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contents 07.16 Vol 8 IssUE 1
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BEATS AND BASS Berner is a veteran of the rap and cannabis communities who puts great emphasis on positive music, family and cannabis legalization.
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ON THE COVER:
photo by Duncan Rolfson
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inside
contents
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features 34
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Concentrate Novice Everything first-time users need to know about the art of cannabis concentrates.
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The Future Of Cannabis The pros and cons of using concentrates versus flowers.
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Tropical Storm Activists in Hawaii fear that new cannabis laws will threaten patients' rights to grow cannabis for themselves.
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The Best Protection Hemp could make lighter and stronger weapons, as well as lightweight armor and protective materials.
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departments news
10 News Nuggets 11 By the Numbers 12 Local News
reviews
13 Company
Highlights 16 Dispensary Highlight 17 Strain Reviews 18 Cool Stuff 20 Entertainment Reviews
in every issue
40 Growing Culture 42 Destination Unknown 43 Profile in Courage
44 Recipes 46 Shooting Gallery 46 News of the Weird
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d Legal Cannabis Hurts ISIS d Insurance Companies
Struggle to Give Life Insurance Policies to Cannabis Patients
Vol 8 IssUE 1
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CULTURE M
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Publisher Jeremy Zachary Editor-In-Chief Evan Senn associate Editor Ashley Bennett Editorial coordinator Jamie Solis Editorial Contributors Benjamin Adams, Sheryll Alexander, Marguerite Arnold, Jake Browne, Cole Garrison, Jasen T. Davis, Alex Distefano, David Downs, Natasha Guimond, Addison Herron-Wheeler, Anthony Herrold, Pamela Jayne, Heather Johnson, Joe Jatcko, David Jenison, Kevin Longrie, Emily Manke, Tyler Markwart, Meital Manzuri, Sandy Moriarty, Madison Ortiz, Denise Pollicella, Paul Rogers, Joy Shannon, Lanny Swerdlow, Simon Weedn, Zara Zhi Photographers Steve Baker, Kristopher Christensen, John Gilhooley, Joel Meaders, Duncan Rolfson Art Director Steven Myrdahl production manager Tommy LaFleur Graphic DesignerS Tanya Delgadillo, Meilani Darby Regional Manager Justin Olson Account Executives Rob Bayless, Jon Bookatz, Eric Bulls, Kim Cook, Cole Garrison, Gene Gorelik, Teddy Helms, Emily Musser, Beau Odom, Jim Saunders, Chris Thatcher general Manager Iris Norsworthy Office Assistant Angelina Thompson digital media Editor David Edmundson Ctv Contributors Quinn Marie Distribution Manager Cruz Bobadilla
Culture® Magazine is published every month and distributes magazines at over 500 locations throughout Oregon. No articles, illustrations, photographs, or other matter within may be reproduced without written permission. Culture® Magazine is a registered trademark. All rights reserved. Phone / Fax 888.694.2046 www.iReadCulture.com
CULTURE® Magazine is printed using post-recycled paper.
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NEWS
nuggets
Oregon Medical Cannabis Market to be Regulated with New Tracking Requirement In an attempt to prevent medical cannabis from getting into the hands of black market dealers, Oregon has decided that it will require those working in the medical cannabis industry to report how much cannabis they grow, process, store and transfer, starting this month. While this may seem like a promising venture, the Portland Tribune reports that the tracking system will rely mostly on the “honor system,” as the Oregon Health Authority has very few inspectors it could utilize to verify reports. On June 6, more than 100 cannabis producers and business owners attended the first of many workshops offering training for the new tracking requirement. The first report is due July 10, for production that occurred during the month of June.
Medical Cannabis Education Center Established in Pennsylvania Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania has created what it is calling the first medical cannabis research education center. The Center for Medical Cannabis Education & Research will be part of the Institute of Emerging Health Professions and will educate physicians and patients on medical cannabis therapies, as reported by the news magazine Philadelphia. Leading the center will be Doctor Charles V. Pollack Jr., who believes that the current dialogue surrounding medical cannabis is highly based off of “hype and advocacy.” Pollack Jr. believes that there is not yet enough scientific research to truly educate anyone properly on the plant’s medicinal properties. This announcement came one month after Pennsylvania became the 24th state to legalize medical cannabis. Funding for the center will come from groups interested in the advancement of medical cannabis.
Legal Cannabis Has Created Thousands of Jobs in Oregon Although Oregon is fairly new to the recreational cannabis trade, a recent report by Oregon Cannabis Jobs Report revealed that the state’s recreational cannabis market has created 2,165 jobs so far. The report also revealed that Oregon’s recreational cannabis market will pay an estimated $46 million in wages statewide this year. These numbers are fairly high in comparison to the alcohol market, which created 1,450 jobs and $28 million in wages in 2015, according to Record Searchlight. Currently, The Oregon Liquor Control Commission has received 950 licensing applications. If the market continues at this pace, job prospects in Oregon’s recreational cannabis market are expected to increase 27 percent by 2017. Although legal recreational cannabis has created more job opportunities for Oregonians, due to the lack of legal banking, some businesses are still unable to offer benefits for employees.
Pakistan Spreads Awareness for Cannabis Legalization With the constant political unrest in Pakistan right now, local medical cannabis activists decided to host one of the country’s first ever cannabis meetups last month, at Bin Qasim Park in Karachi. “The idea is to build a community, a society who believes in peace as much as we (the artists) do. This community serves as a bridge between artists, musicians and cannabis/hemp enthusiasts and gives them all a common ground to connect,” stated Agha Nomaan, a cannabis activist and filmmaker who helped coordinate the event. The meetup allowed for peaceful cannabis activists to join together as part of a campaign intended to persuade other Pakistani citizens and government officials to consider cannabis legalization. With online hashtag #420khi for social media to promote the event, the meetup reached an estimated 30,000 people.
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The estimated number of cannabis jobs that currently exist in the state of Oregon: (Source: Record Searchlight)
NEWS
2,165
The number of acres that have been purchased by FutureLand Corp with plans to build a recreational cannabis grow facility in Southern Oregon: (Source: Digital Journal)
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The percentage of money from Oregon cannabis sales taxes that will be going toward funding the Common School Fund: (Source: NY Daily News)
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The amount of money, in millions of dollars, that Oregon has made from cannabis tax revenue during the first three months of 2016: (Source: Daily News)
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The amount of money, in millions of dollars, that has been generated in cannabis job wages in Oregon: (Source: Statesman Journal)
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The amount of money, in millions of dollars, that the state of Illinois has made in medical cannabis revenue since November 9, 2015:
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(Source: The Washington Times)
The number of votes from the Ohio House, out of 97, that were in favor of legalizing medical cannabis in the state: (Source: Cincinnati Enquirer)
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The percentage of patients in Israel who reported significant improvements of their ailments after using medical cannabis: (Source: The Jerusalem Post)
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The number of signatures that supporters of Initiative 182 in Montana, which would create a medical cannabis program, have collected to get the initiative on the November ballot:
30,000
(Source: KTVQ.com)
4th Annual Newberry Event Music & Arts Festival WHAT: 4th Annual Newberry Event Music & Arts Festival. WHEN/WHERE: Thurs, July 21-Sun, July 24. DiamondStone Guest Lodges, 16693 Sprague Loop, La Pine. INFO: Visit www.newberryevent.com for tickets and additional information.
Doug and Gloria Watt started the Newberry Event Music & Arts Festival in 2013 as a D.I.Y. event that promotes local artists and musicians. Since its inception, the event has gained recognition from renowned musicians and has served as the biggest event in Southern Central Oregon. This year’s event, much like the last three, will feature a diverse line-up of local musicians, art, yoga, camping and vendors. While the
Newberry Event is dedicated to supporting local creatives, it also supports the fight against Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a debilitating condition prevalent in many medical cannabis communities. Proceeds from the Newberry Event will go to The National MS Society. So, if you’re into supporting local artists and aiding in the fight against a debilitating illness, get your ticket today for the 4th Annual Newberry Event!
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NEWS
LOCAL
Efficient and Stable
Oregon state legislature to receive recommendations on best agricultural practices for cannabis producers
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by Jamie Solis regon State Legislature will receive recommendations from a task force regarding the energy use, water use and other agricultural practices for commercial cannabis producers, according to The Oregonian. The task force is made up of many lawmakers, cannabis growers and agency representatives, and the group has found that growers are not educated on the best practices for sustainably growing cannabis or agricultural rules that are already in place. The task force is likely to recommend a certification process to aid the cannabis industry in regulating the use of natural resources like energy and water. Growing cannabis requires a great deal of energy and water. While many growers have expressed their desire to sustainably and efficiently grow cannabis, parameters have not been set by Oregon, and the information on how to operate more eco-friendly has not been established by lawmakers or shared with growers. The Resource Innovation Institute is a nonprofit in Portland that is dedicated to ensuring responsible consumption of energy and water in cannabis production. A founder of this nonprofit, John Morris, informed the task force that two percent of Colorado’s electricity is consumed by cannabis producers. Energy use alone can amount to about 45 percent of a cannabis grower’s overall costs. As of right now, Morris explained there is not an average number for the gallons of water used for commercial cannabis production, “Some growers may use one gallon (per plant). Others may use five or six or nine.” Not having a known average for water consumption by cannabis producers makes it difficult to develop state regulations surrounding water use. A biologist named
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Mowgli Holmes is an advocate for agricultural research for cannabis, as well as the owner of a Portland based company that studies cannabis genomics. Holmes explained that although it is hard to develop state policy due to a lack of research on cannabis best practices, there are still some ways to move cannabis producers toward more energy efficient methods. Some of these methods may include using LED lights, which are more energy efficient, or shifting away from indoor production that is energyintensive and toward increasing greenhouse operations for growing cannabis. Either way, more research into the best agricultural practices for cannabis production is needed. Holmes explained, “But there are a lot of other things we just don’t know. It’s hard to incentivize people to do particular things when you don’t know what the baseline is.” Although outdoor production of cannabis has a negative stigma of yielding a lower quality product than indoor-grown cannabis, one member of the task force explained how this simply is not the case. In fact, the task force member Jared Watters admitted he knows some dispensaries in Oregon are selling outdoor cannabis as indoor, and consumers do not seem to notice a difference in quality. Watters believes a big reason outdoor cannabis has a negative stigma is because growers were forced into hiding their grows because of cannabis prohibition. He explained how the future for outdoor cannabis is now looking bright, “As more and more farmers come into the open and into 100 percent sunlight, you are seeing that quality go up.” The task force plans to propose its recommendations later this summer, and hopefully cannabis producers will get the regulations and information needed to grow cannabis efficiently and sustainably. c
Medical Marijuana: The Physician’s Update National College of Natural Medicine invites you to its conference, "Medical Marijuana: The Physician’s Update." At this conference, practicing physicians can obtain extensive knowledge on Oregon’s cannabis regulations and how they can effectively communicate with patients, when cannabis is the topic of conversation. Physicians will also learn the history of medical cannabis, how the endocannabinoid system works, proper delivery methods for medical cannabis and quality control standards. As most physicians want what’s best for their patients, Chief Scientist at Americans for Safe Access, Jahan Marcu, PhD, will cover international testing for cannabis and quality. Because the medical cannabis market changes often, there is always room for growth, and it is important for physicians to keep patients safe by knowing the latest regulations. Those interested in this event can attend in person or via live webinar at no additional costs. WHAT: Medical Marijuana: The Physician’s Update. WHEN/WHERE: Sat, July 9-Sun, July 10. National College of Natural Medicine 049 SW Porter St., Portland. INFO: To register visit ncnm.edu.
company highlight
WEDOHR www.wedohr.com
How would you describe your company? What is your specialty? WEDOHR is an Oregonbased Professional Employer Organization (PEO), a service that has been field tested for over 17 years. We handle all of our client’s HR needs— including payroll, employee taxes, benefits administration, workers’ compensation, insurance requirements and (the biggie in the cannabis industry) adhering to the quickly-evolving regulatory framework at both the state and federal level. What do you offer consumers/clients that others don’t? WEDOHR is a onestop solution for human
resources management that allows cannabis businesses to remain competitive, improve profits and avoid the pitfalls inherent to the intense scrutiny and regulation of the industry. Partnering with us ensures our clients are in line with HR regulations, avoiding costly penalty fees. They can stop worrying about HR issues and focus on what they do best—running their cannabis company, growing their revenue and taking care of customers. How and why did your company start up? Our company was started almost 20 years ago by my father. As the state and federal regulations start to grow by leaps and bounds, he found an opportunity in helping his clients to be compliant in all the states that they were working in as well. I had started working for my dad when I was 20
years old and I had so much fun traveling the United States and finding, hiring and managing work crews. I moved from a foreman position into a sales position and worked the Los Angeles market for almost five years. It wasn’t until later that business came to a halt, and I moved back to Portland and helped restart the business again. With the changing landscape of MMJ and recreational cannabis, what do you see as the biggest challenges to your progress as a company? Taking care of human hesource issues in the cannabis industry is a complicated and timeconsuming process. Knowing the ins and outs of hiring, benefits, reporting, employment laws, taxes and more can quickly become a huge burden for business owners.
REVIEWs
What are the goals and vision moving forward for your company? We want to be so much more than the administrative support firm, however that is the core for the income and financial stability of the company. We want to be a supporting resource not only for businesses but for the individuals we serve, and we want to help them to achieve not only their business goals but their personal goals as well. What do you hope to accomplish in the cannabis industry? We want to help cannabis employers maximize their productivity and profits, minimize their risk, and offer their employees the best experience possible. WEDOHR wants to help companies stay abreast of continually-changing labor laws and regulations. c
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REVIEWs
company highlight
lucky to be operating in a state that is embracing legal cannabis and appreciate the spirit of community within this industry. What are the goals and vision moving forward for your company? We want to continue focusing on producing the highest quality cannabis and to embrace technology and creative problem solving to minimize the ecological footprint of our business. We are currently expanding our water recapturing program, which will allow us to increase our sustainability, and we hope to identify other ecologically sound practices moving forward. In five years, we want to be a well respected, collaborative organization that is known for sound business practices and an impeccable product.
7 Points Oregon www.7pointsoregon.com
How would you describe your company? What is your specialty? We are an organic indoor cannabis producer based in Portland. We utilize plantbased nutrients to grow our select strains with a focus on flavor and quality. What do you offer consumers/clients that others don’t? We are committed to an organic approach and understand that we are growing a plant which requires the utmost level of care and responsibility for our consumers. We care about the health and well being of our customers,
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our community and our environment and try to reflect those values throughout our process. How and why did your company start up? All founding members of our team are good friends and began through the medical program years ago, and we moved to an indoor commercial space in early 2014. We recognized the opportunity to collaborate, share our collective knowledge and to work together to push ourselves to new levels of cultivation. We were very excited to help form the foundation of a new and exciting industry.
With the changing landscape of MMJ and recreational cannabis, what do you see as the biggest challenges to your progress as a company? Any advantages? It is a full-time job to keep abreast of the constantly changing landscape of this new industry. Regulations, processes and technologies are evolving at lightning speed, and it is challenging to adapt at a moment’s notice. Fluidity is of the utmost importance. We feel strongly that cannabis is a valuable and effective medication but regulators are slowly squeezing producers out of this side of the market. However, we do feel extremely
What words of advice would you offer anyone seeking to enter the world of cannabis business? The best advice I can offer is to do your homework and learn the laws and regulatory environment. Any new producer needs to be well supported with a solid legal, accounting and advisory team. Be prepared to work tirelessly for long hours. This field is unique because it is constantly evolving and will likely continue to change for the next decade at least. It is also highly rewarding for those who value creative problem solving and the joy of making something beautiful. Any sneak peeks on new products or news you’d like to share? We are currently on the hunt for new genetics and anticipate that our strain library will expand from our current offering of 13 strains to 25. c
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REVIEWs
dispensary highlight
professionals; with that much energy behind an industry, there is no limit to the amount of joys that are experienced on a daily basis for all of us involved in this movement.
What is the one thing you want patients to know about your dispensary? We pride ourselves Top Selling on our level of Concentrate: service provided and Sterling Gold Extracts education for each patients or customers Top-Selling experience at New Edible: Vansterdam Med. Sour Bhotz We want everyone that walks through our doors to feel they are being provided with a personal and exciting experience, walking away with confidence that they got what they wanted and what they were looking for.
Top Selling Strain: Wyld Canna Dogwalker
New Vansterdam Med 4709 SW Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy., Portland, 97221 www.newvansterdam.com
How and when did your dispensary start up? Last May, we opened our doors with the original owners of New Vansterdam. They began their journey across the Columbia River to open their first Oregon dispensary in Portland, New Vansterdam Med. With heavy interest in providing for the medical market and learning about all of the passion and craft behind Oregon’s cannabis market, is what fueled the growth throughout the state. What’s the story behind the name of your dispensary? The story behind our dispensary’s name stems from the want to show homage to our parent company, New Vansterdam,
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one of the first dispensaries in Vancouver, Washington, when it was legalized recreationally. What does your dispensary offer clients that they can’t find anywhere else? One of the more unique things we do here at New Vansteredam Med is that we offer 20 percent off our flower for the medical community throughout the entire week. On Sundays, we offer senior and veteran discounts to both our recreational and medical customers. What are the biggest challenges you face in this industry as a dispensary? In all honestly the industry is still changing. It is a constant reform of rules and
laws from multiple entities to respond to. With more regulation, comes more accountability. The hardest thing we face being involved in this industry is staying on top of all of the constant changes, implementations of new rules and requirements of compliance for the state. You must be able to maintain flexibility during these evolving times. Being a part of history in the making is a joy that most career pathways don’t get to embark on. This is an industry filled with driven and passionate cannabis
If someone wanted to open a dispensary and get their feet wet in the industry, what advice or counsel would you give them? Our advice to anyone looking into getting his or her feet wet with cannabis on a professional level would be, that transparency is key. Maintain a good and open relationship with your state officials and neighbors, ask questions, we are all figuring this out together right now. This is a large scale learning process, for all of us involved. c
strain
REVIEWs
Granddaddy Blueberry Purps Granddaddy Blueberry Purps is a five-star strain that can be found at Oregon Grown in Portland. Tested by Green Leaf Lab, it was found to have 23.49 percent THC and .01 percent CBD. Sage lemon and an earthy ginger are the main flavors when smoked, with a lemony aftertaste that lingers in your mouth. There are also hints of banana, vanilla and a nutty creaminess. This strain gives you a really good weightless head effect, like your feet aren't on the ground and you are floating. It starts out feeling like a sativa, but ends up feeling like a mild indica as time passes. Granddaddy Blueberry Purps is a very potent strain, and one that would be good for treating a myriad of ailments.
Available at: Brothers Cannabis Club in Portland.
Available at: Oregon Grown in Portland.
White Romulan White Romulan is a strain with one of the biggest nugs we've ever seen. Sold at Brothers Cannabis Club in Portland, each giant nug is totally worth its weight in gold. It has a very pleasant vanilla taste with a fruity sweetness, almost like a piña colada. It’s very mild, but can also hit hard after a few tokes, which is recommended for a good effect since this strain will make you feel productive and talkative. Overall, it’s a good strain for creatives looking for inspiration. The nugs sparkle like they are covered in white diamonds and create a wonderful sticky grind. It’s also useful for treating depression.
Available at: Local Herb Collective in Portland.
Memory Loss Memory Loss is a strain from Local Herb Collective in Portland that smokes with a fresh herb flavor. It also offers a mild taste with hints of pepper and basil. ChemHistory tested the bud and found it to have 26.6 percent THC and 0.5 percent CBD. The strain lives up to its name and makes you feel very forgetful and fickle, but oddly enough, it also makes you feel thoughtful and organizational. The inhale isn't too harsh, and creates a numbing sensation in the back that would be great for treating scoliosis and other back issues. The nugs themselves are very dense and look stuck together like popcorn. The smell is mild, and the effect is relaxed and fluid—a great strain for beginners or those with a sensitive throat.
Available at: Green Gratitude in Portland.
Platinum Girl Scout Cookies From Green Gratitude in Portland, this floral potpourri strain comes through your nose and reaches your chest right away. It almost instantly hits you with a cooling sensation, followed by a numbing net that wraps around your body. We found that the body effect caused slowed breathing and a slight forgetfulness, making us tired and couch locked. This sort of effect is good for treating pain, especially in the legs. Tested by MRX Labs, this Platinum Girl Scout Cookies has 28.14 percent THC and 1.51 percent CBD. There is also a slight rocking sensation—like you are on a boat, with a tingling in the legs. iReadCULTURE.com JULY 2016
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REVIEWs
For More Products Go To iReadCulture.com
3. Pot Pocket Recreational and Medical Cannabis Joint Holder
1. KandyPens Gravity Vaporizer It’s concentrate season, so it’s important to make sure you’re equipped with the best tool to take advantage of your high quality waxes. The KandyPens Gravity Vaporizer sticks out in the sea of run-of-the-mill vape pens, offering a unique coilless ceramic atomizer technology and quartz crystal atomizer that allows for some of the cleanest and purest wax experiences imaginable. Its temperature controlled battery has a leg up against competitors too with four preset temperature settings available at 300°, 350°, 309° and 430°. Although the specs are always important, the look and feel of a pen can also be a factor, and this particular style of sandblasted black finish on such a small pen results in a product that’s both sleek and discreet. Best of all, there’s a lifetime warranty on the battery to ensure that users can get the most out of their pens. PRICE: $129.95 MORE INFORMATION: www.vapornation.com
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4. CBD Naturals Nano CBD Water
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2. Amore Bath Bombs There is a new way to take a bath. Treat yourself to a luscious experience while medicating your muscles, skin and body as a whole, with loving cannabis. Amore Bath Bombs are breaking into the scene as the most sought after high-end bath bombs in bathers all across the country. Made with high quality THC and CBD extracts, and organic essential oils, Amore Bath Bombs tap into chromotherapy, aromatherapy and cannabinoid therapy to give you the best spa experience possible. Get yours and see for yourself. PRICE: $25 MORE INFORMATION: www.amorebathbombs.com 18
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The Pot Pocket is a sleek and organic joint holder. These stylish wooden pocket-sized cases can carry up to three rolled joints at a time and makes sure that they don’t break or bend in your pocket. It’s the size of a business card holder and is discreet in any pocket or purse. The case is also uniquely designed to extinguish a lit joint simply by placing it into one of the self-closing compartments! The Pot Pocket cuts back on waste, odor, time and mess. PRICE: $20 MORE INFORMATION: www.potpockets.us
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Water is one of the most important substances on the planet—no life form can live without it. Luckily, there’s a new water product on the market that both hydrates users with essential vitamins and antioxidants, but also contains ample amounts of CBD. CBD Naturals’ Nano CBD Water mixes crisp and clean, purified water with a dose of CBD, which we all know is non-psychoactive and comes from the hemp plant. It also contains d-Ribose (a carbohydrate that gives energy to hearts and muscles) Methylcobalamin (the active form of Vitamin B12 which boosts metabolism) and Coenzyme Q10 (which acts as an antioxidant and helps both metabolism and energy creation). Nano CBD Water is unlike any other water out there, and it’s the perfect way to hydrate and get ready for your daily summer activities! PRICE: $3.99-$5.99 MORE INFORMATION: cbdnaturals.com
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REVIEWs
entertainment
BOOK
The Stoner’s Coloring Book: Coloring for HighMinded Adults Jared Hoffman TarcherPerigree / Penguin Random House Coloring can be a very therapeutic and meditative activity for any adult that needs a mental break or release. Researchers have acknowledged the therapeutic qualities of art for years, and today, art therapy is used to help people express themselves when what they’re feeling is too difficult to put into words, such as when they’re faced with a cancer diagnosis. Art therapy is also helpful among people dealing with a variety of other conditions, such as depression, dementia, anxiety and PTSD. This coloring book adds the particular theme of cannabis to an already fun and helpful activity. It's a must have coloring book for any adult. (Alex Bradley)
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Release Date: JUly 15 Available on: Nintendo 3DS
MUSIC MOVIE
GAME
Monster Hunter Generations Dev. And Pub. Capcom The action-packed Monster Hunter (MH) games have seen great success for over a decade, and a new addition to the series, Monster Hunter Generations, is bringing some great updates to the table. Players will choose one of 14 weapons and set out into the world to hunt down a variety of monsters, from small raptors to massive dragons, to make better armor and equipment. Unlike previous MH titles, this game allows players to play as Felynes, and also adds new combat styles and special attacks—perfect for those who thrive on challenge and improving their skill. (Nicole Potter)
Anomalisa Paramount Pictures Dir. Charlie Kaufman, Duke Johnson
For those already familiar with Charlie Kaufman’s work both as a writer and director (Being John Malkovic), pushing the limits of modern fiction and storytelling, it shouldn’t be surprising just how different his most recent film, Anomalisa, is. This stop-motion animated film tells the story of a troubled and disconnected man, Michael Stone, who meets a young woman who seems to reinvigorate and restore his purpose. However, like many Kaufman films, nothing is truly as it seems, and audiences will be blown away by both the beauty and impressiveness of the animation, as well as the unique, novel qualities of the script and the performances. (Simon Weedn)
case/lang/veirs Neko Case, K.D. Lang, Laura Veirs ANTI-Records/Epitaph Taking influence from the careers of singers Dolly Parton, Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt, who banded together for their Trio record in 1987, modern singers Neko Case, K.D. Lang and Laura Veirs have their first outing together with case/lang/veirs. While Parton, Harris and Ronstadt’s record was a coming together of three of the most wellknown country singers, case/lang/veirs brings together a much more musically diverse grouping. The songs and arrangements are ethereal, the harmonies wonderfully lush and each singer stretches and pushes their own limits to meet the others. (Simon Weedn)
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by Addison Herron-Wheeler It’s no secret that cannabis, hip-hop and an entrepreneurial spirit have gone hand-in-hand for a long time. Hip-hop music about hustling cannabis is as old as the genre itself. Obviously, because of the negative stigma that has unfortunately surrounded herb since the inception of rap music, these songs have largely been criminal anthems. But the year is 2016, where cannabis is largely becoming legal and decriminalized across the U.S., and Berner, aka Gilbert “Berner” Milam Jr., hustles hard. He has his hands in the cannabis business in multiple ways and profits like crazy from the sweet green plant. And, it’s all legal—from his raps about cannabis on Wiz Khalifa’s label and at live shows, to his cannabis accessories store and water company, to his part in popularizing the Cookies family, it has all been one hundred percent above board. He even got his start selling cannabis to fund his career—not out on
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the streets, but in the legal club that he ran before striking it big in the rap game. Having success that is founded in hard work, perseverance and maintaining a good name in the worlds of rap and cannabis have made Berner driven, inspired and loyal. He’s a family man and a father, and is just as likely to pen a song about raising his daughter as he is to write one about smoking a blunt. Berner became successful as a rapper later in life, and he wasted no time putting out dozens of albums and mix-tapes, touring and getting as involved in business as possible. When we caught up with him, he was on the road, taking a moment between gigs to smoke some good herb, write some verses and talk to CULTURE. The pearls of wisdom he dropped about Girl Scout Cookies, his latest album and the realities of the rap world ring as true as the verses he pens on a daily basis. >>
photo by Duncan Rolfson | live photos shot by Farid
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about the things that can bring you down, real life type stuff, not just the good stuff and how well I’m doing. When did you get signed to Wiz Khalifa’s label, Taylor Gang, and how did that happen? Have you had a good experience with them so far? I got signed by them about three years ago maybe, and it happened really naturally. Wiz was my friend, and we were just smoking and chilling together, and I felt like he had a platform that could help take me to the next level. I think it was a good thing for me for sure, and it’s been working out great.
How did you get your start as a rapper, and when did you experience your initial success? I started rapping in 2003 or 2005, just kind of playing around, but I didn’t really get my first taste of success until 2007 when I put out my first album. That’s when I’d say I first had real success as a rapper. What do you feel is one of your biggest accomplishments since entering the rap scene? Being able to work with all the artists I grew up with and wanted to work with, for sure, is one of my biggest accomplishments. I was able to work with people I genuinely like listening to and really vibe with, and that’s kind of the reason I got into music, was to work with people I like, and with people who put together beats that I really like, people I want to be associated with. How would you describe your sound? What kind of beats do you like to use, and what subjects do you usually rap about? I like melodic sounds, like a real melodic type of beat, something real hypnotizing. That’s what I’m mostly using these days. My sound is chill; it’s real wavy. I talk about shit I’ve been through in my life, my daughter and things that helped me get to where I am today. I speak from the heart. A lot of people say that most rappers talk about their success in the drug business, the glorifying of all that type of stuff, and of crime, and all the good things they have in their lives, but I talk 26
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You also released 20 Lights as a solo record, which features Wiz Khalifa. How active has the collaboration between the two of you been, and how did that come about? It’s a natural thing; we make music when we’re together. People like our chemistry; we vibe out, we make music. We have a good time together. Rap is a genre where the artists tend to put out a lot of records, and you already have an impressive amount under your belt considering you didn’t put out your first record until 2007. What recording are you the happiest with? Which would you choose if you had to pick one to define your career? I would probably say Urban Farmer or Drugstore Cowboy; they are both mix-tapes I worked on that we gave away for free, but they are the first things I put out after hooking up with Wiz. They all have their own vibes and their own sounds though, so it’s hard to choose. I like ‘em all. >>
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How do you feel about the success of your latest album, Hempire? What are you the happiest about with the record, and what were some of the biggest themes of the album? I’m just happy that we built something strong and it’s sticking—we did 11,000 the first week, and that’s bigger than what I’ve done before so I’m happy. I’m just really happy the people enjoy the music–not much has really changed, but the overall feedback is that people really like the album. If you can keep releasing music and people like it that’s really a plus—I didn’t really get anyone saying it’s the same old shit—everyone is really positive. A lot of big artists complimented my album. People are giving me mad props for this album.
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Have you been touring or playing shows lately? I am on tour right now, and I’ve been playing shows lately all across the world. We stay moving. There is a lot to look forward to in the future; I plan to be on the road a lot. What is your creative process like as far as writing and rapping? I write it down when I rap usually, but when I am in a different city around people I don’t really know, it motivates me to be dope and adapt to the city. The city I’m in and where I’m at definitely play a big part in what I write and how I create. You just opened a clothing and lifestyle store in the Bay Area, called Cookies. How did this come about?
The clothing store came from an online store we had for a few years. We sell men’s and women’s street wear and a whole line of creative smoke accessories, our own jars; and we carry a lot of other dope stuff as well. Mostly smoking accessories and clothing. Obviously the big rumor and story surrounding your career is that you helped invent the strain Girls Scout Cookies. How true is this rumor, and how involved were you in coming up with the name? My boy Jive created Girl Scout Cookies and I was there all along being an ambassador, trying to get the name out there. It’s a group effort. The Cookie fam definitely played a big role in that, but I was there from day one.
Is Girl Scout Cookies your favorite strain? Right now, my favorite strain is Gelato—it’s a Skunk and Cookie cross. How else have you been involved with the cannabis industry over the years? Every way possible. I ran a cannabis club when I was 18 years old; I’ve been an activist for it; I own a bunch of companies in that field; I have a partnership with RAW Papers; I’m in it every way I could picture it. I’ve got my hands in it all over the place (laughs). I also have my marijuana consulting business, which is going great. My Hemp2O water company is also doing really well, and the beverages are everywhere—711, CVS, Shell gas stations, etc. >>
How do you feel about changes to the cannabis industry since legalization began? It’s interesting—it’s very obvious that the feds and the government don’t know how to treat this yet, so they are just letting people open up with different rules in different states, but they are trying to figure out the best way to monetize it, and they don’t necessarily know how. People are watching to try and learn how this works. I think the whole venture capitalist shit is starting to get
annoying; at first it was exciting, but a lot of venture capitalists are coming around and picking people’s brains, getting a lot of knowledge and a lot of information for free and not following through with shit. A lot of real estate gurus and big banking guys—you can’t start a business with money that’s not in the bank and you can’t really put cannabis money in the bank, so you get a lot of these bigwigs who try and come in and help and they can take shit away real quick if they take your money; it’s kind of scary. We just
keep getting closer to legalization, though, which is what I hope is the main goal. How do you work cannabis into your creative process? Do you smoke while writing and rapping or only when relaxing and recreating? I smoke when I write, when I relax, when I eat and when I don’t eat. Right now, my homie just got in the room, and we smoked some Skittles. It’ll make our flavor different, and when I get tired I'll smoke some Snowman. >>
www.bernermusic.com
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In the past, cannabis and rappers have always been negatively associated with criminal connotations, but that is changing a lot more now. Do you think you are helping with that, running your store, rapping about Cookies and being so visible? The number one thing people tell me when they meet and see me is, you motivate me to do something great;
you’re a good father; you’ve got your business right. I realize that everybody needs money to get their thing going, but we try not to support getting money in a way that’s not legit. I do rap and I do rap about weed, but I show publically that there are all kinds of things that got me good, so I definitely try to send a positive message. What do you have going on right now, in terms of music, selling clothing or other endeavors? I can’t even wrap it up in one sentence. There’s so much going on; I’ve got my hands in 20 different herbrelated projects. I’m just trying to work. I’m letting the Mexican in me come out right now (laughs). I’m just gonna stay working. What do you hope the future holds for your music and career? I’m trying to retire, but I want to be able to leave a legacy. When I pass away, I want people to care; I want people to know about it; I want people to reminisce on my music and what I did in this world. It’s just trying to find a way to make it last forever–Tupac is gonna be forever, Biggie’s gonna be forever, so the goal is to get to where I can be remembered forever somehow, whether it be through cannabis, the music or whatever. c
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A How-To Guide What You Need Dab Rig
Varying in size, this piece resembles a glass water pipe, however the glass bowl is replaced by a nail and glass dome.
Nail and Dome
A nail or skillet made from titanium, glass, quartz or ceramic. This hot plate is usually surrounded by an open-ended glass dome to help hold in the vaporized extract.
Heat Source
You need to secure a way to heat your nail. Electric nails are great, because the nail is its own heat source. Electric nails also appear much safer than the other popular alternative, which is a blowtorch. However, many still choose to safely use a blowtorch with caution and proper ventilation. An experienced friend is also a plus.
Wand
A ceramic, metal or glass tool used to manipulate cannabis concentrate and drop it onto nail/ skillet.
A Vaporizer Pen
for First-Timers by Jamie Solis 32
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Vaporizer pens are a simple alternative to a dab rig, giving you a convenient and discreet way to vaporize your cannabis extracts while on the go. >>
Choosing the Right Concentrate Options are always a good thing, and when it comes to cannabis concentrates, the options are seemingly endless. From budder and hash to shatter and wax, these different forms of cannabis concentrates are all great for dabbing, while the best cannabis extract for vaporizer pens varies from pen to pen. Choose whatever cannabis extract is going to meet your needs, and be sure the concentrate will be easy to manipulate using a wand. For this reason, something sticky and pliable like budder, shatter or wax is going to work better than an oil when it comes to dabbing. On the other hand, you may have a pen that works best with oil. When buying a concentrate, you definitely want to keep in mind that a little bit of product goes a long way. A gram of cannabis flower is much less potent than a gram of concentrated cannabis. Always start small and build slowly from there.
Seasoning Your Nail If you have never used your nail before, you have a little preparation ahead of you before you can jump right in. You must “season” your nail, which means you need to burn any harmful fumes from the nail, such as machine oils or polishes. In this process, you want to carefully heat your nail while it is on the rig until the nail is near red hot. Do not overheat your nail. Next, you want to coat the usable part of the nail with some concentrate, and reheat the nail. Once the extract has burned away, use tongs to move the nail into a bowl of water. Let the nail cool, and repeat the process a few times.
How it Works Dab Rig Add an appropriate amount of water to your rig, just enough to filter the vapor. Take your metal or glass wand, and scoop up a small amount of cannabis concentrate onto the end. Put the nail onto the rig, and heat it either electronically or by safely using a blowtorch until it’s just shy of red hot. Then cover the nail with the glass dome. Carefully drop the concentrate onto the heated nail through the opening in the dome. When the cannabis compound hits the heated nail, it turns into a vapor. You will want to gently inhale the vapor through the water chamber of the rig and into your lungs. Prepare to feel instant effects.
Vaporizer Pen Depending upon the type of concentrate compatible with your vape pen, add a small amount of cannabis concentrate into the designated area on your pen. Most pens operate at a simple press of a button. If you’re looking for even more convenience, some collectives sell pre-filled vaporizer pens. c
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The Benefits, the Drawbacks and the Facts of Vaping “According to a recent study by Chief Medical Officer Perry Solomon of HelloMD, legal consumer sales data indicates that 66 percent of people enjoy vaping and 71 percent prefer smoking the herb.”
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by Addison Herron-Wheeler As time goes on, it seems that more and more patients, recreational users and legislators are leaning towards concentrated cannabis vs. actual flower. The new trend in legalization is to allow only vaping—no smoking, and many patients prefer vaping because it gives the needed medical dose in a quick and easy way. Similarly, recreational users favor it because they want to be able to vape discretely and save their lungs from inhaling unnecessary plant matter. But is this really the future of cannabis, or is an all-synthetic cannabis landscape problematic? According to a recent study by Chief Medical Officer Perry Solomon of HelloMD, legal consumer sales data indicates that 66 percent of people enjoy vaping and 71 percent prefer smoking the herb. The study also indicated that it is our younger generations that prefer vaping
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to smoking flower more frequently than older generations. Similarly, anecdotal data supports that more patients and recreational users are turning to vaping as a way to medicate or recreate more and more. Joshua Hindi of Dabble Extracts stated that he has seen a definite trend, as many of his cannabis consumers are purchasing extracts rather than flower. “There are several reasons why patients prefer vaping,” he explained. It’s substantially more discrete, and if you compare flowers and concentrate pound for pound, you probably need a gram of concentrate for an eight of flower. There’s also more likelihood that if users are with someone who isn’t familiar with the industry, they won’t know what the concentrate is—it’s substantially more discrete, and overall just a lot more convenient and a lot easier to use.” >>
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“Concentrates are usually for the more experienced cannabis user or for people working with illnesses like cancer,” Jennifer Price of HelloMD told CULTURE, referring to the strength of the medicine for treating more serious conditions. Many patients seek concentrates like oils and tinctures for their severe ailments, which are much easier to take than a shatter or a wax. While flowers generally range between 10-15 percent THC, a concentrate roughly ranges 50-80 percent THC. However, with the everexpanding and evolving technological side of the cannabis industry, concentrates can be specified for ailments, giving patients only what they want and need. For example, patients can get tinctures that are only high CBD, or a shatter that is 30mg CBD and only 10mg THC. Note: The CBD concentrates are a good place for a newbie to begin. In addition to the medical benefits for patients, healthy recreational users can
degrees, according to The Dab Lab and Seibo Shen of VapeXhale. Though most consumers generally gravitate toward concentrates because of their discretion or their high potency, in recreational markets, the cannasseurs have drifted toward concentrates in search of “flavor hunting.” Cannasseurs who have been using cannabis recreationally or medicinally for a long time are often looking for new flavors and experiences when they smoke something. Ry Prichard from the The Denver Post and The Cannabist explains, “Because well-made concentrates provide concentrated flavor instead of being muddied up by the taste of burning plant material, a properly-done concentrate will provide the pure flavor of the terpenes in that strain, giving a tasting experience like none other,” he says. “If you’ve ever had a flower that smelled amazing but just didn’t taste that great, chances are that it would be much more appealing in concentrate form.”
“In a society that is becoming increasingly digital, fast-paced, and clean, it is no surprise that concentrates are fitting right in as the new and sleek way to use cannabis.”
also benefit from trying concentrates instead. The fact that vapers can avoid inhaling unnecessary plant matter such as pesticides, contaminants and residual solvents, and are only combusting THC or CBD, is a good way to help keep lungs clear and avoid the perils of traditional smoking. It is important however, to keep the issue of temperature at the forefront of your concentrate curiosity. Often times, cannasseurs turn up the heat on their vaporizers to produce an extra thick vapor or smoke, mostly for show. But, this can cause benzene production, which is a carcinogen. Benzene can be found in things like car exhaust and tobacco. Cannabis tends to produce low benzene levels, according to a 1986 study which found that benzene levels in cannabis consumers are lower than those of tobacco consumers, but higher than non-smokers. However, the chemical can still be released when consumers heat their product over 365
“While some people have a preference of an extract’s consistency, what’s important to many people is the solvent used and how compatible that extract is with their preferred consumption method,” Washington-based cannabis advocate and Leafly’s Engagement Specialist, Bailey Rahn explains. “Most concentrates are extracted using CO2, butane, hydrocarbons, propane, water, alcohol, and heat. Solventless extracts made using water (e.g., hash) or heat (e.g., rosin) are excellent choices for those wary of how consuming solvents might affect them.” Gearing more toward concentrates could eliminate health problems associated with smoking and some of the stigma of using cannabis, as vaping is better for patients as well as those who want to recreate in public discretely. However, just because this form of imbibing is gaining popularity and has a lot of benefits, does not mean it is time to out flower completely.
“I find people are moving towards concentrate more today because of all the interesting things happening with them,” added Kelsey Liedman, store manager for Colorado dispensary Verde Natural. “CO2 extractions, adding terpenes for flavors and so much more. It’s new and exciting for many of us out there. However, there’s nothing better than rolling up some sticky, stinky flower and sharing it with your closest friends. As long as you’re doing the research on the grow methodology, source material, strains and extraction methods, it’s simply a personal preference.” In a society that is becoming increasingly digital, fast-paced, and clean, it is no surprise that concentrates are fitting right in as the new and sleek way to use cannabis. However, the cannabis flower can still offer many insights for research and benefits to the smoking experience and is a classic way to imbibe that some people will always love a little bit more. c
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Trouble in Paradise Hawaiian cannabis activists sue to stop local collectives Medical cannabis has been legal in the state of Hawaii since 2000, when its legislature became the first in the U.S. to allow seriously ill patients to use the plant under Act 228. Last year, the state decided that it would expand access to patients and caregivers by passing House Bill 321, now Act 241, which will allow eight collectives to legally operate on the islands, with the possibility of running two collectives each. In turn, it will grant convenient access to caregivers and patients who are unable to grow plants due to disabilities. The act will also prevent counties from enacting zoning regulations that show bias towards collectives and will allow transportation of medical cannabis in any public place by a caregiver, patient collective or production center. The act took effect immediately on January 1, with the intent of collectives opening their doors by July 15. This expansion, however, is not sitting well with cannabis activist Mike Ruggles, who according to West Hawaii Today is facing charges for selling cannabis from an illegally run collective. In attempt to stop the collectives from opening under Act 241, Ruggles decided to file a lawsuit against state officials. The suit was filed
by Ruggles on June 9 in U.S. District Court under the pretense that Act 241 violates federal law and should be overturned. Ruggles also argued that Hawaii’s new collective system seeks to phase out home growing amongst caregivers and patients. Under Act 178, which is essentially a 2013 revision of Act 228, caregivers and patients are allowed to grow seven plants regardless of maturity. Act 241, would eliminate the state’s caregiver program by 2018, which legislator sees as a way to completely illuminate the black market. “Next year, no more caregivers. Year after that, patients won’t be able to grow at all,” Ruggles stated. “They’re trying to make money off of the backs of sick and poor people.” Ruggles’ suit lists Governor David Ige, State Health Director Virginia Pressler, State Attorney General Douglas Chin and the four approved collectives as defendants in the case. A spokeswoman for Ige stated that neither the Department of Health nor the Attorney General have been served stating, “Once it is served, we will have to review it before taking appropriate action.” State legislature agrees that the act is “imperfect” and proposed House Bill 2707 on the last day of the legislative session, which occurred on May 5. This bill does make an attempt to salvage Hawaii’s caregiver program. According to Hawaii Tribune Herald, HB-2707 would establish a medical cannabis advisory committee, clarify certain tax provisions and clarify that patients will not be convicted for being in possession of cannabis paraphernalia, amongst other clarifications. Nothing is written in
“ . . . HB-2707 would establish a medical cannabis advisory committee, clarify certain tax provisions and clarify that patients will not be convicted for being in possession of cannabis paraphernalia, amongst other clarifications.” HB-2707 that would give caregivers the continued right to grow cannabis. While the intent of the act is being scrutinized by Ruggles, prior to this incident, Medical Cannabis Coalition of Hawaii Executive Director, Carl Bergquist stated, “In developing Act 241, lawmakers conducted a rigorous review of the 15-year-old program, seeking reports from the State auditor, studying recommendations from the Dispensary Task Force, and hearing direct input from the public. Eightyeight percent of Hawaii voters support safe, legal access to medication for Hawaii’s registered patients statewide, and now, thanks to this diligent effort, the Legislature has listened.” Currently, there are 3,000 care givers in the state of Hawaii and 13,000 registered medical cannabis patients. Marijuana Business Daily says that the state’s caregivers serve as competition for the newly instated collectives because they have built personal relationships with patients, something that will take collectives some time to accomplish. c
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Bulletproof with Hemp Many weapons, armor and protective materials could be replaced by lighter, stronger, sterner hemp alternatives 38
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by Jasen T. Davis
In the year 1941, Henry Ford presented to the public a Model T Ford created out of a hemp fiber composite, similar to plastic, that was light, rugged and cheap to construct. The proud inventor even tested the chassis of the vehicle by swatting it with a fireman’s axe, but did no damage. Considering that a full grown man with a twohanded tree killer couldn’t scratch the hemp panels that armored the car, it is logical to say that the composite could potentially be used to protect humans, too. >>
Kevlar, patented by DuPont back in 1965, is comprised of small, synthetic fibers woven together to stop blades, bullets or blows. The material is even naturally fire resistant. However, because of its synthetic nature, manufacturing Kevlar is dangerous and pollutes the environment with by products such as sulfuric acid. It is also expensive to create, requiring hours of production. The stuff is also not UV resistant, and it even corrodes in sunlight, reducing its efficiency. Compared to the system of creating Kevlar or forging metal, growing hemp is an all-natural process requiring only soil, sun, water and time. Hemp is better for the environment because of this, but also because the material created out of hemp is still biodegradable, as opposed to
"Government agencies associated military operations already make great use of synthetic polymers that could be replaced by hemp alternatives." plastic. The final material is also lighter than Kevlar or steel, which is good news for soldiers who have to wear nearly 31 pounds of body armor to protect themselves. Many decades later, military scientists are looking for newer and lighter body armors for the modern soldier. While Kevlar has been the mainstay for nearly a generation, the search remains for something even stronger to protect wearers from harm. Hemp plastic might just be it. It is already understood in the automobile industry that parts created out of hemp are ten times stronger than steel, and many cars use them already. Why not apply the same technological theory to body armor? A company in Amsterdam called Hemp Works already offers a hefty bulletproof jacket called the Hemp Hoodlamb that is rated at a respectable level II-A, which the manufacturers claim has been tested with .22, 9mm and .357 magnum bullets. (However, the civilian option currently costs $7,000.) Another company working on a hemp option to Kevlar called Naturally Advanced Technologies has created their
own material, Crailar, which shows good promise. Naturally Advanced Technologies is a company that takes hemp fibers and treats them with a patented enzymatic solution that further enhances their already protective qualities by making the final material softer and thinner than silk, but stronger and lighter. This material, called Crailar, can also be converted into plastic materials similar to the kind Henry Ford’s famous Model T Ford was made of. Government agencies associated military operations already make great use of synthetic polymers that could be replaced by hemp alternatives. Glock semiautomatic pistols have been used by police for decades, and they are made of plastic compounds similar to Crailar’s creations. The Army is currently working on a helmet made of polyethylene compounds that they hope will stop 7.62mm rounds (the kind used in an AK-47). This material, being fibrous because it is not made of metal, is also 50 percent better at stopping the fragmentation effects of improvised explosions. Hemp compounds could be used instead, to greater effect. If the military used hemp fibers in the same way that Hemp Works and Naturally Advanced Technologies has, many weapons, armor and materials could be replaced by lighter, stronger, sterner hemp plastic. This would not only be safer for the soldier, but also for the Earth. c
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culture growing RECIPES UNKNOWN DESTINATION COURAGE IN PROFILE 40
Testing the Varieties: Part 6
TIP OF THE MONTH FROM ASK ED®
by Ed Rosenthal
Last month, the winter garden was still hanging, taking a long time between drying and curing. Now they are all properly dried and are hanging out in glass jars. The buds were tested using infrared light to determine percentages of cannabinoids. We tested for heated THC and heated CBD for a number of different strains. The THC levels were not high. The main reason is that the plants were receiving only a moderate amount of light during flowering. The total hours of light averaged only about 10.5 hours daily. The winter and early spring sunlight received was weak and mostly indirect. This was supplemented with six hours of HPS light, still too little to produce maximum bud development and to reach THC potential. THC levels differed greatly between strains, showing the relative THC/CBD potentials of the varieties. Except for specialty varieties, all had very little CBD. Varieties differ in effects because they have different ratios of terpenes (odor molecules that affect mood and have medical qualities). About eight weeks ago, I picked up five plants, transplanted them and then let them grow in the greenhouse. They were under lights for an extended period JULY 2016 iReadCULTURE.com
each day, long enough to prevent them from flowering. About four weeks ago, the supplemental lighting was turned off and the plants started to flower. A couple weeks later, the plants were showing the slightest sign of temptation to turn vegetative, some leaf growth and a slight stretching of bud. I had to take action immediately to prevent the plants from returning to a vegetative state. The solution was to increase their dark time to 12 hours or more each day. I decided to use a 5’ x 9’ “utility frame” built for a previous project and covered it using a high grade reinforced opaque polyethylene film. “Panda plastic” is colored white on one side and black on the other. The frame was wrapped white side out, reflecting sunlight to keep the interior cool. The black interior absorbs any stray light that enters. No light entered when the
The dark chamber is used to prolong the dark period, promoting flowering.
flaps were closed. Each of the five plants were in five gallon soft containers, sitting in 4’ x 8’ trays and placed on top of a moving caster, for easy mobility. Each evening towards the end of dusk, the plants are pushed into the dark chamber. Yesterday, that occurred at 9 pm . In the morning, bright and early at 11am , the flaps are opened and the plants are wheeled into sunlight. They receive about 11 hours of light and 13 hours of darkness daily. The long dark time promotes flower ripening. The first of the five plants, a Rom-Grapefruit, is almost ripe. In the last two weeks, it transformed from a softy to a hard ripe bud bulging with trichomes. The other four plants will ripen within the next week or two. The dark chamber is a convenient addition to my tool chest of growing supplies and I intend to use it again for my next crop. c
The flaps are up and the plants are about to emerge.
The tray is resting on a moving caster, making it easy to push around the yard during the day allowing the plants catch the best rays as well as avoid shade.
When you are growing plants in containers with wheels, it’s easy to move them around. Even large plants can be moved without too much effort. This can become an important factor as the position of the sun changes over the season. Parts of the garden that were in sun early in the day or earlier in the season often become shaded later on. Moveable plants can always be in a sunny position.
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.
The plants are basking in the sun.
Ripening bud of Rom-grapefruit will be picked next week.
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RECIPES
growing
culture
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Geneva and Bern, Switzerland Flower in Summer
PROFILE
IN
COURAGE
DESTINATION
UNKNOWN
by Sheryll Alexander
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Geneva and Bern are Switzerland’s top cannabis-friendly travel destinations, especially in the summer months when toking for the country’s estimated half million medical cannabis patients and recreational users go outdoors during this central European country’s short warm season. In the ’90s and up until a famous bust in 2005, a loophole in Swiss law allowed hemp farmers to grow high-THC flowers (along with fiber and seeds for industrial and artisan hemp-based products). But sadly, long gone are the days when tourists could just stroll through
Switzerland’s urban centers or tiny medieval towns to find a “hemp shop” or “smoke shop.” In 2013, cannabis possession (under 10 grams) was famously decriminalized. However, a recent announcement from Swiss officials this spring reveals the government is gearing up for a “pilot project” in four cities (Geneva, Bern, Zurich and Basel) to legally sell small amounts of medical cannabis to authorized patients. Geneva (or Genève) is the mostly French speaking, yet multinational urban center (The UN and The Red Cross
are headquartered here) as well as the country’s financial center. Situated at the very southern tip of Lake Geneva, where the mighty Rhone River empties, Geneva becomes almost like a beach zone in summer as city is surrounded by miles of lake-front parks. With sweeping views of The Alps and The Jura Mountains in the distance, locals and tourists alike relax, play and dip in these cold lake waters during summer’s hottest days. Bern may be the capital of Switzerland, but it feels more like a village caught in a medieval time warp. Cannabis culture is very much alive in Bern, and politicians are even considering selling cannabis flowers and THC-laced products at pharmacies. Tourism in Bern is at its peak in the summer months as this vibrant city is a designated UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site. Not only does Bern boast one of the world’s first moving time clocks, but also one of the longest covered shopping promenades in Europe along with hundreds of other historic buildings, fountains, museums, parks and towers. c
HERE
Time to Go: Summer Weather: Light sweater weather with occasional showers. Budget: $$$$$
if you go: Switzerland famously decriminalized cannabis in 2012, which was implemented in October 2013, and allows for anyone 18+ to carry 10 grams or less of cannabis flowers. This important “federal” law unified Switzerland’s previous patchwork of regional policies. Caught with more than 10 grams (or selling any amount), stiff fines and potential prison time is enforced. Growing and selling cannabis is also illegal at the moment although Swiss farmers and cannabis advocates are battling against the pro-pharma system.
Fun-Filled Facts Bern is known in summer for perhaps the most fun and most unusual water recreation in Switzerland. Locals and tourists literally jump into the icy waters of the fastflowing Aare River, which runs right through the town, and float down in a state of summertime bliss. 1
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Perhaps the best jazz music festival on the planet happens every summer (July 1-16) in nearby Montreux. An hour’s drive of Geneva along a breathtakingly scenic route of 45-mile-long Lac Leman, The Montreux Jazz Festival and its stunning shoreline location attracts tens of thousands of jazz lovers and some of the world’s top jazz musicians such as Herbie Hancock, Al Jarreau, Simply Red, JeanMichel Jarre and Patti Smith. 2
GET YOUR CLICKS
culture growing
Linda Krystal Lopez
PROFILE
IN
COURAGE
DESTINATION
UNKNOWN
RECIPES
Age: 26 Condition/Illness: Cervical Cancer, Epilepsy, Severe Anxiety
Why did you start using medical cannabis? I started using medical cannabis in early 2013, when I was diagnosed with stage 3 cervical cancer. Later that year, I was diagnosed with late onset epilepsy due to the stress on my body. The epilepsy caused several chronic issues such as insomnia, depression and neuropathy. I was wheelchair- and walkerbound for quite a while. The prescription pills were also causing more harm than good. I decided to go on a strict diet, and made sure to consume as much CBD based products as possible as well as smoke to relieve the pain, stress and regain my appetite. I went into full remission in September 2014; however, I use CBD daily still, to prevent any further cancer. Now, I am able to do all the things I was able to do before my illnesses set in. Did you try other methods or treatments before cannabis? For the cancer, chemo and radiation were offered
to me as well as a full hysterectomy. I immediately declined. I tried some of the basic medications given to epileptic patients, but they were causing neuropathy and pulling my appetite. I lost about 20 pounds in only a matter of months. If it weren’t for this holistic form of healing, I don’t know where I’d be health wise, but I am not sure it would have been pleasant for me. What’s the most important issue or problem facing medical cannabis patients? I think the biggest issue would be the accessibility and lack of knowledge. General physicians and specialists seem to not give proper information or for the most part not even advocate this safe and effective way of healing. I’ve personally experienced a doctor telling a family member of mine that medical marijuana and CBD is only for nausea. I think patients should always be given options and different forms of help. What do you say to folks who are skeptical about cannabis as medicine? I’d say to do some proper research. Talk to advocates, speak to survivors. Research the proven medical benefits. Be open minded. Don’t just dismiss something you know nothing about. Meet patients going holistic and hear the positive responses. If we all become open minded, we can make a change and save or improve some lives. Being a survivor and being able to help is a blessing and I will continue to advocate and share my story! c
Are you an MMJ patient with a compelling story to tell? If so, we want to hear from you. Email your name, contact information and details about your experiences with medical cannabis to courage@ireadculture.com.
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culture growing
Summertime Sous Vide Menu: Medicated Shrimp and Mango Fresh Rolls Infused Olive Oil Lemon Curd
I created Sous Weed while I was at Nomiku, a company that makes the smallest sous vide device for precise temperature cooking. I found that the sous vide method lends itself perfectly to cannabis cooking. It’s easy to set up, safe, precise and discreet. The cannabis is sealed in a jar and placed underwater, so there’s absolutely no smell, and you no longer need to babysit a stovetop. Sous vide is French for “under vacuum,” and is a cooking process where you cook food in a temperature-controlled water bath in airtight containers (usually either plastic bags or glass). This process cooks the item evenly and helps to retain moisture. I make lightly medicated meals to enhance my day, manage my chronic lower back pain and reduce stress. Here are some of my favorite recipes for summer.
Makes 1 1/3 cups
Infused Olive Oil Lemon Curd Ingredients: 6 tablespoons cannabis-infused olive oil 3/4 cup granulated sugar Juice of 3 lemons (I used Pink Lemons) 2 tablespoon lemon zest 1/4 teaspoon sea salt 5 egg yolks
Directions:
Warm infused olive oil in a saucepan on medium heat until you see bubbles. Remove pan from heat and whisk in sugar, lemon juice, zest and salt until all is uniform. Whisk in egg yolks until smooth. Place egg mixture back on low heat, whisking constantly until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Immediately pour lemon curd into a clean jar and cool to room temperature. Refrigerate at least 4 hours before serving.
IN PROFILE 44
Monica Lo is an activist and photographer working to change public perception of cannabis users. Monica is the creator of Sous Weed, co-founder of WeedHorn, the co-creator of Asian Americans for Cannabis Education, and a photo contributor at Stock Pot Images. Monica has many years of experience in food styling and photography. She has trained at The Institute of Culinary Education in NYC and with Andrew Scrivani from the New York Times. Monica just wrapped a photo shoot for a Sous Vide at Home cookbook with Ten Speed Press and Nomiku, slated for a November 2016 launch. Monica has also cooked and shot with Top Chef Mei Lin, Dara the Bow Girl from MasterChef Junior, Opening Ceremony, Chef Jacques La Merde, and has been featured on PopSugar.
recipes by Monica Lo from Sous Weed
COURAGE
DESTINATION
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RECIPES
Sous Weed (Sous Vide) Cannabis-Infused Olive Oil
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.
JULY 2016 iReadCULTURE.com
t Additional recipe can be found at iReadCulture.com
Makes 5 rolls
Ingredients for Dipping Sauce:
5 round spring roll rice paper wrappers 1 teaspoon sesame seeds 2 tablespoon medicated olive oil 10 large cooked shrimp, peeled and sliced in half length-wise 1 Persian cucumber, julienned 1 avocado, sliced 1/2 large mango, sliced 1/4 cup mixed greens Handful mint leaves
3 tablespoons peanut butter 1 teaspoon soy sauce 1 teaspoon medicated olive oil 1 garlic clove, mashed 1 tablespoon fish sauce 1 teaspoon sriracha
RECIPES
*Note: Mangoes have the same myrcene and terpenes found in cannabis. When you consume cannabis and eat a mango, the psychoactive ingredient THC will interact with the terpenes and enhance the effects.
DESTINATION
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Place sliced shrimp in a small bowl and toss well with sesame seeds, medicated olive oil and a pinch of salt. Next, soften the rice paper by filling a large bowl with warm water. Dip one rice paper very carefully and let it soften for 20-30 seconds. Lay rice paper flat on a clean cloth and start arranging mint leaves, 3-4 shrimp halves, 1 avocado slice, 2 mango slices, 2 cucumber strips and mixed greens. Fold the sides inwards towards the stuffing and then tightly roll the rice paper. The fresh roll should resemble a little burrito. Repeat with the rest of the ingredients. To prepare the sauce, blend all ingredients together. Serve your medicated fresh rolls immediately!
Makes 16 oz
Sous Weed (Sous Vide) Cannabis-Infused Olive Oil Ingredients:
Directions:
Pour olive oil in two 12 ounce mason jars. It is important to use jars specific to canning, so please, no repurposed mayo jars. Inspect the jar for cracks. A freezer-safe zip bag may be used as well. Decarboxylate your cannabis to activate the THC. After decarboxylation, pour the cannabis into each jar of olive oil. Seal the jars finger tight. Set your sous vide water bath to 85˚C (185˚F). Once the sous vide water bath has reached its temp, gently place the jars in the water bath. Sous vide for 4 hours. Remove from water bath and strain. Discard the clippings and allow the infused olive oil to cool. Store in a cool dark place, and use at will.
iReadCULTURE.com JULY 2016
IN
COURAGE
16 oz extra virgin olive oil 1 oz cannabis clippings/trim or flowers (add more or less depending on desired potency)
PROFILE
Directions
growing
Ingredients for Fresh Rolls:
culture
Medicated Shrimp and Mango Fresh Rolls
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SHOOTING GALLERY
European Medical Cannabis Bike Tour
News of the
glass mirrors are prohibited); and “worrying” about being hit on by “lesbians” (thus causing “wrinkles”). At least, she told the reporter, she has found God in jail and passes time reading the Bible.
LEAD STORY—Jail Is Hell u The eye-catching Vietnamese model and Playboy (Venezuela edition) Playmate Angie Vu complained to the New York Daily News in April that her five-plus months in jail in Brooklyn have been “torture” and “cruel” because of her lack of access to beauty care. Vu is fighting extradition to France for taking her 9-yearold daughter in violation of the father’s custody claim and is locked up until a federal judge rules. Among her complaints: “turning pale” in the “harsh light”; lack of “Guerlain’s moisturizer”; inability to look at herself for months (because
QUESTIONABLE JUDGMENTS u Chef Mahbub Chowdhury pleaded guilty in April to food and hygiene violations in Swindon (England) Magistrates Court after inspectors found “brown fingerprints” in the kitchen at his Yeahya Flavour of Asia carry-out restaurant. Chowdhury was candid about his “cultural” habit of bypassing toilet paper and using his hand to clean himself. The plastic bottle with the fingerprints, Chowdbury said, contained water that he normally used instead of the toilet paper, and his lawyer argued that since the bottle was never actually lab-tested, the brown spots could have been “spices.”
Chuck Shepherd's
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JULY 2016 iReadCULTURE.com
u England’s Brighton and Hove City Council, striving to be progressive, issued a directive to parents of new school students (kids as young as age 4) calling on them to mark the gender identity they prefer—and notes that any child who identifies as other than male or female should leave the space blank and consult with officials individually. (Critics, according to The Sun, expressed that school should be for “developing” such identities without the necessity of declaring them so early in life). UNCLEAR ON THE CONCEPT u “Zero tolerance” claimed another victim, in Charlotte, North Carolina, in April, when Jaden Malone, 12, came to his bullied friend’s aid, was knocked down himself and repeatedly punched in the head by the bully, and pushed the boy off of him to avoid further damage—but was himself suspended for three days by his charter school Invest Collegiate. A school
official pointed out that the bully got five days, and besides, the policy against “all” physical violence is very clear. (After having Jaden treated for a concussion, his mother promptly withdrew him from the school). u Ms. Madi Barney, 20, courageously publicly reported her own rape accusation recently in Provo, Utah, and as a result has been disciplined as a student at Brigham Young University for allegedly violating the school’s “honor code.” (She is barred from withdrawing from courses or re-registering). Whether the sex was consensual must be investigated by Provo police, but BYU officials said they had heard enough to charge Barney with the no-no of premarital sex. (Critics decried the advantage BYU thus gives rapists of BYU females— since the women face the additional fear of university reprisals irrespective of the criminal case).
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