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contents Vol 9 IssUE 3
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EDM Ambassadors Yasmine and Jahan, the two sisters behind the dynamic electronic dance music duo Krewella, talk about new music, their upcoming national tour and cannabis.
On the COVER:
John Gilhooley
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inside
contents 9.2017
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70 features 36
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Erotic Avenues Ashley Manta, well-known sex expert, shares everything you need to know about incorporating cannabis into your most intimate moments.
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Industry Insider The man behind CBD Living Water is finding success in healing the nation.
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Recycle and Reuse Whether confiscated by police or disposed of by legally permitted cultivators, cannabis recycling centers are growing in popularity.
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Job Security Drug-free workplaces are slowly evolving to allow employees to personally consume cannabis.
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Cannabinoid Consideration As we kick off football season, CULTURE connects with professionals who would like to see the National Football League allow its athletes to have access to CBD.
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departments 16 Letter from the Editor
news
26 Local News 30 Healthy Living
Online Exclusive! 18 News Nuggets 22 By the Numbers
reviews
62 Dispensary Highlight
64 Company Highlight 66 Cool Stuff 68 Entertainment Reviews 70 Strain, Edible & Concentrate Reviews
in every issue
78 Growing Culture 80 Destination
Unknown 82 Profile in Courage 84 Recipes 90 NorCal Now! 92 News of the Weird
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d New Zealand Citizens Want to Vote for Cannabis d Nebraskan University’s Hemp Studies Reveal New Information
Vol 9 IssUE 3
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CULTURE M
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Editor-In-Chief Jamie Solis associate Editor Ashley Bennett Editorial coordinator Benjamin Adams Editorial Contributors Matthew Abel, Sheryll Alexander, Marguerite Arnold, Jake Browne, Jasen T. Davis, Alex Distefano, David Downs, Keira Fae, Natasha Guimond, Addison Herron-Wheeler, Pamela Jayne, M. Jay, Heather Johnson, Kevin Longrie, Emily Manke, Meital Manzuri, Madison Ortiz, Denise Pollicella, R. Scott Rappold, Paul Rogers, Ed Rosenthal, Lanny Swerdlow, Jefferson Van Billiard, Simon Weedn, Laurie Wolf, Zara Zhi Photographers Kristen Angelo, Steve Baker, Kristopher Christensen, John Gilhooley, Joel Meaders, Tonya Perme, Josué Rivas, Mike Rosati, Eric Stoner Art Director Steven Myrdahl production manager Michelle Aguirre Graphic DesignerS Nathan Hernandez Payden Cobern sales director Justin Olson Account Executives Jon Bookatz, Alex Brizicky, Molly Clark, Eric Bulls, Kim Cook, Monte Lee, Beau Odom, Casey Roel, Garry Stalling, Ryan Tripp, Shayne Williams, Vic Zaragoza general Manager Iris Norsworthy digital content David Edmundson manager Intern Sophia Rybicki Distribution Manager Cruz Bobadilla Publisher David Comden Culture® Magazine is published every month and distributes magazines at over 600 locations throughout the Bay area. 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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LETTER
FROM
THE
EDITOR
A Fight Worth Winning “After climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb.” - Nelson Mandela
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n an industry that has required a great deal of advocacy and grassroots initiatives to push legislation toward the acceptance of medical and recreational cannabis, it’s frustrating when two steps forward lead to one step backward. And so is the case in many regions where cannabis legalization and progress are often stunted at every corner. Michigan patients and advocates recently felt the sting of worry when former Michigan State Police Sgt. Donald Bailey, an appointee to the Medical Marihuana Licensing Board, stated his belief that all medical cannabis collectives in the state should be closed in anticipation of the state’s new licensing structure. Although no decision has been made, it’s downright ridiculous to witness this example of how the “War on Drugs” continues to be perpetuated despite all the other progress being made in the “Great Lake State.” With two recreational cannabis petitions in circulation and plenty of well-intentioned patients, advocates and lawmakers determined to support cannabis reform, it is clear that despite possible setbacks, Michigan residents will continue this fight and inevitably move the state forward. Michigan is not the first state that is faced with possible negative effects associated with forward progress. Washington’s medical cannabis community took a huge hit when recreational cannabis regulations were enacted. As the state merged the medical and recreational cannabis programs, the regulations were not in favor of the dispensaries that were currently operating. This crippled most medical cannabis dispensaries in the state, forcing them to shut down, affecting over 100,00 patients statewide. Therefore, there is a very real fear that something
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similar to this could happen in California, as officials are merging the Medical Cannabis Regulation and Safety Act with the Adult Use of Marijuana Act in preparation for the January 2018 rollout. However, in this budding industry, we have the ability to learn from our mistakes. This gives us hope that California lawmakers at the city, county and state levels are aware of what happened in Washington and are capable of avoiding the same devastating outcome. Across the United States, as our industry continues its forward-moving trajectory, and many other states throughout the nation demand that we deserve the right to safe access to cannabis, let’s not be fearful because the “War on Drugs” continues to present battle after battle in this 80year war. As leaders in recreational cannabis states like Colorado, Oregon, Washington and Alaska fire back at Attorney General Jeff Sessions for his ignorance surrounding legal cannabis, defending their states’ rights to cannabis reform, let’s work hard to embrace one another despite our differences, while focusing on the one true goal we all share. Cannabis reform nationwide has to happen, and we are the driving force that will ensure its success. In the words of Nelson Mandela, let’s remain relentless in our fight, with a clear intention to demand the freedoms we are awarded as American citizens. c
Cheers!
Jamie Solis Editor-in-Chief
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NEWS
nuggetS
Alameda County Initially Approves Expansion of Dispensaries and Cultivation Sites On August 1, Alameda County Supervisors voted 4-0 to approve the first reading on amendments to Chapter 6.106 and 6.108 of Title 6 and Title 17 of the Alameda County General Ordinance Code. The changes would increase the number of medical cannabis dispensaries in unincorporated areas of the county from three to
five. It would allow for up to six cultivation sites, with two set aside as indoor facilities. “It would be a disservice to the electorate and constituency of this county to not have regulations in place,” Supervisor Nate Miley said at the planning meeting. “. . . and I respect people who disagree with me.” After another reading, and if the ordinances are approved, the regulations will go into effect within 30 days. Currently only two dispensaries, We Are Hemp and Garden of Eden Medical Marijuana Clinic, exist in unincorporated Alameda County.
Vallejo Moves to Begin Issuing Dispensary Permits A number of medical cannabis dispensaries in Vallejo have been in operation, but only with limited immunity. By a unanimous 5-0 vote on August 22, the Vallejo City Council approved the first reading of a resolution to amend Chapter 7.100 of the Vallejo Municipal Code. The amendment if passed, the amendment will grant permits to the city’s 11 dispensaries that have already received an immunity letter from city hall. “After much discussion of the City Council Ad-Hoc Committee on Marijuana,
Decriminalization Bill Introduced in Belize The government of Belize introduced eight bills on August 18, which included legislation to decriminalize the possession of cannabis. The Misuse of Drugs Amendment Bill 2017 would replace punishments for possession of up to 10 grams of cannabis with non-recordable penalties and fines. “I think it is recognized by members on both sides of this House that the present regime, which we have dealing 18
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it was determined that addressing modifications to the Vallejo Municipal Code on the topic of marijuana is best done in a phased approach,” the city website states. Regulatory permits would be granted in the first phase. Transferability, expansion, delivery and relocation would be addressed in the second phase. The supply chain, including cultivation, testing and manufacturing would be determined in the third phase. Another city council vote is required before the amendment officially can take effect.
with marijuana, is not equitable,” said Wilfred Elrington, minister of Foreign Affairs and Home Affairs. “As a matter of fact, it is the view that it is unduly prejudicial particularly to the poorer members of our society, who for one reason or another, use marijuana in smaller quantities.” The bill would also remove industrial hemp from Belize’s definition of cannabis. The proposal would not go into effect until it has gone through all readings in the House of Representatives.
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The number of Sonoma County residents who have been chosen to advise the Board of Supervisors on how to regulate the county cannabis program: (Source: Emerald Report)
The number of hours that the San Francisco Planning Commission spent in a single hearing while discussing the opening of a cannabis dispensary in the Sunset District: (Source: San
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Francisco Chronicle)
The number of medical cannabis dispensaries in Vallejo that may be granted a permit to operate, if a local amendment is passed: (Source: The Times-Herald)
The projected amount of money, in thousands of dollars, that the recently approved Office of Cannabis in San Francisco will be given from the city budget to operate: (Source: San Francisco Business Times)
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700
The number of garbage bags that were filled by Maine volunteers who agreed to pick up trash in exchange for a free gram of cannabis: (Source: The Portland Press Herald)
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The number of cannabis testing laboratories, out of three, that have been approved in the state of Hawaii, as of August 24: (Source: San Francisco Chronicle)
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The percentage of polled Utah voters who support the newest initiative to legalize medical cannabis on the 2018 ballot: (Source: The Salt Lake Tribune)
78
The estimated number of currently active cannabisrelated patents that have been filed with the United States Patent Office: (Source: Forbes)
500
Reefer Madness WHEN: Fri, Sept. 15–Sat, Oct. 7 WHERE: Victoria Theatre, 2961 16th St., San Francisco WEBSITE: rayoflighttheatre.com Reefer Madness explores the satire of cannabis prohibition through musical comedy. Heavily influenced by the 1936 film of the same name, this melodramatic story scrutinizes teens being pressured to consume cannabis. During the late 1930s, the original Reefer Madness was released to influence older audiences and lead them to believe that hysteria will follow if they consume cannabis and that they will become more prone to violence, increased sexual activity and illicit drug use. Thankfully, Ray of Light Theatre’s musical production will 22
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put a spin on the Reefer Madness era, de-stigmatizing that very incorrect propaganda with brilliant Broadway style tunes like “Down the Ol’ Five and Dime” and “Listen to Jesus, Jimmy.” Despite taking place during a dark time of cannabis’ history in the United States, many of this musical’s songs span a variety of different genres, including vibrant Vegas-style showtunes to classic jazz music. Witness the comical musings of this hilarious musical satire where young adults try cannabis for the first time. (Sophia Rybicki)
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NEWS
LOCAL
San Mateo Bacon & Brew Fest
Second Chances Oakland’s Equity Permit Program forgives felons and elevates the disadvantaged By Benjamin M. Adams
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akland is taking aggressive steps to abate the painfully obvious racial disparity that can be seen within the city’s cannabis industry. The new law requires that half of all permits for cannabis businesses be given to Oakland residents who have either been convicted of a cannabis crime or live in a disadvantaged area where cannabis consumers are targeted. The concept is relatively similar to affirmative action we see in universities and schools, but is applied to the cannabis industry. For many Oakland residents who have been excluded from participating in the cannabis industry for one reason or another, this progressive new program is a welcomed change. On March 28, the Oakland City Council unanimously approved recommended changes introduced by the Department of Race & Equity, but the program has taken off to a slow start. On July 21, the program organizers announced that only 81 people have applied for permits with 35 equity permits, but only 10 had secured a business location. On August 4, the Special Permits Division issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for a consultant to assist applicants through the Equity Permit Program to help simplify the system. Equity permits will be granted to disadvantaged applicants during the first
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phase and become available for non-equity applicants in the second phase, which begins after $3.4 million in cannabis tax revenue has been collected. This way, city officials can be sure that disadvantaged applicants are pushed to the front of the line. Former felons in Oakland are able to qualify for a permit. Those who have lived in disadvantaged areas of the city for 10 out of the past 20 years qualify. Greg Minor is Assistant to the City Administrator and works hands-on with the city’s Equity Permit Program applications. Minor told CULTURE that the program has received about 130 applications as of late August. In order to qualify as an Equity applicant, Minor said, applicants must be “an Oakland resident who has an annual income at or less than 80 percent of the Oakland Average Medium Income (AMI) and either has a cannabis conviction out of Oakland or has lived for 10 of the last 20 years in police beats that experienced a disproportionately higher amount of law enforcement with respect to cannabis.” For instance, the 2016 AMI threshold is $52,650 for a one-person household and $60,150 for a two-person household. Applicants must also pass a LiveScan background check, provide extensive documentation and pass a series of vigorous inspections, to name a few hurdles. The trend is quickly picking up in other major California cities. “San Francisco legislators recently directed their staff to conduct an equity analysis and return with recommendations similar to Oakland’s race and equity analysis earlier this year,” Minor added. “Additionally, we have received a number of inquiries from the city of Los Angeles as they look to establish a similar equitable foundation to their cannabis permitting. I have also heard from advocates interested in implementing similar programs in Sacramento.” Oakland is embracing its citizens who were formerly labeled criminals for past cannabis charges, as well as those who are considered to be disadvantaged and deserve a better chance at breaking into the cannabis industry. If anyone knows how to efficiently dispense, sell and process cannabis, it’s them. Other cities will surely follow Oakland’s inclusive example. c
Experience the mouthwatering flavors of beer and bacon colliding to form an event unlike any other. The San Mateo Bacon & Brew Fest will be a lively food and libations event that adults ages 21 and over can enjoy. Look forward to vendor booths that offer an endless assortment of art, fashion, jewelry and other unique handmade goods. Once you’ve gotten your fill of beer and bacon, there’s still plenty of fun to be had. Attendees are encouraged to engage in a few whimsical games, or sit back and relax to the sounds of live entertainment by a band inspired by the music of Journey. The San Mateo Bacon & Brew Fest is the perfect opportunity to taste signature craft beers and appreciate the addicting sweet and salty flavors of bacon just in time for autumn. (Sophia Rybicki) WHEN: Sat, Sept. 23 WHERE: San Mateo Event Center, 1346 Saratoga Dr., San Mateo WEBSITE: san mateobaconbrew. com
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NEWS
HEALTHY LIVING
Learning from the Past Examining the history of doctors’ roles in the American cannabis industry By Lanny Swerdlow, RN LNC
T
he term “groupthink” is defined as a psychological phenomenon that occurs within a group of people in which the desire for harmony or conformity in the group results in an irrational or dysfunctional decision-making outcome. No more egregious example of groupthink can be found then in the response of medical doctors to the federal government’s prohibition of cannabis. One would expect better for a profession grounded in science. Cannabis has been used by physicians for 5,000 years dating back to ancient China where it was used to treat pain, intestinal constipation, female reproductive problems, malaria and many other ailments. In 1851, cannabis was listed in the U.S. Pharmacopeia as well as The National Formulary Dispensatory of the United States which noted that cannabis was used as an “aphrodisiac, to increase the appetite . . . it has been found to cause sleep, to allay spasm, to compose nervous disquietude and to relieve pain.” Eighty years ago, when the Marijuana Tax Act of 1937 passed, the American Medical Association (AMA) was the only organization to testify in opposition to its prohibition. Appearing for the AMA was Dr. James Woodward who testified that cannabis is used as “a sedative and antispasmodic” and that “it can be used for psychological, psychoanalytical and psychotherapeutic research.” Most of his testimony centered on denying the
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claims of mayhem and violence put forth by the proponents of prohibition rebuffing their assertions of addiction and harm to children and pointing out they did not provide any “direct and primary evidence, rather than the indirect hearsay evidence.” It wasn’t long though for the AMA to reject Dr. Woodward’s statements and fall in line with the “indirect hearsay evidence” that Dr. Woodward so vehemently objected to. To this day the AMA continues to maintain that “cannabis is a dangerous drug and as such is a public health concern.” Due to the preeminence of the AMA, medical doctors throughout the United States have stood silently aside while this travesty continues to be peddled as medical science even though, as Dr. Woodward noted 80 years ago, the link to its dangers are not shown by any “direct and primary evidence.” Rather there is “direct and primary evidence” that cannabis does have significant benefits, and the peerreviewed evidence has been around for a long time. Over 35 years ago, Dr. Raphael Mechoulam, the discoverer of tetrahyrdocannabinol (THC), conducted clinical trials on epilepsy and found that all the trial participants had significantly reduced or even no epileptic seizures while they were taking the cannabinoids found in cannabis. In 1995, Dr. Mechoulam conducted another study on children with cancer receiving anti-cancer treatments. Nausea and vomiting, a frequent side effect of anti-cancer medications, vanished in the children given
cannabis but continued unabated in the children that didn’t get it. Both studies were published and both were universally ignored by the medical profession. Since 1990 there have been close to 100 peer-reviewed studies documenting the medical efficacy of cannabis in treating Lou Gehrig’s disease, bipolar disorder, cancer, glaucoma, AIDS, Huntington’s Disease, irritable bowel syndrome, Multiple Sclerosis, nausea, pain, Parkinson’s, PTSD and arthritis. The fact that doctors have allowed themselves to be intimidated and mislead by the lies of government bureaucrats and police agencies whose financial well-being was intrinsically related to the prohibition of cannabis shows how the power of government can lead even the most compassionate of professions astray. “First, do no harm” is a tenant of the medical profession that has become its watchword. The harm that has befallen humanity as doctors failed to uphold Dr. Woodward’s protestations of the cannabis tax act and, with no justification, turned their backs on the physicians who for millennia have instructed and provided cannabis to their patients, has been nothing short of catastrophic. The harm cannot be undone, but there is no reason it need continue. It is time for doctors to publicly recognize the suffering their capitulation to groupthink has caused and take the lead role in expediently and rapidly bringing cannabis back into mainstream medicine. c
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Sensual Strains Sex expert Ashley Manta navigates through a plethora of options for consuming cannabis in the bedroom
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By Ashley Manta “What’s your favorite strain for sex?” is one of the most common questions I’m asked as a sex educator and resident expert on all things sex and cannabis. I understand the appeal—we want to have an easy, go-to, one size fits all answer so that we can implement it and go on with our day. Sorry to disappoint you, but the answer is . . . it depends. Like most things related to sex and pleasure, there is no universal answer. Factors to consider include tolerance, what kind of sex you want to be having
(the strains or products you might use to facilitate slow sensual sex are not the same products you might choose for frenzied, lustful sex), and most importantly, method of consumption. Since the methods of consumption one chooses affect the body in different ways, it seems prudent to discuss some of the methods along with how they lend themselves to be conducive to various sexual encounters. Remember, consent is mandatory, so negotiate before you medicate! Be clear on what you’re a yes and no to, how to signal that you’re ready to be done and any specific care you might need after sexy times are over.
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“Remember, consent is mandatory, so negotiate before you medicate!”
Flower:
(smoking or vaping) I would say this method is the most versatile but also requires the most experimentation. I appreciate that smoking and vaping can be slightly easier to modulate dosage (you can choose to use a specific amount and also choose to take large or small hits). Depending on the cannabinoid and terpenoid profiles in the strain, you can choose the effects you’re looking for. A strain high in pinene or limonene could be great for active sex and might help facilitate being communicative in the moment. A strain high in linalool tends to be more relaxing, lending itself to slower, more tactileoriented pleasure.
Edibles: Edibles are an excellent option for those who have the time to commit. Since edibles can take up to two full hours (and sometimes longer) to take effect, not to mention that the effects can last four to six hours (and sometimes longer, depending on tolerance), save edibles for days when you have a great deal of time to devote to your “sexploits.” Weekends away with your sweetie, rainy afternoons with nothing to do—these are the situations in which edibles are most useful. The effect is also different than smoking or vaping—I notice that I feel a stronger effect in my body after edibles and less in my head. This could be great for sexy times involving sensation— playing with temperature, impact or teasing touch (for example, hovering your mouth over a partner’s nipple and letting them feel the hot breath, then moving on to another body part, then coming back).
Tinctures: Tinctures could absolutely fall into the edibles category, but I’m giving them their own spot because if a tincture is applied sublingually, the onset time is 10 to 15 minutes rather than up to two hours like an edible. Tinctures are fantastic and are becoming more plentiful as the industry grows. You can choose cannabidiol (CBD) or tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) dominant tinctures, and dosage is easy to determine because most tinctures come in a bottle with a dropper and directions on dosing. I love 1:1 tinctures for helping me get my head ready and set aside any lingering anxiety after a long day of work or any period of stress in my day.
Topicals: Topicals are one of my favorite ways to combine sex and cannabis. Since topicals do not cause psychoactive effects, you can incorporate them regardless of circumstance. There’s a bit of a time delay when applied to a mucous membrane like the vulva— THC-infused sex oils take around 25 minutes to “marinate” before effects are noticeable. You should also be aware that oil degrades latex, so if you’re using oil on any part of the body that will come in contact with a condom or glove at some point in the evening, you need to have non-latex options like nitrile or polyurethane on hand. Topicals can also be used as a way to build intimacy, like offering your partner an infused massage after a long day. I like to use them both ways—apply a THC spray to my vulva and then have my partner give me an infused massage while I wait for the 25 minutes to lapse.
Hopefully this has given you some ideas on the pros and cons of various methods of consumption for sex. I encourage everyone to test both methods of consumption and new strains and products solo before trying them with a partner. Yes, that means I’m suggesting you masturbate. It helps you isolate variables and figure out what feels best for your body. Plus, it’s fun! c 34
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Industry Insider
Thirst Quencher
Bill D. has reached monumental success from merging CBD with water
“I have others very close to me [who] have had health problems, and I have watched them consume CBD and have seen the effects of how it has helped tremendously.”
By R. Scott Rappold
C
annabis products high in cannabidiol (CBD) are booming in popularity these days. CBD is a compound of cannabis that doesn’t get the consumer intoxicated, but is known for its medical benefits among a wide variety of conditions, including pain, inflammation, epilepsy and depression. It’s even being investigated for its anti-cancer properties. Like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), it can be delivered in flower, oil, foods and many other ways. But until recently, few tried to tackle how to add it to plain water.
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If the overnight success of CBD Living Water is any indication, there is plenty of demand. Though it was just launched in 2015, it’s already available in 45 states and sold internationally. And the water was only the beginning. “It’s not about getting you high, it’s about the medical value of the cannabinoids, and the general public is now becoming more aware of the option of being able to get the benefits of cannabinoids by consuming CBD without consuming THC and the effects of getting high,” said Bill D., the company founder, who was unwilling to provide his last name.
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J.
Pallets to Truckloads
Bill is a longtime entrepreneur and business owner, which includes endeavors related to construction companies, offshore fishing boats and motorcycle parts. He also says he has long consumed CBD and that it has kept him free of health problems. “I have others very close to me [who] have had health problems, and I have watched them consume CBD and have seen the effects of how it has helped tremendously,” he said. He said a biochemist came to him with the idea for CBD-infused water. Like THC, CBD does not naturally bond with water molecules. That’s the same reason drinking bong water won’t get you intoxicated. This scientist had an idea how to make it but no idea what to do with it. Bill said he “jumped 38
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all over it and ran with the idea.” Such was the instant popularity that he went from shipping a few pallets in 2015 to shipping it by the truckload. It isn’t the only CBD-infused water on the market, but Bill says the water purity sets it apart. “As we know there are other CBD waters out there or trying to be out there, but many have a terrible taste or smell and are not clear. They do not look or taste like the crisp, clear clean water like CBD Living products.” As for how they accomplished that, that’s something Bill isn’t talking about, saying only that it’s a “proprietary process.”
U.
Why Water?
So what’s so special about water, when there are many, many other ways to ingest CBD? Bill explained, “The Micro
Encapsulated Nano CBD allows the CBD to enter the body at the cellular level giving it 100 percent bioavailability. Consuming CBD any other way, the consumer will lose upwards of 80 to 90 percent of the CBD, as it processes through the digestive system.” You can find CBD Living Water in health food stores, smoke shops, cannabis dispensaries and other locations. The company also makes a host of other CBD products, including gummies, gel caps, chocolate and vaporizer oils. The potential for CBD products, he said, is “endless.” “As awareness of CBD continues to move into mainstream consumers, I believe CBD will be in high demand to be in all types of consumable and topical products, and CBD Living will continue to work hard to be at the for front of this movement, bringing the best CBD products to market.” c
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“Although the ‘War on Drugs’ continues, some of what would normally be wasted is ending up being useful after all.”
A Sustainable Future Recycling cannabis bio-waste is beginning to make an impact
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Written by Jasen Davis Edited by Benjamin M. Adams
W
hen only the flowering tops, leaves and THC-rich parts of the cannabis plant are used in production, the remaining cannabis stalks are rarely utilized, even though they are an abundant source of sustainable fiber and materials. Most companies do not focus solely on how to recycle the excess cannabis plant material, which is often wasted in the process. However, companies are helping redefine how cannabis and hemp are disposed of, working to repurpose cannabis waste
and turn it into valuable materials. This waste is most commonly seen through dispensary or production facility raids. Cannabis operations that are out of compliance with state law, in most cases, often lose their crops and property after a raid. Police have the authority to confiscate the cannabis and other property because of a process known as civil asset forfeiture, which allows law enforcement to take and keep drugs, money and equipment as long as it has been believed to be used in criminal activity. If a person wants their property back, they must spend a lot of money and time proving otherwise, in addition to fighting the criminal charges.
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The State of Washington, for instance, first licensed recreational cannabis farms in 2014, has since then accumulated 1.7 million pounds of cannabis waste. Most of the compostable waste ends up in a landfill, but several companies want to change the way that cannabis waste is disposed. One company, Restalk, uses organic cannabis waste and repurposes it into treefree paper. Restalk’s paper is made out of discarded cannabis stalks instead of harvesting precious trees. Recently, the company partnered up with Emerald Family Farms, a group of eco-conscious cannabis growers in Northern California’s Emerald Triangle. Most recycling companies have focused on hemp in the past, but the new precedent has been set by Restalk and other companies. Restalk plans on setting up processing and collection centers in every major cannabis producing region. In Ohio, authorities report they have taken $326 million worth of cannabis across the state since 2008, mostly from the Appalachian region of Southeast Ohio, where residents have cultivated it for decades. That translates 44
to more than approximately 326,200 plants. But even in Ohio, Maratek Environmental is recycling cannabis bio-waste from the state’s medical cannabis processors—a process which they claim can help processors recover their costs in 12-18 months. In Colorado, the Denver Police Department recycles confiscated cannabis. Instead of burning the contraband, they partner with A1 Organics and recycle it at an organic recycling
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company that converts the material into organic fertilizer. According to A1 Organics, police from the nearby cities of Aurora, Commerce City, Thornton and Colorado Springs have all expressed an interest in doing the same thing. This is in accordance with state waste compliance regulations, which require growers and authorities to dispose of cannabis in a way that is friendly to the environment without being a danger to the public.
Industrial Hemp Recycling, LLC (IHR), offers complete waste management for both hemp and cannabis waste in Colorado. IHR has been licensed since 2011 with the Marijuana Enforcement Division under the Colorado Department of Revenue. The company adheres to Colorado’s cannabis and hemp waste compliance regulations. Sheriffs in Jackson County, Oregon end up burying plants at a local landfill (a process that involves covering the cannabis in 20 feet of trash), but the state police have found another way to recycle it by transporting seized cannabis material to a local power plant in Brooks, Oregon for incineration, which generated electricity for 4,800 homes. Although the “War on Drugs” continues, some of what would normally be wasted is ending up being useful after all. Coordinating our efforts between both cannabis industry experts and law enforcement could provide the maximum benefit, and the end result could be a better alternative for people and the environment. c
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A Changing Tide Despite its legality, cannabis can still affect your livelihood in the workplace By Stephanie Bishop
T
hroughout prohibition, employers have relied on the Controlled Substance Act of 1970 to define workplace drug policies. Most have zero tolerance procedures in place based on cannabis’ placement in the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA’s) Drug Diversion Program as a Schedule I Drug, considered harmful to society with no medicinal benefits. As each state passes voter approved initiatives allowing for the medicinal and recreational uses of cannabis, employers find themselves needing to reexamine zero tolerance workplace policies with regards to individual use. Employers in the private sector in states allowing for the possession and consumption of cannabis by adults have been affected by legalization in two ways—pre-employment screening tests do not reflect legalization, and there has been an increase in cannabis use by existing employees. Most of these companies screen potential candidates using a standard five-panel drug test, which identifies the presence of cocaine, amphetamines, PCP, opioids and cannabis. Some find themselves unable to staff key positions based on the results of these tests in recreational states. Many employers are forced to 46
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reexamine their hiring standards for this reason. Some employers are responding to this issue by removing cannabis from pre-employment screening tests, while others are redefining policies with verbiage involving impairment rather than general use. Human resources professionals are also using impairment policy language to decide an employee’s fate should they fail a mandatory drug test for cannabis after hire. Managers are being trained to identify the signs and symptoms of impairment and act accordingly. Some employers offer drug and alcohol prevention training as well as counseling for employees who come forward admitting problems with illicit drug use. In all states allowing recreational use and most with medical initiatives in place, the decision to terminate employment based on the employees’ use of cannabis is protected in the language of the law. For recreational consumers, there is no legal recourse should they be fired due to a failed drug test. Medical cannabis patients, however, in some cases, do have the ability to sue an employer for wrongful termination, though most cases have been dismissed. Rhode Island, Maine and Arizona’s medical cannabis laws
include language disallowing employee discrimination due to lawful medicinal use, and just recently the Massachusetts Supreme Court ruled in favor of medical cannabis patient Cristina Barbuto on July 17. Barbuto was terminated after only one day of her job, because her prescreening test results showed positive for the presence of cannabis. This unprecedented ruling could set the standard for litigation in other medical cannabis states. So what needs to happen to find balance between employer drug policy and employee cannabis use? Attorney Dean Rocco, Chair of Employment & Labor at Wilson Elser law firm explained to CULTURE how progress can be made going forward. “These are increasingly complex issues,” Elser said. “An employer must work with counsel to strike a balance between the applicable laws governing marijuana testing and screening, its designs for corporate culture, the limits of technology to accurately detect the presence marijuana impairment and the feasibility of satisfying recruitment and retention needs under the drug policy it creates.” As more states move to regulate cannabis, the need for candid discussion is imperative. The best policy for a medical or recreational consumer is honesty during the hiring process. It would benefit any employee to review thoroughly an employer’s drug policy prior to employment or before deciding to obtain a recommendation to use cannabis as medicine or for recreational purposes. The tides are most certainly changing, though not soon enough to protect all cannabis consuming employees from wrongful termination. c
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CBD remains a likely treatment against common ailments facing NFL players
By Emily Manke
F
ew athletic professionals take harder hits to their bodies than those in the National Football League (NFL). The physical nature of the game leaves many players with wounds that ache long after players have stepped off of the field. Athletes in the NFL have access to some of the best doctors and medical care around. So, it only makes sense that players in states with medicinal cannabis have access to this revolutionary medicine, right? Unfortunately, NFL policy doesn’t allow players to enjoy the pain relief that cannabis offers. However, that could be
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changing—leaving NFL players free to take hard hits on and off the field. In late July, it was widely reported that the NFL wrote to the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) offering to study how cannabis could aid athletes with pain management. This comes after the NFLPA announced it would be studying cannabis as an alternative for pain management in late 2016. It’s no surprise NFL players would turn to cannabis, and to CBD specifically, to cope with the excruciating pain that comes with their many injuries. Ex-NFL players have already begun embracing and advocating for the use of cannabis for pain management. Now there are special
sports divisions and physicians who see the potential that cannabis, but more specifically CBD, has for treating professional athletes. The sports division at Boulder Botanicals & Biosciences Laboratories LLC in Boulder, Colorado, has been working on introducing CBD as pain relief to the sports world. Shawn Hermanson, who oversees the sports division, works primarily to educate and promote awareness about the healing power of CBD when it comes to pain management, in addition to treating ailments like chronic traumatic encephalopathy, traumatic brain injury, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and depression, all of which are common among professional athletes.
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stated. He continued to explain that although opioids have long been the go-to medication for treating the pain of NFL athletes, these pharmaceutical medications are extremely addictive, physically harmful and potentially even fatal. Athletes often see cannabis as a much safer alternative for athletes. “Another beneficial aspect is that cannabinoids are non-addictive and non-habit forming, unlike the opioids that players are now prescribed,” Hermanson said. “We understand the challenge of working to wean players off opioids while bringing real and natural solutions to the players.” Despite the incredible breakthroughs humans have made in medical science in the last century, it seems when it comes to treating pain, Mother Nature still has us beat. With opioid addiction as a national epidemic, and new research confirming the effectiveness of cannabis as medicine all the time, it would be the logical next step for the NFL to allow players to treat their aching bodies with cannabis. Allowing the plant to be studied as treatment is an encouraging first step. c
“Cannabis, and specifically cannabinoids, are a legitimate and safe way for pain management. [CBD has] been shown to provide natural relief from pain, inflammation, anxiety, psychosis, seizures, spasms and other conditions without the psychoactive effects typically found in marijuana use.” One story Hermanson likes to tell is about a professional football player who came to Boulder Botanicals’ sports division, who had never smoked cannabis in his life. The player vehemently opposed using CBD initially. After being extensively educated on cannabinoids, and carefully considering the pros and cons, the player finally agreed. Fast forward to a few weeks later, and that same reluctant player was on the phone with Hermanson “ . . . blown away by the results and wanting to know more about why he was feeling the best he had felt in years,” Hermanson told CULTURE. “Cannabis, and specifically cannabinoids, are a legitimate and safe way for pain management. [CBD has] been shown to provide natural relief from pain, inflammation, anxiety, psychosis, seizures, spasms and other conditions without the psychoactive effects typically found in marijuana use.” Hermanson
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Although the NFL has only recently begun to consider cannabis as an acceptable form of treatment for its players, much of the information confirming the benefits of medical cannabis has already been studied and published. Medical professionals such as Dr. Rav Ivker has worked with nearly 7,000 patients suffering with a variety of common chronic pain conditions, who are using cannabis as treatment. Dr. Ivker reported to CULTURE that after starting on medical cannabis, the vast majority of his patients have been able to either completely eliminate the use of opioids or at the very least significantly reduce their daily dosage. “The cannabis plant contains approximately 80 different [known] cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, which are the best known and most studied cannabinoids,” Dr. Ivker stated. “Within the body are endocannabinoids (almost identical to the cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant) and receptors that comprise a neurological network called the endocannabinoid system. Each cannabinoid has a specific therapeutic function which is initiated as it binds to the receptor, a process similar to the way a key fits into a lock.” c
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Photos by John Gilhooley
The sisters of Krewella dish about their cultural heritage, upcoming tour and cannabis By Simon Weedn
or 10 years now, sisters Yasmine and Jahan Yousaf, better known to the masses as Krewella, have been steadily climbing to the heights of the international electronic dance music (EDM) scene and developing a reputation along the way for working hard and delivering powerful live performances. The duo’s gorgeously poppy, hook-laden and ridiculously catchy brand of EDM has landed Krewella in top spots at festivals all over the world, a partnership with dance-fitness company Zumba, as well as a veritable army of fans across the globe who affectionately refer to themselves as “The Krew.” Recently, Krewella dropped the first of two highly anticipated EPs, New World Pt. 1, and announced a headlining tour that will lead them all across North America through November. CULTURE had the opportunity to talk to Jahan and Yasmine and hear all about everything that went into the making of the new EPs, as well as their thoughts on cannabis. >>
Congratulations on your EP, New World Pt. 1. Can you tell me a bit about how this EP came together? Jahan: Well, we started working on the songs around a year ago without the intention of it being an EP. Then about six months ago we realized we had dozens and dozens of songs that, once we’d filtered through and picked the best, could make a cohesive body of work. That’s usually how it starts for us, we’ll just aimlessly write in the studio without really thinking about how to package it or box it in. Then it’ll naturally form into something where we hear some type of string of cohesiveness or theme throughout, and we’ll realize that some of these songs together would complement each other. What do you personally see as the overarching themes or strings running through New World Pt. 1? Yasmine: Well, it’s not really a concept EP. Jahan: Yeah, it’s not a concept EP, but the idea of New World actually came from a song that isn’t released yet. Yasmine and I were both raised in a multicultural household, our dad is Pakistani and our mom is American/European, and it’s something we didn’t really talk about and sort of brushed aside in the beginning of our music career. But, in the past few years it’s become something that’s really important to us, and we’ve just been diving deep into who we are and what is more authentic to who we are as people and as artists. This idea of New World is something we talk a lot about in the studio especially considering the fact that we’re in a Trump era. So much is changing that affects people on all levels regardless of what status you are, how much money you make, what religion you follow or what type of household you grew up in. We talk a lot in the studio about these social conflicts we’re having in this country and how the youth and cultural diversity is going to be what fights back against all of these old ways that are really suppressing new ways of thinking and open mindedness.
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that Jahan and I felt like we had to do. We had a lot of things pent up inside of us—everything from bitterness and sadness, anger and frustration, as well as love and happiness; the whole spectrum of everything we were going through. We had to purge it into this one EP, and once we got it out there into the world, we felt a weight off our backs. Moving forward from that, we just wanted to make music freely that flowed out of us without too much thought. I think with the Ammunition EP we let go of a dark passenger and began to move on to making music that was a little more free and a little bit lighter.
I know it has been a little over a year since your previous EP, Ammunition, was released. Were there any major changes between the way you approached New World Pt. 1 versus your approach to Ammunition? Yasmine: I think Ammunition would have to be what I call a purge of emotions, and it was a necessary EP 56 56
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Can you tell us how your song “TH2C” developed? Jahan: Well, with that song the verses actually came first. We had a lot of fun creating an image of a girl lyrically using people we know personally and on the internet as inspiration. So, the verses came first, and then the hook came out almost as a stream of consciousness in the room. We kind of
flowed out, “I’m too high to care, I’m too high to care,” because it just felt like it was what that girl would be singing at a festival or something. We felt like we didn’t have any rules while we were making it, and we could say anything we wanted. Then, once we had the title written up, “Too High To Care,” Yasmine was the one who said “TH2C” and everyone in the room immediately went, “Woah! That is some genius shit! That needs to be the title!” Yasmine: I think this is one of the first songs that we’ve ever released that’s written from the perspective of someone else, and it was really fun creating that persona. We had a joke in the studio where we called the woman in the song “She,” and creating her was almost liberating in and of itself because, like Jahan said, there were no rules when writing the life of this character. It was exciting to feel like we didn’t have to stay in a box with it—“TH2C” was a really fun song to make.
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Jahan: I feel like we need more multidimensional female characters in the media. It feels like sometimes all we have are these few social archetypes where there’s just the stupid party girl who doesn’t have much going on with her life, the fame whore, the girl who hustles really hard and is super serious all the time, or the Instagram model with a million followers. So we decided to create a girl who is essentially the female Diplo—someone who is traveling the world, is culturally exposed, knows how to fucking party (although I’m basing this all off of his persona online) and is a work machine. Women can do that stuff too! It seems like the song is so much about strength and independence, but also about having a good time with one of CULTURE’s favorite things. How do you
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two feel about all of the cannabis legalization going on around the country at the moment? Jahan: A little disclaimer, I’m not so knowledgeable about the legality of everything, but I’ll tell you how I feel about marijuana as a casual smoker here and there. Smoking affects my vocal chords, so I’m not the type of person who just goes in the studio and smokes and writes; sometimes I’ll smoke once in a month, other times it might be every two weeks. However, as someone who is really conscious about health and the purity of our food, body products, and really anything we put in our bodies, I just hope that with the decriminalization of marijuana that certain people won’t exploit this new product and pollute it with fillers and toxic ingredients. I just hope that there are people out there, and I’ve heard there are in California, that are doing their best to run organic dispensaries and farms, because what’s going into your lungs needs to come from a pure place.
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Female artists are taking the EDM scene back by Benjamin M. Adams
It’s safe to say that the electronic dance music (EDM) industry is largely maledominated, considering that all 10 of EDM’s top-earning artists are male, according to Forbes. However, the EDM scene is brimming with female DJs and vocalists, who are relentlessly battling for the recognition they deserve. Sydney-based DJ Alex Sholler goes by the moniker Alison Wonderland and exploded onto the American EDM scene with her debut album Run in 2015, which earned her two ARIA Music Awards’ nominations. The Australian duo NERVO may have begun as models, but the act won a Grammy for its work with David Guetta and Kelly Rowland’s “When Love Takes Over,” as well as the number one U.K. hit “We’re All No One” with EDM giants Afrojack and Steve Aoki. Other notable female Australian artists include Anna Lunoe and Nina Las Vegas. Canadian-born Grimes is a producer, singer, songwriter and DJ whose album Visions was widely acclaimed, helping her win Juno Awards for “Electronic Album of the Year,” “Breakthrough Artist of the Year” and later “Video of the Year.”
Canadian producer and DJ REZZ from Niagara Falls was noticed by Skrillex and was signed by both Skrillex’s label OWSLA and deadmau5’s label mau5trap. The PakistaniAmerican singersongwriter Nadia Ali reached number two on the U.K. Singles Chart with 2005’s “Rapture (Taste So Sweet)” as lead singer of the group iiO. The single was remixed by Avicii in 2010 and released as a solo release. Female EDM artists are carving out a niche on the radio as well. Annie Mac landed her first BBC Radio 1 show in 2004, which is a true honor for emerging new global artists. Rolling Stone magazine listed Annie Mac as one of the “50 Most Important People in EDM.” Last but not least, Krewella is consistently one of the top-earning female EDM acts in the world. Krewella’s single “Alive” was certified Platinum and the band’s full-length Get Wet went straight to number one on the U.S. Dance Chart in 2013. There’s certainly no shortage of female DJs, producers and vocalists who are climbing up the ladder in the world of EDM. It’s quickly becoming the fastestgrowing and most important genre in the recording industry.
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I also think that the medical system legalization is important because we’re only just beginning to discover the wonders of marijuana. My dad always says, “When in doubt, go back to nature.” So, I hope we’re starting to go back to nature instead of creating more artificial chemicals that can hurt people. I mean, it’s so disturbing how easy it is to get a prescription for opioids. It’s such a big problem. I recently fractured my metatarsal in my foot and went to urgent care, and they just wrote me a prescription for Norcos, and I almost wanted to lecture them. I smoked weed a couple of nights later and was totally fine. I’d rather just do that than worry about getting addicted to pain medication. What are your hopes for the overall production of things on this EP? Yasmine: Well, when we were in the beginning stages of making this EP, there were moments where we were thinking, “How are we going to make this go into a crazy drop?” Or “How can we make this feel more electronic?” At a certain point we threw all of that out the window and said, “No. Let’s just make songs!” After that it kind of got to a point we were really just focusing on the songs, the vibe, and spending a lot of time on the percussion because we were trying to bring more of our Pakistani roots into this New World vibe. So, we were concentrating on a lot of Bollywood-inspired percussion, and because of that the foundations of the songs were all there before we even went into making them more dance-y or whatever direction we were going in. I remember one of 60
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the songs, “Love Outta Me,” had an actual track drop on it and we ended up taking it out because it took away from the vision we had for the song. We really just threw out any of our preconceived notions of what an EDM EP should be with New World, and at the end of the day we loved all of these songs. We hope that they really resonate with people, and they end up loving them too. With a new EP out and a huge tour about to get underway, that’s quite a bit to have on your plates. Does Krewella have any other ambitions for 2017? Yasmine: Well, if you think about it,
2017 is strangely more than halfway over, and it’s scary to even think about how quickly time is going. We’ve been in the studio all year making music, so being able to take a look at it all finally is really cool. We have New World Pt. 2 coming out sometime soon, and we don’t know how many songs it’s going to be just yet—probably between six and eight. We have so many cool collaborations coming up that we’re working on and are almost done with. We’ve got this tour about to kick off that will lead to a ton of new merchandise, and the tour itself is going to be a completely new show, and by the end of the tour we’ll be in mid-November. By then 2017 will be pretty much over, so I think we’ve got our work cut out for ourselves. The goals are already in place, we’re just in motion now. It’s all fun though, we’re having the best time making this music. c
+ www.krewella.com
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dispensary highlight everyone, however what keeps me coming in every day is the look on a patient’s face when cannabis first “works” for them. Particularly someone coming from a skeptical mindset, that’s the ultimate win-win in my opinion. “I was able to sleep or eat or socialize for the first time in years, etc.” Tears on both sides are not uncommon—it’s a hell of a beautiful thing.
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How and when did your dispensary start up? HTP started in 2011 with a small team and the goal of providing an elevated level of patient service combined with exclusive products for the medical cannabis patient base of the North Bay. What’s the story behind the name of your dispensary? The name came from “Highly Trained Professionals, providing, Health Through Plants,” no real story, just the truth. What does your dispensary offer customers that they can’t find anywhere else? At HTP we pride ourselves on excellent customer service from start to finish; when patients walk in to when they leave we aim to make their experience here the best the industry has to offer. New patients receive a free gift along with a dispensary tour and consultation about how our dispensary works and what types of cannabis might work well for them. 62
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Instagram: @HTP.Group Snapchat: HTPgroupvallejo We feel like when you are a part of our HTP you are truly apart of the cannabis community/family. How has the cannabis industry changed since you have been in the business? Where would you like to see it go? The biggest changes in the industry are probably centered around the impending regulatory oversight of AUMA and MCRSA. For many years the cannabis industry was more or less self-regulated through the general guidelines of Prop. 215 and later the MMPA/SB-420. What are the biggest challenges you face in this industry as a dispensary? . . . Biggest joys? There are still many people, powerful people, who hate what we do. Whether it be politically or personally motivated, it’s always a challenge to work with folks who don’t grasp what we are trying to accomplish. We see the benefits of medical cannabis therapy daily; we know it can literally work wonders. The joys—I believe this is different for
What is the one thing you want patients to know about your dispensary? We are here for you, we are not doing you a favor by being here, you are doing us a favor by coming to our dispensary. You have a voice here, good, bad or in-between, we want to hear about your experience so we can constantly improve our dispensary environment here at HTP. If someone wanted to open a dispensary and get their feet wet in the industry, what advice or counsel would you give them? I read an article about Dark Heart Nursery and when asked this same question, I believe their founders said it best, and it was something to this effect: “Create a unique value proposition in medical cannabis and the industry will always be responsive to it,” then work your ass off to make it happen. Lastly, make sure it’s for the right reasons. Endeavors motivated purely by money will never stand up to similar ideas fueled by passion and a dedicated team. What is the most important thing you hope to accomplish while in the cannabis community? For as long as I can remember I wanted to open and run a medical cannabis dispensary. My team and I have brought safe access and relief to thousands of patients. So in that respect I would say I’m very happy with what we’ve accomplished. I would like to continue to do that job while offering secure futures for all those involved with the day-to-day at HTP. c
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company highlight
Korova How would you describe your company? What is your specialty? We specialize in providing safe, potent, consistent and delicious cannabis edibles. What do you offer consumers/clients that others don’t? One thing you see in the cannabis industry is inconsistency with dosing. This can lead to overdosing or not feeling the full effects of what you paid for. We strive to be the most consistent brand people encounter. We want them to have the same experience with potency levels time and time again. I would say it’s one of our core beliefs. How and why did your company start up? Korova started about five years ago with the intention of providing patients with a
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consistent experience. Personally we’ve experienced poor dosing with edibles in the past, and it can be quite infuriating. It’s been a main motivator to not let consumers have that experience with Korova. 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? What some might see as challenges, we at Korova totally see as progress. We welcome regulations, increased safety for consumers and a wide variety of options and dosing. Ultimately it will mean better and safer marijuana for the consumer. What words of advice would you offer to anyone seeking to enter the world of cannabis business? Find a product you care about passionately, and commit to a willingness to adapt and grow constantly. This industry changes rapidly, and people who can change with it stand the best chance at longevity. Stay persistent! What are the goals and vision moving forward, for your company? Where do you see your company in five years? When California transforms from a medical state into a recreational state, quality and consistency standards will go up. We see ourselves having a strong presence throughout the recreational industry while continuing to set the standards for safety and consistency. c
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3. The Homey Hippies Beeswax Candle Let’s bee honest (see what we did there?). At best, bees are a pest; at worst they will sting you even though they know it will kill them. Think about this next time you’re stung—you did something so offensive to a bee, that it decided death was preferable to letting it slide. Bees do however produce delicious honey as well as beeswax, a compound found to have numerous health benefits. Beeswax is a natural stress-reliever and when used in the making of candles, can produce a flame without the harmful soot that accompanies a traditional candle. The Homey Hippies’ beeswax candles also give off a subtle honey scent that won’t leave your home smelling like your clothes do after a long weekend at your in-laws. Sporting a wick that is made exclusively of hemp, this candle is the perfect office or home décor for any cannabis aficionado. PRICE: $14.50 WEBSITE: TheHomeyHippies.com 4. Ink Guard When you finally find something worth permanently adorning your body with, you’re going to want to protect it. There’s nothing sadder than seeing a faded tattoo of ALF (the puppet in the late-1980s sitcom), not only because it’s faded, but because . . . ALF. The good folks over at CannaSmack have you covered though, literally, with a combination of natural ingredients like beeswax, coconut oil and hemp seed to protect your skin and your sick ink. Its SPF 30 lotion also moisturizes your skin. Haven’t found the perfect tattoo idea yet? Ink Guard will protect your virgin skin equally as well. But let’s be honest, your skin would look a lot better with some killer ink on it. PRICE: $7.99 WEBSITE: CannaSmack.com
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entertainment
BOOK
True Living Organics, 2nd Edition Pub. Green Candy Press The Rev Interested in growing cannabis indoors while avoiding the use of chemicals, synthetics and other non-organic cultivation products? Look no further than True Living Organics, 2nd Edition by The Rev with 100 additional pages in the new edition. With the easy-to-read handbook, interested cultivators will find upto-date information on everything related to your grow operation from advanced soil-mix recipes and watering to composting and recycling. Readers will benefit from following The Rev’s tips and step-bystep instructions. Additionally, there is a helpful troubleshooting section for novice cultivators, as well as a guide to organic hash making and extraction. You’ll have a green thumb in no time. (Jacob Cannon) 68
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GAME
Destiny 2 Dev. Bungie Pub. EA Sports It’s been three years since the arrival of Destiny, and now a sequel is here to improve upon all of the original game’s successes, as well as its shortcomings. Destiny 2 allows for players to customize weapons, with a trio of categorical weapon types that will replace the old primary, secondary and heavy slots. It also offers four new worlds to explore and new abilities for each of the three existing classes. Those looking to dive into the continuation of a glorious, first-person online world, have a lot to look forward to. (Nicole Potter)
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MOVIE
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 Dir. James Gunn Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures When Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 1 came out in 2014, it gave audiences a comic book movie blockbuster that managed to both tackle deeper themes and capture emotional moments, while providing one of the most awesome soundtracks in recent memory. As was hoped by many thousands of fans around the world, Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2 delivers more of the same. The sequel follows the same rag tag quintet of universal outcasts as they save their star system yet again, this time from a cosmic being. The explosions are big, the comedy and action are top notch, and the soundtrack is glorious; see this movie immediately. (Simon Weedn)
MUSIC
Cost of Living Downtown Boys Sub Pop Records For its third release, New Jersey political punkers Downtown Boys return sounding more polished and confrontational than ever. Working with producer Guy Picciotto (Fugazi) to take its sound to the next level, the band thunders and rumbles with such energy it should make any listener want to take to the streets in protest to bring on the revolution while simultaneously instigating a dance party. The band hits again and again with songs that are fiery and intense, while the sound remains loving and compassionate. On Cost Of Living, Downtown Boys may be frustrated and pissed off, but it is never hateful or bitter. (Simon Weedn)
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strain, edible & concentrate Available at: Barbary Coast in San Francisco.
Churro Verde There’s nothing like a churro in summertime, and the Churro Verde brings you that tropical feeling all year round! This masterpiece is loaded with two grams of topshelf flower inside ornate palm leaves, drenched in Gold Drop terpene oil with finely ground nuggets sprinkled on the outside and a corn husk crutch to make it even more unique! Undoubtedly one of the most visually desirable pre-rolls on the market, the all green Churro Verde is such a treasure to gaze upon and almost bittersweet to light up for the first time. Blue Cheese was the strain inside the variety we sampled, and this hybrid was easy to smoke and had a fresh and revitalizing flavor. The all-natural palm leaf wrap in combination with the Gold Drop oil helps facilitate an extremely slow and even burn, the only true tale of a quality pre-roll. The only way to go wrong with this treat is to not share with a friend! So, grab a Churro Verde from the Barbary Coast in San Francisco, and tell life to talk to the palm!
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The old Muhammad Ali quote “Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee” certainly rings true with Beezle’s Lemon Head #7 Live Resin Sauce. This collaboration with NorCal grower, Atrium, is aromatic with acute, earthy undertones that dance gleefully alongside the sharp and crisp scents of freshly harvested lemons. After the initial kick of this potent and powerful extract, the explorative and uplifting effects will have consumers feeling light on their toes. Invigorating and enlivening, the Lemon Head #7 Live Resin Sauce definitely is best utilized as a pick-me-up throughout the day. The entire gamut of citrus flavors is noticed, boasting a sour grapefruit taste in addition to lemon and lime. Keeping up with the current extract trends, this live resin is considered a “sauce”—a sugary crystalline base, bathing in a pool of terpenes. Beezle Extracts gets the job done well with this one.
Available at: Green Door in San Francisco.
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REVIEWs
Chillax Cannabis Calming Formula Handle unnecessary and avoidable paranoia by offering your friends some Chillax. In the event that too much cannabis is consumed, a “whiteout” can occur. This is a short-lived wave of panic that happens after someone goes overboard and consumes more cannabis than they can handle. Luckily, Chillax can help combat this unwanted effect. Just pour a Chillax packet into a four- or eight-ounce bottle of water, shake it up, and get ready for a much-needed calmness to wrap you up like a warm blanket in the middle of a winter storm. The packets contain a great deal of amino acids, vitamins and calming herbs, which work together to effectively reduce anxiety. Each packet contains ingredients like lemon balm extract and passion flower extract that help calm the nervous system. After just one sip, the fruit punch flavor will become acquainted with anxiety relief. Chillax doesn’t “un-high” a person, but it will help reduce an unwanted reaction from overconsuming cannabis. With all of the high potency products popular in the market today, novice and expert consumers can experiment confidently knowing Chillax is in their back pocket.
Available at: C.H.A.I. in Santa Cruz.
Available wherever: Chillax products are carried.
Strawberry Banana Live Resin Stoked to get one last beach day in before the end of summer? Slide on down to Santa Cruz, catch a few waves and stop at Capitola Healing Association Inc. (C.H.A.I) for an incredible selection of live resins. An absolute favorite among terpene connoisseurs, the Strawberry Banana Live Resin by Synergy Concentrates is screaming with tangy tropical flavors. After the first taste some may believe this live resin to be a misnomer as the flavor is more citrus-like than strawberry bananaesque, but Strawberry Banana is actually the parent strain used for this concentrate. Since this is a sativa-dominant selection, patients are likely to find themselves experiencing flashes of creativity combined with a general sense of clarity and a positive outlook on life. No doubt one of the most visually appealing concentrates available, this butterscotch colored live resin is truly an impeccable choice.
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Paper Planes Gelato Premium Nug Run The fine folks down at Theraleaf Relief in San Jose have shown yet another reason why they have one of the best extract selections around. The sharp and pungent notes of the quintessential cannabis aroma are the most noticeable in this extract, but a tangy sherbet scent lingers delightfully as well. This supreme concentrate has a crumbly, pie crust-like texture decorated by a peachy and golden color, creating a seriously eye-catching combination. The flavor profile on this concentrate is very sweet but smooth, similar to a root beer float. Very calming, the Paper Planes Gelato should be reserved for evening use only as it is quite potent in its abilities to relax and unwind patients. As a premium nug run concentrate, any extract lover will most definitely find the Paper Planes Gelato to be a new favorite.
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Available at: Theraleaf Relief in San Jose.
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REVIEWs
Pink Candy Kush Cannabis consumers in the Bay Area will be glad to hear about the brand new delivery service available to patients known as Herbi Delivery Co. Multiple different strains are on deck, with each and every variety packed to the brim with THC content. We got our hands on a sample of the Pink Candy Kush, which boasts an astonishing 29.7 percent THC in addition to 1.6 percent CBD, and it tastes just like a five-star dessert. Pale mossy green nuggets are paired with an intermittent spattering of peachy orange hairs underneath a hazy spread of fuchsia tinted trichomes. Ultra tranquil feelings are immediately evident with use of this strain, and creative inspiration is easily found as well. Pink Candy Kush is a strain that many will start to become more familiar with as it is simply an all-around crucial bud. Herbi does a serious service providing top-notch plant-todoorstep delivery with hefty sized portions and highly potent strains.
Available through: Herbi Delivery Co.
Extra Strength Body Butter
Available wherever: Sweet ReLeaf products are carried.
Pain relief derived from cannabis can come in many well-known forms, such as simply smoking flower, consuming edibles or vaporizing concentrates. However, many patients are unaware of the fact that a topical cream infused with cannabis is not only an effective way to treat pain, but it is arguably the most effective way to treat isolated pain with cannabis. A small dollop of this floral-scented cream is all it takes to help everyday aches and pains such as (but not limited to) sore muscles, aching joints, arthritis, as well as irritated or sunburned skin. Also, those who use this product can rest well knowing that ingredients used are all-natural, and this body butter contains not a single unwanted chemical, dye or preservative. The extra strength variety of Sweet ReLeaf is ideal for those who experience chronic pain, and with a regular regimen of daily application the chronic pain may be significantly reduced over time.
Kurvana G.S. Cookies Cartridge Elegant, sleek and functional are the words that come to mind when patients first get their hands on the Kurvana G.S. Cookies Cartridge. A brilliant golden amber concentrate is contained within the chrome walls of the aesthetically pleasing cart. Included with the cartridge kit is a button-free battery allowing for maximum ease in operation with this futuristic feature. Each cloud of vapor yielded from the cartridge tastes exactly the same as the first bite into a freshly baked cookie from grandmother’s oven. The vapor released from this pen is neither thick nor sparse, but sits well in the lungs and is easy to inhale for extended lengths of time. A total cannabinoid content of 71.49 percent in the cartridge makes it ideal for use all throughout the day. A remarkable treat, it goes to show that Kurvana lies at the intersection of class and quality.
Available wherever: Kurvana products are carried.
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Cannadips
Available wherever: Cannadips products are carried.
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Unlike chewing tobacco pouches, which cause cancer, Cannadips smoke-less cannabis pouches do the exact opposite, with the anti-cancer properties that are attributed to cannabinoids. Each pouch contains 10mg of THC, and each canister comes with 15 pouches for a total of 150mg THC. Just insert a pouch in between your cheek and gums and savor the flavor. The pouches are filled with a patent-pending blend of coconut fiber, extracts and THC. The effects from our mint-flavored sample started to manifest in about 15 minutes. The canisters are properly labeled to keep out of the reach of children. Pick up a healthy habit and keep your cannabis consumption on the down-low with Cannadips.
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Black Rock
REVIEWs
Available at: Buddy’s Cannabis in San Jose.
Dark as night and firm as a boulder, it’s pretty clear why this strain is called Black Rock. Eggplant-shaded nugs coated in a sugary glaze are beckoning to be broken down so consumers can view the full spectrum of majestic colors and crystalline trichomes. The aromas from this superb strain are bitter but surprisingly sweet all at the same time, exactly like a blackberry that isn’t quite fully ripe. Commonly appreciated for its reliable sedative effects, the Black Rock strain can put even the most raucous individual to sleep after just a small bowl. A heavy, yet brisk smoke is produced from this flower enabling patients to take long and deep inhalations that are not overwhelming. More than a safe bet, the Black Rock available at Buddy’s Cannabis is the obvious go-to for indica fans.
Brass Knuckles Adjustable Battery & Gelato Cartridge Be prepared for the biggest punch a pen can pack! The brand-new Brass Knuckles adjustable Battery and Gelato Cartridge combination offered over at Airfield Supply Co. in San Jose is a must have for any cartridge fanatic. The adjustable power supply in the battery is a highly valued feature allowing patients to choose the most desirable vapor thickness. The cartridge itself is packed full with an entire gram of gelato concentrate and contains no additives. The viscid texture of this Gelato oil helps produce a lush and aromatic vapor ideal for puffing on all day long. The heavy weight of the battery and extra volume on the cartridge feels great in consumers’ hands and this high standard of quality is certainly part of the reason Brass Knuckles’ products are such a favorite among cartridge aficionados. Overall, it is one of the best options available for patients when it comes to concentrate cartridges; this is not a pen to be missed.
Available wherever: ReUp products are carried.
Available at: Airfield Supply Co. in San Jose.
ReUp Sleepy Head When THC alone is not enough to get some extra zzz’s in, ReUp Sleepy Head has got you covered. Packed with 10mg CBD, 5mg THC and 3mg Melatonin, Sleepy Head is guaranteed to do the trick. (For those who might not know, melatonin is a naturallyoccurring hormone that regulates sleep cycles enabling regular, quality sleep.) The contents inside the discreet two-ounce bottle were fast-acting and delivered results almost immediately. It tastes sweet and with a strong grape flavor and a hint of an herbal taste that tickles your mouth afterwards. When CULTURE sampled the ReUp Sleepy Head, we felt refreshed and ready to tackle the day after it awarded us one of the best slumbers we’ve had in years. ReUp Sleepy Head is perfect as a better, more natural replacement for sleep aid prescription drugs that won’t be as kind to your body.
Chong’s Choice Cereal Bowls Chocolate Bar Tommy Chong himself is the mastermind behind this ultimate munchie-filled masterpiece, and only he could make an edible this ingenious. There is 200mg of THC in each 3.5-ounce bar of delicious white chocolate and it is packed with the all-time greatest munchie food—cereal, which makes this wondrous invention very difficult to set down. We definitely wouldn’t recommend that patients make plans for the rest of their day when they first pick up one of these Chong’s Choice Cereal Bowls Bars! Not only because of the high THC content but because more often than not, consumers will find themselves eating a few more pieces than intended, thanks to the irresistible taste of cereal smothered with melty white chocolate. Grab one of these Chong’s Choice Cereal Bowls Bars, meet up with a friend and have yourselves some “bowls” of fun.
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Available wherever: Chong’s Choice products are carried.
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Summer Experiments 3 By Ed Rosenthal Last month, I wrote about three groups of plants that were in the middle of flowering. Now those plants have all been harvested. The first group consisted of five Blue Dream plants in a 2’ x 4’ container on wheels. I had planted two of them horizontally lengthwise, crossing each other. Then I planted three shorter plants in a row in the middle of the container. By the time the plants started flowering, the entire container was covered with growth that extended out of from three sides. The plants were wheeled into a dark tent area each day for light deprivation, and they were harvested on July 24, after 56 days of flowering. The branches were cut and are now hanging in a slow dry/cure. The second group consisted of four plants that were placed outdoors when the short light period still promoted flowering. By the time the light period got longer, the plants were in the last half of flowering. The increased light period of late spring and early summer failed to turn the plants back into vegetative growth, and they were cut the week of July 9. Three of the four plants were pollinated from a
Unclipped Purple Pineapple had a large top bud that dominated growth. The side bud didn’t develop very much.
Top clipped Purple Pineapple’s central bud did not dominate growth. Instead, without inhibition from hormones produced by top bud, the side buds grew out producing a bigger yield.
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Blue Dream male that had released pollen two months earlier. The pollen had been sitting out in a cool dry place since then, but proved to be viable. Most of the buds were cut from these plants except for some small immature buds and the pollinated cola. Then the cut plants were given natural light during the day and placed under lights at night so they receive light continuously. They are now finishing seed production and reverting to vegetative growth for another round. Meanwhile, their cut buds are hanging, drying and curing. The third group consisted of 10 plants that sprouted unexpectedly. They were all sisters and looked like it. They were variations on a wide leaved Purple Pineapple and all had similar characteristics. The 10 plants all flowered, starting shortly after germinating; they finished flowering on approximately July 27. I performed several demonstration experiments on this group of plants. First, because they started flowering early, they grew to a controlled size. This demonstrated that cannabis could be grown as small row plants, making cultivation easier using conventional farming techniques, rather than as larger plants. In
The 2’ x 4’ tray held five Blue Dream plants. Buds and foliage covered the entire container then spread out further.
Cutting the buds using an electric clipper.
another experiment I paired plants that were about equal in growth and pruned the tops of half of them so that some were topped and some were left uncut. You can see the difference in their growth. The uncut plant grew a larger central bud at the expense of side growth. The cut plants produced several branches that held more buds than the uncut plants. These plants were ready to harvest approximately 90 days after germination. They were cut and hung whole to dry as well. They will all be dried and cured next month. Then they will be manicured. c
TIP OF THE MONTH By now, the outdoor plants are mid-way through flowering. You may have some regrets that you didn’t take clones while the plants were still vegetating. However, all is not lost. You can take cuttings of your flowering plants and root them while having them revert back to vegetative growth. Just take cuttings and prepare them as you usually do for cloning, and place them under constant light with no dark period. The cuttings will begin to root and to grow new leaves, not flowers.
The four plants started flowering early because they were placed outdoors in early spring when the natural light period was too short to maintain vegetative growth.
Bud of Blackberry Fire plant is ready to harvest.
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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culture PROFILE
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if you go:
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Time to Go: September Weather: Low 50s, High 60s Budget: $$$$$
Delightful Dublin By Sheryll Alexander
A day in Dublin, Ireland means taking in the sights and ending with a full belly, music, song, conversation and laughter—it truly makes this city a pleasure to visit. Dublin is an ancientyet-modern city that is delightful any time of year. Dublin is a highly walkable destination filled with a history going back to the Vikings along with gorgeous green spaces, castles, museums, theatres, restaurants and shopping districts. The city’s main attraction is by far is the Guinness Storehouse. Now housed in a glass atrium-like building that looks like a black Guinness pint, this is the
brewery tour of all tours. Hordes of tourists learn all about the beer’s four ingredients (water, barley, hops and yeast) as well as the famous founder, Arthur Guinness. The top floor houses the Gravity Bar where the Dublin views are spectacular, especially with a pint of perfectly-poured Guinness in hand. Other not-tobe missed Dublin attractions include Dublin Castle, Trinity College, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Christ Church Cathedral, National Museum of Ireland, Farmleigh House, Old Jameson Distillery and the National Botanical Gardens. Beyond the tourist traps, Dublin can be a
place for travelers to relax in this spectacular seaside city. Take a stroll after breakfast to a park, garden or along the shore. In the afternoon, hit a museum or other historical places of interest. Late afternoons require tucking into some coffee, tea and baked goods at a local coffee shop or tea room after visiting Dublin’s legal CBD dispensary, Capel Street’s The Hemp Company. Dublin has had quite the foodie Renaissance in the past decade too, so dinner in Dublin can be anything from a prix fixe menu at the latest Michelinstarred restaurant to hip neighborhood bistro fare to traditional Irish dishes at a historic pub. c
Fun-Filled Facts The second annual Global Medical Cannabis Summit is returning to Dublin from September 22-24. Held at The Digital Depot on Roe Lane, this weekend-long conference focuses on European medical cannabis perspectives and includes speakers such as legislators, scientists, doctors, patients and activists from around the world discussing such subjects as scientific insights, business development and political activism. 1
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From September 9-24, visitors can experience the Dublin Fringe Festival. Hundreds of “bold, brave, daring” and “cutting-edge” plays, so says Fringe Fest, are held at venues all over the city and is usually where Dubliners magically discover the next big theatrical show. 2
Cannabis is still illegal in Ireland, even though a 2016 medical cannabis bill passed through two stages in the Dáil, but was ultimately squashed recently. Dublin Cannabis Club (DCC)— an online informationsharing network of Dublin cannabis enthusiasts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram—says most cannabis-seeking visitors have very limited options. There are no physical social clubs in Dublin, and some sources recommend that visitors try checking out 420-friendly bars or chatting with a local for recommendations. The DCC also recommends buying from “independent lads who are smokers” as flower quality is usually premium (a gram costs around 20-25 euros). If caught possessing cannabis, the Irish police (Garda) must legally take possession of your cannabis, and you may get a misdemeanor ticket and a fine.
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Vanessa I. Soza
Age: 29 Condition/Illness:
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OCD, PTSD, depression, body/gender dysmorphia
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When did you start using medical cannabis? I began using medical cannabis at the tail end of an exclusively medical cannabis state, when I first moved to Portland in 2014. I couldn’t believe the quality of the cannabis in Oregon, the level of awareness education and that cannabis could be used in so many different forms! Imagine my surprise when I made that connection. Did you try other methods or treatments before cannabis? Because my anxiety was severe, and I was living in Texas then, medication was the only option laid out for me by most physicians. Seroquel, an antipsychotic typically used to treat schizophrenia, was one of my first and worst experiences I had on a pharmaceutical. I lost control of my body, slept 14 hours at a time and endured what felt like (very scary) sleep paralysis.
What’s the most important issue or problem facing medical cannabis patients? The single biggest threat to medical cannabis patients is the removal of the Oregon Medical Marijuana Program (OMMP). The Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC) would be doing these people, who might I add are already at a disadvantage, a great disservice. It’s easy for most to forget about special needs when suddenly everybody is allowed in dispensaries. What do you say to folks who are skeptical about cannabis as medicine? I don’t tolerate opinions without facts, and there are a lot of people out there with just an opinion and little-to-no facts to authenticate their position. But if I’m approached by friendly skepticism, my message is a simple one. I call it the three R’s—research, re-evaluate and reeducate. If I feel someone may be misinformed, I urge them to seek out more information (and recommend a few books or sites with reliable sources). After the research phase, it’s time to reevaluate the opinion. Once re-evaluated, the idea is to reformulate a stance, no matter the position and use it for the greater good. Keep an open mind, always, and pass on what you learned. c
Are you an medical cannabis patient with a compelling story to tell? If so, we want to hear from you. Email your name, contact information and details about your experiences with medical cannabis to courage@ireadculture.com.
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culture growing
Fall is officially here! The leaves on the trees will soon begin to turn varying shades of red and gold. Our menus turn from light summer salads to the deep, rich and warm flavors of autumn. Soups and comfort foods find their way to our tables. Jackets and scarves will soon appear as we venture out into apple orchards to find those
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A Glimpse of Autumn
Menu: Hot Apple Toddy Chicken Normandy Classic All-American Apple Pie
delicious morsels that remind us not only of back-to-school, but of the quintessential feeling of the seasons changing again. As the temperatures began to dip, warm apple cider transforms the popular Hot Toddy into a delightful autumn drink. The Hot Apple Toddy is ideal with fresh-pressed cider and is the perfect excuse to try a seasonal
beverage enhanced with cannabis. Pair it with a serving of Chicken Normandy, a one-pot meal that is sure to become one of your family favorites. Finally, nothing says “fall” more than a classic cannabis-infused apple pie. (If you’re not comfortable making your own crust, use a store-bought one. We promise not to tell.)
Hot Apple Toddy Ingredients:
DESTINATION
1 tablespoon honey 3 ounces apple brandy 2 1/2 teaspoons simple syrup 1/2 teaspoon cannabis-infused simple syrup 10 ounces hot apple cider Lemon wedge for garnish Cinnamon stick for garnish
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2-3 whole cloves for garnish
Instructions:
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1. Coat the bottom of an Irish coffee glass with honey.
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2. Add the apple brandy, simple syrup and infused simple syrup.
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3. Fill with hot apple cider. 4. Stir well. 5. Garnish with the lemon, cinnamon stick and cloves. SEPTEMBER 2017 CultureMagazine.com
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culture 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 tablespoon unsalted cannabutter 2 cooking apples, peeled, cored and sliced into wedges. (We suggest Fuji apples or Jonagold apples. Do not use Red Delicious, as they will turn into mush instead of staying firm) Flour for dredging 4 whole chicken legs (with thighs) Salt and pepper to taste 1 large onion, peeled, sliced into wedges 1/2 cup apple brandy (or Calvados) 2 cups apple cider 2 teaspoons dried thyme 1/2 cup heavy cream
4. Sprinkle the apple slices with a little salt. Remove from pan and put them aside on paper towels to drain. 5. Lightly dredge the chicken in flour, and place the pieces in the hot sauté pan, skin side down. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of cannabutter. 6. Fry until golden, about 3-5 minutes on medium to medium-high heat on each side. Remove from pan and set aside. 7. Add onions to the pan, and increase the heat to mediumhigh. Sauté the onions, stirring occasionally, until they just begin to brown, about 5-8 minutes.
10. Return the browned chicken legs in the pan so the skin faces up and is not submerged by the cider-brandy mixture. Place in the oven, and cook at 375°F uncovered, for 30 minutes. 11. After the chicken has cooked, remove the pan from the oven and carefully transfer chicken pieces from the pan to a serving platter. 12. Place the pan with all that delicious sauce, back on a stovetop burner on high heat. Add apples and boil down the sauce by half. 13. When the sauce has reduced, add the heavy cream and turn down the heat. Adjust seasonings if needed. 14. To serve, spoon some apples and cider gravy over the chicken and enjoy! CultureMagazine.com
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3. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large, oven-proof sauté pan over medium heat. Add the apple slices, and sauté until they turn a little brown around the edges, turning occasionally.
9. Let the brandy and onions simmer until the sauce has reduced by about half. Add the apple cider, and return the liquid to a boil. Sprinkle in the thyme. Add just a pinch of salt to taste.
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growing Ingredients:
2. While the chicken is resting, preheat oven to 375°F.
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1. Sprinkle salt over chicken pieces and let sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes.
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In this recipe, the chicken is first browned on the stovetop, then braised in the oven and finished on the stovetop. However, it is possible to create the entire dish on the stovetop. Instead of putting the chicken in the oven, just simmer the chicken on the stovetop (uncovered if skin-on, covered if using skinless chicken pieces), until cooked through and tender, 15-30 minutes. Braising the chicken in the oven will produce a crispy skin that you won’t get by simmering on the stove.
8. When the onions have cooked, add brandy to the pan. Using a wooden spoon, scrape any remaining browned bits off the bottom of the pan.
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Instructions:
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Chicken Normandy
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Local eateries with similar dishes:
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Boulettes Larder & Boulibar 1 Ferry Bldg. Ste. 48, San Francisco (415) 399-1155 bouletteslarder.com Cafe Van Kleef 1621 Telegraph Ave., Oakland (510) 763-7711 cafevankleef.com Freeport Bakery 2966 Freeport Blvd., Sacramento (916) 442-4256 freeportbakery.com
Classic All-American Apple Pie Ingredients:
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3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon salt 1 1/8 cups unsalted butter 1/8 cup cannabis-infused unsalted butter 6 tablespoons cold vegetable shortening 3 cups Golden Delicious apples
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3 cups Granny Smith apples 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1/4 cup brown sugar 1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions: 1. First, make the dough. Place flour and 3/4 teaspoon salt in the bowl of a food processor fitted with a metal blade. Pulse to combine. Add 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons of the butter and the vegetable shortening and pulse 6 to 8 times, until the mixture resembles coarse meal. Sprinkle 3 to 4 tablespoons of cold water over the dough and pulse a few more times until the dough begins to hold together. Add more water, 1 tablespoon at a time, if needed, until the dough holds together. Form the dough into 2 disks, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. 2. While the dough is chilling, make the filling for the pie! Combine the apples, lemon juice, sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg and remaining salt in a large bowl and toss. Let sit for at least 30 minutes. When you’re ready to bake, drain the apples, reserving the liquid! Toss apples with cornstarch and set aside. 3. Place 1/2 cup of the reserved liquid in a small saucepan over medium-high heat, add the
remaining butter, bring to a boil, and let simmer and reduce until it becomes thick and syrupy. Do not stir. Add the warm syrup to the apple/cornstarch mix and toss gently to combine. 4. While the syrup is reducing, preheat oven to 425°F. 5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough into a 12-inch round about 1/8-inch thick. Fit the dough into a 10-inch pie plate. Trim dough around the edges and crimp if desired. Fill with the apple filling. Roll out the second disk of dough for the top crust. For fun, you can cut out large leaf shapes and place over the apples, each slightly overlapping the other, to form a top crust, or simply cut out one large apple shape, center on the top, and cut several slits to vent the pie. Be creative! 6. Bake at 425°F until the juices bubble through the slits—45 to 55 minutes. 7. Let cool for at least 4 hours before serving, if you can wait that long. It’s delicious topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Legal Disclaimer Publishers of this publication are not making any representations with respect to the safety or legality of the use of medical marijuana. The recipes listed here are for general entertainment purposes only, and are intended for use only where medical marijuana is not a violation of state law. Edibles can vary in potency while a consumers’ weight, metabolism and eating habits may affect effectiveness and safety. Ingredient management is important when cooking with cannabis for proper dosage. Please consume responsibly and check with your doctor before consumption to make sure that it is safe to do so.
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NORCAL NOW! event listings
Live Jazz Music with Pianist Larry Vuckovich, Sept. 7 One of San Francisco’s most critically-acclaimed pianists, Larry Vuckovich, captivates his audience with esteemed rhythms and harmonic notes. Enjoy the talent of this fine musician as he performs classical renditions of jazz, blues and swing bebop. The Presidio, San Francisco larryvuckovich.com/ schedule.htm Ghirardelli Chocolate Festival, Sept. 9-10 The Ghirardelli Chocolate Festival will catch any chocolate lover’s eye with a celebration that’s reminiscent of a Willy Wonka fantasyland. Explore a variety of gourmet chocolates and desserts in the Chocolate Lounge, and pair them with a highly favorable wine. Other exciting features will be the Ghirardelli “Earthquake” Ice Cream Eating Contest, Chocolate School and chef demonstrations. Ghirardelli Square, San Francisco ghirardelli.com/chocolatefestival Cyberpunk Cinema Night, Sept. 11 Cyberpunk is a unique film genre and is presented as science fiction in a world where technology is highly advanced, but often dystopian in nature. Join
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other cyberpunk fans in San Francisco for a weekend by attending the Cyberpunk Cinema Night, where guests can celebrate their fascination with cyberpunk culture and tune into some of the genre’s classics. The Knockout, San Francisco Sf.funcheap.com
Against Me!, Sept. 13 All punk rock enthusiasts will love to get lost in the crowd as Against Me! rocks the stage at the Regency Ballroom. Celebrating 20 years as an active group, lovers of punk rock will revel in hearing both old and new tunes from the band’s discography. Regency Ballroom, San Francisco theregencyballroom.com PUSHfest 2017, Sept. 22 PUSH Dance Company’s diverse classification of dance music returns for its fourth year, showcasing variety of styles of dance, ranging from contemporary and hip-hop to jazz, ballet and traditional. Nineteen different choreographers are set to perform side-byside, which is guaranteed to
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featured event
Baconfest, Sept. 9-10
Quite possibly the most amazing form of meat, it’s difficult to resist the smell and flavor of bacon. Curb your craving at Baconfest, an all-bacon gathering that celebrates the meat through 20 different bacon-inspired dishes. Baconfest also features special guest Adam Richman, host of Man v. Food, as well as beer from 20 micro breweries, live music and entertainment. Dell’Osso Family Farm, Lathrop baconfest.com
entertain all who appreciate the art of dance. ODC Theater, San Francisco odc.dance Folsom Street Fair, Sept. 24 When the Folsom Street Fair arrives, the leather subculture and BDSM phenomena
will take up a span of 13 blocks with over 400,000 gatherers expected to come together, eager to celebrate while shopping for goods associated with the culture. Guests can expect over 200 exhibitor booths showcasing leather attire, toys and music. Folsom St., San Francisco folsomstreetevents.org
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News of the
Weird
By the Editors at Andrews McMeel
LEAD STORY—OH, CANADA What could go wrong? Canadian company Bad Axe Throwing announced in June it is bringing its unusual entertainment concept to Denver. It’s “like darts, but on steroids,” says founder Mario Zelaya. Customers provide their own food and beer and learn how to throw axes at targets. “We’ll be bringing along the competitive league side as well. That means that folks in Denver can sign up . . . and compete at a global level,” Zelaya said.
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SEPTEMBER 2017 CultureMagazine.com
SMOOTH REACTIONS Did you say french fries or FRESH fries? Eiram Chanel Amir Dixson, 25, made a point of ordering fresh french fries at a Coon Rapids, Minnesota, Wendy’s drive-thru in May. When the exchange between the dissatisfied Dixson and a Wendy’s worker escalated, the employee threw a soda at Dixson, and Dixson fired back by spraying Mace through the drive-thru window. Police charged Dixson with one count of using tear gas to immobilize. Rachel Borch, 21, of Hope, Maine, was out for a run in June when a raccoon attacked her. Thinking quickly, Borch grabbed the animal and, despite being bitten, ran to a puddle on the trail and held its head underwater until it
drowned. (BONUS: Borch’s father retrieved the dead raccoon and delivered it for rabies testing in a Taste of the Wild dog food bag.) INSULT TO INJURY It was dark in the wee hours of June 30 in Jacksonville, Florida, and Cedric Jelks, 38, probably never saw the loaded gun on the driver’s seat of his car as he got in, but he certainly felt it after the gun went off, wounding his manhood. When police investigating the report of a gunshot wound arrived at the hospital Jelks was taken to, they added possible firearms charges to his pain after discovering Jelks had a prior conviction for cocaine possession. WHY NOT? A driver in Zhenjiang, China, took drive-thru service to the next level on
June 10 when he carefully pulled his tiny automobile through the front doors of a convenience store, requested a package of potato chips and a bottle of yogurt, paid for his purchase and reversed through the doors with the cashier’s guidance. Surveillance video shows the cashier waving and saluting as the car pulls away. He posited that the driver might have been avoiding getting out of his car in the rain. FINER POINTS OF THE LAW A restaurant owner near Florence, Italy, was ordered to pay 2,000 euros in fines in June after judges in Italy’s highest court declared it illegal to keep lobsters on ice in restaurants because it causes them undue suffering. “The suffering caused by detaining the
animals while they wait to be cooked cannot be justified,” the judges ruled. In a fit of law abidance, a resident of Yorkshire, England, called that country’s emergency phone number to report that Queen Elizabeth II was not wearing her seatbelt as she departed the Palace of Westminster on June 21 after delivering her traditional speech at the State Opening of Parliament. Police warned that the 999 system is meant to be used only for emergencies. BRIGHT IDEAS Smoke bombs aren’t just for celebrating our nation’s birth! Mike Tingley of Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, burned his garage to the ground on July 3 when he used smoke bombs to try to rid the structure of a bees’
nest. When firefighters from three townships arrived, fireworks stored in the garage were shooting into the sky. “We really weren’t going to celebrate the Fourth of July so much,” Tingley said. His home, which was not attached to the garage, was not damaged. THE ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT Ventura County, California, sheriff’s officers charged three produce workers with grand theft fruit after they were caught making unauthorized cash sales of avocados from a ripening facility. Joseph Valenzuela, 38, Carlos Chavez, 28, and Rahim Leblanc, 30, liquidated up to $300,000 worth of off-the-books avocados. “It’s a big product here in California,” said Sgt. John Franchi. “Everybody loves avocados.”
CultureMagazine.com
SEPTEMBER 2017
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SEPTEMBER 2017 CultureMagazine.com
CultureMagazine.com
SEPTEMBER 2017
95