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contents
inside
6.2017
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The Host with the Most
Former talk show host Montel Williams combines his entrepreneurial spirit and personal success with medical cannabis to bring awareness and medicine to those who need it.
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features 32
Living the Hemp Life Hemp offers so many nutrients and benefits—here are a few ways to utilize hemp and improve your diet and lifestyle.
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Care and Conversion When it comes to cannabis, every parent should strive to be responsible consumer.
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departments news 8 News Nuggets 10 By the Numbers 12 Local News 14 Legal Corner reviews 16 Strain Reviews 20 Cool Stuff 22 Entertainment Reviews in every issue 38 Growing Culture 40 Destination Unknown 41 Profile in Courage 42 Recipes
Online Exclusive! d Maryland Registers First
Cannabis Cultivator d Legal Cannabis Outsells Viagra
and Tequila
45 News of the Weird
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Vol 8 IssUE 12
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CULTURE M
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Publisher Jeremy Zachary Editor-In-Chief Jamie Solis associate Editor Ashley Bennett creative consultant Evan Senn Editorial coordinator Benjamin Adams Editorial Contributors Matthew Abel, Sheryll Alexander, Marguerite Arnold, Jake Browne, Cole Garrison, 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, Dan Mitchell, 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 Tommy LaFleur Graphic DesignerS Payden Corden, Nathan Hernandez, Iray Renteria sales director Justin Olson Regional Manager Beau Odom Account Executives Jon Bookatz, Alex Brizicky, Eric Bulls, Kim Cook, Cole Garrison, Gloria Santiago, Garry Stalling, Ryan Tripp, Vic Zaragoza general Manager Iris Norsworthy Office Assistant Angelina Thompson digital content manager David Edmundson Intern Kiara Manns Distribution Manager Cruz Bobadilla
Culture® Magazine is published every month and distributes magazines at over 500 locations throughout San Diego. No articles, illustrations, photographs, or other matter within may be reproduced without written permission. Culture® Magazine is a registered trademark. All rights reserved. 2175 Sampson Ave. | Suite 118 Corona | California | 92879 Phone/Fax 888.694.2046 www.iReadCulture.com
CULTURE® Magazine is printed using post-recycled paper.
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NEWS
nuggetS
Fines Increased For Illegal Cannabis Dispensaries in Chula Vista In the midst of California cities preparing recreational cannabis legislation, the city of Chula Vista has chosen to implement higher fines on local dispensaries that are operating illegally. In a meeting on May 9, the Chula Vista City Council voted to increase the fine amount imposed on dispensaries that are operating illegally, and the council also removed the $100,000 fine limitation that was previously set. In the past, fines were established on illegal dispensaries at $1,000 per day but have now increased to $2,500. Mayor Mary Salas supported the decision, stating that this new ordinance is a hopeful move toward better regulations. “We have an ordinance in existence that is not working, and we have to fix that ordinance,” she said. Considering that in January 2018 recreational cannabis will officially be allowed on the market, some residents wonder why Chula Vista has decided to implement stricter regulations at this time. “We don’t want to be headed toward criminalization again,” resident Irene Matthews shared at the meeting. “As a state we decided where we want to go and the state got a lot more input. We want oversight. We want regulation. Otherwise, we will have a black market.”
Georgia Governor Signs Medical Cannabis Expansion Bill Rep. Allen Peake announced that Gov. Nathan Deal signed Senate Bill 16 on May 9. The bill will expand the state’s medical cannabis oil program to add six additional illnesses to the list of qualifying conditions. “With Gov. Deal’s signature today, Georgia’s medical cannabis program takes another positive step forward,” Rep. Peake stated. “As of [May 9], 1,738 citizens and 354 doctors are registered with Georgia’s Low THC Oil Registry program, and I’m confident that the addition of six conditions to this very successful program will allow even more hurting Georgians with debilitating illnesses to have a ray of hope for a better quality of life.” Registered patients are allowed to possess a maximum of 20 fluid ounces of cannabis oil with a maximum of five percent THC. Severe Tourette syndrome, Epidermolysis Bullosa, Alzheimer’s disease, symptomatic AIDS, peripheral neuropathy and hospice patients who have received authorization were added to the list of qualifying conditions. SB-16 also adds medical card reciprocity and removes the one-year eligibility requirement.
Vista City Council Agrees to Spend $35,000 on City-Wide Cannabis Poll The Vista City Council announced that it plans to run an opinion poll that will cost $35,000 to determine the number of residents who support medical cannabis dispensaries in the city. Although it is one of the few cities in San Diego County that is considering its own cannabis ordinance, Vista and its councilmembers are well-known for their support of local residents. In a meeting on May 9, the city council voted 3-1 to move forward with this poll to help the council gauge its residents interest in medical cannabis. According to a staff report on the subject, “Staff is currently soliciting proposals from public opinion research firms.” However, not everyone on the city council is in favor of the poll, as Councilmember Amanda Rigby believes it to be a premature effort. Currently, dispensaries are not allowed to operate within city limits. A local advocacy group is also working on its own initiative that would force a measure onto the ballot, which could end up costing the city an estimated $350,000 for a special election.
Chile is First Nation in South America to Sell Cannabis in Pharmacies Canadian cannabis producer Tilray’s T100 and TC100 cannabis-based products are now available for purchase in pharmacies in Chile, which began in mid-May. Before then, patients could only obtain medicine by import or through one of Chile’s narrow list of dedicated farms. It’s the first time that any nation in South America has moved forward to allow pharmacy sales of cannabis products. The average cost for a month’s worth of treatment will be $310. Tilray is partnering with Alef Biotechnology, a company that is licensed through the government of Chile. Roberto Roizman, Alef board president explained how this will benefit patients in the country. “By importing Tilray’s medical cannabis products to Chile we intend to ease the suffering of those in need by offering pure, precise and predictable medical cannabis products.” The Chilean Congress is currently reviewing a bill that would allow patients to grow their own plants at home. Additionally, the nearby country of Uruguay will begin selling recreational cannabis in pharmacies in July. 8
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The amount of money, in thousands of dollars, that it will cost the city of Vista to survey residents on their opinion of medical cannabis dispensaries: (Source: San Diego Union-Tribune)
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The number of votes, out of four, presented by the Vista City Council that were in favor of a medical cannabis poll to survey locals: (Source: San Diego Union-Tribune)
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The increased amount of money, in thousands of dollars, that illegal cannabis dispensaries in Chula Vista (Source: San Diego Reader) will be fined per day:
2.5
The projected number of cannabis plants that are currently being cultivated by the Iipay Nation in Santa Ysabel: (Source: Los Angeles Times)
1,000
The minimum amount of money, in thousands of dollars, that Med-West Distribution owner James Slatic will be receiving back from his assets that were seized in January 2014: (Source: Forbes)
100
The percentage of North Carolinians who stated in a survey that they want to see medical cannabis legalized:
80
The approximate amount of money, in thousands of dollars, that cannabis industry clients in Maine paid in lobbying fees between December 1, 2016 and (Source: Portland March 31, 2017: Press Herald)
140
(Source: The News & Observer)
The approximate number of people who attended the Extravaganja festival in Massachusetts in late-April: (Source: Daily Collegian)
10,000
The approximate number of people in Colorado and California who were surveyed as cannabis consumers by BDS Analytics: (Source: Denver Westword)
2,000
The number of medical practitioners in New York who are registered under the state’s medical cannabis program: (Source: WKBW Buffalo)
989
Hempcrete Workshop at Millennial Farmer LLC WHAT: Hempcrete Workshop at Millennial Farmer LLC. WHEN/WHERE: Sun, June 11. 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Millennial Farmer LLC 2015 Foothill Dr., Vista. INFO: Visit millennialfarmers.com for details. For those who haven’t heard, hempcrete is an alternative eco-friendly material used for construction. Like other plant products, hemp absorbs carbon dioxide and releases oxygen into the air, making it the perfect material for those who are conscious of their carbon footprint on the planet. Join Millennial Farmer LLC for a uniquely designed and interactive workshop that will teach the science behind hempcrete and the various advantages hemp gives to our community. As an agriculture company, Millennial 10
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Farmer LLC not only dedicates itself to constructing buildings meant to last, but it also looks to educate the public on how to live sustainably and what materials can be used to do so. This class will go through the complex history of hemp agriculture and its relationship with U.S. policy. The instructor will then guide students through creating small structures using hempcrete that will later contribute to an outdoor library that the company is currently building. (Kiara Manns)
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NEWS
LOCAL
Rightful Justice
California Cannabis Entrepreneur Association Monthly Mixer
After a long fight, judge orders some money be returned to cannabis business owner by Pamela Jayne
A
fter a 15-month-long legal battle, District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis has finally been ordered to return more than $100,000 of personal funds taken from James Slatic and his family. Slatic was the owner of MedWest, a legally operating medical cannabis business, which was raided in January of 2016. No criminal charges were ever filed. The money was taken from not only Slatic’s personal account, but also from his wife, and even their two teenage daughters’ college savings accounts, under civil asset forfeiture laws. Attorney Allison Daniel of the Institute for Justice, which represented Slatic pro bono, explained to CULTURE the significance that this case has in helping future victims of unjust civil asset forfeiture. “The Slatics’ case illustrates that the only way to prevent abuse is to end civil asset forfeiture once and for all,” Daniel said. “The vast majority of forfeiture cases are never heard by a judge because most forfeiture victims cannot afford to hire a lawyer and prove their own innocence. And that is why this victory is so important; it shows that people can fight back and win.” The court order, signed by Superior Court Judge Tamila Ipema reads, in part, “[The] money that [the] People are holding does not appear to have any evidentiary value on its own, and it cannot be declared contraband without due process. The People’s investigations have been ongoing since January 2016 and there is no indication from the People that criminal charges are going to be filed in this case in the near future. The People cannot hold on to [the Slatics’] money indefinitely without having filed any charges against them at the present time.” The District Attorney’s
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Office, in a hearing on Wednesday May 10, said it would not challenge the order. The ruling by Judge Ipema confirmed what Slatic’s attorneys and cannabis activists have been saying all along—law enforcement used the questionable tactics of civil asset forfeiture to take money from a law-abiding family. In the days following the ruling, CULTURE spoke to James Slatic about how this order will impact his family. “It’s nice to get a signed court order from a judge saying that the government has to return my family’s money, with interest. But of course, they never should have taken my family’s money in the first place,” Slatic said. “It’s like you never win these because it’s a matter of how much pain they’ve inflicted, and how much it will mitigate that pain.” Although Slatic admitted that he does not feel that justice has been served to its full potential, this order does bring some sort of relief to his family. “ . . . I’m relieved for my wife and my daughters who got caught up in this, because now they get their money back,” Slatic said. “I was the guy doing the business, so I took the liability. They got sucked up into it just by being related to me, and so I’m very grateful that my family members are out of it and will get their money returned.” Slatic continued to explain that returning the money to his family will not fix all the additional problems this asset forfeiture has inflicted on his business. “[This order] doesn’t give me back anything from the business. It’s been almost a year and a half. It’s destroyed my good size cannabis company.” Slatic is currently planning legal action to have the $325,000 that was seized from Med-West returned as well. Med-West operated openly and legally for two years, paid taxes, and the business employed 35 people with benefits and retirement funds. Slatic intends to stay in the cannabis business industry, and he will move forward with legal action to obtain all else that is owed to him. c
Residents of North County San Diego can look forward to meeting with fellow cannabis leaders and entrepreneurs for a beer and a few tacos. This meetup of the California Cannabis Entrepreneur Association will take place at Mas Fina Cantina, where approximately 70 individuals will attend to connect and network with other business people who are also making strides in the cannabis industry. The association focuses on supporting local events, dispensaries and delivery services. Once a month members come together to update each other on current events and networking opportunities. Each mixer provides new connections and relationships that help in the journey to success within this rapidly growing field. Remember to bring business cards and sample products, because you never know whom you will run into! (Kiara Manns) WHAT: California Cannabis Entrepreneur Association Monthly Mixer. WHEN/WHERE: Wed, June 7. 7:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Mas Fina Cantina, 2780 State St., Carlsbad. INFO: Visit meetup. com/californiacannabis-entrepreneurassociation/ events/239280303 for details.
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NEWS
LEGAL CORNER
Ownership
Fascinating Fundamentals Exploring new cannabis regulations proposed by the state
by Kimberly R. Simms, Attorney at Law
T
he wait is finally over! Nearly one year-and-a-half after the Medical Cannabis Regulation & Safety Act (MCRSA) was passed, California has finally released its initial draft regulations. The industry has been waiting on pins and needles to gain a deeper understanding of the rules that will make California’s newly regulated commercial cannabis industry. On April 28, 2017, three of the California state agencies tasked with implementing MCRSA released their first draft of rules that will regulate transportation, distribution and dispensaries (drafted by the Bureau of Medical Cannabis Regulation (BMCR); cultivation (drafted by CalCannabis Cultivation Licensing—a division of the CA Department of Food and Agriculture); and manufacturing (drafted by the Office of Manufactured Cannabis Safety—a division of the Department of Public Health). One week later, the BMCR released their initial draft of rules for laboratory testing. So now that the wait is over—let’s dig into some of the long-awaited rules.
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The regulations finally give the industry the definition of an “owner.” Not knowing the definition of an owner has made strategic planning for potential licensees extremely challenging. An “owner” is defined as follows: For publiclytraded companies, having five percent ownership or more makes you an owner; for privately held companies, an owner is: an individual who owns more than the 20 percent threshold, the CEO and all members of the board of directors of an entity, when the entity owns more than the 20 percent threshold, or an individual engaging in the direction, control or management of the licensee. This also includes “discretionary powers” to, among other things, direct and/or control the hiring and firing of personnel, contracting for the sale of goods on behalf of the applicant, and making policy decisions on behalf of the applicant.
Cultivation Regulations With the release of CalCannabis regulations, the industry was surprised to see a new license type, “Processor,” which does not cultivate but simply cures, trims and processes the cannabis of other cultivators. The definition of canopy was also revealed, which refers to the designated areas at a licensed premises that will contain flowering plants at any point in time, calculated in square feet and measured using clearly identifiable boundaries of all area that will contain flowering plants at any point in time, including all of the spaces within the boundaries.
Manufacturing Regulations The Office of Manufactured Cannabis Safety also surprised the industry with two new license types. A Packager or “Type P” license is for entities that only package or repackage medical cannabis products or label or relabel the cannabis product container. Licenses that do packaging or labeling of their own
product as part of the manufacturing process do not need to hold a separate Type P license. An Infuser or “Type N,” is for manufacturers that produce edible products or topical products using infusion processes, or other types of medical cannabis products other than extracts or concentrates, and that do not conduct extractions. One of the most concerning parts of the manufacturing regulations is the long list of prohibited manufactured products. Under the current draft, each of the following products are prohibited from being infused with cannabis: Alcoholic beverages, anything containing nicotine or caffeine, any food that must be refrigerated below 41 degrees Fahrenheit, any canned or juice product, perishable bakery goods that need refrigeration, dairy products, meat products, seafood products and the addition of cannabinoids to commercially available candy or snack food items.
Other Notable Dispensary Regulations A licensed dispensary may only sell medical cannabis goods during the hours of 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. A dispensary shall not sell more than eight ounces of medical cannabis to a patient, or to a primary caregiver for each patient, unless their recommendation says they need more. Delivery of cannabis is also addressed. A delivery employee of a licensed dispensary must perform delivery of medical cannabis and, a licensed dispensary shall not use the services of an independent contractor or courier service to deliver medical cannabis goods. Unfortunately, the regulations do not make any provisions for non-storefront delivery licenses. And sadly, long gone will be the days of free samples. A licensed dispensary shall not provide free samples of medical cannabis goods to any person, nor can licensed dispensary allow representatives of other companies or organizations to provide free samples of medical cannabis goods to individuals on the licensed dispensary premises. These are just a few of the highlights from the incredibly in-depth regulations. All interested parties are strongly encouraged to not only read the regulations but to also submit public comment. The state plans to take feedback in writing and through a series of public hearings over the next several weeks. c
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REVIEWs
strain Available at: Healing Heart Collective in Escondido.
The Savage Pink Lemonade Wax Infused Pre-Roll The Savage Pink Lemonade Wax Infused Pre-Roll from Healing Heart Collective is a nicely rolled cone with a sturdy crutch and four generous drops of wax that give off a sweet and tart aroma. The flavor is very similar to the aroma—sweet with a bit of tartness and a heavy pine undertone. This pre-roll has a long-lasting, even burn with perfect consistency throughout. The hit offers quite heavy expansion and a hefty cough, followed by an extremely mellow, laid-back effect that is long-lasting. This pre-roll is helpful for not only inducing some much-needed relaxation, but it’s effective for appetite stimulation as well.
Available at: Mankind Cooperative in San Diego.
Purple Power Purple Power from Mankind Cooperative is a heavy indica that has excellent structure, with tons of long hairs atop light green and deep purple leaves. The trichomes are plentiful and shine like diamonds. The aroma is strong with its floral, fruity and sweet scents, and it has a similar flavor that mimics notes of citrus and pine followed by a clean, strong cough. This strain was obviously grown with care and was well-flushed, allowing the superb flavor to manifest. Expect nearly instant pain relief, appetite stimulation and a sedative effect from Purple Power.
Available at: Point Loma Patients Consumer Cooperative in San Diego.
Tokyo OG Powered by Point Loma Patients Consumer Cooperative (PLPCC), the awardwinning Tokyo OG is dark green in appearance and overlaid with dark red hairs. The ultra-pungent buds are sticky to the touch and the powerful effects rush to both the head and body, making it ideal for alleviating muscle pain, inducing sleep and appetite stimulation. The pine-like OG Kush hybrid is popular among consumers everywhere. Our sample of Tokyo OG was one of the selections available in the Golden State Greens Box, which is delivered directly to your door, with four of the finest strains available. It includes four quarter-ounce portions. All strains included are either local, state or national Cannabis Cup award winners, making this box a true connoisseur’s must-have item. You can pick your options online and have it delivered or hand-filled and ready for you to pick up at PLPCC’s San Diego location.
The Churro Available at: Urbn Leaf in San Diego.
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Available exclusively at Urbn Leaf and known as “the strongest blunt in the universe,” The Churro is a unique cannabis product that will impress even the most experienced consumer. It contains a full 3.5 grams of high-grade cannabis, infused with crumble and wax, then coated in hash oil. It is then rolled in a crazy amount of kief, giving it the sugary appearance of sugar and cinnamoncoated churro. It hits nice and even, tastes great and is extremely long-lasting, making it perfect for sharing. The Churro is very potent; just a few hits will have you relaxed and laughing with a serious case of the munchies.
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REVIEWs Available wherever: Ganja Gold products are sold.
King Tarantula Be prepared for a beast unlike any other. The King Tarantula offered by Ganja Gold is an out-of-this-world creature oozing with goodness. Looking just like a tarantula’s hairy legs, this huge pre-roll is covered in not only kief but also a hefty helping of clear wax and hash. Stuffed inside is two grams of the best top-shelf bud available; this particular variety was Strawberry Banana. This extremely potent strain in combination with the bevy of concentrates will have consumers feeling like they have the creepy crawlies if consumed all at once! It is definitely a joint that looks a little furry with all of the kief on it, and it will have consumers seeing blurry! Ganja Gold always puts an emphasis on packaging, and the King Tarantula is no exception with a fully glass tube and a cork to truly add to its premiere status.
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Available at: Torrey Holistics in San Diego.
1969 Maui Wowie With multiple shades of green, ranging from lime to emerald, and a plethora of thick orange hairs covered in trichomes, the 1969 Maui Wowie from Torrey Holistics is a classic sativa strain that has a heavy citrus and tropical aroma. Its flavor is delightfully citrusy, tasting of pineapple, lemon and just a hint of sweet mango. 1969 Maui Wowie delivered a truly poetic balance of tropical flavors! The hit is clean and smooth, and it has an uplifting cerebral effect. It is mentally and spiritually uplifting, making it a great addition to a day at the beach. 18
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REVIEWs
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1. 14er Joint Tip Tired of passing around your preroll only to have it return soggy and unsanitary? Elevate Accessories is offering heirloom-quality wooden joint filter tips. They are perfect for cone joints or cigars. The tips come with an engraved logo and a hexagonal faceted shape that you can easily grip. The tips are made out of black walnut or hard maple. Regular use of wooden tips will help season and condition the wood. In order to make your tip last a lifetime, Elevate Accessories recommends using a crutch every time you use it. The 14er Joint Tip is geared for social consumers who don’t want unnecessary germs and wasted roaches. PRICE: $15 MORE INFORMATION: elevateaccessories.com
2. Goldleaf Grow Planner Cultivators will love Goldleaf’s swank and utilitarian grow planner. The only way growers can remember what victories and failures they encountered in past batches is to jot down information. The planner provides templated weekly entry pages for over 20 weeks. Track down your feeding schedule with spaces for the cycle, week, light and nutrients. With this planner you can record the PH levels and supplies, while planning your garden. You can also fill out the effects, sampling times and flavor wheel according to your garden samples. The cream-colored pages are designed to be seen under HID light. The discrete retro-styled cover is stamped with a Goldleaf gold emblem. It’s a must for any cultivator who needs a little more order to their cultivation routine. PRICE: $16 MORE INFORMATION: shopgoldleaf.com 20
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Robin Wood Hemp Watch Support a healthier, greener ecosystem with one of the most eco-friendly watches available. The 100 percent vegan Robin Wood watch is made with a natural hemp strap and is encased in bamboo. The all-natural aesthetic of wooden products with a visible grain is part of the appeal. Time settings can be adjusted with a diagonal bamboo knob. All materials are hypoallergenic, and no animals were harmed in this watch’s production. The jumbo-sized Japanese quartz mechanism is made by SEIKO/ Hattori and is protected behind highquality mineral glass. The vegetablebased materials are made from sustainable farming. It is also resistant to water splashes, and the product is protected with a two-year warranty. The purchase of a Robin Wood watch supports ecological campaigns, and each watch comes with a thank you note for supporting the ecosystem. PRICE: $103.03 MORE INFORMATION: www.etsy.com/shop/robinwoodco
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OG Four 2.0 RiG Edition When a normal-sized vaporizer pen is not enough, get massive rig-like rips from the OG Four 2.0 RiG Edition from #ThisThingRips. Everything about this pen is oversized, from the mouthpiece to the battery. Exhale eye-popping milky white clouds of vapor that will impress your friends. The patented Lava-Quartz technology works with a full quartz bowl and dual quartz rods wrapped in high-quality titanium coils. The “Set it & Forget it” feature on the large smart battery “remembers” your last setting, and you can even charge the device while it is in use. The low-key silicone-lined jar screws into the bottom of the pen and is almost undetectable. The transparent visual reaction chamber guarantees maximum flow and dwarfs other vape pen chambers. The kit is complete, containing everything that is needed including a hypercharging cable, a stainless steel tool, cleansing wipes, silicone rings and a stand. PRICE: $129.99 MORE INFORMATION: thisthingrips.com
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entertainment
REVIEWs
BOOK
Legal Weed: A Comprehensive Guide to California Cannabis Law & Regulation Pub. Legally-Blunt Meital Manzuri, Michelle Mabugat and Alexa Steinberg of Manzuri Law The promise of California’s upcoming legal cannabis market has entrepreneurs everywhere looking to the future. Legal Weed is an invaluable resource for professionals who are looking to navigate the regulations on medical and recreational cannabis in California. Written for cannabis entrepreneurs of every experience level, this guide provides essential recommendations and best business practices that will answer any possible question regarding California law and federal law, with knowledge and insight that is backed up by the authors’ many years of experience working in cannabis business law and criminal defense cases. (Jacob Cannon) 22
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Available on: PlayStation 4, Xbox One and PC Release Date: June 2
GAME
Tekken 7 Dev. Bandai Namco Entertainment Pub. Bandai Namco Tekken 7 continues to break the mold of improved fighting games. This installment is the first to be created using the Unreal Engine and is based on the arcade release launched exclusively in Japan back in 2015. This oneon-one fighting game offers two new unique fighting systems, “Rage Art” (which allows critically low-health players to deal 30 percent damage) and Power Crush (which enables attacking even when an enemy is executing attacks), among other modes of gameplay. New and returning Tekken players will have plenty of options while they defeat their friends in-person and online. (Nicole Potter)
MOVIE
Logan
MUSIC
Dir. James Mangold
Big Bad Rooster
20th Century Fox
Big Bad Rooster Self-Released
It might be hard to believe, but it’s been almost 20 years since X-Men ushered films based on comic books into the modern era. In the nearly two decades since, audiences have been treated to a tremendous array of comic-based movies loaded with near countless super heroes and brimming with an incredible amount of mayhem and destruction. However, in the most recent installment of the X-Men film franchise, cartoony, big city annihilation has given way to heartfelt drama in Logan. Hugh Jackman and Patrick Stewart reprise their roles as Wolverine and Professor Xavier respectively, and while the movie still features edge-of-yourseat action, the more human aspects of the characters are explored and laid out to fantastic effect. (Simon Weedn)
Bluegrass has its roots in some of the oldest musical traditions of the United States and has long been a source of authentic story telling about rural life and working people. Though the genre has enjoyed a surge in reinterest as Americana music has regained some popularity, it can be difficult to find acts moving beyond old traditionals and pushing the genre into new territory. Thankfully, Big Bad Rooster is on the rise and available to please those ears looking for new flavor in a classic form. The band’s debut fulllength blends vibrant stories of modern life and contemporary struggles, with an exciting style that will appeal to both purists and new-comers alike. (Simon Weedn)
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Guided by personal experience,
Montel Williams brings the healing of cannabis to the masses By Dan Mitchell
ontel Williams has filled many roles during his career: Awardwinning daytime talk show host, actor, writer and activist. But above all, he’s a passionate promoter. As such, his word choices near perfection, he has the uncanny ability to speak in public with ease and sway listeners and viewers to feel. Whether he’s rattling off the chemical properties of his new line of cannabis oil products, or telling his own compelling life story, including his time in Naval Academy or his experience suffering from Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and how cannabis has eased that suffering, his passion comes through loud and clear. Williams hosted The Montel Williams Show from 1991 to 2008. It was often the standard, daytime-talk fare—psychics, battling couples, troubled teens. But, especially in the show’s later years, Williams focused less on covering the typical stories that other shows did. Instead, he featured guests with inspirational stories of overcoming obstacles, lost loves reuniting and parents finding the children they had put up for adoption. After his diagnosis in 1999, he started devoting shows to MS. The show was later canceled
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in 2008. Williams has worn many hats since then: An advocate for veterans, a commercial spokesman, a philanthropist, cannabis advocate and now, a successful cannabis entrepreneur. After his MS diagnosis, Williams became addicted to the opioids he was taking to control his debilitating symptoms, and he even attempted suicide when things were at their worst. In order to get off the opioids that were wrecking his life even worse than the MS, he turned to a more natural solution, cannabis. When asked about his first experience with cannabis, about what it was like, how it made him feel, and how it changed him, he wept. His passion for this medicinal plant went far beyond the perfect speeches and flawless suits. It was clear that cannabis did in fact save his life. Montel’s most recent passion project is Lenitiv Scientific, LLC, a new company specializing in medical cannabis products that has just released its first new line, available in select areas. LenitivLabs offers a range of edibles and concentrates with various ratios of THC and CBD. Williams uses the word “purity” a lot in discussing the development of the product line, which he says is ongoing. “I’m not gonna talk bad about what’s come before,” he says. “But science has now hit the right mark, and we can get this done. And it’s just going to get better. We’re going to keep purifying to the point where the patients are allowed to titrate themselves to the level they need rather than at the level the dispenser or provider thinks is right.” >>
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When were you diagnosed with MS? I was diagnosed in 2000, but it should have been more like 1980, when I was already having miniepisodes. But back then, MS was thought of as a disease of Caucasian women, of Europeans. It was called a “Viking disease.” What were the symptoms like once it got really bad? I had really, really, really, really severe neuropathy, and I had severe cramping and spasticity. My legs would just be kicking and twitching. I’d wake up every 25 minutes. For 10 years, I didn’t get more than an hour-and-a-half, two hours of sleep in a row.
that I got from very expensive Western medications, I get from cannabis. Did you smoke cannabis recreationally, before you were diagnosed with MS? In high school, I dabbled a little bit—it was the ‘70s, man. But then I was in the military and in the government for 22 years, and I got tested all the time. What was your experience when you finally came upon
You were making yourself crazy, looking for relief and looking to get off opioids. How did you discover cannabis? I chased every single one of the opioids there is, and some that you don’t even know about. We consume far more opiates here in the United States of America than anyplace else, most of them consumed illegally. Why do we do all that? Because we are inundated from birth to death with ads that tell you, “There’s something wrong with you, take a pill.” I’m convinced that the same amount of relief
Soothing Science
Montel Williams demonstrates the purity behind Lenitiv Scientific’s premiere line of medicalgrade cannabis products at a recent demonstration. As a passionate celebrity who has personally suffered from Multiple Sclerosis throughout his adult life, Williams is dedicated to ensuring LenitivLabs’ products, such as CO2 Extracted PURE Refined Oils and Pure All Natural Mini Shot Drinks, are made with top-quality cannabis and no harmful additives. These products are now available throughout California and will expand to other legal cannabis states in the future. photos by Mike Rosati
“I haven’t gone a day without cannabis in 17 years.” 28
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cannabis as a source of relief for your MS? I don’t want to go too deep into some things, but taking opioids does all kinds of horrible things to your body. Like, to your intestinal tract. It was a nightmare. It’s supposed to make you feel better, and all it does is make you drool in the corner and wonder why your shit still hurts. It was time to stop. I went to the doctor after my second suicide attempt and said, “I gotta do something about this; it ain’t working.” He said to me, “I know some people, but I didn’t just tell you that. [And if you say I told you this], I will tell everybody that you are a liar, that I never said that.” So, how did you obtain cannabis, and how did it go when you did? In 2001, I flew to L.A. from New York, where I taped my show. L.A. had a legal program. And immediately, I was in the culture. And maybe six months into it, I started eating [cannabis]. This was before we had all these products we have now, so it was just, like, cupcakes. Then I started cooking in my kitchen. I didn’t really know what I was doing, but I started making these poppy seed muffins. I haven’t gone a day without cannabis in 17 years. About 20 of those days, I’ve been on Marinol, unfortunately, because I was traveling to places where I didn’t want to get my hands cut off. Marinol is terrible. Somebody should shut that business down. Or leave it up, but just for people who need cover. But when you first started smoking, to get off opioids ... Let me tell you something: For the first month, I was rolling joints. That went out the window. The second two weeks, I was sticking it into a pipe. That went out the window. >>
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“. . . science has now hit the right mark, and we can get this done. And it’s just going to get better. We’re going to keep purifying to the point where the patients are allowed to titrate themselves to the level they need rather than at the level the dispenser or provider thinks is right.”
Was smoking cannabis working for you? Oh, yeah. But it was destroying my lungs. I went to Vancouver and got a Volcano. I got off the leaf to go to the kief. Let’s see, this was in 2002, I think, when I got a vaporizer. What was it like for you when you first started using cannabis? Was it, like, a revelation, or . . . ? Let me tell you something. Revelation— um—I’m trying to say without, uhhh . . . I’ve been crying all damned day, so I’m tired of crying. I’m not gonna do it anymore. “Revelation” is an understatement. So the difference was pretty much instantaneous? When I hit the right spot, yes. It took about three months of getting my saturation level up, to stop being high, and start getting relief. Now, I have it fined-tuned to the point where if I wake up in the middle of the night with pain, I go in the bathroom—I’ve got five pens in there, and I know which is which in the dark. Bang, I’m back to sleep. I’ve got it all dialed in, absolutely. c
+ www.lenitivlabs.com
SAY WHAT!?
“While researchers wait for marijuana to study whether it helps with PTSD, plenty of veterans will tell you it absolutely does.” - John Oliver, Host of Last Week Tonight with John Oliver
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“Legalizing marijuana has already created thousands of fulltime jobs, and it’s raised hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenue, a lot of which has gone toward public schools.” - Trevor Noah, Host of The Daily Show
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“Research is indicating that CBD-rich strains of the plant actually have anti-tumoral properties. Because the U.S. government classifies marijuana as having no medical value, the clinical research has been blocked.” - Ricki Lake, Former Host of The Ricki Lake Show, Filmmaker of Weed the People
“U.S. marijuana sales might top $2.3 billion this year. I’m not saying I support it. I’m just saying it’s now available in the Ellen Shop.” - Ellen DeGeneres, Host of The Ellen Show
“I just feel like once the government stops the lie the rest of us will be better for it—and the lie is that [cannabis is] a ‘gateway drug.’” - Whoopi Goldberg, Co-Host on The View
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A Better Life with Hemp Hemp is one of the most nutritious and renewable plants on the planet and is often overlooked—here are some great ways to easily add hemp into your life
FOOD
We all want to be healthier, have longer lives and get the nutrition our body needs and deserves, but figuring out exactly how to do that can be expensive and difficult.
by Evan Senn Hemp is one of the most versatile plants on our planet, and in addition to being a perfect protein, hemp can be used as a great renewable and strong source for any paper products, environmentally-friendly plastic substitutes and a clean-burning fuel source. If you don’t have access to hemp products or food, or you aren’t quite sure how to infuse your life with hemp, we’re here to help. In honor of Hemp History Week this month (June 5-11), we have put together a list of different ways you can utilize the many nutrients and benefits that hemp offers for your diet and lifestyle.
Relying on other people’s products and the availability of said products can be costly and hard to find, leaving us disappointed and under-nourished. Depending on where you live, you could
have great access to hemp products and foods, and if you do have that access, there is no reason why your whole life shouldn’t be infused with hemp in many different ways.
Hemp Seeds he seeds from hemp plants are versatile and tasty delights. Hemp seeds are rich in protein, polyunsaturated fatty acids, omega 6, omega 3 and insoluble fiber. They are a good source of tocopherols (vitamin E antioxidants). They’re also packed with minerals such as potassium, magnesium, iron, zinc, calcium and phosphorus, plus micro-elements like strontium, thorium and
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Hemp Oil emp oil contains gamma-linolenic acid, which is converted to the protective hormone prostaglandin PGE1, which helps regulate hormonal balance (and supports menopausal health). Hemp oil can help lower cholesterol; it can help moderate blood sugar levels, prevent psoriasis, boost immunity, and it can even prevent varicose veins.
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Hemp oil is a great to use whenever you’re in need of making a salad dressing, an infused oil for dipping (rosemary, garlic, chili or shallot-infused oils are easy and tasty for dipping breads), or lightly sautéing vegetables in. It is not recommended for high heat though, as the high temperatures can denature the unsaturated fats of hemp oil and turn them into saturated fats. >>
chromium. Both the complete protein and the oils contained in hemp seeds (rich in lanolin and linolenic acids) are in ideal ratios for optimum human nutrition. You can eat them raw (hulled), roasted like nuts, or you can use them to make other things! You can use blended hemp seeds to make hemp cream, hemp seed cheeses, mayonnaise, pesto sauce, Alfredo sauce, non-dairy sour cream or even a creamy and nutty butter.
Hemp Milk rganic hemp milk is also a great alternative to cow’s milk. In just one ounce of hemp milk, you get vitamins A, B12, D, E, Folic Acid, magnesium, iron, 4 grams of digestible protein, potassium, zinc, riboflavin, phosphorous, 900mg of omega 3, 2800mg of omega 6, all 10 essential amino acids and 46 percent of your daily allowance of calcium—all with no cholesterol. You can use hemp milk as a milk replacement in all baking and cooking, in your tea or coffee, or even in your cereal. Hemp milk is a quick nut milk to make because unlike almonds or
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cashews, hemp seeds don’t need to be soaked before blended. All you need is one cup hemp seeds (also called hearts or shelled hemp nuts), three-to-four cups filtered water, one tablespoon coconut oil (optional), two tablespoons Stevia or agave, one-half a tablespoon of organic vanilla powder and a pinch of sea salt. In a high-speed blender, add hemp seeds and water, and blend on high until fully liquefied. Using a cheesecloth or milk bag, strain into a wide glass bowl, and discard the hemp fibers (or keep for cheese-making later) from the bag, and pour the milk back into a clean blender.
Hemp Protein emp protein powder is a common powder sold at health food stores and can be a great addition to shakes and baked goods. You can also find hemp protein bars, and hemp seed snacks available at most health food stores as well.
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LIFESTYLE No other natural resource offers the potential of hemp. Hemp is capable of producing significant quantities
of paper, textiles, building materials, medicine, paint, detergent, varnish, oil, ink and fuel. Unlike other crops, hemp can grow in most climates and on
most farmlands throughout the world with moderate requirements. Look no further for creative ways to incorporate hemp into your everyday lifestyle.
Hemp Clothing emp clothing absorbs and releases perspiration quickly and breathes well, making it ideal for a textile in clothing. Hemp clothing absorbs dye easily, retains color well, holds up to repeated washings (never needing dry cleaning), and also is naturally
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anti-microbial. It is uniquely resistant to mold and mildew, and believe it or not, hemp fabric gets softer the more it’s washed and worn. Many companies all over the world use hemp fabrics, including major brands like Patagonia, Royal Apparel and Barneys New York. >> iReadCULTURE.com
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Cannabis Facial T
etrahydrocannabinol (THC) and other cannabinoids are powerful antioxidants and can aid in cell repair and cellular regeneration. In recent studies, it’s been proven that nonpsychoactive cannabidiol (CBD) is a more powerful antioxidant than vitamins A, C and E. When applied topically to your skin, these antioxidants tackle fine lines and wrinkles with supreme skin conditioning power. THC is also an anti-inflammatory agent and is heavy in omegas, which are essential for moisturizing dull skin.
Consider creating a D.I.Y. hemp-infused facial. All you need is one ripe avocado, one-fourth cup hemp oil, two tablespoons spirulina powder (to kill toxins and brighten skin), several drops of patchouli oil (because this essential oil fights acne and sagging skin) and a blender. Blend until the mixture is creamy, smooth and bright green, and with a steamedcleaned face, apply and sit for at least 15-20 minutes, wash it off and voila! You’re on your way to bright, clean and blissful skin.
Hemp Oil Cleanser H
emp seed oil is a fantastic cleansing oil, and is safe to use on sensitive or acne prone skin; it will not clog your pores. Paired with jojoba oil and a little of your favorite essential oil, you’ve got the makings of a natural, healthy cleanser! Jojoba is anti-bacterial and also reduces sebum production in our skin, so it’s a great addition to any cleanser; you can also use safflower oil or evening primrose oil. Facial cleansers with lathering ingredients disrupt the skin’s natural oil balance, which can make dry skin drier and oily skin produce even more oil to compensate. When you use the right types of oils in the right combinations
Hemp Toothpaste H
emp toothpaste can be a really effective and excellent way to care for your teeth. It effectively calms and prevents tooth sensitivity, bleeding gums and minor sores or cracks in the mouth. Making your own toothpaste is cost efficient, healthier than store bought toothpaste and just as effective. To make your own hemp toothpaste, all you need is one-fourth cup of coconut oil, one-fourth cup of hemp oil, two to three tablespoons of baking soda, two small packets of Stevia powder (to
to cleanse the face, you’ll be able to gently yet effectively cleanse the skin of pore-clogging oils and bacteria while also maintaining moisture balance. Start by massaging the oil into dry skin using circular motions, focusing especially on where pores are clogged or where you’re wearing a bit more makeup than usual. Saturate a clean washcloth with hot tap water, then wring it out and gently remove the oil and the makeup with it. For combination skin, switch to a 1:4 ratio (one part castor oil, four parts carrier oil), and for dry and/or sensitive skin, a 1:10 ratio seems to work best.
add some sweetness to the mix), 1520 drops of peppermint or cinnamon essential oil, and 10 drops of myrrh extract (optional). Mix it all together, and keep it in a cool dry place. There are many other ways to utilize hemp in your lifestyle, and the products available with hemp already in it are vast and varied. You can find fantastic hemp seed shampoos and conditioners, hemp lotions and creams; you can even find after-tattoo care infused with hemp like with brand Ink 20/20. c iReadCULTURE.com
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Parental Principles The basics of responsible cannabis consuming parents by Emily Manke
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his time of year, it’s appropriate to consider, discuss and commiserate on the joys and pitfalls of parenting. For those dedicated moms and dads who also happen to be cannabis consumers, parenthood can come with its own special set of challenges. Parenting and consuming cannabis is one of those gray areas that isn’t talked about nearly enough. However, with the stigma surrounding cannabis slowly evaporating, it’s high time we start having the conversation.
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Keep Cannabis Away From Kids “The foster families I license are allowed to have marijuana in their home as long as it is inaccessible to children, per state law,” LeClari says. While this is not necessarily a legal requirement for traditional parents in legal cannabis states, it’s definitely a best practice, and one LeClair and her partner adhere to at home. When not in use, store cannabis in a locked container that kids will not have access to, on the top shelf of your bedroom closet for example. Make sure all cannabis containers are clearly and obviously labeled. For edibles that look like candy, put poison stickers on them if you have young kids in the house. That way in the off chance they do get their hands on them, they’re clued in that what looks like delicious candy, may actually be dangerous.
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Do Not to Use Cannabis in Front of Children Modeling the use of any substance in front of kids can be harmful. By using cannabis in front of your children, you are subjecting them to adult behavior they may not be ready to process. Additionally, LeClair notes, for kids with a trauma history, this may be a trigger for them from their past or in their future. The same goes for alcohol. Additionally, while second-hand smoke
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Can you be a responsible parent and a cannabis consumer? Of course you can. But there are some ground rules you and your parenting partner should set to keep your kids safe and sound. CULTURE talked to foster parent licensor, parent of three kids and cannabis consumer, Cori LeClair, about how to consume, store and deal with cannabis safely and respectfully as a parent. “As a licensor for foster homes, and a parent, safe cannabis use is something that is taken seriously in my home and addressed in my work,” LeClair told CULTURE. When asked how to maintain a safe environment in your home if you’re a cannabis consumer, LeClair had five tips to keep kids safe, while keeping parents in compliance with the law. In all instances, be sure to abide by your respective state and local laws.
from cannabis may not be as harmful as tobacco or other drugs, it’s still not ideal for kids to be exposed to in any capacity.
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Don’t Drive with Your Kids If You’re Under the Influence While this may seem like a no-brainer, it bears repeating. If you plan on consuming cannabis, make sure you will not need to transport any children afterwards. This will require planning ahead. LeClair and her partner always either designate a driver, or make sure they are fine to stay home for the evening before using cannabis with kids in their care. In case of emergency, you can always call a friend or family member, a cab or worst case scenario, an ambulance.
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Make Sure One Parent Stays Alert Enough to Operate in an Emergency For the most part, cannabis doesn’t render a person inebriated enough that they’re incapable of acting in an emergency. That said, with kids involved, you can never be too careful. If you’re trying out a new cannabis product and are unsure how you’ll react, make sure one of you doesn’t partake. Stick to light, predictable cannabis use if you have to care for kids. Otherwise, wait until they are with a grandparent or other guardian for the night.
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Find the Right Time to Talk to Kids About Cannabis When your kids are small, there’s really no need to educate them on cannabis at all unless they ask. Even then, it’s probably best to keep the answers somewhat vague, as to maintain their innocence and to avoid overly piquing their curiosity. So when is the right time to talk to kids about cannabis use? LeClair suggests parents wait until they are ready to have “the drug talk” with their kids. Most professionals suggest parents begin these conversations around sixth or seventh grade, depending on the child. Whether or not you decide to disclose your cannabis use is a personal decision. No matter what you choose to tell your kids, or what rules you decide to impose in your home, a good basic outline for a script regarding cannabis use is that it’s a personal choice that requires being a responsible adult to make, like alcohol.
There’s no one right way to be a parent. Some may choose to abstain from cannabis altogether when they become parents—and more power to them. But for the rest of us, you can take care to keep your kids safe, happy and healthy, and not have to give up everything you enjoyed preparenthood. c
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culture growing RECIPES UNKNOWN
by Ed Rosenthal
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started preparing my two-part spring garden in April. The first part was a group of four plants that I was given as small, rooted cuttings. I transplanted them into 6” containers shortly after I received them and had them growing under continuous light from a 400-watt LED for about three weeks. Then I moved them into my small greenhouse. Two weeks after that the roots left their cramped quarters and had filled the container for roomier quarters in fivegallon containers where they doubled in size. Now healthy and thriving, I give the plants four hours of early morning light with 320-watt induction fluorescent lights for about four hours. At 10 a.m. they are carried outside and are placed in the sun close to a wall that reflects the sun back at them. Later in the day that area becomes shady,
so the plants are moved again to another section of the garden that becomes sunny in the afternoon. Then, around 6 p.m. they are placed back in the greenhouse and receive supplemental light until 8 p.m. To keep the plants from flowering and to have them respond quickly when I change the cycle to flowering in late June, I break up the dark period periodically. At night the plants receive light from two four-foot fluorescents for two minutes every hour from 9 p.m. until 5 a.m. I accomplished this using a repeating two-dial timer. Sometimes I use plants to test pesticides, so I had a group of plants tested and after the tests were over, they were neglected. There they were, sitting in a tent with lights shining but no water for several weeks. By the time I remembered that they were still there, they were three-quarters dead. I decided to try to save them. First I gave them
some water and started bringing them outside during the day. The next week I set them up in the new moveable space they are now sharing. I’ll describe it from bottom to top. It starts with a moving dolly. A half-inch thick piece of plywood 2’ x 4’ was secured with screws. A rope was attached to the plywood on one of the narrow sides so the unit can easily be pulled. A 9” deep 2’ x 4’ horticultural tray set up with wick systems made from 3/8” braided nylon rope was placed on the dolly. Then I filled it with a mixture of enriched potting soil, coir fiber and homemade compost from kitchen waste and plant material consisting mostly of oak leaves. Next I set the longsuffering plant in place. The two larger plants were placed sideways in the tray with the roots that were at the bottom of the container against the tray side buried half way with the other half
TIP OF THE MONTH Perhaps you or someone you know has some plants that are flowering and are ready to be picked. If some vegetation is left on the plant at picking, and if it is given continuous light, it may regenerate to grow another crop. Feed it vegetative fertilizer, not flowering fertilizer.
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making a mound. Each of the root mounds was then covered with half a potting container cut with a small electric saw. The plants’ stems were long enough to leave the center of the tray bare. That’s where I planted the three small specimens, upright. These plants have a regimen similar to the other plants. They spend evenings in a little tent that is lit with 200 watts of fluorescent lights, then they are wheeled out to spend their days basking in the sun. It’s been a little more than two weeks since they were transplanted and the sideways plants have made the adjustment. They’ve come back to life. c
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The greenhouse plants near the wall get sunlight directly.
In the greenhouse the plants get light in the late afternoon and early evening.
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The plants in the unit are basking in the sun.
The plants wheeled into the tent to have cozy nights and a bit of light.
You can see by the dead leaves that these plants weren’t doing well. They are making a good recovery.
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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RECIPES
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Time to Go: June Weather: High 70s, low 50s Budget: $$$$$
if you go:
Pleasantries in Paris With all the blooming flowers and warm weather, Paris softens in June— especially for the millions of cannabis enthusiasts in the City of Light. Yet, June is also the month when Paris feels like it is just starting to rev up for summer’s spirited outdoor energy. Truly, visiting Paris in June is a delight, with the temperatures in the 70s and the throngs of summer tourists not yet at maximum level. This is when locals get out of their tiny apartments and start relaxing as the city’s music, arts and summer festival scenes are jam packed full of some of the year’s best plein air concerts and events. Plus, many cannabis-loving Parisians are still celebrating the win of France’s new President Emmanuel Macron. Although he is not fully into legalization, Macron did promise to ease France’s restrictive possession and smoking laws. This means the French’s “smoke-but-don’t-tell” philosophy not only still applies, but gives medical cannabis patients ever more courage to be forthright about their cannabis consumption. Where do you stay when visiting one of the most expensive cities on the planet?
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Paris hotels can be costly—especially in spring and summer—so millions of visitors to the City of Light choose to live like a local and rent an apartment or rent a living space through online marketplaces and hospitality services. However, renting apartments and living spaces through websites like Airbnb can be dicey. Remember to ask any host in Paris about important details such as noise levels both day and night as well as things most Americans take for granted such as more than one toilet, dishwashing machines and laundry facilities. One of the coolest happenings in Paris this June is the now annual We Love Green Festival, which features folk, pop and electronica music. Held on June 10-11, this year’s eco-friendly We Love Green Festival takes place in the Bois de Vincennes. Rock to the sounds of Cali-French music artist and cannabis activist April King on June 6 for an evening of transcendental hiphop, house and astral jazz featuring French jazz sax master Julien Lourau at the stylish Club Rayé. c
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Paris is home to approximately 1,803 historical and contemporary monuments and over 150 museums. 1
The famous bell that sits atop Notre Dame Cathedral is so heavy that it weighs over 13 metric tons. 2
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There are a total of 10 Statues of Liberty in France, five of which are located in Paris. 3
With France’s new President Emmanuel Macron campaigning to soften cannabis laws, cannabis culture in Paris seems set to get even more enjoyable. C’est vrais: Any form of cannabis is illegal to grow, possess, smoke or ingest, but Parisian authorities mostly look the other way (as long as you consume respectfully and nowhere near police stations, hotels, boutiques, restaurants, cafés, monuments and the like). Also remember, French consumers predominantly smoke hash mixed with tobacco rather than pure flowers. Traditional European spliffs are almost always mixed with tobacco (and sometimes straw), so buyer beware. Still can’t find any meds while in Paris? Use your nose. If you smell it, ask a friendly bartender, musician or just take a stroll along the Seine River. You are more than likely to run into some consumers enjoying a spliff on a warm spring evening with a view of Notre Dame Cathedral.
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Mia Jane
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Age: 30 Condition/Illness: IBS, anxiety and depression. Using Medical Cannabis since: I have been using medical cannabis since around the time I moved to Denver in 2010.
Why did you start using cannabis? Before coming to Colorado, I was very sick. Being so ill, I was unable to hold down a job, or take care of myself. After years of invasive tests, unsuccessful medical advice and growing frustration with my current doctors, I knew I had to seek out something besides pills and the current therapeutic options for my conditions. When I moved to Colorado, I was searching for another way to get better and actually feel better. I adopted a healthier lifestyle, but incorporating cannabis into my self-care regimen was something that made the most noticeable difference. Did you try other methods or treatments before cannabis? I was prescribed an alarming amount of medications from the time my depression and
anxiety began in my teens to my early 20s, when my stomach problems really developed. Being put on numerous cocktails of Rx medications with intense and scary side effects that sometimes were worse than the symptoms was a life I didn’t want to live. I knew I had to find other options, and now I’m happy to say I’m seven years prescription-free. What’s the most important issue or problem facing medical cannabis patients? That’s a tough one—there are a lot of important things going on in our government and our community that we need to be aware of as cannabis patients. The one that sticks out the most to me right now is the home grow caps being enforced, and the people who are suffering because of it. What do you say to folks that are skeptical about cannabis as medicine? People who are still skeptical about this plant’s medicinal qualities need only look to what’s happening here in Colorado. There are people’s lives being changed. Families are moving here with children that are sick beyond hope, and they are finding relief with this plant. People with illnesses of all kinds from PTSD to Parkinson’s disease are finding relief with this medicine. 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
recipes by Keira Fae
Menu: Stuffed Bell Peppers Lemon Bundt Cake Strawberry Lime Smoothie
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Chromatic Cuisine
While we await the official start of summer later this month, let’s not forget that “June gloom” can still turn dreams of warm outdoor barbecues into cozy evenings indoors. While the overcast gloom that typically comes with the beginning of this month is drab and gray, there are plenty of ways to liven up your kitchen and your mealtime with these beautifully bright and healthy recipes. Embrace the lively reds of a strawberry smoothie, the radiant greens and oranges of stuffed bell peppers and the sun-bright yellows of a tangy lemon bundt cake. Add a bit of THC or CBD to each dish, and this summer menu will allow you to feel refreshed and ready to tackle the summer fun without being weighed down.
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Directions:
Stuffed Bell Peppers 10mg of THC per pepper Ingredients: 4 bell peppers (any color) 4 tablespoons of olive oil
1 medium zucchini, finely diced
8 teaspoons of Pot d’huile cannabis-infused olive oil t
4 Roma tomatoes, seeded and finely diced
8 ounces lean ground beef (90:10)
1 cup cooked rice
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 onion, finely diced
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1 cloves garlic, chopped
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1 teaspoon paprika 1 cups grated pepper Monterey Jack cheese
Preheat the oven to 350˚ degrees F. Cut the tops off the peppers, finely chop the pepper tops and set aside. Scoop out the seeds and membrane. Place the peppers in a baking dish large enough to hold them upright, cut side up. On medium-high heat, heat the 2 tablespoons of infused olive oil in a large skillet. Add beef and season with salt and pepper. Cook beef for 8-10 minutes. Remove to a paper towel lined plate to get rid of the excess fat. Wipe skillet with paper towel and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of infused olive oil. Add chopped onion and chopped peppers, 1 to 2 minutes. Add garlic and zucchini and cook for another minute. Add the seeded tomatoes and season with salt, pepper and paprika. Cook until everything is heated through and has softened. Add beef and rice. (Season more if you’d like.) Stir in 1/2 cup of pepper Jack cheese. Turn off the heat once melted. Fill the peppers to the tops each sprinkled with remaining 1/2 cup of pepper Jack. Pour a small amount of water into the bottom of the baking dish and drizzle 1 teaspoon of infused olive oil on top each filled pepper. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover peppers and bake to an additional 10-15 minutes or until peppers are soft. Let cool and serve. t Additional recipe can be found at iReadCulture.com
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Lemon Bundt Cake Each ~ 40mg of CBD, per slice 4-5mg CBD Ingredients: Cake:
Icing:
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 cup powered sugar
Lemon zest
1/2 cup milk
4 eggs
1 teaspoon lemon juice
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2 cups sugar 1/2 cup CBD infused butter (40mg CBD) t
Candied Blueberries:
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 egg white
1 cup blueberries
1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla 3 cups flour 1 cup milk Directions: Preheat oven to 350˚ F. Add the butter and 2 cups of sugar into a large mixing bowl. On medium speed, blend the mix until smooth. In a separate bowl add the flour, baking powder and salt, and mix well. Set aside. Once the sugar and butter are mixed, add the eggs one-by-one, milk, vanilla, lemon juice and lemon zest. Add the flour in 1/2 cup increments. Once the batter is smooth pour it into a bundt cake pan and bake it in the oven for 40 minutes, or until it is golden brown. While the cake is baking, it’s time to candy the blueberries. In a small bowl add egg white, cover each blueberry in egg white, coat in sugar and let dry. In a medium bowl and powdered sugar and milk, mix until smooth. Add lemon juice and mix well, then set in fridge. Once the cake is golden brown, let sit until cool, stir the cooled icing and pour over top of bundt cake, add candied blueberries and enjoy!
Strawberry Lime Smoothie Each ~ 10mg of THC per serving Ingredients:
2 cups fresh strawberries, halved
1/2 cup 2 percent milk (can use coconut or almond milk) 2 tablespoons infused coconut oil 20mg THC
1 cup vanilla yogurt (substitute favorite flavor) t
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Directions: In a blender, combine all ingredients; cover and blend until smooth. Pour into chilled glasses. Serve immediately. Don’t forget the garnish!
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.
JUNE 2017 iReadCULTURE.com
Chuck Shepherd's
News of the
Weird
LEAD STORY—TRAINING DAY u A June 2016 police raid on David Jessen’s Fresno County (California) farmhouse caused a $150,000 mess when sheriff’s deputies and Clovis Police Department officers “rescued” it from a trespassing homeless man— with the massive destruction leading to Jessen’s lawsuit announced in March. The misdemeanant helped himself to an ice cream bar, some milk and half a tomato, but was otherwise “unarmed”; however, by the time the police standoff ended, the “crime scene” included more than 50 cop cars, a
SWAT team (and backups), two helicopters, standby ambulances, a police robot and a crisis negotiation team. Windows, walls and wroughtiron doors were destroyed; tear gas and a “flash bomb” were employed. (Jessen suspects that the farmhouse’s isolation enticed police to decide that it presented an excellent training opportunity.) COMPELLING EXPLANATIONS u “Pro-choice” activist Jessica Farrar, a Texas state legislator, introduced a bill in March to create consistency between the state’s rigorous regulation of women’s reproductive functions and those of men (regulation which, by the way, in either case she calls “invasive” and “unnecessary”). Because Texas’s anti-abortion laws highlight “procreation” as a crucial government interest, she believes male use of erectile-dysfunction
drugs should be regulated as abortion is. Under her bill, individual use of Viagra or similar drugs must be preceded by “counseling” similar to that required by abortion laws, and since male masturbation involves the “wasting” of precious sperm cells, it, too, would require “beforehand” counseling. CRIME REPORT u At a time of growing awareness that some people seem almost addicted to their cellphones and instant 24/7 communication, police in Brookfield, Wisconsin, released surveillance photos of a woman in the act of robbing banks on March 25 and 27—while standing at teller counters and talking on the phone during the entire episodes. Acting on a tip from the photos, police arrested Sarah Kraus, 33, on March 28. u College activist Pablo Gomez Jr., 22, was arrested in Berkeley, California, in
March and charged with the brutal stabbing death of an elementary school teacher. Gomez, a senior at University of California, Berkeley, is well-known on campus for insisting on a gender identity for which (as an example) the pronoun “he” is an inappropriate reference. (Hence, “they” was charged with what is so far the only homicide in Berkeley this year.) u Paul Perry Jr., 39, sound asleep behind the wheel of his car, with motor running, at 6 a.m. on April 2, was in no position to talk his way out of a DUI ticket, but did offer a gentle challenge to the Youngstown, Ohio, police officer. Several times, according to the police report, Perry offered to “thumb wrestle” the officer to get out of the ticket. From the report: “Perry was advised officers would not thumbwrestle him.”
iReadCULTURE.com
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JUNE 2017 iReadCULTURE.com
iReadCULTURE.com
JUNE 2017
47