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inside
contents 1.2019
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HIGH CAL IBER
Five-time boxing champion and current WBC winner, Ava Knight, gives CULTURE a peek into her life—her journey as a boxer, her aspirations and how cannabis plays a significant role in her daily life. ON THE COVER:
PHOTO BY SEAN MCDONOUGH
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Setting the Example Activewear clothing that embraces cannabis and hemp allows consumers to destigmatize the “lazy stoner” stereotype.
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Ladder of Success The cannabis market boom will be too big to ignore in 2019, and these successful cannabis entrepreneurs are at the forefront of the industry.
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Plant Power Former talk show host Montel Williams speaks honestly about his recent stroke and how CBD products have helped him recover.
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All-Star Athletes Professional athletes continue to lead the charge of cannabis activism and entrepreneurship.
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departments
12 Letter from the Editor news 14 News Nuggets 15 By the Numbers 16 Local News 18 Legal Corner 22 Healthy Living reviews 26 Cool Stuff 27 Entertainment Reviews in every issue 43 SoCal Now! 44 À La Carte 46 Growing Culture 47 News of the Weird
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Online Exclusive! d New Zealand Loosens Cannabis Laws d Improve Health in 2019 with Hemp
VOL 10 ISSUE 7
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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jamie Solis ASSOCIATE EDITOR Ashley Bennett EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Benjamin Adams ASSISTANT EDITOR Ayesha Rahman EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Matthew Abel, Hilary Bricken, Devon Alexander Brown, David Edmundson. Caroline Hayes, Carl Kozlowski, Alison Malsbury, Emily Manke, Kiara Manns, Madison Ortiz, Denise Pollicella, R. Scott Rappold, Ed Rosenthal, Kimberly R. Simms, Lanny Swerdlow, Simon Weedn, Laurie Wolf PHOTOGRAPHERS Steve Baker, Kristopher Christensen, John Gilhooley, Joel Meaders, Mike Rosati, Eric Stoner, Bruce Wolf ART DIRECTOR Steven Myrdahl PRODUCTION MANAGER Michelle Aguirre GRAPHIC DESIGNER John Venegas ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Alex Brizicky, Angie Callahan, Eric Bulls, Kim Cook, Casey Roel, Vic Zaragoza OFFICE MANAGER Mikayla Aguilar
CULTURE® Magazine is published every month and distributes magazines at over 600 locations throughout the Southern California. No articles, illustrations, photographs, or other matter within may be reproduced without written permission. CULTURE® Magazine is a registered trademark. All rights reserved.
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LETTER
FROM
THE
EDITOR
Lead by Example
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his just in! Mainstream wellness and fitness publications have confirmed it—cannabis will be one of the hottest health trends in 2019. While we rejoice as the benefits of cannabidiol (CBD) continue to make headlines and bring benefits to the masses, it’s important to remember that whole plant cannabis and hemp have also been used for wellness purposes for many, many years before the CBD trend took over. It should come as no surprise that every year CULTURE dedicates its January issue to focusing on health- and wellness-focused topics that are relevant to the cannabis-loving lifestyle. Reversing the stigma that cannabis consumers are lazy, CULTURE is joined by professional athletes, wellness experts and everyday people who are dedicated to living healthy and active lifestyles with cannabis and hemp. In this special Health and Wellness issue, our cover interview with champion boxer Ava Knight demonstrates just how intertwined wellness, cannabis and professional athletics really are. While our community is always eager to learn more about the many benefits of the most mainstream cannabinoids, CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CULTURE is looking into the endless wellness possibilities that are held by lesser known cannabinoids that are steadily gaining in popularity. You will also find within these pages an inspirational story about a professional cannabis and hemp chef, who is able
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to overcome her own dietary restrictions utilizing cannabis. It doesn’t matter what has led you to picking up this issue, rest assured that you’re now a step closer to embracing wellness through cannabis. In honor of the new year, challenge yourself to focus on bettering your wellness as a resolution. You can start training for a 5K, look into cooking with fresh ingredients at home versus eating fast food, or choose to take the stairs instead of the elevator the next time you’re given the option. Be an example of balance and wellness to others, and make choices that help demonstrate that hemp and cannabis are complementary to a healthy lifestyle. c Cheers!
JAMIE SOLIS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
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NEWS
NUGGETS
Phase 2 Processing Eligibility Inspections Begin The Los Angeles Department of Cannabis Regulation issued a bulletin on Dec. 7, 2018, advising businesses that Phase 2 Priority Processing eligibility inspections have begun. In order to be eligible for Phase 2 Priority Processing, applicants must pass two inspections. “One is a DCR inspection to confirm that the applicant’s business premises is built out to substantially match its business premises diagram (i.e., the location and layout of entry points, interior doorways, rooms and walkways match the diagram) and that the business premises is sufficiently secured,” the bulletin
reads. “The other is a Los Angeles Fire Department Cannabis Unit inspection to confirm that the applicant’s business premises and operations comply with the Los Angeles Fire Code.” The bulletin also included a Phase 2 Eligibility Inspection Checklist, which is a shortened and incomplete version of the tasks businesses can do to prepare accordingly and improve their chances of being eligible.
Cannabis Business Organization Demands Crackdown of Illegal Dispensaries In a letter dated Nov. 1, 2018, the United Cannabis Business Association (UCBA) asked City Attorney Mike Feuer to stop allowing illegal dispensaries to flourish, while law abiding dispensaries struggle to compete. “The UCBA is looking for answers and actions from City Attorney Feuer to ensure safety for workers and residents across the city and to protect the city’s much needed revenue,” UCBA Executive Director Ruben Honig said in a press release. “We are greatly concerned that illegal cannabis dispensaries continue to operate and proliferate 14
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in Los Angeles and urge him to crack down on rampant illegal cannabis operations.” The UCBA represents licensed medical cannabis dispensaries that are located in Los Angeles. Law enforcement occasionally cracks down on illegal dispensaries throughout the city, but hundreds more unlicensed dispensaries remain. In September 2018, the City Attorney’s office announced that 500 people working at 105 unlicensed dispensaries were charged.
World Health Organization Postpones Cannabis Rescheduling Recommendations The United Nations’ World Health Organization (WHO) delayed the release of recommendations on rescheduling cannabis on Dec. 7, 2018. The recommendations were expected to be unveiled on the same day at the Commission on Narcotic Drugs 61st reconvened session in Vienna, Austria. While recommendations on other substances like Tramadal were addressed, a WHO representative said the organization needs more time to evaluate how to proceed with cannabis, leaving cannabis advocates around the world shocked. “When the time came to release the findings on cannabis to the packed audience, all were stunned to watch, in person, the spokesperson for WHO announce that the outcome on cannabis was kept confidential, but did not announce any date for the release,” said a press statement from FAAAT think & do tank, an international drug policy advocacy group. While no new date has been provided yet, member states of WHO are expected to vote on rescheduling cannabis in March 2019.
The amount of money, in millions of dollars, that Los Angelesbased cannabis firm OG DNA Genetics Inc. raised through two initial equity financing deals, which will be used to expand its business within California: (Source: GlobeNewswire)
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The amount of money, in millions of dollars, that it cost to acquire a seven-story building in Los Angeles that will be dedicated to cannabis businesses: (Source: Bisnow)
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The amount of money, in thousands of dollars, that an LAbased firm submitted as a bid to apply for Maine’s cannabis (source: Portland Press Herald) consultant position:
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The approximate amount of money, in millions of American dollars, that Thailand’s Government Pharmaceutical Organization invested in a cannabis research plantation: (Source: Asia Times)
3.6
The number of licensed cannabis dispensaries currently operating in Brandywine, Maryland: (Source: Baltimore Business Journal) The number of licensed medical and recreational cannabis producers in Canada that received approval to cultivate and sell cannabis: (Source: The Seattle Times)
The amount of space, in square footage, which is contained in the sevenstory building in downtown Los Angeles which is dedicated to businesses in the cannabis industry:
67,000
(Source: Forbes)
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The estimated amount of cannabis, in micrograms, that residents in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada consumed per person, per week from March 2018 to August 2018: (Source: CTV News)
1,310
Cannabis Wedding Expo WHEN: Sat, Jan. 26 WHERE: Sportsmen’s Lodge Events Center, 12833 Ventura Blvd., Los Angeles WEBSITE: cannabisweddingexpo.com Why settle for alcoholic drinks at your next wedding event when you can replace booze with cannabis! You can avoid potentially drunk and embarrassing moments at your next wedding by making the switch. The Cannabis Wedding Expo has now expanded to Colorado, Nevada and California in growing recreational markets—and the craze continues to grow. Learn why brides increasingly see cannabis décor, food and entertainment as elegant,
tasteful and eclectic. Some wedding planners choose budbars, and others choose fairly low-key and discreet ways to give a nod to the world of cannabis—such as boutonnières made with cannabis fan leaves or nuggets. You’ll get to browse through the best cannabis floral arrangements, caterers, photographers and transportation companies in order to make your cannabis-friendly wedding stand out from all the rest. CultureMagazine.com
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NEWS
LOCAL
DELIVERY ONLY
California officials approve d e l i v e r i e s i n c i t i e s a n d c o u n t i e s t h at have banned cannabis sales By Benjamin M. Adams
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ne of the most contested aspects of California’s permanent cannabis rules revolves around delivery in cities and counties that have banned the sale of cannabis—but delivery companies will probably win this particular battle. Much to the dismay of various opposing organizations and law enforcement groups, California regulators approved a provision to allow cannabis deliveries in all areas of the state. The Bureau of Cannabis Control (BCC), Department of Public Health and Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) sent final drafts of permanent cannabis rules to the Office of Administrative Law (OAL) on Dec. 3, 2018 and the BCC’s rules include the delivery provision. The delivery provision is a response to reports of several cities and counties that insisted they could arrest cannabis delivery drivers coming from other cities. The OAL was given 30 days from that date to complete its full review and to finalize the permanent rules. Once the permanent rules are finalized, cities and counties can continue to ban cannabis storefronts as they please, but they can’t block delivery companies from entering their jurisdiction. Cannabis delivery companies like Eaze, Kushfly, HERB and Nugg are increasingly staking out territory throughout California, and they could expand much faster under the permanent rules. Pending the OAL’s final green light, any Californian adult could order cannabis via
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CohnReznick Cannabis Conference 2019 delivery—no matter where they live. “The way it would work is similar to pizza delivery,” California Cannabis Industry Association (CCIA) Communications and Outreach Director Josh Drayton told CULTURE. “If a pizza delivery company is in one city, it can deliver into another. The way that this would read for cannabis is that if a delivery service is located in a regulated area, and they are licensed, they are still able to deliver into banned cities and counties.” Originally, the regulations were supposed to remain private for a month, but by Dec. 7, 2018 the rules were released. BCC Assistant Chief of Communications Alex Traverso told CULTURE, however, that the rules are contingent upon being finalized by the OAL. The CCIA represents the voice of Californians who work in the cannabis industry, and the association promotes state laws that are beneficial to its various causes. “Our association strongly supports statewide delivery,” Drayton said. “We do believe that this regulation reflects the will of California voters that supported Prop. 64. [Organizations] launched a campaign against this called ‘Stop Wandering Weed,’ but we fully support this regulation and greatly appreciate that this administration and the BCC also interpreted the statute in the same manner.” The California Police Chiefs Association, League of California Cities and United Food and Commercial Workers Western States Council opposed the provision allowing statewide deliveries and launched an online petition. According to the Stop Wandering Weed campaign website, the delivery provision would “eviscerate” cities’ ability to ban cannabis. Once the permanent rules began to be released, the Stop Wandering Weed campaign pulled its ads off of social media. Their efforts were in vain. Many other rules were clarified or reiterated. The CDFA, for instance, also released its draft regulations, which would continue to allow farm operations to obtain an unlimited number of cultivation permits. The OAL is not expected to approve the permanent rule packages until sometime in mid-January. Until then, California’s emergency rules that were re-adopted in June 2018 will remain in place. c
If you’re thinking about expanding business in the cannabis industry, your business strategy isn’t going to develop itself! The CohnReznick Cannabis Conference will be a place for operators and investors to learn the tricks they need in order to get ahead of their competitors. Learn about organization and tax structure, or increase your knowledge of compliance and risk management. Cheryl Shuman, CEO of Beverly Hills Cannabis Club will keynote the event, as well as speakers including California State Treasurer John Chiang, Camille Dixon, Viven Azer and more. Shuman is often called the “Martha Stewart of Marijuana,” because of her influence in media. Find out what led to her success, and how her tips can help you do the same. Located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, it’s the perfect spot to learn about big business. WHEN: Thurs, Jan. 10 WHERE: Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza 251 Olive St., Los Angeles WEBSITE: cohnreznick. com/-/media/ resources/2019-lacannabis-conference
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NEWS
LEGAL CORNER
space in dispensaries and on the retailers’ online menus. The slotting fee agreement essentially amounts to the lump sum fee the supplier pays to the retailer to reserve their sacred, strategic shelf space. The pay-to-stay agreement (which can be similar to the slotting fee) typically takes things a step further where it’s instituted after the initial slot and addresses issues for existing products like marketing, promotion, inventory stocking, failure fees and paying extra to ensure that your competitors don’t get any valuable shelf space near you or at all. What should go into these contracts? Like any other agreement, if you’re the supplier, you want to fully articulate exactly where your placement will be in the store, how often that placement occurs, your inventory schedule, what happens in the event you cannot deliver on the inventory, what happens if no one wants your product despite its placement, what happens if the retailer that commercial cannabis (for its own benefit) wants to place another, contracts are indeed better performing product in close proximity to enforceable in state court yours, and the list goes on and on. Suppliers of so that no one is left holding cannabis in California should not be paying robust the bag over some illegality slotting fees to retailers willy-nilly. defense to performance. You’ve probably already concluded that the On to the slotting fee and companies that can afford the highest slotting pay-to-stay agreements. fees are the ones that will make it to the shelves When you walk into the of cannabis retailers in California. And you’re likely grocery store, the retailer not wrong, since retailers also have to financially likely isn’t just arranging survive in this newly regulated marketplace and products by name or color. slotting fee agreements certainly help to allocate In fact, what’s likely going the risk on what products to buy and re-sell (or on is that certain shelf space not). In addition, the bigger cannabis brands may for new products has been not even face the prospect of these contracts negotiated and paid for by from retailers because the retailers desperately a manufacturer—and with want to carry on them on their shelves anyway. good reason. In commodities, That begs the question, then, of whether especially saturated ones, slotting fee agreements and pay-to-stay contracts face time with consumers isn’t are actually anti-competitive in violation of great, margins can be really MAUCRSA. There’s no doubt that they certainly poor and the competition could be, if retailers band together and start to is vast. In California, only create extremely high, universal slotting fees or cannabis retailers can sell if suppliers decide to lock up entire dispensaries. to the public, so it’s hugely The upside, though, could be that retailers are important for wholesale and actually more willing to take on new products distributor licensees to have since they shift liabilities for their failure back good placement on shelf to the supplier, the slotting “ I n C a l i f o r n i a , o n ly c a n n a b i s r e ta i l e r s relationship makes product distribution more efficient, and c a n s e l l t o t h e p u b l i c , s o i t ’ s h u g e ly consumers can benefit from i m p o r ta n t f o r w h o l e s a l e a n d d i s t r i b u t o r lower prices where the retailer can better allocate its risk on l i c e n s e e s t o h a v e g o o d p l a c e m e n t o n investing in the presentation s h e l f s p a c e i n d i s p e n s a r i e s a n d o n t h e of new products. In any event, state regulators have stayed r e ta i l e r s ’ o n l i n e m e n u s . ” silent on this practice for now. c
Common Practice U n d e r s ta n d i n g p ay -t o - s tay a n d s l o t t i n g fee agreements By Hilary Bricken
W
ith the rollout of the Medicinal and Adult-Use Cannabis Regulation and Safety Act (MAUCRSA), there are a lot of are “pay-to-stay” and slotting fee agreements being made between cannabis cultivators, manufacturers, distributors and retailers. In these agreements, cultivators, manufacturers and distributors are locking retailers into contracts for dedicated, primetime shelf space. The question, though, is whether such agreements are kosher in California and what you need to know to have a reliable, enforceable, pay-tostay contract. Here in California, licensees pretty much have free rein to contract for whatever they want, for however long they want, without fear of interference from state regulators (so long as such agreements basically don’t amount to anti-competitive behavior). In addition, in case you’re thinking that licensee contracts don’t matter, California already passed legislation ensuring
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NEWS
HEALTHY LIVING
The Other Cannabinoids Exploring six lesser-known c h e m i c a l s t h at i n t e r a c t w i t h t h e endocannabinoid system By Lanny Swerdlow, RN LNC
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annabinoids are a diverse set of chemicals used by the endocannabinoid system, one of the largest neurotransmission systems in the bodies of all mammals. Whether the cannabinoids are produced by our bodies (endocannabinoids) or are obtained from external sources like cannabis (ectocannabinoids), they have profound effects on regulating appetite, mood, motor control, immunity, reproduction, pain, memory and sleep, to name a few. The cannabinoids produced in our bodies are not the exact same cannabinoids found in cannabis, but they all interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system in a very similar way and consequently produce very similar effects. There are over 100 “The cannabinoids cannabinoids, but the only ones that make headlines produced in our are the two cannabisbodies are not produced cannabinoids tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) the exact same and cannabidiol (CBD). Both cannabinoids found are known for many health benefits such as relieving in cannabis, but pain, mitigating depression, they all interact inducing sleep and fighting cancer, but THC is notorious with body’s for the psychoactive high it endocannabinoid produces. As a consequence, THC and CBD eclipse the system in a very “other cannabinoids” in similar way and name recognition. The rarely consequently mentioned and less-researched “other cannabinoids” have produce very health benefits that deserve similar effects.” serious consideration. 22
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Cannabigerol (CBG) is found abundantly in immature plants, but as the plant matures it all but disappears as it is broken down by specific enzymes into other cannabinoids—mainly THC and CBD. CBG has been shown to provide relief from irritable bowel syndrome, reduce intraocular eye pressure in glaucoma patients, inhibit the growth of cancer cells and act as an antibacterial agent. As a consequence of these multiple health benefits, geneticists are working to develop cannabis strains that retain high levels of CBG.
Cannabichromene (CBC) is also a derivative of CBG. Of interest is that CBC is reported to provide pain relief by binding with receptors outside the endocannabinoid system leading to increased levels of the body’s natural THC like cannabinoid— anandamide. CBC has also been shown to possess anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and antibiotic properties.
Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) has a similar
Cannabidivarin (CBDV) is similar in structure and
molecular structure to THC, but medical studies have produced conflicting results on whether it has the same psychoactive properties as THC, with some studies finding enhanced psychoactive properties while others found it to reduce THC’s psychoactive effects. As for health benefits, positive results have been demonstrated in treating diabetes, as THCV has been shown to reduce insulin resistance and regulate blood sugar levels. Research has also shown its potential to lessen anxiety in post-traumatic stress disorder patients and reduce the tremors, brain lesions and loss of motor control associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
function to CBD. Studies have demonstrated the ability of CBDV to heighten the anti-convulsive properties of CBD. GW Pharmaceuticals, the maker of Epidiolex, the first cannabis-based medicine to be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, undertook research studies to document the ability of CBDV to treat adults with seizures and autism. Even though the studies did not produce the desired results, GW Pharmaceuticals is continuing the research as its totally non-psychoactive properties make CBDV an ideal candidate for treating these disorders.
Cannabinol (CBN) is formed from the exposure of THC to light and air. With minimal psychoactive effects, the high produced by cannabis decreases when THC degrades into CBN due to improper storage. Although CBN will not produce a psychoactive effect, studies have shown an ability to reduce insomnia, fight infections and provide relief from pain.
Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-8-THC) has the same atomic composition as traditional THC, but the atoms are arranged differently. Somewhat less psychoactive, it has shown great promise in treating cancer patients as research has demonstrated its ability to kill cancer cells and reduce tumors in mice. Studies have confirmed the research undertaken with mice as Israeli researchers have reported successful cancer treatments utilizing Delta-8-THC in 480 patients. In addition, it has been shown to significantly reduce nausea and vomiting, which would benefit cancer patients experiencing the debilitating side effects of chemo and radioactive therapies.
Although cannabinoids can provide benefits on their own, research has established that the cannabinoids found in cannabis work best in the presence of other cannabinoids and not in isolation. Known as “The Entourage Effect,” whole-plant cannabis used in its natural form with its cornucopia of cannabinoids intact remains effective and is perhaps one of the best ways to obtain the health and medical benefits of cannabis. c
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REVIEWS
1. SuperGreen™ Hemp Yoga Mat & Sling Namaste, fellow yogis! Quit using products that are detrimental to the environment and your precious health! While rubber mats absorb fat-burning heat from your body, SuperGreen’s mat is made from all natural materials—that benefit you and the Earth. It will keep your body comfortable and cool, so you can maximize the results from your yoga routine. If you’re not sold on it yet, hemp fiber also kills bacteria naturally and has anti-mold properties, so the mat won’t smell after frequent use. This is a mat that any real cannabisfriendly yogi should carry around. Price: $99 More information: supergreenhemp. com/hemp-yoga-mat.html 2. Vegan Hot Hemp Muscle Rub The Merry Hempsters®, not to be confused with The Merry Pranksters of the 1960s, are the makers of an assortment of well-known hempinfused products. The Vegan Hot Hemp Muscle Rub happens to be the company’s best-selling product to date. Get your dose of nutritious hemp seed oil while you’re at work, at home or wherever you happen to be—and without any unnecessary animal suffering. Loaded with camphor, hemp seed oil, eucalyptus oil, peppermint, clove, sweet birch, rosemary, thyme and vitamin E, this analgesic balm will wipe out the most stubborn muscle soreness. Price: $5.25 per tube More information: merryhempsters.com
3. QardioBase 2™ Want to lose weight quickly and efficiently? Be the person who actually achieves their New Year’s resolution this year. This award-winning smart scale will give you just the right amount of motivation to hit the gym and refine your workout schedule. As much as we all want to see a lesser amount of pounds on the scale, this model will give you accurate results, unlike cheap scales. Its digital display and topof-the-line modern design will also look great and elevate your bathroom décor for your guests. Show someone that you’re serious about achieving this year’s goals and resolutions. Price: $149.99 More information: getqardio.com
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4. TriggerPoint GRID Vibe Relax. That mysterious vibrating object inside an enclosed bag isn’t what you think. The TriggerPoint GRID Vibe is a device that relaxes your muscles with the combination of foam and vibrating technology. You don’t have to pay for a personal masseuse or a chiropractor with options like this! Roll on the good vibrations, and feel the difference that it can make. You can target deep tissue and recharge your muscles at the end of a hard day’s work. All of TriggerPoint’s products are warranted and built to last. Don’t accept muscle soreness—it’s up to you to prevent it. Price: $149.95 More information: tptherapy. com/product/Grid_Vibe
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HERE
REVIEWS
entertainment
BOOK
Beauty of Cannabis: 200 Strains of Marijuana, A Visual Guide Spurs Broken Pub. Amherst Media Beauty of Cannabis is a spectacular visual journey that takes readers deep into the wonderful world of cannabis strains. Award-winning photographer Spurs Broken creates magic with his macro photography, magnifying the intricacies of each cannabis flower and making every minute detail of this earthly delight tangible. This book also features instructions on how up-and-coming photographers can improve their own cannabis photography with tips such as directing light inside a bud to reflect off crystals and reveal beautiful colors. The up-close and personal relationship that the photographer creates between his readers and subjects through this book is a treat any cannaseur will relish in. (Ayesha Rahman)
RELEASE DATE: JAN. 29 AVAILABLE ON: PLAYSTATION 4 AND XBOX ONE
GAME
Kingdom Hearts III Dev. Square Enix Business Division 3 Pub. Square Enix Co., Ltd. Almost 20 years since the original Kingdom Hearts was released on the PlayStation 2, the game’s developers are finally ready to unleash Kingdom Hearts III—a crossover game between Disney and Final Fantasy characters— upon the world. In fact, the game is a veritable explosion of recognizable characters, including characters from Rapunzel, Toy Story, Pirates of the Caribbean, Frozen, Big Hero 6 and so many more. Plus the game’s reputation as a satisfying hackand-slash RPG with a complex story is bound to delight longtime fans. (Nicole Potter)
MOVIE
Venom Dir. Ruben Fleischer Sony Pictures Releasing
MUSIC
Oxnard
With all of the love and attention that so many classic Marvel heroes have been getting over the years in the explosion of comic book movies, it was about time that one Marvel’s greatest and most captivating monsters got some time in the Sun too. Guided by director Ruben Fleischer (Zombieland, Gangster Squad), Venom brings the iconic symbiotic, extra-terrestrial lifeform of the same name to life in all of its horrifying glory in one of the most action packed films of the year. Brimming with awesome performances from Tom Hardy, Michelle, Woodie Harrelson, and many others, Venom is for everyone who roots for the villain in every good vs. evil struggle. (Simon Weedn)
Anderson .Paak Aftermath Entertainment Not quite as raw as his 2014 debut, Venice, but not as smooth as 2016 sophomore release, Malibu, Anderson .Paak’s third studio album, Oxnard, finds itself somewhere in between, but still cohesive. Featuring the legendary Dr. Dre at the helm of the mixing and producing, .Paak’s newest release shows an artist continuing to push himself and his sound into new territories. With an array of songs that hit harder, feel heavier and flow with the cinematic arc that has defined Dr. Dre’s productions over the years, .Paak still never loses the silky, velvety qualities that has made his style so compelling. (Simon Weedn)
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“ . . . they can’t keep denying that there are some world class athletes that smoke and train and break world records.”
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PHOTOS BY SEAN MCDONOUGH
ava knight is a great ambassador for both boxing and cannabis BY DAVID EDMUNDSON
C
hampion boxer Ava Knight has been boxing for more than half of her life. Starting as an amateur in her teen years, she quickly ran out of opponents and opportunities. After turning pro at age 19, she has won several championship title belts, including the International Female Boxers Association Bantamweight Championship, International Boxing Federation Flyweight World Title and World Boxing Council Silver World Title, and trained some of the biggest names in the music industry, all the while keeping her signature positive attitude and indelible work ethic. She’s also the first female boxer from the United States to win the World Boxing Council Diamond Belt Championship. She is a tremendous ambassador of her sport, and a bright light in the sometimes-
dark world of professional boxing. Knight is also part of a list of elite athletes who have come out on the side of cannabis and its medicinal benefits. She, along with a growing number of high-caliber athletes, are trying to combat years of misinformation and attacks on a plant whose healing benefits they have felt first hand. Fighting takes a tremendous toll on your body—not only during the actual fight, but in the thousands of hours spent preparing for the bout. As injuries and fatigue take hold, Knight has used cannabis as part of her healing regimen and sings its praises. CULTURE was able to sit down with Knight to discuss her boxing career, training Wiz Khalifa and Joe Jonas, comparing women in boxing and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) and how women’s boxing can compete with men’s boxing.
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Have you always been into contact sports? Yeah, I started at the age of 13, and since then I have always been into contact sports. Since I’ve started, I’ve taken about two years off, and that’s it. Did you immediately take to boxing? It was kind of a weird thing. I started going to the gym with a friend as a teen. I had never watched a boxing match. I had never been involved in any type of contact sport before that. It was just kind of an accident that happened to be a blessing, in that I got to find my calling in life. After trying it at a young age and wanting to do it, it became a passion after about six months of doing it. I just fell in love with it. In the early days was there an abundance of female opponents? Coming from Northern California, there was barely anyone involved where we were at. But we would drive down to the Bay Area all the time. We would find fights in Oakland and San Francisco. I would fight the same girls three or four times as an amateur. It was always hard to find opponents on a steady basis. I had gone to a national tryout in 2006, and they told me that women would never see the Olympics. It was kind of heartbreaking, but at that moment I decided that I had gone as far as I could as an amateur and turned professional. By going professional, I had the opportunity to fight more often. Can you tell us where your nickname “Lady of Boxing” comes from? My first coach Joe Rodriguez, the one who started me out and kept me going, would always call me a lady. He was a very old school military man, and I when I would come to the gym, I wouldn’t be rude or talk back to anyone. So, since I was nice and polite, he would call me a lady. The nickname has stuck with me ever since then. 30
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“i also think that all the people that have a criminal record because of cannabis should have their records expunged. the country should be free to use and smoke as they please. ”
You recently came back to the ring after a two-year absence; have you or the sport changed? The break didn’t start out as something I wanted to do. Women’s boxing was really bad, and nothing was happening at the time. I got an amazing opportunity to become Joe Jonas’ personal trainer on the road. So that was a blessing, and it was great to teach him boxing, while I got to still have some passion in what I did and travel the world. But I did see that during that time, that women were starting to become mainstream getting on television, and things were starting to look up for women in boxing. So, I decided I wanted to come back. And while I can’t say it is a whole lot better, they have taken some steps forward.
Aside from Joe Jonas, you’ve also been training with former CULTURE cover Wiz Khalifa. Are they training to possibly fight, or more for fitness? Joe just did it for fitness, to get into shape and look great. He did an awesome job with it. And Wiz is amazing. He has taken up Muay Thai, and I’ve done some boxing with him. I’ve held pads for him and sparred with him as well. He is catching onto the sport so fast, so well that I’ve told him that he should do an amateur fight. He’s really thinking about it. He told me that there are only a few things he loves in the world—his son, his music, his weed and the gym. It was awesome to see that he really loves his contact sports. Do you enjoy training fighters; is it something you could see yourself doing when you hang up your gloves? I do, because when I was hurt or couldn’t find a fight, the only way I could get my excitement was teaching people to box. You get that little spark inside of you that you got when you fought in the ring. I want to start a gym in south Texas. I know it’s a really poor area down there, but fighting is a poor man’s sport. I started it as a kid in a family with no money, and it kept me going. It’s not making most of us rich, but it fulfills a deep passion within. How has it been working with Mayweather Promotions? Working with Mayweather Promotions is great. So far, they’ve been very good to me. They’ve got me on my last two cards really quick. I don’t know Floyd [Mayweather] very well, but at the
end of the day, when it comes to boxing, this man knows his stuff, and he is very supportive of the people he puts in the ring. What can the sport do to elevate women’s boxing to the level of the men? The women in the sport are doing what they do very well, and that’s boxing. It’s hard now that we live in a society with social media. You become more popular on Instagram with likes than you are if you’re just a badass boxer. The world has changed in the sense that entertainment and money has fallen into the politics of boxing. But the women are doing a great job of being fighters. The problem in boxing is that the men don’t support us as much as they do in sports like MMA. MMA puts them on the top screen, they put their pictures out there, they advertise them very well and they get them sponsors. The world for women in boxing is going backwards. We don’t have that support, like you would find in other mixed gender sports like
tennis or MMA. MMA is doing great with the women. In MMA, you had Ronda Rousey who became as famous, if not more famous, than her male counterparts. Do you foresee a time that boxing follows suit? If it is a possibility, and I am being as positive as I can, it is not going to be anytime soon. The problem in boxing, that is different from MMA, is that boxing is an old sport. It is run by a big group of old men who might not want to accept women into the sport, whereas MMA is fueled by a younger crowd who accept different things better. They bring women into the gym and train with them. In boxing, it can be hard to walk in and be treated like a reputable fighter. There’s always someone trying to pull you back when it comes to boxing. To be a female gladiator is still kind of unheard of. No matter where you go people are still surprised that you’re a female boxer. It would be nice to see that part change. Once it changes in the gyms, it will spread to the higher-ups. CultureMagazine.com
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fighters I know do it but keep it under wraps. I would say like 50/50. Do you think boxing’s unwillingness to embrace the medicinal properties of cannabis stems back to that “Old Boys” club you mentioned? Things are always “too new” for the sport. Just like women in boxing, they can’t keep denying that there are some world class athletes that smoke and train and break world records. But with boxing, since it is so old school, I just don’t see them changing their minds. You live in Las Vegas, Nevada where cannabis is recreationally legal. Do you feel it should be readily available nationwide? I think cannabis should be legal for recreational use throughout the country. Canada just did it, and we could do the same thing. We could tax it and use it to build up the country. Also, we should be allowed to grow it and do things organically without getting in trouble for it. I also think that all the people that have a criminal record because of cannabis should have their records expunged. The country should be free to use and smoke as they please.
Would you be interested in switching from boxing to MMA for those reasons? I’m definitely thinking about it; only because that seems to be the way women are going, especially the good ones in boxing. Not that I am following in anyone’s footsteps. I have my own plans for my career, and I want to see some good things come from it. Do you consume cannabis or cannabis products? Marijuana is such a taboo thing in the athletic world, and I questioned admitting that I smoke weed, but at the end of the day I feel like it’s such a positive plant, that has medical benefits to it, that I feel like I can’t deny it. I use topicals, and I do smoke. How has cannabis helped in your recovery from fights? I use the Dixie Elixirs balm. I use it on my wrists. I severely hurt my wrists during the first fight I had this year, and every day I go to the gym I use this balm on my wrists, and since the last two fights I have not had pain at all. Even now I can 32
“to be a female gladiator is still kind of unheard of. ” turn it, move it and there is no inflammation. It is getting better and better every time I use it. I’ve tried so many other things like Tiger Balm and things like that. My dog had surgery the other day, and she was swollen. The only ointment that could get the redness away from her chest was the Dixie Elixirs balm, and it did wonders for her. When I do smoke though, my friend grows his own marijuana, and it helps me sleep. I have insomnia, and it has helped me 100 percent. How prevalent do you think cannabis is in the boxing world? I want to say it’s everywhere. The biggest
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What is your favorite memory as a boxer? People think winning world titles is the best part of boxing. But I think the most memorable and happiest moment for me in boxing is bringing it home to my parents. I think knowing that I made my parents proud of what I’m doing, and the road I’m going down is probably the best feeling in the world. Who’s your favorite boxer? Tommy Hearns was my favorite. He was tall and lanky and could throw with power. He wasn’t undefeated, but that man fought everybody. He was just an amazing fighter. If you could box anyone from history, who would it be and why? I’m going to go for a swing here and say Donald Trump. Maybe it’s just a celebrity boxing thing, but I disagree with so much of what this man says that I would just love to get into the ring, and just get my problems out of the way with that. Get that anger out. c www.officialavaknight.com
“marijuana is such a taboo thing in the athletic world, and i questioned admitting that i smoke weed, but at the end of the day i feel like it’s such a positive plant, that has medical benefits to it, that I feel like i can’t deny it. i use topicals, and i do smoke. ”
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fashionably GREAT
Stigma ® adds st yle to your workout routine with a nod to cannabis and hemp By Caroline Hayes
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ew year, new you. Some might consider this phrase cliché, but many people think of the new year as an opportunity to make changes and develop positive habits. People are always vowing to get in shape, but why not actually do it in 2019 and aspire to lead a more active and meaningful life? It can be hard to get the ball rolling, but we have an idea that might excite you—stocking your closet with items from mindful and cannabis-forward companies to complement your new active lifestyle. By choosing to support companies that grow organic hemp or cotton or vow Fair Trade practices and less of a carbon footprint, you are helping the sustainable clothing movement. Stigma® is a California-based, global company whose brand is focused on spreading a procannabis message through its activewear clothing line, team and upcoming cannabidiol (CBD) enhancement products. Founded by a brother and sister duo, Anthony and Nicole Gonzales, Stigma® is a cannabis health and wellness lifestyle brand. The siblings created the company around a mission to deconstruct stereotypes about “lazy stoners” by highlighting members of the cannabis community who are active and motivated. Anthony told CULTURE, “People of all different ages and backgrounds consume cannabis while leading healthy, productive and active lives.” In addition to their own stories, Anthony and Nicole have a global network of brand ambassadors who share their personal experiences about the positive role cannabis has played in their lives. Stigma®’s line of activewear is chic and fashionable with a powerful message. They make sports bras, tanks, leggings, performance shorts, joggers and hoodies that are made from sustainable fabrics like organic cotton and rPET (recycled plastic bottles) with subtle messages like “F*ck Stereotypes” and “Aim Higher.” Anthony says that they have plans to incorporate hemp as a fabric in the future. “Hemp is a highly sustainable and low impact crop that provides several benefits over other natural materials. For us, our challenge has been incorporating this natural fiber into activewear products that are typically made from performance materials such as nylon and polyester. We’re working with suppliers to develop a fabric that uses hemp
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and other fibers specific to our sports application. We want something that is soft, durable, sweat resistant,” he said. Anthony’s mission to found Stigma® started after he saw firsthand how cannabis positively affected his health. He wrote in an Instagram post that two years ago he was suffering from stomach issues, was overweight and working a high stress job at Apple. Doctors were prescribing him pharmaceuticals to relieve his pain and inflammation, but he knew that there had to be a better way than prescription drugs. He started doing research and discovered CBD as a natural remedy, which greatly improved his health. He wrote, “I started using cannabis to support my fitness routine and found it made a huge
difference. The gym and working out became fun again as I played around with different sativa strains prior to my workouts.” He explained that a vape hit before a long run, CBD salve for sore muscles or eating an edible to relax and rest are ways to incorporate cannabis into a workout. Anthony’s sister Nicole, who is cofounder, is involved with all clothing designs, is Stigma®’s primary photographer and also utilizes the health benefits of CBD. “She’s been with me since the inception of the brand and has played an integral part in pretty much every decision. We’re a small family startup with my sister, dad and boyfriend all supporting in some capacity,” Anthony said. Stigma®’s other focus is a line of CBD sports performance products for athletes, set to debut early next year. Anthony said they will be infusing oral spray, protein powder and topicals with 100 percent organic CBD plant material. “We’re using an innovative CBD delivery system
to improve bioavailability within the body versus traditional CBD oils. Many people don’t realize that only 10 to 20 percent of the CBD contained in oil-based hemp extracts actually enters into the human body,” Anthony said. The hemp from which the CBD is derived is grown outdoors in Colorado without pesticides or herbicides in a zero waste process. Anthony explained, “Our manufacturing partner utilizes 100 percent of the hemp byproducts for fiber, animal bedding and biomass energy.” Stigma® has a lot of room to grow and has big plans for the future. Look for the company’s CBD enhancement products early next year and for their new hemp gear to come after that. Treat yourself to some stylish mindful gear to help jump start your new active lifestyle. If you feel the part you will act the part. Power the sustainable clothing movement by supporting companies that use mindful practices and renewable resources while redefining the stigma surrounding cannabis with movements like this.
Hemp Roots
“PEOPLE OF ALL DIFFERENT AGES AND BACKGROUNDS CONSUME CANNABIS WHILE L E A D I N G H E A LT H Y, P R O D U C T I V E AND ACTIVE LIVES.”
Sustainable activewear made from hemp is an ongoing trend that has been around for decades, and companies like PrAna and Rawganique are a couple of leaders in the industry. PrAna is a sustainable clothing brand with conscious initiatives. PrAna as a company has shared that we all have a choice in what we choose to wear, grow and buy. PrAna is committed to utilizing 100 percent organic cotton and hemp, recycled wool, responsibly sourced down and Fair Trade practices. PrAna makes sustainable clothing that keeps up with the trends and what people want and need. Its activewear seamlessly allows people to transition from the gym or yoga studio to running errands or to happy hour. From the mountains to the beach, PrAna makes athletic gear for all activities. “Ultimately, sustainable clothing respects the
planet and its people,” according to the company’s website. Founded in 1977 by off-thegrid islanders, Rawganique handcrafts clothing from hemp, linen and organic cotton. The company grows, combs, spins, weaves, knits and sews all of its products. Activewear items like hemp socks, undergarments and T-shirts help wick away moisture during a workout. Rawganique’s hemp gym bags and hemp or polyvinyl chloride-free yoga mats are perfect to accompany to the gym. Rawganique even makes hemp home furnishings such as sheets, curtains and rugs. Supporting smaller companies like Rawganique helps them in their quest of sustainable practices. c CultureMagazine.com
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Proven to Prevail Five cannabis entrepreneurs
“A H E A LT H Y I N D U S T R Y W I L L A L L O W THE TRADITIONAL PEOPLE AND THE NEW MONEY BUSINESS PEOPLE TO WORK TOGETHER OR SUCCEED WITH DIFFERENT APPROACHES.”
t o wat c h i n 2 0 1 9 By Emily Manke
and-coming entrepreneurs who are ready to
A
revolutionize the industry in 2019. With folks from s states continue to abolish cannabis
various professional backgrounds ranging from
prohibition, it’s no wonder that business
food and beverage companies to the toy and the
people from every other industry are
farming industry, it’s clear—the seeds are planted,
eager to get in on the green rush.
and this crop of new entrepreneurs in the cannabis
CULTURE found five promising up-
industry is looking pretty good in 2019.
Solonje Burnett C o - F o u n d e r + C a n n av i s t o f H u m b l e B l o o m Solonje Burnett is a modern renaissance woman whose immersive event experiences and conference production have benefited festivals like Live Grey and AFROPUNK FEST. Burnett has also provided entertainment programming for a variety of clients at her previous entrepreneurial venture, Den Entertainment. Additionally, Burnett has worked at nonprofits and as a consultant for workplace culture diversity and inclusion. And now, she’s lending her skills to the cannabis industry, with Humble Bloom, a cannabiscentered boutique firm out of Brooklyn. Burnett’s experience working as an inclusion and diversity consultant will help bring more diversity into the cannabis industry. “The plant has been criminalized and demonized to control black and brown bodies so the status quo of fattening the 36
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type-A businessman’s pockets— profit over people rules. We can’t let that happen in this industry and in communities who’ve used this plant for healing therapy forever. We’ve flipped the model,” she said. Throughout the next year, Burnett will be taking her expertise across the United States as part of Humble Bloom’s Field Trip Series. “We are in talks with institutions of higher learning in New York and Massachusetts to spark conversation amongst those soon to enter the workforce who are canna-curious. We are talking to farms from the East to the West Coast to lock in dates for the next in our HB Field Trip Series,” Burnett said. “In an effort to lean into our vibe of cross-pollination, we will also launch comedic content, dinner experiences, educational workshops and focus in on brand strategy as a vehicle to influence the industry.” PHOTO BY DIDEM CIVGINOGLU
Jilea Hemmings CEO and Co-Founder of Leaf Tyme In 2008, Jilea Hemmings began her journey as an entrepreneur when she created Greenie Tots, a frozen, meatless entrée line for kids. This was after she’d spent several years successfully revamping business development campaigns for Fortune 500 companies including Bank of America, Joseph E. Seagrams & Sons, Pfizer Inc. and Baptist Health South Florida. Next, Hemmings started Eshe Consulting, where she continues to help small, medium and start-up companies with all their business needs. When she decided to enter the cannabis sector, a personal experience with cannabis revealed to her a need for more reliable and trusted information about cannabis retailers and brands. “My cousin who is like my
brother was faced with an inoperable tumor and was told he was a dead man walking by many medical experts and cannabis saved his life. This was my first introduction to cannabis and I immediately fell in love with this amazing plant,” she said. Out of this experience, Leaf Tyme was born. The app also aims to educate users about cannabis laws in each state with Know The Law, and the medical uses of cannabis with Leaf Tyme MD. The biggest news on the horizon for Leaf Tyme in 2019 will beinternational expansion. “In 2019, Leaf Tyme will expand into the Canadian Market and partner with dispensaries, brands and ancillary services to continue to provide a robust information hub for the cannabis community.”
Frannie Shulman CEO of Iron Angel Ranch From mom to organic farmer, wedding venue owner, farmer of 20 acres of cannabis and holder of the most cannabis permits in Santa Barbara County, California, Frannie Shulman’s journey has been a long, winding one, to say the least. After losing a son, and her organic farm and wedding venue due to a bad business deal, Shulman was in a bad place. She was living in her car, eating ketchup sandwiches, and had little reason to be hopeful. Still, on a whim one day, she hopped on her beloved Harley and rode through the Santa Barbara mountains she had loved and gazed at for 25 years. During the ride, she saw a small for sale sign that turned out to change her destiny forever. That mountain she loved, 1,100 acres of it, was for sale. With hardly any money or income, or experience managing that much land, Shulman somehow managed to buy it. That PHOTO BY SELAH ESTRADA
hill became Iron Angel Ranch & Retreat, a cannabis farm in Santa Barbara’s wine country. “When tragedy struck my family and I lost my son, I was taught, trained, guided into all sorts of non-chemical and chemical ways to help me find rebalance. But that never felt right to me. Cannabis, on a very personal level, helped me reconnect to that part of myself in a dark point of my life.” Now, she sees her continued success growing into the new year and beyond. “In 2019, I hope to watch our output continue to grow. I hope to help create accessibility and understanding surrounding cannabis and cannabis use. I hope to see the people I know in this industry, who have worked tirelessly to help us all get to this point, start to see the social, economic and emotional fruits of their labor. And mostly, I hope to help people,” she said. CultureMagazine.com
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Lex Corwin C E O o f S t o n e R o a d Fa r m s Raised in New York City, Lex Corwin knows that in order to succeed, you have to be better, faster and stronger than your competitors. This mentality has stuck with him through his foray into the cannabis industry and helped him get ahead. Corwin is only 25 years old, but despite his young age, he has accomplished a lot. Corwin stepped into a real estate development right out of college and helped launch several startups including the first MatchaBar in the U.S., a beverage company that is now sold in Whole Foods. The young entrepreneur took his knowledge from the beverage world and applied it to the cannabis world. Perhaps Corwin’s startup mentality is responsible for his brainchild, the Stone Road rewards
app, which offers customers free tickets to cannabis-friendly events. The app helped gather data on users, and shape Stone Roads Farms into the brand it is today. Overcoming many challenges along the way, Corwin remains dedicated to responsible growth of his brand. “My toughest challenge was choosing business partners. Both former partners left the company within the first six months for varying reasons,” Corwin shared. “I overcame this challenge by putting in a ridiculous amount of work. 18hour days for weeks on end. Doing literally every job myself. The new year is expected to bring exciting expansion, although it won’t be at the sake of the brand’s identity. “My main goal is to be able to scale the business without sacrificing quality,” Corwin concluded.
Edward M. Schmults C E O o f C a ly x P e a k C a p i ta l Edward M. Schmults has worn many hats in his career. As the former CEO of FAO Schwarz and COO of Patagonia, Schmults is at home in the C-Suite. So it makes sense that Calyx Peak Capital sent a headhunter to seek Schmults out as CEO. Before Schmults was contacted about the position, he had never considered the cannabis industry. As a prudent businessman is wont to do, Schmults decided to research the cannabis industry. After consulting industry research reports, trade press, medical research and “talking heads on CNBC,” among other sources, and with the enthusiastic support of his friends, family and former colleagues, Schmults decided to go for it. With Schmults onboard, Calyx Peak Capital is set to expand in 2019. “We are poised to have a 38
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successful 2019 as our cultivation and processing rolls out in California, Nevada and Ohio and Massachusetts (pending). By the end of 2019, we will be bringing to market a number of innovative form factors for customers and looking for new opportunities that align with our brands.” Schmults believes that one of the key challenges for the industry will be balancing new cannabis businesspeople with those who have built the industry thus far. “A key challenge for this industry is how to hold on to some sense of authenticity. There is so much money chasing rich valuations right now, and the people who got the industry here are being crowded out,” Schmults said. “A healthy industry will allow the traditional people and the new money business people to work together or succeed with different approaches.” c
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“OVER 90 PERCENT OF THE P O P U L A T I O N U N E Q U I V O C A L LY BELIEVES THAT THERE SHOULD BE MEDICAL CANNABIS AVAILABLE FOR E V E R Y B O D Y. I T H I N K I T ’ S T I M E T O EXPUNGE RECORDS IN ADDITION TO JUSTICE REFORM.”
SSuurrvviivvaall IInnssttiinnccttss Montel Williams on surviving a stroke and the products t h at h e l p e d h i m d o i t
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By Benjamin M. Adams
T
here are numerous reasons why Montel Williams is a vocal defender of the medical properties of medical cannabis and hemp. Had he never discovered the power of medical cannabis many years ago, his life today would be much different.
“I don’t really know where I’d be,” Williams admitted to CULTURE, “because of the positive effects it has on my battle with multiple sclerosis.” The talk-show-hostturned-cannabis-advocate uses cannabidiol (CBD) products to alleviate a plethora of problems beyond multiple sclerosis, and the plant’s power was recently put to the test.
In May 2018, Williams survived a life-shattering wakeup call in the form of a cerebellar hemorrhagic stroke while doing his usual intense morning workout—a practice he picked up while serving in the United States Marine Corps and Navy. Thanks to an episode of The Dr. Oz Show that Williams watched a month earlier, he instantly knew the popping noise inside his head and sudden fatigue were the hallmark traits of a stroke, so he somehow managed to alert his wife Tara to call 911. He barely survived, and may not have if he didn’t act immediately. Survive he did, and the stroke reaffirmed to him CBD’s beneficial effects. “As a matter of fact, I started using my CBD product on day nine after the stroke,” Williams confided. “I spent 21 days in the hospital. I was using my CBD product from the ninth day on, and I continue to use it every day. I really believe that the speed of my recovery has been based on the fact that I had such a significant amount of protection there to begin with CBD on a daily basis.” Williams has known firsthand about the healing properties of the plant since at least 2001. Those convictions eventually led Williams to found LenitivLabs in 2017, a company that sells products infused with various ratios of CBD and THC, including its second generation flagship product line,
Montel by Select. Many of the products are regionally specific, and are based upon state cannabis laws. As anyone in the industry knows, operating and serving the cannabis and hemp markets is tricky business. But with Congress’ approval of the 2018 Farm Bill, the federal government’s definition of industrial hemp will be clarified, and it may have imminent implications for hempderived products and perhaps CBD. The cannabis industry is growing by leaps and bounds, and real federal reform is on the horizon. “I think that the [expected] passage of the Farm Bill and the signature will send this industry through the roof,” Williams predicts. “I think there are some other things that have to happen. Just the Farm Bill by itself, under the way it’s currently written, leaves a lot more that still needs to be done. And now, this is going to revolutionize it, and it may break the institutional model.” It hasn’t always been this way, and not everyone has the opportunity to reap the benefits of a regulated plant. While American culture now says that cannabis is OK, thousands of people— predominantly people of color—ironically remain locked up in prison. “There have been a lot of people that have been arrested in the past for a crime that we as a society now accept,” he said. “Over 90 percent of
the population unequivocally believes that there should be medical cannabis available for everybody. I think it’s time to expunge records in addition to justice reform.” Sadly Williams’ foray into the cannabis market hasn’t been without problems, and his product line was recently hijacked by greedy scammers. Beginning in 2017, online scammers used the Montel Williams name and imagery to hock counterfeit CBD products, leading to multiple complaints to LenitivLabs, which had nothing to do with the fake products. The fiasco caused Williams and his LenitivLabs team a great deal of stress and time. “. . . I’m hoping that now with the Farm Bill that there will be more standards applied,” Williams suggested. “As this industry matures, we’re going to get some really good science behind everything that’s going on. It’s something that I’ve been fighting diligently to clear my name because there were people putting out products in my name that weren’t even from me. They’re counterfeit in the sense that there is no formulation behind the products. I’m glad that now even the judicial system is starting to pay attention to this.” Despite these hurdles, Williams still has a few more tricks up his sleeve. “Within the next few months we will have a tincture product in place,” he said. “It will be all CBD, and it will also be a product that will be available where medical marijuana is legal at the ratios that are available.” The former talk show host knows that not everyone is going to take cannabis products the same way. Cannabis consumers come from all different walks of life. And who knows what the future holds for the possibilities at LenitivLabs and Montel by Select. “We are definitely working very diligently, offering different types of delivery systems,” he said. “Again, not everybody likes to take gel caps. Some people have a difficulty swallowing things. To be able to offer a tincture or something else that may be slow-dissolving gives the patient the ability to titrate the product themselves. We’re working on a few possibilities.” c
“ I R E A L LY BELIEVE THAT THE SPEED OF MY RECOVERY HAS BEEN BASED ON THE FACT THAT I HAD SUCH A SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT OF PROTECTION THERE TO BEGIN WITH C B D O N A D A I LY BASIS.”
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Cannabis Conscious
Fa m o u s at h l e t e s i n c r e a s i n g ly e m b r a c e a n d a d v o c at e f o r c a n n a b i s a s a t r e at m e n t o p t i o n
Greta Gaines
By Jacob Cannon Professional athletes continue to flock toward the cannabis industry in terms of partnerships, entrepreneurship and ultimately, to provide a better wellness option for everyday treatment for sports-related injuries and life in general. From the National Hockey League (NHL) and National Football League (NFL) to the National Basketball Association (NBA) and every sport in between, these athletes are bravely stepping up for cannabis and its boundless medicinal possibilities.
Al Harrington From the court to the board room, Al Harrington is making a mark on the cannabis industry. He gained fame as a former NBA player who played for 16 seasons on many different teams. Like many other professional athletes, Harrington turned to cannabis for medicinal treatment after sports injuries led to surgeries. Most recently, Harrington founded a cannabis company, Viola, which is actually named after another one of his inspirations for supporting cannabis— his grandmother Viola who suffers from glaucoma and diabetes. His company is seeing great success, as its operations are currently in Colorado, Michigan and California, with plans to continue expansion this year.
Jeff Friesen Two things that Canada is now known for—cannabis and hockey—have come together in a therapeutic way. Jeff Friesen, former NHL player and Canadian professional ice hockey player, is a prominent cannabis advocate. Known for winning a Stanley Cup trophy and being recognized in the Hockey Hall of Fame, Friesen added vocal cannabis advocate to his résumé when he partnered with the 42
biotech firm, NanoSphere Health Sciences Inc., as part of a campaign that was aimed to provide athletes with resources about benefits of medical cannabis. Friesen himself found cannabis to be a beneficial treatment for the broken bones and other injuries he experienced while skating the ice. “Throughout my NHL career, I suffered multiple injuries and broken bones. I discovered from firsthand experience about the endless benefits of cannabis to reduce pain, inflammation, anxiety and improve sleep quality,” Friesen stated.
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Known as a singer, songwriter, entrepreneur, cannabis activist and mother—Greta Gaines is also on the list of professional athletes who stand up for cannabis. Gaines has been internationally recognized as a pro snowboarder who earned the title of the first Women’s World Extreme Snowboard Champion. In addition to making headlines for her athleticism, Gaines is just as well known for her cannabis advocacy, as she has served as a representative of Women Grow. She has also been known as an advisory board member of NORML, Athletes for Care, Patients Out of Time and Tennesseans United. Gaines embarked into cannabis entrepreneurship as the Founder of The Hempery, a company that sells hemp-based skin care products.
Nick Lowery Some of the most prominent professional athletes who turned cannabis advocates come from the NFL. Nick Lowery is no exception. The former Kansas City Chiefs Kicker has done important work with the White House Drug Abuse Policy Office. Now, he continues to speak out in support of cannabis research for a disease that is faced by many NFL and NHL players, chronic traumatic encephalopathy, or CTE. Lowery is now an associate with Kannalife Sciences, a company that specializes in groundbreaking research to develop a cannabinoidbased treatment for CTE. His activism for this important research only grew stronger after former NHL player, Todd Ewen, who had been diagnosed with CTE, tragically took his own life in 2015. “The world needs to know the truth about the connection between head trauma and long-term brain diseases,” said Lowery. “Though many researchers are just now looking into these suicide cases, Kannalife Sciences may be the only company truly working to change the future for the next generation of athletes.” c
SOCAL NOW! EVENT LISTINGS
The Temptations, Jan. 11 Join Otis Williams, Terry Weeks and the rest of The Temptations band members as they perform unforgettable hits from the 60s to today. Gone is the vibrant and emotional voice of David Ruffin, but the strength of the band’s Motown, R&B, soul and funk music repertoire is unbeatable, to say the least. Cerritos Center, Cerritos cerritoscenter.com Phil Lesh and The Terrapin Family Band, Jan. 12 Phil Lesh, of course, is one-fifth of the founding members of Grateful Dead, and is definitely an important piece of music and hippie history. Now Lesh operates a music venue called Terrapin Crossroads and performs chilled out jam band songs with The Terrapin Family Band. The Masonic Lodge at Hollywood Forever, Los Angeles hollywoodforever.com/ culture
Annual Long Beach Martin Luther King Jr. Parade & Celebration, Jan. 19 The celebration begins at Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue and Anaheim Street with a parade that begins at 10:30 a.m, and the event finishes with a festival at Martin Luther King, Jr. Park. Probably no American fought for civil rights and nonviolence more than King
did, so honoring him each year is the least that we can to for remembrance. Martin Luther King, Jr. Park, Long Beach visitlongbeach.com/ events/annual-long-beachmartin-luther-king-jrparade-celebration/ Anime Impulse, Jan. 19-20 Get ready for all things anime—which includes cosplay, skateboards, esports, artist alleys, food and more. You can meet and get autographs from some of the top anime cosplay influencers on Instagram, such as stars like Sakura Gun and Yasha Fluff. Fairplex, Pomona animeimpulse.com LA Art Show, Jan. 23-27 You can’t miss “The Most Comprehensive International Contemporary Art Show in America.” Celebrating diversity this year, the show houses over 200,000 square feet of exhibition space with topof-the-line guests, galleries and vendors. Los Angeles Convention Center, Los Angeles laartshow.com
Kelly Clarkson, Jan. 26 Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood often are compared as who is the most commercially successful American Idol winner, but Clarkson’s pool of devout fans know exactly who is their favorite. The first season winner has
featured event
THIRD EYE BLIND, JAN. 14 Third Eye Blind singer-songwriter Stephan Jenkins overcame an addiction to hard drugs early in his musical career, and his efforts to better himself worked out in the end. Several albums and lineup changes later, Third Eye Blind is back on tour to support its latest cover song EP, Thanks for Everything. Roxy Theatre Los Angeles, West Hollywood thirdeyeblind.com/tour enjoyed a steady stream of major label hits since originally winning the show in 2002. Staples Center, Los Angeles kellyclarkson.com/tour TheFitExpo Los Angeles, Jan. 26-27 Join headliners Mr. Olympia 2018 Shawn Rhoden, Jay Cutler, Cassandra Martin, Christian Guzman and many more as they celebrate fitness and wellness. There will be fitness classes, cooking demos, live fitness competitions, karate and jiujitsu to keep you busy and in shape, just in time for the new year.
Los Angeles Convention Center, Los Angeles thefitexpo.com/city/losangeles/ Manzuri Law Weed Panel, Jan. 30 Get the updates you desperately need considering the whirlwind of local and state laws in California. The experts and CULTURE legal contributors at Manzuri Law have the know-how in order to guide you through complex regulations that affect anyone in the California cannabis industry. Paragon, Los Angeles manzurilaw.com/events
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À LA CARTE
Whole Food Magic C a n n a b i s a n d h e m p h av e l e d t o successful business ventures and p e r s o n a l w e l l n e s s f o r A s h l a e Wa r n e r By John McClain
F
ood blogger Ashlae Warner works her whole food magic creating decadent-tasting cannabis edibles and is expanding to a fullspectrum hemp oil line. When cannabis first became legal in Colorado, her husband stood in line for hours and brought back a quarter-ounce of bud. But Warner wasn’t interested in smoking it—so she turned it into an infused coconut oil. “And it just sat in my pantry,” Warner told CULTURE. “I made these amazing raw brownies for some friends [. . .] They said, ‘This is so amazing, you need to bring this to the market.’” Warner is the blogger behind Oh, Lady Cakes, a corner
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of the web dedicated to traditional sweet treats. She has used her experience in whole food recipe development to create a line of healthy and fun edibles, Alchemy Food Co. After two-and-ahalf years of research and development in a Denver, Colorado commercial kitchen, Alchemy opened in February 2018. Warner keeps a high standard for the ingredients her company uses in its products, which continues to be represented through the products and the packaging the company uses. Even the grower, Los Sueños Farms, was chosen in part for its cannabis grown in the sunshine, which Warner believes is “how cannabis is supposed to be grown.”
Like the ingredients and packaging of her edibles, even her company’s name is thoughtful and intentional. “Alchemy is the precursor to chemistry, which is highly scientific, and alchemy is naturally-occurring elements,” said Warner. “All of our products are made with whole foods, natural ingredients, not processed, so ‘Alchemy’ was super-fitting.” Alchemy uses dates, nuts, cacao and handmade canna-coconut oil, which Warner whips up using an Instant Pot and a high-shear homogenizer to keep the oil consistently potent. The canna-coconut oil, Warner said, is an awesome way for people to infuse their recipes safely while knowing exactly how potent they
will be. Next year, the company hopes to expand with new canna-coconut oils and a hemp product. In August, Warner and her husband launched Supergood, a full-spectrum hemp oil infused with turmeric, that both Warner and her husband use personally. Warner discovered that cannabis allowed her to tolerate gluten in foods, but the main benefit was actually treating her ulcer and gastritis that had developed after being prescribed 2,800mg of ibuprofen daily for her endometriosis pain. She has been using the fullspectrum hemp oil to treat that pain as well as anxiety. Her husband Thom, an Iraq War veteran, suffered from insomnia and posttraumatic stress disorder for years, and visited the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for assistance before trying cannabis. “They prescribed him the craziest medication,” said Warner, who said her husband didn’t like taking drugs. “Like bottles and bottles and bottles of blood pressure medication, and heart medication, and sleeping pills, and I was just like, ‘Why are you going to put this into your body?’” “He’s not a fan of using any kind of drug, not even caffeine,” she said. “He won’t do [it]. We started Supergood, and he started using those products and [. . .] it was like day and night for him when he started taking it, which was incredible.” Supergood hemp products have made a
“The insomnia t h at h e h a s i s c o m p l e t e ly gone. He sleeps through the n i g h t f i n a l ly, a n d h e c a n fa l l asleep and s tay a s l e e p. A product I c r e at e d h a s changed my p a r t n e r ’ s l i f e .” vast improvement in his life overall, which many of us personally know can start with a healthy sleep schedule. “The insomnia that he has is completely gone. He sleeps through the night finally, and he can fall asleep and stay asleep,” said Warner. “A product I created has changed my partner’s life.” Warner said the couples’ previous experience with Alchemy and the cannabis industry gave them knowledge that helped them create a good, trustworthy product in Supergood. Now they are able to pass on that expertise to their customers through education and support. “It’s not something we’re required to do,” she said, “but we feel like it kind of brings a little more integrity to our company and our products.” c
eatalchemy.com | supergoodhemp.com CultureMagazine.com
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GROWING CULTURE
OAKLAND OUTDOOR GARDEN: T H E F I N A L I N S TA L L M E N T By Ed Rosenthal
M
y last report on the garden was in late November. At the time, almost half of the plot had been harvested. Harvesting continued through the end of the month. There were several reasons for the sense of urgency in harvesting these plants. First, some of the buds were beginning to get overripe. Secondly, the weather, which had been amazingly sunny as a result of the drought in California, was about to turn. There were numerous rainstorms on the way. Except for Thanksgiving, harvesting continued through the end of the month. The procedure was to cut the plants, place them in wagons and transport them to the processing center. The plants were dunked in hydrogen peroxide solution to wipe off dirt and kill spores and bacteria. Then they were hung to dry. The drying frame was constructed out of steel beams with four levels of wire hung across the area. Wires were spaced three feet apart to promote air circulation. The space was heated and dried using a blower powered by its own generator, which filled the room with warm air with a relative humidity
The rafters are filled with drying plants and branches. The blower fills the drying area with warm dry air. The lift is used to place plants on the high levels.
Workers de-budding the stems and branches.
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of less than 40 percent. The temperature was just under 80 degrees. The perimeter of the drying area was surrounded with powerful fans that circulated air between the rows. By the time the frame was filled with plants and bud, the plants that were hung the earliest were dry and ready to be moved into the curing area. This consisted of a slightly cooler and more humid area. The plant branches were laid on craft paper only one cluster deep. Then another sheet of heavy craft paper was laid down and another layer of branches was placed on them. This was repeated five or six times. Some plant tops were hung on wire along the walls increasing the capacity of the curing center. After spending at least a week in the curing section, the branches were bucked. This was accomplished in one of several ways. Either the plants are stripped by hand [or stripped using a bucket]. Wearing heavy canvas gloves, the branches were pulled through a mostly closed hand, stripping the plant. A more efficient method uses a rim that fits over a five-gallon bucket. Branches are fitted through the slots in the bucket, and pulled through. The foliage is stripped off. The team is also experimenting with a de-budding machine. The stem is fed into a hole in the machine and it pulls through, automatically removing the bud and other foliage. This really speeds up the process. The buds were then being stored in cans. Until the buds are mostly dry, they were kept uncapped. Only when they won’t sweat when enclosed, are the canisters capped. c
TIP OF THE MONTH Are you planning to grow some big plants outside this year? January and February are the months to get seeds and clones started. Give them bright light and start training them to grow into the shape you prefer. By May or early June when you set them out, some varieties that are four or five feet tall have the potential to grow to 10to 15-foot giants.
Fans keep the air circulating between the rows.
Plants in the curing section. The humidity is kept at about 50 percent using dehumidifiers. It consists of layers of branches separated by heavy craft paper.
Some of the plants were hung.
Finished buds will soon be destroyed.
The leaves and small buds will be used for concentrate.
NBF (New Best Friend) bud pile.
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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.
NEWS of the
WEIRD
BY THE EDITORS AT ANDREWS MCMEEL
LEAD STORY—WAIT, WHAT? Akihiko Kondo, 35, of Tokyo, spent $18,000 on a Nov. 4 wedding ceremony to marry the love of his life, Hatsune Miku—a computergenerated hologram with big eyes and long, turquoise hair. Kondo told Reuters he found Hatsune Miku, who has thousands of fans around the world, singing on the internet. The wedding ceremony included traditions such as the exchange of rings (hers was placed on the finger of a stuffed doll created in her image) and friends and relatives in attendance, although Kondo’s parents did not attend. “I believe the shape of happiness and love is different for each person,” Kondo said. CHRISTMAS COMES EARLY A Bank of America ATM in Houston was the scene of a near-riot on Nov. 25 when it began dispensing $100 bills instead of $10s, reported Click2Houston. After the first lucky driver posted his score on social media, a crowd showed up and stood in line, with a few fights and arguments breaking out over about two hours, until police were summoned and the free money was shut down. Bank of America released a statement the next day that would have galled Ebenezer Scrooge: “Customers will be able to keep the money dispensed.” Turns out the blame lay with a vendor who incorrectly
loaded $100 bills into the $10 slot. There was no report of how much money was withdrawn. LEAST COMPETENT CRIMINALS Richard Robert Langely, 46, of Kansas City, Missouri, was working part time for the Platte Woods Police Department in October when he decided to take part in the department’s drug take-back program. Except, according to court documents, Langely wasn’t disposing of drugs; he was helping himself to pills that had been collected in Lake Waukomis. And to make matters worse, The Kansas City Star reported, his own body camera captured evidence enabling prosecutors to charge him with felony theft of a controlled substance. Langely is scheduled to appear in court on Dec. 10. Wesley Glenn Bost, 27, of Birmingham, Alabama, made quite the impression when he fell through the ceiling of a Waffle House in Tuscumbia on Nov. 4, not least because he wasn’t wearing pants. Bost apparently went into the restaurant’s bathroom and used his pants to tie the door shut, then, said Tuscumbia police Detective Sgt. Wes Holland, climbed into the ceiling with the intent of robbing the office. WHNT News reported that video of the incident shows Bost shoving other restaurant patrons on his way to the door, which was being held shut by people outside, before hitting the door with his shoulder and falling to the floor. Finally he managed to flee . . . without his trousers . . . which held his driver’s license.
PICKY, PICKY A referee in a Women’s Super League soccer match in Manchester City, England, stayed cool at the start of the televised game on Oct. 26 when he realized he’d forgotten his coin for the kickoff coin toss. Thinking quickly, David McNamara had the captains of the Manchester City and Reading teams play “Rock, Paper, Scissors” instead. But the Football Association, soccer’s governing body in England, was unamused, and on Nov. 26, McNamara began a 21-day suspension after accepting a charge of “not acting in the best interests of the game,” according to the BBC. An FA refereeing manager said: “He should have been more prepared. . . It’s very unprofessional.” WHAT IS FAME? Former Toronto Blue Jays star Jose Bautista has another honor to add to his resume, thanks to entomologist Bob Anderson of the Canadian Museum of Nature. On Nov. 22, reported the Associated Press, Anderson named a newly discovered species of beetle after the star third baseman and right fielder. Sicoderus bautistai is a small black weevil found in the Dominican Republic, where Bautista hails from. “I thought what a great way to kind of recognize (Bautista’s) contributions to Blue Jays baseball and to Canadian baseball, really, as a whole,” said Anderson. The scientist has named about 120 weevils over his career. AWESOME! Katherine Leigh Mehta, 26, of Arlington, Texas, accepted a gig to photograph a wedding at The Springs Event Venue in Weatherford
on Nov. 24. But she became the star of the show when wedding guests discovered her having sex with another guest in a room at the venue, according to WSRZ Radio. A security guard summoned Parker County Sheriff’s deputies, who found Mehta yelling by a fountain on the property, according to their report. She then walked to a tree and urinated. While she waited in the back of the patrol car, Mehta screamed: “Y’all families will be dead by Christmas. Y’alls daughters are dead. My dad is going to find out about this, and y’all are . . . dead. D-E-A-D.” At the jail, officers found a bottle of anxiety pills, which they believe she mixed with alcohol, causing her erratic behavior. She faces charges of public intoxication and obstruction/retaliation. All good things must come to an end, and so it seems for Robert Craig Davis, 70, of Key Largo, Florida. Drivers in South Florida had reported seeing a Chrysler Pacifica minivan rigged with a clever device that lowered a black cloth over its license plate each time it drove through an automated toll plaza. But on Nov. 17, according to FLKeysNews.com, an off-duty Florida highway patrolman spotted the vehicle as it passed through the Bird Road toll plaza and he alerted his fellow troopers. Sgt. Carlos Vanegas soon stopped Davis, according to the arrest report, and found a remote control device used to operate the license plate cover. “The actions of the defendant showed an ongoing course of conduct with intent to defraud the SunPass toll system,” trooper Dennis Gallo wrote in his report. Davis was charged with organized fraud and petit theft.
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