1975 album, Janis. The first verse of the song has the line, “When I bring home my hard-earned pay, I spend my money all on Mary Jane.” The song also made its way onto the album, The Very Best of Janis Joplin. Joplin joined established San Franciscobased psychedelic blues rockers Big Brother & The Holding Company in 1966 and enabled the band to take its sound to the next level. The band immediately became known for delivering some of the heaviest and most riveting performances of any of the rising West
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“WHEN I BRING HOME MY HARDEARNED PAY, I SPEND MY MONEY ALL ON MARY JANE”.
Coast acts and played one of the most blistering sets of the 1967 Monterey Pop Festival, where the band shared a bill with other legendary artists like The Jimi Hendrix Experience, Otis Redding, The Who and Ravi Shankar. Though the band as a whole innovated a noisy, aggressive and textured sound of electric blues, it was Joplin with her powerful, eviscerating voice and flamboyant hippie style that became the stand out.
P H O T O B Y T E D S T R E S H I N S K Y/ C O R B I S / C O R B I S V I A G E T T Y I M A G E S
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By the end of 1968, Joplin’s time with Big Brother & The Holding Company was fading, and her desire to strike out as a solo artist was growing. In August of 1968, Big Brother & The Holding Company released its seminal work with Joplin on vocals, Cheap Thrills, and managed to capture its fiery sound on tape in all of its glory. In December of that year, the band played its last show with Joplin as its singer, and by June of 1969, she was recording what would become her debut solo release, I Got Dem Ol’ Kozmic Blues Again Mama! Released just a few weeks after a wild and highly inebriated 3 a.m. set at the Woodstock Festival, the record received mixed reviews but still cracked the Billboard Top 50 and was certified gold in two months. In 1970, Joplin returned with renewed vigor and a new backing band, performing a slew of acclaimed concerts including two reunion shows with Big Brother & The Holding Company. At the height of her popularity she appeared on The Dick Cavett Show to perform and be interviewed alongside old Hollywood actress Gloria Swanson, where she took a radical stand for cannabis legalization. In response to Swanson’s comments about repression in the past and criticism of the modern youth movements, Joplin said, “But it shouldn’t be illegal just because somebody up there doesn’t like it. I mean, when you were making movies, x, y and z were considered risqué and you couldn’t do it. Well, now they’re doing it. Back then you couldn’t drink because they didn’t like it; well now you can’t smoke grass. Back then you couldn’t be a flapper because they didn’t like it, and now you can’t play
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rock ‘n’ roll. It seems to me that the people who went through all that prohibition and flapper time should realize that young people are always crazy. You know? And to leave us alone.” In September of 1970 Joplin began work on what would be her final album, Pearl. However, the sessions ended abruptly with Joplin’s death from a heroin overdose on Oct. 4. The record was released posthumously on Jan. 11, 1971, reached number 1 on the Billboard charts, and contains the biggest hit of her career, a cover of Kris Kristofferson’s “Me and Bobby McGee.”
In such a short time, Janis Joplin lived a tremendous life and created one of the most enduring catalogs in rock music so far. She was a radical even amongst radicals. Emerging from one of the most conservative parts of the country, and despite protests from her family, Janis Joplin lived an incredibly free, defiantly shameless life even by the standards of today. In doing so she remains one of the most bright, shimmering lights of ’60s music and a trailblazer for innumerable women who came after her. c
janisjoplin.com
“BUT IT SHOULDN’T BE ILLEGAL JUST BECAUSE SOMEBODY UP THERE DOESN’T LIKE IT. I MEAN, WHEN YOU WERE MAKING MOVIES, X, Y AND Z WERE CONSIDERED RISQUÉ AND YOU COULDN’T DO IT. WELL, NOW THEY’RE DOING IT. BACK THEN YOU COULDN’T DRINK BECAUSE THEY DIDN’T LIKE IT; WELL NOW YOU CAN’T SMOKE GRASS.”
P H OTO BY M I CH A E L O CH S A RCH IVE S/G E T T Y I M AG E S
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SINGER MARY BRIDGET DAVIES IS KEEPING JANIS JOPLIN’S MEMORY ALIVE THROUGH TALENTED INTERPRETATION Over the last decade or so, Mary Bridget Davies built a reputation for being a soulful, authentic interpreter of Janis Joplin’s music, as well as being one of the most knowledgeable individuals about her life and work. Davies has starred in two plays about Joplin’s life and in 2014 was nominated for a Tony Award for her performance as Joplin in the Broadway hit, A Night with Janis Joplin. In addition to her theater work, Davies has toured extensively with both Joplin’s original band, Big Brother & The Holding Company, and her own band, The Mary Bridget Davies Group, as well as narrated the audio book, Love, Janis, a biography of Janis Joplin written by Joplin’s younger sister, Laura. Recently, CULTURE had the opportunity to catch up with Davies and hear all of her thoughts on Joplin’s music and legacy, as well as her own personal connections to music. 36
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Tell us about the first time you ever heard Janis Joplin’s music. Oh yeah! I was a kid and that was my parent’s music. They were in the Vietnamera counterculture, my dad was a musician, and so that was always playing in the house when I was a kid. I can remember jumping up and down on this super ’80s green corduroy couch that we had when I was five or six years old, and when she does that scream at the end of “Piece of My Heart,” I was frenzied. I was like, “What is this?” Then I heard “Summertime,” and it scared me a little bit. I thought it was amazing, but it kind of scared me. I thought, “Why is she screaming? Why is she crying?” But, she instantly had an effect on me, and I was a fan from single digits.
Is there anything different about the way you view Joplin and her music after having portrayed her and interpreted her music yourself for so many years? Well, when I was a little kid I thought she was in her forties; she just seemed so road-worn and had such a tough exterior. But from getting to know her through her friends and family though, the stories they tell gave me such a better understanding of her. I realized she wasn’t just any 27-year-old, she was 27 years old and legitimately the first female rock star in the history of music. She was 27 and coming from a conservative East Texas oil refinery town where she was disappointing her family left and right, because they had what they expected her life to be, and she was doing the exact opposite of that by partying, doing drugs, singing in a band and living in San Francisco. So, there was just such a split down the middle between her wanting to please her family like every child does, but also wanting to be authentic to herself.
Of all Joplin’s music, do you have a favorite album that you find yourself returning to more often than others? That’s hard; that’s like picking children. They’re all so different, because she evolved so quickly. Big Brother & The Holding Company’s Cheap Thrills is such raw, hard blues, as well as being youthful, fun and rebellious. Then, with the Kozmic Blues Band and I Got Dem ‘Ol Kozmic Blues Again Mama! Her sound became a lot more soulful. Around that time she did a Stax review in Memphis, [Tennessee], but it didn’t go over very well because the band was under-rehearsed. But she was reaching for that Otis Redding kind of thing. I love that stuff because she was being experimental, taking chances, and her voice was getting better. Then with the Full Tilt Boogie Band and songs like “Get It While You Can” and even “Me and Bobby McGee,” she was at a point where she wasn’t running away from her roots anymore; because she started out singing old folk and country blues.
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So, it was all way more blues and country, way more fun, and she was moving out of the whole psychedelic thing. But the stuff that I like most are the live recordings. I’ve received a lot of bootleg recordings of her over the years, and I have a copy of her last concert at Harvard Stadium on Aug. 12, 1970, and there is some really good stuff on it. She was just getting so good at that point. Is there a song or an album that you would recommend to someone who was just checking out Joplin for the first time? Yeah! I’d tell them to start at the beginning and listen to Cheap Thrills. However, for those who like folk music a little more, there’s this bootleg called The Typewriter Tape that are recordings of her and Jorma Kaukonen from Hot Tuna and Jefferson Airplane that are just acoustic guitar and vocals only. It’s from before she was in Big Brother & The Holding Company, so it’s a really cool, deep cuts one. If she was alive today, do you think Joplin would be impressed or disappointed with the modern world? I think she would be socially impressed by the attempts to 38
“I THINK SHE’D BE HAPPY [THE END OF CANNABIS PROHIBITION IS] HAPPENING, BUT I THINK SHE’D SAY, “WELL, IT TOOK LONG ENOUGH!” SHE’D HAVE A SMART WAY TO SAY IT.” Mary Bridget Davis performing as Janis Joplin
break down barriers and make things more inclusive for everyone, but I think she would be disappointed by the way that the internet has affected music and the way people make a living doing music. I’ve met many musicians from her period who share that
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disappointment, so I think she’d feel that way too. From old interviews and show flyers, it seems like ending cannabis prohibition was something she actually took pretty seriously. Do you think she’d be impressed
PHOTO BY JOAN MARCUS
with how far things have come with that at least? I think she’d be happy it’s happening, but I think she’d say, “Well, it took long enough!” She’d have a smart way to say it. c anightwithjanisjoplin.com
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P H O T O B Y A B C P H O T O A R C H I V E S /A B C V I A G E T T Y I M A G E S
JANIS JOPLIN, FROM WILD CHILD TO THE TOP OF THE CHARTS Janis Joplin embodied the spirit of the 1960s, from her unrivaled roaring voice to her carefree attitude and eclectic wardrobe. In a short amount of time, she went from a rural Texan girl who sang the blues, to the voice of her generation. Sadly her mantra of “live fast, die young” was all too real, and her life was cut short at the age of only
1943
January 19, Janis Lyn is born to Seth and Dorothy Joplin in Port Arthur, Texas.
Circa December Joplin records her first composition ever, “What Good Can Drinkin’ Do.”
1950
27—cementing her name among the “Forever 27 Club” along with Jimi Hendrix, Kurt Cobain, Amy Winehouse, Jim Morrison and Brian Jones. Joplin accomplished more in 27 years than most people accomplish their whole life, which is why she was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and is forever a part of American music history.
Joplin’s parents notice that Janis, who is a Bluebird junior Girl Scout, craves the spotlight much more than her siblings.
1962
“I have nothing to offer anyone except my own confusion”
1958
After reading about the Beat Generation in Time magazine, Joplin is inspired by poets like Jack Kerouac.
Joplin studies art at Lamar State College of Technology and University of Texas at Austin, and there, the school newspaper publishes a story about her entitled “She Dares to Be Different.” She stands out because she occasionally attends class barefoot and wears jeans instead of a dress. At school, Joplin performs with a folk group called The Waller Creek Boys.
1960
Joplin, a senior at Thomas Jefferson High School, begins singing the blues with fellow classmates. She is bullied for mingling with African Americans in her conservative community.
CONT. ON NEXT PAGE
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1967
1968
August 12, Big Brother & The Holding Company’s album Cheap Thrills is released, featuring a controversial cover drawn by underground comic artist Robert Crumb. It features some of her biggest cover hits like “Piece of my Heart,” “Ball and Chain” and “Summertime.”
August 23, Big Brother & The Holding Company’s self-titled album is released.
1969
March 16, Joplin & the Kozmic Blues Band perform live on The Ed Sullivan Show, one of the most coveted primetime slots on television at the time.
April 19, Rolling Stone magazine gushes about Joplin, writing that “no singer” can accomplish what she has in so little time.
June 17, Janis Joplin and Big Brother & The Holding Company play a pivotal and defining performance at Monterey Pop Festival, achieving national stardom.
December 1, Big Brother & The Holding Company plays its final performance. After that performance, Joplin uses several other band names such as Janis Joplin & the Joplinaires or Janis Joplin & the Janis Joplin Review before settling on the Kozmic Blues Band.
X March 20, Joplin hits number one on the Billboard U.S. Singles Chart with “Me and Bobby McGee,” a song written by Kris Kristofferson and songwriter Fred Foster. The song is ranked number 148 on Rolling Stone magazine’s list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
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February 27, Pearl hits number one on the Billboard 200 and stays there for nine weeks.
1971
January 11, Janis Joplin and the Full Tilt Boogie Band release Joplin’s final recording Pearl posthumously.
1963
January, Joplin, fed up with Texas, hitchhikes to San Francisco, California to join the growing hippie community.
1966
Former Texan and band manager Chet Helms insists that Joplin take over as lead singer of Big Brother & The Holding Company.
1964
In San Francisco, Joplin links up with future Jefferson Airplane guitarist Jorma Kaukonen and together, they record several songs. Joplin becomes romantically involved with both women and men including Jae Whittaker and Peter de Blanc.
Joplin, through long nights of indulgences, withers to 88 pounds. Her friends intervene and convince her to return home to Texas temporarily to clean up from drug use and her affinity for Southern Comfort whiskey.
June 4, Now centered and rejuvenated, Joplin returns to San Francisco. June 10, Members of Big Brother & The Holding Company, now headed by Joplin, play their first gig together. Later, the band regularly plays alongside Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane, Quicksilver Messenger Service and many other psychedelic bands.
August 16, Along with artists like Jimi Hendrix and Carlos Santana, Joplin steals the show at Woodstock with her incredible charisma on-stage. While she arrives excessively late, up to half a million people in the audience are mesmerized by her defining performance.
October 29, Immediately after her death, Rolling Stone magazine puts Joplin on the cover.
1965
September 11, I Got Dem Ol’ Kozmic Blues Again Mama!, Joplin’s only solo album released while she was alive, is released.
October 4, Joplin overdoses on heroin while staying at the Landmark Motor Hotel in Hollywood, California. It’s only two weeks after Jimi Hendrix died, who was also 27 at the time. According to a book by road manager John Cooke, Joplin and many other people in Hollywood that week overdosed from a bad batch of heroin that was going around. Her ashes are scattered in the Pacific Ocean.
1970
October 1, Joplin records her own composition “Mercedes Benz” in one take, just days before her death. It would be covered later on by Elton John and The Supremes.
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CANNA-BASICS A quick reference beginner’s guide to cannabis
By Emily Manke annabis may seem straightforward enough on the surface— it’s a plant that you consume, like tobacco. But its psychoactive and medicinal effects are one-of-a-kind, and the ways in which we can consume and enjoy it are seemingly endless. So what’s a newcomer to the cannabis world to do? There’s a ton to learn, and even walking into a medical dispensary or recreational cannabis retailer can be extremely intimidating. While there is enough information to learn to fill a master’s program, there is also some basic knowledge that can make navigating a cannabis store less overwhelming and more enjoyable. Whether you’re a cannabis novice looking to start from the beginning, or a cannabis expert looking to brush up on the basics, here are some facts to help improve your cannabis experience, just in time for 420.
make humans love it so much. Cannabis growers only cultivate female cannabis plants for this reason. “At the base of the pistil is a calyx. A calyx is made up of plant tissue that is meant to nourish and protect a seed,” Chasen described. “When the pistils are not exposed to pollen, the calyxes swell with plant tissue instead of seeds and these make up the flowers that we consume.” You may hear a budtender or other cannabis expert talking about calyxes, this is what they’re referring to. “On the surface of the flower are trichomes—glandular structures that hold the secondary compounds (cannabinoids, terpenes, etc.),” Chasen explained. “They are the reason why we have a unique psychoactive experience with each cannabis variety.” These compounds are evident in the crystal coating you’ll see on cannabis flower. Those crystals are full of cannabinoids.
Stalks and Leaves
The Anatomy of a Cannabis Plant
The first and most basic cannabis product is good old-fashioned cannabis flower. Cannabis flower is the flowering tops of the cannabis plant that is harvested to be smoked or vaporized. The flower is harvested from a much larger plant. The anatomy of the cannabis plant is helpful in understanding how it all works.
Flower, Calyx and Trichomes
Emma Chasen, co-founder of Eminent Consulting, graduated from Brown University with a B.A. in medicinal plant research and ethnobotany, and is an expert on the cannabis plant and how it affects the human body. Chasen was kind enough to impart her cannabis wisdom to CULTURE. “The female cannabis plant is the plant that produces the flower we consume in the form of ‘nugs’ or ‘buds’,” Chasen explained. “The flowers of the female plant are pistillate flowers because they contain pistils. A pistil is meant to catch pollen.” The pistil is the female reproductive organ, which contains the highest concentrations of cannabinoids that
The rest of the cannabis plant consists of stalks, which Chasen described as the “main woody stem with lateral branching,” and the leaves. The stalks are not psychoactive, but can be used in the same way hemp is used, to make fiber, mulch and other products. The fan leaves, which are the big pointed leaves synonymous with cannabis, can be used to make edibles or salves, but are not powerful enough to be consumed on their own. Fan leaves can grow anywhere up to 13 pointed fingers. Sugar leaves are the smaller frosty leaves that grow off the buds. These leaves are trimmed once the buds are harvested, but due to their high tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content, they’re almost always saved and used for either making hash or edibles. CultureMagazine.com
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Hybrid
Nearly all modern cultivars are hybrids of sativas and indicas. Growers have taken the best parts of cannabis plants and crossbred them to come up with thousands of cultivars that provide as many different effects, aromas and flavors. While most hybrids are listed as either sativa- or indica-dominant, you can’t rely on those categories alone to determine what kind of effects the flower will provide. It’s the cannabinoids inside of it that really count.
Strains
Strains refer to different types of cannabis. Like roses, tea, tobacco or pretty much any plant that humans enjoy, there are a huge number of cannabis varieties. These strains come in three basic types, which are sativa, indica or a hybrid of the two. Most strains are a hybrid, with one or the other being dominant. While the difference between an indica’s or sativa’s effects are debatable, these types of strains are generally agreed to provide, generally not uniformly, two different experiences.
Sativa
Sativa plants tend to be taller and skinnier, and their buds are similarly more skinny, fluffy and less dense. The effect sativas are known for providing is similarly light and airy, with less lethargic effects. A sativa high tends to be more giggly, energizing and creative. If you’re the type of person who wants to paint a picture or go on a hike after you’ve consumed cannabis, look for a sativa strain.
Indica
Indica plants are shorter and fatter than their sativa counterparts, and they also mature more quickly. Their buds look more dense and squat. An indica high is known to be more on the relaxing side, with stronger depressant effects. Indicas have been reported as better for pain relief and anxiety relief and tend to be more for chilling out than enhancing an active experience. 46
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What gets you high?
If it’s not strictly a sativa or indica that determines the type of effect a cannabis product provides, how can you tell? Product reviews can help, but more importantly, lab testing has given us the best predictions of all, by isolating each mind-altering cannabinoid and measuring its amounts in any given cannabis product. The psychoactive compounds in cannabis are known as cannabinoids. The chemistry of cannabinoids goes far beyond what any basic description of cannabis can provide. There is a long list of cannabinoids present in any given cannabis plant, and each plays a different role. There are two popular cannabinoids that make a difference for cannabis consumers, however, and those are THC and cannabidiol (CBD). In addition to cannabinoids, terpenes also affect cannabis in both flavor and the effects. These chemicals interact with cannabinoid receptors, which are found throughout the human body, and each has different characteristics and provides different effects. Having a basic understanding of what they are, and their effects, will provide you with enough information to make an informed choice.
THC
The main psychoactive compound is THC. THC is the chemical that when smoked or ingested, after binding to a fat, makes you giggly and happy. It also has been reported to relieve pain and nausea, stimulate
appetite, and it can even provide a little energy boost. Basically, THC is what gets you high. On a package, the THC content will often be labeled as THCA, that’s because THCA is the molecule found in cannabis, that when smoked, or exposed to heat in another way, will become THC. THCA requires conversion to THC in order to cause effects, which is why eating cannabis flower on its own will not get you high.
CBD
CBD is another important cannabinoid. While CBD doesn’t get consumers high, it has been reported to provide relief from anxiety, help reduce seizures in those with epilepsy and other neurological conditions, and it may even work as a powerful anti-inflammatory when bound with small amounts of THC. CBD is one cannabinoid in particular that makes cannabis so effective as medicine.
Terpenes
Terpenes are the chemical compounds responsible for giving cannabis its flavor and scent. Varying levels of different terpenes in cannabis is why each cultivar has a unique fragrance and taste. Terpenes play another role in cannabis too—in that some of them help us absorb THC, and others help bind to the cannabis receptors in our bodies. Commonly found terpenes include myrcene, limonene, linalool, caryophyllene and pinene. Each terpene has its own unique scent and flavor, and each plays its own unique chemical role in the effect of cannabis. Terpenes aren’t unique to cannabis, as they’re found in many plants and even insects.
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are dosed accurately, so beginning cannabis consumers don’t run as high of a risk of overdoing it if they’re mindful. Edibles are made when either cannabis plant matter is simmered at low heat with an oil or butter (THC is fat soluble), or more commonly in legal cannabis markets, a concentrate is infused into an edible product. Aside from personal taste preferences, tolerance to THC is the most important consideration to make when selecting an edible. If you’re just starting out, start with a small dose like 5mg of THC or less and wait up to two hours to see how the edible affects you. Like alcohol, how full or empty your stomach is will impact how fast-acting and hardhitting the effects will be. If you don’t feel anything right away, wait before eating more. Sometimes edibles can take some time to take effect.
Extracts
Cannabis Products
When it comes to consuming cannabis—you’ve got plenty of options. For newcomers to cannabis, edibles are popular. If you’re looking for something a little stronger and more discreet than flower, there are extracts also known as concentrates or hash. You can even buy topicals that you can rub onto your body for that canna-goodness, minus feeling a psychoactive effect. The choice is yours—but here’s some information to help you decide.
Edibles
For those who want to get high, but don’t want to smoke or vape, edibles are a great option. Edibles provide a different, arguably more powerful effect than smoked or vaped cannabis. Lab-tested edibles
The Gist
Extracts or concentrates, including hash, are a world in and of themselves. But to give you the cliff notes version—concentrates are created when the cannabinoids are separated from the plant matter, making for a more powerful and potent product. In order to separate the cannabinoids from the plant, in most cases, a solvent is used. Solvents include CO2, butane, and propane and alcohol. A commonly used solvent is butane. One extract is known as butane hash oil, referred to as BHO. Hash extracted with alcohol is known as Rick Simpson Oil (RSO), and it is commonly used for medical purposes. Concentrates also come in a variety of different textures, including sugar wax, honey oil, crumble, shatter, etc. Different extraction methods and
temperatures create different textures. There’s also solventless concentrate, which uses either ice (bubble hash) or heat (rosin) to extract the cannabinoids. The extraction process typically eliminates terpenes from the final product. Concentrate producers have figured out how to infuse terpenes back into their products, however. There are several ways you can consume concentrates. One of the most popular ways is the vape pen. Some vape pens require using concentrates that are sold in special cartridges, and some can take the raw product. There are other more advanced ways to consume cannabis, but they’re not for beginners.
Topicals
As an option for those looking to benefit from cannabis without the high, topicals are a good choice. There are lots of lotions, salves and balms on the market that can be rubbed directly on the skin and absorbed. These topicals as they’re called, are effective, and since they’re not ingested they will not get you high, they’ll just provide pain relief in the area they’re rubbed on. Topicals are great for elderly patients looking to take advantage of the medicinal properties of cannabis, without it affecting their mind.
There is a lot to learn when it comes to cannabis. But your relationship with cannabis doesn’t need to be complicated. With this basic background knowledge, you can navigate your cannabis experience with confidence. Don’t let the abundance of products and terminology overwhelm you. c
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FROM THE FIELDS TO THE BIG SCREEN Famous cannabis-growing nun stars in shocking new film
By Caroline Hayes etrayed by her bigamist husband, who left her broke and broken, Sister Kate, then known as Christine Meeusen, took her three children and fled the home she knew for a fresh start in California. Adopting a new name, a new look of wearing nun garb and using her corporate executive skills, Sister Kate began farming and distributing cannabis to sick people in California’s Central Valley. Her story sparked the interest of award-winning filmmaker Robert Ryan who directed Breaking Habits, an 87-minute documentary that recounts the story of Sister Kate’s major life transformation that led her to a path of enlightenment through cannabis. Breaking Habits documents the events that led Christine Meeusen, a successful business 50
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professional, to become Sister Kate, a devoted cannabis farmer. Raised in the Midwest, Sister Kate was a wife, mother and corporate executive who built a well-to-do telecommunications consulting company. While she worked, her husband of 17 years, Gary Meeusen, was the stay-at-home-dad to their three children. Sister Kate’s company did well, eventually banking $1 million. As her success grew, Gary began secretly funneling her hardearned money into private offshore accounts for his personal use. His actions in the end left his wife and children broke and homeless. Ultimately, this forced Sister Kate to make the decision to leave the roles she knew of wife and business woman behind. “I was a corporate girl. I even voted for Ronald Reagan,” said Sister Kate in Breaking Habits. In 2006, Sister Kate relocated with her children to Merced, California where she endured even more family drama and eventually hit financial and
“The veil is being lifted on the mystery of the plant, and we’re all very lucky to be here to see it.” emotional rock bottom. Through compelling on-camera interviews from family members, fellow Sisters, lawyers, preachers, doctors and Merced County law enforcement, Breaking Habits weaves the tale of the struggles and triumphs Sister Kate and her team faced during their California cannabis endeavors. Giving up her old ways, Sister Kate found a new calling by farming high cannabidiol (CBD) cannabis for the sick and dying while forming the women empowerment group, Sisters of the Valley. The Sisterhood was born from a dream to heal the people, the planet and to fight for the justice of the cannabis plant.
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“It was not our idea,” Sister Kate told CULTURE in a phone interview about the film. “We’ve got a serious mission and a serious thing that we are trying to tell, and we recognize, by not being silly girls, that Hollywood holds the megaphone to the world.” Although Sister Kate did not ask for all the attention, she was flattered when Ryan reached out to her about the film. “It was hard to ignore Rob because he had done some serious work so he got my attention just based on his credentials,” she continued, “Rob was very honorable.” The official business of Sisters of the Valley began Jan. 1, 2016. The group has grown significantly since then. Sister Kate has ordained at least 20 women herself, and there are more coming, she said. International groups of Sisters of the Valley are forming in the U.K., Brazil, Sweden, Mexico and Canada, but before those women can start their own chapter, they must spend time on Sister Kate’s farm in California. Today, the original chapter of Sisters of the Valley grows high CBD cannabis that is turned into salves and oils, and they are sold to people worldwide. Sister Kate told us that they struggle to keep up with demand. “The veil is being lifted on the mystery of the plant, and we’re all very lucky to be here to see it,” she said. “Plant freedom is coming. It would have never happened if ‘Big Pharma’ hadn’t just so overreached in such a disgusting way,” Sister Kate said at the end of the interview about the over prescribing of medications in America. “The outrage has pushed back on the side of the plant, so in a way we should send a thank you card to ‘Big Pharma’ for being so fricking greedy for making it possible that we can get back towards nature.” Breaking Habits is a controversial film about humble women looking to end the suffering of people and the planet through cannabis. “Pain is a very democratic thing,” Sister Kate said. “The 52
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“Plant freedom is coming. It would have never happened if ‘Big Pharma’ hadn’t just so overreached in such a disgusting way.” Buddhists believe that suffering is the one thing that makes us all connect to one another [but] the weed nuns, we don’t think suffering is quite so necessary, or at least we believe that there is far more of it than there needs to be.” Sister Kate hopes the film will encourage positive dialogue about the cannabis plant and how it can heal the planet, the people and women. “I hope the film sparks some intelligent conversation,” she said. c
BREAKING HABITS
Airing in 14 different cities in the U.S. on April 19 and can be preordered on Apple iTunes to view at home.
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PARTIES After Dark: Cannabis, April 18 This rare cannabis-themed event at the science museum called the Exploratorium is an educational way to prepare for festivities that will continue through the weekend. The adults-only After Dark series at the museum features scientific topics like cannabis that aren’t suitable for young children. Exploratorium, San Francisco exploratorium.edu DJ Snoopadelic aka Snoop Dogg 420 Eve, April 19 DJ Snoopadelic is better known as Snoop Dogg, who will headline this late night party, with opening acts from DJs D Sharp, Shabazz and O-Pawsa+Ive. If you’ve ever been to his events, you know that Snoop likes to be the center of the party, and this early 420 event will not disappoint you. SVN West, San Francisco svnwest.com/event/420eve-smoke-out THC Fair Merced, April 20 The Hemp & Cannabis Fair (THC) is back in Merced, with corresponding sister events in Oregon and other California cities. It’s a little bit of a drive from the Bay Area, but this annual celebration explores the intricacies of the legal cannabis and industrial hemp industries. Merced County Fairgrounds, Merced thcfair.com Trey Anastasio’s Ghosts of the Forest, April 20 Former Phish lead singer and Grammy Award nominee 54
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Trey Anastasio has written songs about cannabis and the hippie lifestyle for decades. His new project, Ghosts of the Forest, features Jon Fishman, Jennifer Hartswick, Celisse Henderson, Tony Markellis and Ray Paczkowski onboard for new material. The Greek Theatre, Berkeley thegreekberkeley.com 420 Gathering of the Tribe, April 20 Brought to us by Moonalice and Ace of Cups, this live music event is the perfect getaway for a smoky experience. Moonalice’s single, “It’s 4:20 Somewhere” has been downloaded more than five million times according to the band’s website, so the band certainly knows how to celebrate this time of year. Slims, San Francisco aceofcups.com/new-events Kyle Cook, April 20 Kyle Cook was the former lead guitarist of Matchbox 20, and like his former bandmate and vocalist Rob Thomas, he’s no stranger to cannabis. Cook’s solo career is also equally compelling, complete with banjo and guitar work, plus stunning vocals that you didn’t always expect from someone who wasn’t the band’s original frontman. Hotel Utah Saloon, San Francisco kylecookmusic.com Sammy Hagar, April 20 The Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Sammy Hagar is best known as the one who replaced David Lee Roth as lead singer
of Van Halen. Most recently, Hagar formed a supergroup The Circle with Michael Anthongy, Vic Johnson and Jason Bonham, but you can catch him solo during the 420 weekend as well. Concord Pavilion, Concord redrocker.com Sugarhill Gang, April 20 Sugarhill Gang holds the title to the first-ever rap song to hit the Billboard Top 40 with “Rapper’s Delight.” Even though Big Bank Hank is now gone, what better way is there to celebrate the holiday than by hearing some of the oldest rap classics to grace the airwaves? The New Parish, Oakland jambase.com/band/ sugarhill-gang DMX, April 21 Earl Simmons, aka DMX, said that he has been smoking cannabis since at least age 14, and the rapper was busted for possession of the plant multiple times. Witness the original Ruff Ryder himself at this rare live performance in Berkeley. The UC Theatre, Berkeley theuctheatre.org INDO EXPO, April 28-29 INDO EXPO’s Saturday schedule is for business to business professionals, and Sunday is open to all adults over the age of 18. This leading tradeshow is where you can go to find the latest technology and gear within the world of cannabis-related products. The Craneway Pavilion, Richmond indoexpo.com
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It’s Easy B e in g G r e e n The 420 holiday means a lot of things to consumers across the globe. It’s an ideal time to hang out with friends, smoke a bowl, try a new strain, advocate for legalization and be creative. Among all cannabis delivery methods, edibles can be one of the strongest and hardest-hitting, although an edible will take some time to begin working its magic—so exercise caution. That’s why implementing microdosing into your cannabisinfused food routine can change your whole approach to consuming cannabis on a daily basis. Master the art of how to properly microdose, and everyone can discreetly enjoy cannabis all day long! To really push things to the brink, CULTURE’s got a great selection of green foods that are perfect for some cannabis infusion. MAKES
Chicken Wrap Ingredients: 2 large spinach tortillas
2
SERVINGS
5MG
THC PER SERVING
2/3 tablespoon cannabis-infused olive oil*
Instructions:
Salt and pepper to taste
1. Heat a frying pan to medium-high. Season both sides of chicken breast with salt, pepper and any other preferable spices. Add a drizzle of cannabis-infused olive oil to pan. Once heated, cook chicken until no longer pink in center. Remove from heat and let rest.
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2. Add another drizzle of olive oil in the same pan. Add in mushrooms and cook for three to five minutes or until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
3. While mushrooms cook, slice cherry tomatoes in halves. Chop romaine lettuce. Slice lime into fourths. 4. Use a fork to shred rested chicken. Place in a large mixing bowl, and mix with mayonnaise. Lightly season. 5. Open up tortillas and place shredded chicken mixture into the center. Smooth it out. Top with ample amounts of lettuce, tomatoes and a squeeze of lime. Wrap up, and enjoy!
Av o c a d o T o a s t
1. Cut avocado out of its shell, and mash it in a bowl. Add a few pinches of salt and pepper as desired, followed by cannabis-infused oil.
Ingredients: 1 slice of your favorite bread, toasted 1 ripe avocado Salt and pepper to taste 1 teaspoon cannabis-infused oil* 2 tablespoons cream cheese MAKES
1 SERVING 5MG THC
1/4 cup arugula 1 tablespoon dried cranberries 1/2 tablespoon hemp seeds 1/2 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions:
2. Spread ample cream cheese onto toasted bread, followed by arugula and topped with mashed avocado. 3. Top with cranberries, hemp seeds and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.
Green Hummus Ingredients: 1/4 cup tahini 1/4 fresh lemon juice 2 tablespoons cannabis-infused olive oil* 1/2 cup parsley 1/2 cup basil 1 tablespoon green onion 1 garlic clove 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 15-ounce can chickpeas
Instructions: 1. Combine tahini, lemon juice, infused oil, parsley, basil, green onion, garlic and salt into a high powered blender or food processor. Blend for multiple minutes until well combined. Scrape down sides. 2. Add rinsed and drained chickpeas into the blender, blending until
MAKES
10
SERVINGS
3MG
THC PER SERVING hummus is smooth. If it’s too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time until you get desired consistency. 3. Serve with pita chips or other crunchy treats such as carrots and celery. Hummus will stay good for about one week in the refrigerator. CultureMagazine.com
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C h o c o l at e Mint Macarons Ingredients: Macaron 1 1/2 cups almond flour 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar 3 egg whites, room temperature 1 cup white sugar 3 tablespoons water 3 to 4 drops peppermint extract
Green food coloring, optional
Filling 1 cup chocolate chips
MAKES ABOUT
25
1/3 cup cannabisinfused heavy cream**
MACARONS
1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
THC PER MACARON
Instructions: 1. Prepare two baking sheets and line with parchment paper. 2. In a large bowl, sift the almond flour and powdered sugar. 3. Using a mixer, mix the egg whites until they become foamy. Add white sugar a few tablespoons at a time. Mix until stiff peaks form. Add desired drops of peppermint extract (and green food coloring if desired). Beat until well combined. 4. Sift bowl of almond flour and
5MG
powdered sugar into the mixer. Using a spatula, gently fold the mixture onto itself until properly combined (when the batter drips from the spatula and dissolves back into the batter, then it’s ready). 5. Place the batter into a pastry bag with a round tip, and create 1.5-inch circles on both baking sheets. Lift the baking sheets up an inch from the counter and let them drop down (this helps remove air bubbles). 6. Let the piped macarons sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 300 degrees F.
7. Once the macarons have rested, place them into the oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. 8. Remove from oven and let cool. 9. For the filling, heat heavy cream on a stovetop until it begins to simmer. Pour over heat resistant bowl of chocolate chips and mix thoroughly until well combined. Add peppermint extract and continue to mix until thick. 10. Finish by piping the chocolate mixture onto the back side of a macaron, and finishing with another macaron cookie on the other end.
G r e e n M a r g a r i ta Ingredients: MAKES
1 GLASS 5MG THC
1 1/2 ounces tequila
1/2 ounce Midori melon
1 ounce triple sec
1/2 ounce cannabis tincture***
1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
Ample kosher salt for glass
Instructions: 1. Apply salt to the glass by wetting the rim with water, and then dipping the glass upside onto a pan of salt. 2. Shake tequila, triple sec, lime juice, Midori and cannabis tincture. Add ice or serve chilled.
*The cannabis-infused olive oil we used contained 5mg of THC per teaspoon, 15mg of THC per tablespoon. **The cannabis-infused heavy cream we used contained 375mg of THC per cup. ***The cannabis tincture we used contained 10mg of THC per ounce. 58
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GROWING CULTURE
HAWAII CULTIVATION By Ed Rosenthal
I
met a cannabis cultivator at a cannabis and health conference in Oahu, Hawaii this past January. He invited me to visit his farm located on the North shore of Oahu. He serves about 100 patients, with each patient being allowed 10 plants (Jason Care Facility grows about 1,000 plants). It’s all done within a 40 by 60 foot structure, a total of 2,400 square feet. The side walls are 10 feet high and the peak reaches 17 feet. The main purpose of the greenhouse is to protect plants from rain and wind. The temperature ranges on the island of Oahu is considered mild, so the major problems are rain and moisture. The lowest temperature occurs in January when the thermometer dips into the high 60s, but most of the time it ranges between the 70s and low 80s and the temperature rises no higher than the high 80s during the summer months of June, July and August. To prevent the greenhouse effect, when heat generated by sunlight heats up a closed area, the
The greenhouse is about 2,400 sq. ft. It was completed in 2018 and is still being filled with plants.
Plants in the last stage of vegetation before turning the auxiliary fluorescent lights off. 60
sides of the greenhouse are lifted up during the day for airflow. They are closed at night and on rainy and windy days. Oahu is located at the 21st parallel north, a circle of latitude, and there is only slight variation between summer and winter day length. On June 22, the longest day, there are just under 13.5 hours of light. On the shortest day, Dec. 21, there are just under 11 hours. As a result, almost all plants start to flower soon after germination unless the length of the light period is extended. Lighting the plants to prevent flowering is accomplished using compact fluorescent lightbulbs that are hung over the plants. They are controlled using a timer that turns the lights on most of the night. Since it is so easy to manipulate the flowering cycle, there are plants in all stages of growth creating a continuous supply and continuous workflow without requiring “bulges” of temporary workers. The farm manager mentioned that the week around the full moon has a slight effect on flowering,
The fluorescent lights are used to break up the dark cycle. Most cannabis plants require a long period of uninterrupted darkness to flower. By breaking the dark cycle once or twice for just a few minutes each evening the plants remain in vegetative. Once the lights are turned off permanently, the plants begin to flower.
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which holds the plants back a bit. I didn’t think that was the case until I looked at the full moon that night. The moon, rather than being at an acute angle in the sky, is much closer to being straight overhead. It is much brighter than it is in the 37th parallel north, where I usually view it. This farm is trying out many varieties, and is especially impressed with Chem Dog x Durban Poison, Greenpoint Seeds’ Indiana Bubblegum x Stardog and its house strain Blue Dream x Gogi OG. Patients request those varieties the most. c
TIP OF THE MONTH Now is the time to take clones of your favorite plants for sowing outside in a month or two. Give the clones only 18 hours of light per day with a six-hour dark period so they don’t go into shock and immediately start to flower when placed outdoors. Give the clones moderate light until they start developing roots, about 10-15 days. Then transplant them into bigger containers.
Young plants in fivegallon containers are growing vegetatively.
The canopy is uniform height because all the plants in the group are clones of a single variety.
Plants in the fourth or fifth week of flowering.
Young flower almost three weeks old.
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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