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contents Vol 8 IssUE 5
11.16
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POSITIVE VIBRATIONS
Reggae icon Pato Banton is a musician with talent, charisma and a passion for cannabis legalization.
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ON THE COVER:
p h o t o b y J o h n G i l h o o le y
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contents
inside
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44 features
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Charitable Contributions The cannabis community has roots in helping people feel and get better, and its amicable nature allows it to give back to local communities.
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Veterans’ Right To Heal In light of this month’s Veteran’s Day, we are digging in to PostTraumatic Stress Disorder, a problem that affects millions of military veterans, and the status of their right to medical cannabis in this country.
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Industry Insider California's cannabis czar Lori Ajax opens up about her journey and hopes for our cannabis future.
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Dark and Cheesy Hardcore metal band Weekend Nachos makes great tunes while embracing humor and fun.
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Chilling and Charming Elizabeth McGrath makes unique art featuring magical worlds and creatures born from pure imagination.
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Rising Star Laganja Estranja, breakout star from RuPaul’s Drag Race (Season 6), is a singer, dancer and all-out supporter of cannabis.
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Quality of Life One anonymous senior didn’t believe in cannabis’ healing powers, but when left with little to no other options, he found help in using cannabis to treat his prostate cancer and get healthy.
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Fascinating Finds Well-preserved graves in Norway reveal pouches of cannabis and evidence that Vikings played a part in spreading cannabis around the world.
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Musical Advocates Music doesn’t get more creative or inspired than carnival rock band Plankeye Peggy.
departments news
online Exclusive!
20 News Nuggets 26 By the Numbers 32 Local News 34 Legal Corner
40 Healthy Living
reviews
44 Strain, Edible & Concentrate Reviews 60 Holiday
Gift Guide 66 Entertainment Reviews 70 Liner Notes
in every issue
126 Growing Culture 128 Destination Unknown 130 Profile in Courage 132 Recipes 134 SoCal Now! 136 News of the Weird
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d Democratic Candidate for Utah
Governor Position Has a Plan for Medical Cannabis in the State d THC Recently Proven to Make You
Smarter in New Study
Vol 8 IssUE 5
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CULTURE M
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Publisher Jeremy Zachary Editor-In-Chief Evan Senn associate Editor Ashley Bennett Editorial coordinator Jamie Solis Editorial Contributors Benjamin Adams, Sheryll Alexander, Marguerite Arnold, Jake Browne, Cole Garrison, Jasen T. Davis, Alex Distefano, David Downs, Natasha Guimond, Addison Herron-Wheeler, Anthony Herrold, Pamela Jayne, Heather Johnson, Joe Jatcko, David Jenison, Kevin Longrie, Emily Manke, Tyler Markwart, Meital Manzuri, Sandy Moriarty, Madison Ortiz, Denise Pollicella, R. Scott Rappold, Paul Rogers, Joy Shannon, Lanny Swerdlow, Jefferson Van Billiard, Simon Weedn, Zara Zhi Photographers Kristen Angelo, Steve Baker, Kristopher Christensen, John Gilhooley, Joel Meaders, Josué Rivas, Duncan Rolfson Art Director Steven Myrdahl production manager Tommy LaFleur Graphic Designer Tanya Delgadillo sales director Justin Olson los angeles Jon Bookatz sales manager Account Executives Eric Bulls, Kim Cook, Cole Garrison, Gene Gorelik, Teddy Helms, Beau Odom, Chris Thatcher, Vic Zaragoza general Manager Iris Norsworthy Office Assistant Angelina Thompson digital content manager David Edmundson digital marketing Alazzia Gaoay manager Ctv Contributors Quinn Marie Distribution Manager Cruz Bobadilla Culture® Magazine is published every month and distributes magazines at over 1,500 locations throughout 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.
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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/freeculturemag
/iReadCulture
/iReadCulture
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NEWS
nuggets
Bellflower Passes Cannabis Ordinance in Anticipation of Prop. 64 If California’s Proposition 64 to legalize adult use of cannabis passes, then the city of Bellflower is prepared. Bellflower’s City Council voted 3-2 on October 10 to approve an ordinance that would regulate recreational cannabis in the city. The staff report from the city council meeting shared the council’s intentions behind passing the ordinance. “The City Council wishes to authorize limited cultivation, manufacture, dispensing, and delivery of marijuana and marijuana products in the city, subject to reasonable controls and regulations that will ensure marijuana-related activities do not pose a threat to the public health, safety or welfare, or pose a nuisance to the properties or persons.” The ordinance’s language aims to regulate cannabis and raise taxes for the city, which could generate up to $3.4 million annually. If voters do not pass Prop. 64 on November 8, then this new ordinance will be voided.
Cannabis Possession Penalties Are Lowered in Memphis, Tennessee The city council of Memphis, Tennessee has moved to lower penalties on cannabis possession. The ordinance allows Memphis Police Department the ability to charge someone who was under the possession of cannabis a lesser charge than what is outlined by the state of Tennessee. Currently in the state, a person who is possessing half an ounce or less of cannabis can face a misdemeanor charge, up to a year of incarceration, plus a maximum fine of $2,500. Memphis’ new law allows an officer to instead charge the accused with a $50 ticket from the city. In the ordinance’s text, the council outlined the reasoning for this change. “Whereas, the City Council does not support or encourage the use of marijuana or any other controlled substance but finds that, when an individual’s only offense is possession or casual exchange of marijuana for personal use, criminal penalties imposed by state law and resulting criminal records for such as offense are disproportionate to the severity of the offense . . .” As the second city in the state to adopt much lesser punishment than Tennessee, it will be interesting to see if this will continue to happen throughout other local governments in the state.
Cannabis Extract is Recognized as Medicine by U.K. The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) of the United Kingdom made a decision to recognize cannabis oil that is high in CBD to be medicinal. A letter sent by the MHRA shared its decision with producers and distributors of CBD products. “The MHRA has now completed its review and has considered all information available to it relating to cannabidiol (CBD oil) and having taken into account all the scientific advice and evidence, it has come to an opinion that products containing cannabidiol will satisfy the second limb of the definition of a ‘medicinal product’ . . .” This decision was reached after the proof that CBD oil is able to aid in physiological functions through its ability to affect a immunological, metabolic or pharmacological action. The next step is for the government to make sure the CBD products are regulated accordingly to protect public health.
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Signatures Are Approved For New Ordinance to Bring L.A. Cannabis Laws Up to Date The United Cannabis Business Alliance (UCBA) and Citizens’ Coalition to Protect Patients and Neighborhoods gathered over 104,000 signatures from registered voters in support of getting the “Los Angeles Marijuana Regulation and Safety Act” on the ballot. The City Clerk validated the signatures in October, and now the ordinance will be on the March 2017 city ballot. The president of the UCBA, Jerred Kiloh, shared more insight into how the ordinance could benefit Los Angeles. “For so long, the city, its residents and the industry were living with unclear rules, no permitting system and ad hoc enforcement,” Kiloh said. “The ballot measure creates a framework for the city to regulate the cannabis industry. Our measure is inclusive, fair and will bring relief to neighborhoods that are oversaturated by illegal operators.” If passed, the ordinance will bring Los Angeles up to date with California’s latest cannabis laws.
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NEWS
The estimated number of people who attended a panel debate on the subject of cannabis initiatives in Long Beach prior to the election: (Source: The Press-Telegram)
The approximate number of signatures that were gathered by the United Cannabis Business Alliance to get the Los Angeles Marijuana Regulation and Safety Act on the March 2017 city ballot: (Source: UCBA Trade Association)
104,000
The minimum amount of money, in millions of dollars, that Measure N could bring to the city of San Bernardino, if approved:
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(Source: The San Bernardino Sun)
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The approximate amount of money, in millions of dollars, that was made in California medical cannabis revenue between April 2015 to March 2016: (Source: HDL Companies)
The percentage of sample voters in Laguna Beach who stated their support for Proposition 64 prior to the election:
63.7
845
(Source: Laguna Beach Independent)
The percentage of Arizonans who favor cannabis legalization: (Source: AZ Central)
The amount of money, in thousands of dollars, that hemp soap company Dr. Bronner’s donated to an Arizona-based pro-cannabis campaign: (Source: AZ Central)
The percentage of Mainers who favor legalizing cannabis for recreational use: (Source: Portland Press Herald)
The amount of cannabis, in ounces, that a person can now legally possess in Memphis, Tennessee after the city council agreed to reduce cannabis possession penalties: (Source: WREG Memphis)
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Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival
WHAT: Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival. WHEN/WHERE: Sat, Nov. 12-Sun, Nov. 13. Exposition Park, 700 Exposition Park Dr., Los Angeles. INFO: Visit campfloggnaw.com for more information. This one-of-a-kind carnival and music festival is arguably one of the best events happening in Los Angeles this month. There will be more musical performances than you can even imagine, with huge names like Lil Wayne, Erykah Badu, Chance the Rapper, A$AP Rocky, ScHoolboy Q and Action Bronson on the ticket, among countless others. Music is definitely just one of the many highlights of 26
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Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival, as this festival stays true to its name and also includes all the colorful and exciting festivities that you would find at a carnival. Guests of all age will enjoy the multiple amusement park rides, games and prizes. There will also be a food truck alley for hungry festivalgoers. Overall, Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival is an amusing musical weekend that you do not want to miss.
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NEWS
LOCAL
RELENTLESS ADVOCACY California congressman continues to advocate for the cannabis community
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by Jamie Solis alifornia was the first state to legalize medical cannabis back in 1996. Since then, some grassroots organizations and vocal politicians have been pushing to get cannabis legalized for recreational purposes in the state. One of those outspoken politicians is California’s Congressman Dana Rohrabacher. Through Rohrabacher’s firsthand experience with medical cannabis, the Congressman knows how beneficial the plant can be, and he finds it absurd that our resources have been wasted on cannabis prohibition instead of focusing on actual criminals. Rohrabacher recently chatted with CULTURE about his personal experience with cannabis, in addition to how he foresees his Rohrabacher-Farr Amendment continuing to protect statewide cannabis legislation from the federal government. How are you doing today, Congressman? Dana Rohrabacher: Well I wish I could say that I’m doing okay, but I’ve got this arthritis in my shoulders that’s killing me, and so I’m having a shoulder replacement in about two weeks. So I’m doing poorly today, and I would be doing a lot better if there was medical marijuana available to alleviate my pain. We have read that you have used topical medical cannabis for your arthritis in the past, is that right? I did and what I have found in almost all the different ones that I’ve used now to try and find the pain reliever is that it takes about 15 minutes for it to act, no matter what kind you’re using. And then for an hour, your pain is relieved, and then it goes away. And so I’m very concerned, very upset, that marijuana has been made illegal all these years, even the medical use of it, and thus there has not been 32
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the research then. By the way, if they could have by now found ways of genetically altering the marijuana plant so that the pain relieving elements for people who were suffering would last longer, maybe even 10 hours. But there has been none of that research. In August, a court ruled to possibly extend your Rohrabacher-Farr amendment. How will this influence the cannabis community? Extending it just means that the same protections that we’ve had for the last three years under Rohrabacher-Farr, which prohibits the federal government and federal employees who are under the payroll of the federal government, from enforcing stricter federal drug laws in those states where the medical marijuana has been legalized. The Rohrabacher-Farr Amendment is one of the most important pieces of legislation that has come out to support the cannabis community. Why do you think it’s important to be vocal about your support for cannabis legalization? It’s a time to recognize number one that people are free to do what they want. And number two, in this particular case that there are many, many positive things about cannabis that people should utilize, not the least of which is making rope for pete’s sake. There is a lot of benefit there, and we have to find what those benefits are. I’m in severe pain, and the idea that our poor veterans who come back and are in similar pain are not being able to utilize medical marijuana and it’s criminal for many people who are suffering to try to cut them off legally from even calculating what can be done to alleviate that pain, much less give it to them in the way of a doctor who might want to prescribe it to someone. This is all about liberty; this is about freedom for me. c
Cleese and Idle This comedic duo from Britain are known as the godfathers of comedy, as they were the founding members of Monty Python and A Fish Called Wanda. Don’t miss as they embark upon their latest, mustsee tour, “Together Again At Last . . . For The Very First Time.” John Cleese and Eric Idle will be delighting audiences with scripted and improv performances, storytelling, musical numbers, aquatic juggling and exclusive footage. With all this excitement, it is safe to say you have never seen a comedic performance quite like this. Every performance by the duo will be different than the last, so be sure to save yourself a seat soon, because seeing Cleese and Idle will prove to be a once in a lifetime opportunity. WHAT: Cleese and Idle live. WHEN/WHERE: Fri, Nov. 11. Civic Auditorium, 300 E Green St., Pasadena. INFO: Visit www. cleeseandidle. com for more information.
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NEWS
legal corner
COMPLIANCE IS KEY Governor Brown signs bill to protect wax manufacturers by Meital Manzuri, Attorney On September 29, 2016, just one year after signing the landmark bill called the Medical Cannabis Regulation and Safety Act (“MCRSA”), Governor Jerry Brown took yet another huge step in favor of California’s medical cannabis industry by signing AB2679 into law. The new law, which is aimed at making wax manufacturing operations more safe, states that cannabis manufacturing is now legally acceptable under certain conditions. This is a far cry from the current situation where butane “hash blasters” are getting constantly raided, arrested, and prosecuted under misapplied meth lab laws. Now, under AB-2679, butane extractors who meticulously follow strict standards and requirements will be shielded from misguided raids and state criminal prosecution, at least until state licenses are issued in 2018. “Last year, California took a historic step by regulating medical cannabis to protect patients, businesses, our communities, and the environment. But across the state, locally authorized medical cannabis manufacturers continue to be targeted by municipal law enforcement. As we await full implementation of medical cannabis regulations, manufacturers cannot continue to operate in a legal grey area,” stated Assemblymember Rob Bonta. “Under AB-2679, local governments will be given guidance
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and manufacturers will be protected in preparation for state licenses in 2018.” 1 Authored by the same legislators who drafted the MCRSA, AB-2679 “brings needed clarity to local governments about the type of manufacturing of medical cannabis that is allowed during this interim period before the MCRSA is fully implemented,” says joint author, Assemblymember Ken Cooley (D-Rancho Cordova). 2 The bill highlights a very strict protocol for running an extraction lab and says that manufacturers will no longer have to endure state criminal penalties so long as they play by the new rules.
So what are the new rules under AB-2679?
First, the manufacturer must operate as a “collective” or “cooperative” under SB-420. Second, the manufacturer must only use manufacturing processes that: (1) are either solventless or use a nonflammable, nontoxic solvent extraction technique (i.e., CO2); and/ or (2) use solvents that are recognized as “safe” under federal guidelines (i.e., butane), exclusively within a “closedloop” extraction system that doesn’t allow highly flammable solutions to escape. If the extraction process utilizes the latter, the system must be certified by a licensed engineer.
Third, the manufacturer must obtain certification and approval from local fire officials for both the extraction facility and its closed-loop system. Fourth, the manufacturer must meet all required safety, fire and building codes set by relevant local, state and/or federal laws. Fifth, the manufacturer must hold a valid cannabis seller’s permit from the California Board of Equalization. And lastly, but certainly not least, the manufacturer must comply with all local cannabis manufacturing laws and obtain proper licensing from their local jurisdiction that specifically authorizes them to manufacture cannabis using a certain method of extraction. Because most local ordinances that outlaw the sale of medical cannabis also outlaw the manufacturing of medical cannabis, as of now there are only a few known cities—i.e., Cathedral City, Coachella and Adelanto— that will give licenses to manufacturing labs to operate within their borders.3 This may change, however, if other cities or counties decide to change their local laws. Keep in mind that these new rules are only temporary—they will be repealed one year after the Bureau starts issuing states licenses.
What does this mean for current butane extractors?
Compliance is key. If you play by the new rules and secure all the proper approvals, certifications, permits, etc., your extraction lab will be shielded from raids and prosecution. However, unlicensed wax manufacturers who do not comply with AB-2679 will still face felony arrests and heavy prison time under existing meth lab laws. If the AUMA passes this November, adults 21+ will be able to legally possess up to eight ounces of concentrate, which will make the wax industry more lucrative than ever. So if you’re a wax manufacturer who intends on capitalizing on recreational cannabis profits in the (hopefully) near future, now would be the best time to start prepping for AB-2679 compliance. c
1 http://www.eastbayexpress.com/LegalizationNation/ archives/2016/10/04/california-medical-marijuana-extractmakers-get-historic-protections 2 http://www.eastbayexpress.com/LegalizationNation/ archives/2016/10/04/california-medical-marijuana-extractmakers-get-historic-protections 3 http://www.record-bee.com/article/NQ/20161017/ NEWS/161019861
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NEWS
HEALTHY LIVING
Dangers Hyped, Benefits Ignored Expectant mothers and the use of cannabis
“Finally, the research has been done. Not only does it document that there is no harm from a mother’s use of cannabis, it also debunked the poor methodology of previous research papers which purported to show severe negative consequences to the child.”
by Lanny Swedlow, RN LNC When I was a student nurse, I spent two weeks in a maternity ward where I was assigned to one expectant mother to care for. She was 37 and having her fifth child. During the pregnancy, she developed hyperemesis gravidarum, a nausea so severe that it can lead to electrolyte imbalances that can be life-threatening to the fetus. This mother chose to use cannabis to treat the hyperemesis. It worked very well without any of the side effects of other medications commonly used to treat it. As it was standard operating procedure at the hospital I was interning at, she underwent a drug screen when she came to the hospital for delivery. Not surprisingly she tested positive for cannabis. As a consequence, she was investigated by Children’s Protective Services, a note was put in her chart of child endangerment and after her baby was born (weighing over seven pounds), she was not allowed to breastfeed and was separated from her baby who was placed in neonatal intensive care unit where the baby was fed formula. Cannabis use during pregnancy to treat nausea, pain and depression is far safer to both mother and child than any of the medications that are given to women to treat those conditions during pregnancy. Reefer madness and genuflecting to law enforcement drove health care professionals to claim that cannabis is a danger to both the fetus and the baby and that more research has to be done. Until then the horrors experienced by my patients, the
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37-year-old mother and her baby, are par for the course. Finally, the research has been done. Not only does it document that there is no harm from a mother’s use of cannabis, it also debunked the poor methodology of previous research papers which purported to show severe negative consequences to the child. Published in the October 2016 issue of the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology, the medical review utilized research findings from 31 previous studies that interviewed over 132,000 pregnant women. Earlier studies concluded that cannabis use during pregnancy resulted in a greater likelihood of having a preterm birth or a baby with low birth weight. The new research found that the babies of the 7,800 women who only used cannabis during pregnancy were no more likely to suffer preterm birth or low birth weight babies than the 124,000 women who reported no cannabis use. The new research demonstrated that the previous studies were deficient as they did not consider tobacco smoking separate from cannabis smoking. Utilizing research protocols that separated those who only used cannabis from those who used cannabis and tobacco, the researchers found that the women who only used cannabis did not have an increase for preterm birth or a low birth weight baby. Those who used both cannabis and tobacco suffered an 85 percent
increased risk of having preterm birth or low birth weight babies. Cannabis only did not produce those results—it was the tobacco. It has been long known that tobacco use during pregnancy is detrimental to the fetus and the same is even truer for alcohol, yet no one seems to be demanding the prohibition of these substances in the name of fetal health. Opioids used during pregnancy to treat pain can result in babies having spina bifida (neural defect), hydrocephaly (fluid in the brain), congenital heart defects and other deforming and life threatening problems. Anti-depressants, especially SSRIs like Paxil, Prozac and Zoloft, have been demonstrated to produce autism spectrum, developmental disorders and birth defects in babies. Complicating the picture is that neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) occurs when a baby is exposed to a drug in the womb before birth and then goes through withdrawal from the drug after birth. NAS is most often the result of a pregnant woman taking opioids. Rather than discouraging women from using cannabis during pregnancy, doctors should be encouraging women to use cannabis in place of the far more dangerous drugs they are given during pregnancy to treat pain, depression and insomnia. This outdated and anachronistic anti-cannabis policy continues to negatively impact the lives of millions of expectant mothers and their soon to be born children. c
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REVIEWs
strain, edible & concentrate Northern Lights This dank, resinous and pungently potent flower is already one of the more famous strains available on the market, due to it being the parent strain of some of the most sought after strains around. Coast to Coast collective in Canoga Park has a great product to offer its patients that are seeking a dense, precisely trimmed bud that's well suited for easing the chronic pains associated with HIV/ AIDS and cancer. We recommend medicating with this beauty later in the day, after you've finished anything important, as a restful and euphoric sleep is imminent.
Available at: Coast to Coast in Canoga Park.
Available at: Apple Box Collective in Riverside.
Hybrid Kings Blend Beverage Apple farms has something very unique to add to the ever growing market of cannabisinfused beverages with their specific attention to details, and their partnership with the famed Kottonmouth Kings, for this Kings Blend beverage. Each 100mg, 16 oz bottle is CO2-extracted and made using only the finest strain specific concentrate. The limegreen flavor was reminiscent of a ginger-brewed ale and contained Gorilla Glue extract. By the time you've finished this delicious carbonated concoction, the effects will have already started to work their magic. Available in Sativa as well as Hybrid options with Indica and CBD options coming soon.
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HERE Cherry Pie Vape Pen Available wherever: AbsoluteXtracts products are carried.
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One of California cannabis’ extract leaders, AbsoluteXtracts ups their already-high game with their new, silver vape pen and Cherry Pie pre-filled vape cart. This is a very effective, versatile day or night medical cannabis product with a very low visibility and incredibly easy operating instructions. Just press the vape’s one button three times quickly to unlock it, then press and hold while drawing on the silver mouth tip to generate and inhale a cool, low-aroma vapor that has instant and mild effects perfect for managing a tension headache on deadline. The source strain crosses Cherry Pie Grand Daddy Purple and OG Kush—two incredibly popular indica hybrids in the Bay Area. The oil is 57.7 percent THC, about three times as strong as flower, yet dosing is easily controlled with this vape pen.
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REVIEWs
Black Diamond OG Divine Wellness in Canoga Park has a terrific strain for patients wanting a sociable and giggly effect from their medicine. Covered in bold, purple hairs and dusted in trichomes rich in THC that leave you searching for a couch and something to quell the hunger pains of this strong indica. This beautiful specimen will please the seasoned connoisseur and the newbie alike. Think about those Black Diamond slopes you see pro skiers mastering—you think to yourself, "I could totally do that . . ." In reality, you will end up riding down on your butt unless you’re a seasoned skier. You can still have fun, butt-sliding down the black diamond slope, but maybe you should just stick to the bunny slopes. Leave the potent slopes to the pros.
Available at: Divine Wellness in Canoga Park.
Available wherever: Infused Edibles products are carried.
Infused Edibles Vape Cartridges Filled with 60mg of CBD and more than enough candy-like flavor to almost make you forget you're medicating at all. The effects felt after medicating with this product are everything you'd expect from THC minus the heady euphoric effect. Meaning that this product is perfect for relaxation and easing anxiety, just don't expect any of the "classic" cannabis side effects. Available in Watermelon, Juicy Pear and Island Mango flavors.
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HERE Available at: HPRC in Mission Hills.
Bruce Banner Anyone old enough to remember the Incredible Hulk before the terrible Edward Norton version (Ferrigno forever!) knows that he had a tendency to take stress to another level. If only Dr. Bruce Banner had his hands on these lovely green buds he'd have been a whole lot calmer when faced with a tough problem. This hybrid strain manages to cover the spectrum of every cannabis patients’ needs, leaving you with a nice cerebral effect that will relax those worries and leave you with a nice sense of euphoria. Fans of sweeter tasting strains will surely want to add this to their medicine cabinet.
Available at: Apothecary 420 in Sherman Oaks.
El Jefe OG In Spanish, "El Jefe" translates to “the boss.” This bright, lemonadescented wax certainly is a leader, as it commands patients to sit and relax while imbibing in its glory. Pain-relieving terpenes release any muscle tension almost immediately and leave you with a euphoric cerebral effect as well as a steady appetite. Think of this wax like that tiny but fierce Melissa McCarthy character in The Boss and you will see her true colors as you vaporize or dab this little gem. El Jefe OG is strong, tiny, fierce but effective at everything it sets out to achieve. It is a steady and reliable concentrate to add into your arsenal. 48
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REVIEWs
Terrapen Legion of Bloom keeps its chic line blossoming with the launch of their Terrapen—a kit complete with a carrying case, battery, charger and high-grade cannabis oil pre-filled into a glass cartridge with steel fittings. The oil is 40 percent THC and 40 percent CBD—a lovely 1:1 ratio that prevents too much euphoria. The oil looks really high-quality, and tastes as pure as it looks, allowing patients to medicate virtually anywhere without any negative attention. The Terrapen hits very smoothly, without the co-solvent taste that other cartridges on the market sometimes leave behind. Patients with chronic pain, stress, anxiety and insomnia tend to love 1:1 cannabinoid formulations, and this smoke-free alternative will surely change the game.
Available wherever: Legion of Bloom products are carried.
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HERE Emerald Family Farms Platinum Girl Scout Cookie Live Resin Available wherever: Emerald Family Farms products are carried.
Emerald Family Farms’ award-winning Platinum Girl Scout Cookie flower lives on in new live resin. This terp-forward live resin was extracted from Emerald Family Farms’ 2016 Golden Tarp awardwinning flowers. They’re grown using light deprivation techniques and organic inputs. The entire operation is water independent and salmon safe, a nice plus for environmentalists. Its potency is good, maxing out at 89.7 percent THC. However, the flavor and terpene profile really stand out. Once the tamper-resistant container is opened, you are greeted with the rich and familiar scent of Cookies. Connoisseurs may pick up some OG Kush characteristics. This “sugar wax” is pale gold, opaque, gooey and granular. It will definitely please anyone who appreciates good flower but enjoys the live resin experience.
Available wherever: O.penVAPE products are carried.
O.penVAPE Craft RESERVE A homage to inspired artisans, O.penVAPE Craft RESERVE is our most potent and flavorful cartridge yet. The oil was crafted using small batches of hand-selected cannabis. Each cartridge uses 100 percent same-strain cannabis terpenes, made possible by a distillation method which creates the quintessential cannabis experience. With indica, sativa and hybrid options to choose from; and cartridges available in 250mg or 500mg sizes, its customized vaping. We were able to try out the sativa vape with oil derived from the NYC Diesel strain. We were instantly overcome with an uplifting, energetic feeling that helped make our daily chores all the more enjoyable. O.penVAPE Craft RESERVE is available in Arizona, California, Colorado, Maine, New Mexico, Nevada and Oregon. Pricing varies by market; contact your local retailer for current pricing.
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REVIEWs
Bhang CBD Caramel Dark Chocolate Bhang is a company everyone knows and trusts due to their consistency and superior product lines. Now there is yet another reason to love them. For patients seeking the calming bodily effects CBD has to offer, Bhang has your back. Their newest chocolate bar is vegan, full of caramel and dark chocolate, and packs a one-two-punch that combines 15mg of both THC and CBD, and 3mg of CBN, just for good measure. Edibles this good are dangerous because you really do want to eat the whole thing, but don’t. Patients are directed to consume only half a section at a time until they know their body’s tolerance.
Available wherever: Bhang products are carried.
Skywalker OG By Strain Bio-Logics Available at: The Strain in Chatsworth.
Luke Skywalker had a unique childhood as an orphan. He lived on a secluded moisture farm in the desert of Tatooine with few kids his age living nearby, so he spent time sitting around making droids, drinking blue milk and wondering who his parents were. The only thing he was missing was a way to unwind after a day of bartering with local Jawas and fending off Tusken Raiders. Thankfully we don't have any of those problems, but we do have a great solution by way of Bio-Logic in Chatsworth, California. Their newest wax, Skywalker OG, is wonderfully potent and showcases this strains usefulness in fighting depression, anxiety and eating disorders. The Star Wars universe is ruled by the ebb and flow of the force, but we’re pretty sure you can emulate that magical feeling by trying out Skywalker OG instead.
Green Crack W Dabs California’s W Vapes vape pen lovers can cut straight to the chase with the brand’s new line of 100 percent pure, organic CO2 dab oil. Available now across the state, W Dabs provides strain-specific indica, sativa, hybrid and CBD dabs, in ultra-concentrated, triple-distilled, 78 percent THC, CO2-extracted form. We sampled their Green Crack (aka Green Cush), an Ohio phenotype of Skunk #1. W Vapes runs only organically-sourced flowers in strain-specific, small batches, ensuring the authenticity of the final extract. The Green C extract looked super-clear and contaminant-free with a gold tint. It had a really terpene-rich yet clean smell, due to the complexity of their post process. This extract was very viscous and sticky, and instantly runs when it encounters heat, perfect for dabbing. Green C sativa W dabs tasted sweet, pure and clean, with the hit, the strain was reduced to its fractionated essence. Many patients are dabbing CO2 sativa oils for daytime energy, focus and creativity in a high-THC, low-smoke modality. W Dabs delivers a potent, pure medicine, now adding W Dabs to their exemplary lines of pre-filled cartridges and all-in-one pens.
Available at: Various collectives throughout California.
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Available wherever: W Dabs products are carried.
Nugz Imagine a dinner feast where the main course is a turkey stuffed with chicken, duck and beef, wrapped in bacon. That’s the food equivalent of the cornucopia of medicinal cannabis each patient will endure once this bag has been opened. Bursting at the seams with potent flowers and dipped in CO2 oil and then rolled in high grade kief. The flavorful nugs let off an aroma similar to fresh berries with a slightly tannic grape finish usually found in wine fermentation. The taste is somewhere between sweet and sour with a small amount of diesel at the tail end. Patients can expect effects to be almost immediate and last upwards of several hours. Enjoy this product at the end of a long day . . . or week.
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Toker Poker
GU IDE! 2016
Get the hottest gift item of the season—the legendary Toker Poker! Finally your poker/ dabber, tamper, hemp wick and lighter are all in the same place. This 420 multi-tool has everything you need to vape, dab, roll and toke. Its ergonomic design provides the most basic but essential tools for any smoker. Glow in the dark, chrome and other limited editions are now available online. Sure to be a stocking stuffer hero! Use “CULTURETP16” at check out for 20 percent discount online at TokerPoker.com (offer expires 12/31/16). Price: $7.95 Website: www.tokerpoker.com
Grow For Vets USA
To honor, give thanks and give back to U.S. veterans, O.penVAPE has created a fund raising promotion with our partner Grow For Vets USA. We’ve designed two batteries, one customized with a camouflage design and the other an American flag. Both will be sold online and in retail outlets across the country. For every battery sold, one dollar is being donated to Grow For Vets USA. The organization’s primary mission is to save the more than 50 veterans who die each day from suicide and prescription overdoses. Grow for Vets provides veteran heroes with a safe alternative to deadly prescription drugs. Helping wounded veterans to receive the respect and dignity of life that they deserve is a mission we are proud to be part of. Price: $24.95 Website: openvape.com
My Bud Vase “Daily Bread” Water Pipe
This beautifully crafted My Bud Vase is a water pipe fashioned from a traditional flower vase. Made from high-grade ceramic material, this delicate but lovely pipe has a large bubble chamber to help filter the incoming smoke and a wide mouthpiece that allows for a pleasant smoking experience. These vase-pipes are the perfect gift if you’re searching for both a highquality bubbler that can double as a nice centerpiece for a kitchen table— and it’s the kind of gift that keeps on giving throughout the year. Price: $119 Website: www.dankstop.com
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Cannabis Leaf Track Jacket
It’s time to help cannabis fashion transition from the stereotypical hippie-inspired garb to some new articles of clothing that are classy and trendy instead. Treat your cannabis-lover with a gift like this cannabis leaf track jacket. This particular jacket is made of thin spandex and meant for light weather, allowing the wearer to literally wear their love for cannabis on their sleeve. Your giftee can simply zipup and head out into the world with confidence that cannabis is on the rise. Price: $26.95 Website: www.originalhoneystraw.com
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PAX Era
Give the gift of sleek design and effortless medicating with this cutting-edge vaporizer. PAX Era pocket-sized vaporizer is the slimmest, most portable vape to hit the market. You can consume cannabis discreetly and on-the-go with this innovative, light-weight device. Working exclusively with its PAX Era Pods, your vaping experience will surely be elevated to a personalized level. The PAX Era offers consistency and density with each inhale, thanks to its groundbreaking dual-end wicking feature. Tech-savvy individuals can even personalize their PAX device by downloading the PAX Vapor App to their smartphones. The device comes with a one-year warranty. Price: $59.99 Website: www.paxvapor.com
GUI DE ! 2016 .cont
Handmade Lush Green 4” Wooden Dugout with One Hitter Bat Tomahawk Glass Peace Pipe
Another one-of-a-kind, handcrafted piece, this Tomahawk Glass Peace Pipe is a generous gift of functional glass art that will dazzle even the pickiest of collectors. Made with borosilicate glass that has been sandblasted with linear and swirl patterns, this pipe is a unique piece of artistic expression. Adorned with feathers, bone beads and leather, one will surely find peace of mind and body upon putting this glorious pipe to use. Whether you choose to gift this to that special someone or simply gift it to yourself, the Tomahawk Glass Peace Pipe will be the shining star in any collection. Price: $169.99 Website: www.etsy.com/shop/ boglass
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We all know that handmade gifts are the most meaningful. Does the same go for when you’re not the only one who actually crafts the gift by hand? Either way, this handmade lush green dugout makes an ideal gift for your friend who likes to take a couple hits of flower on-the-go. This gift will really score you a homerun in the friend department, as the dugout comes with a one-hatter bat made out of pure silica quartz, glass or metal for your choosing. Since each dugout is handmade, the patterns and colors for each piece will be a one-of-a-kind shade. Price: $9.99+ Website: www.etsy.com/shop/quickpremium
Black Ops Plazmatic X Lighter
There’s no need to invest in old technology. If Apple can remove the decades-old headphone jack from their phones, then companies like Prazmatic can reinvent the lighter. The Black Ops Plazmatic X isn’t called the “original dual beam lighter” for nothing. This unique gadget is eco-friendly, with its ability to recharge via USB, and it can work in any weather or condition—and also saves buyers a ton of money from buying old disposable lighters. This electric lighter offers 50-100 lights per charge, and it only takes 1-2 hours to complete a full charge cycle. Price: $69.96 Website: www.plazmatic.com
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REVIEWs
entertainment
BOOK
Marijuana: A Short History
MOVIE Release Date: November 29 Available on: PlayStation 4 and Xbox One
John Hudak
GAME
Brookings Institution Press
Final Fantasy XV
John Hudak, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution traces the history of America’s laws and attitudes toward cannabis in his new book, Marijuana: A Short History. Hudak offers a unique and up-to-date summary of how this natural plant with a seemingly controversial history has emerged from the shadows of subcultures and secret illegal use to become a seriously treasured medicinal public policy issue and source of legal revenue for states, businesses and government. Hudak goes into detail about why attitudes have shifted and what the future for cannabis is in our ever-changing political world. (Alex Bradley)
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Square Enix Business Division 2 Square Enix Final Fantasy XV (FFXV ) is proof of how far the series has come since the original game released in the late-1980s. During a time of war on a planet called Eos, almost all countries are controlled by the empire of Niflheim, leading the heir of the only free kingdom, Noctis, to travel on a journey to save his homeland. FFXV is an action-RPG that takes place in a beautiful open world, and features like a new battle system, along with the familiar unique weapons and magic types. Needless to say, this game is worthy of its legacy title. (Nicole Potter)
Ghostbusters
MUSIC
Dir. Paul Feig
Cody
Columbia Pictures
Joyce Manor
The debate regarding the value of re-making classic films and re-launching iconic film franchises like Ghostbusters has been a contentious one. However, for those who are able to eschew measuring it against the 1984 original and accept it for what it is, then the film can be quite enjoyable. This film is a fun reimagining of an awesome premise meant to introduce new, younger fans to a great comedic film series, with the most striking difference being it’s all female leading cast. Filled with gut busting slapstick comedy and enough subtle references to the original to please old fans. (Simon Weedn)
Epitaph Records Over the last several years, Joyce Manor has established itself as one of the strongest and prolific bands in the pop punk scene. So it’s no surprise that the band’s new LP, Cody, finds the quartet continuing to evolve its sound and pushing itself in new directions. While a couple of the songs see the band revisiting its tried and true minute-and-a-half burst of sonic intensity, Cody also sees the band stretching itself both literally and metaphorically into longer songs and an even more varied sound. (Simon Weedn)
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REVIEWs
liner notes
E
by Kevin Longrie very year around Oscar season, many people take to social media to descry what they see as a bunch of rich people congratulating each other. The same can hardly be said for the Nobel Prizes, given each year to a smattering of global innovators who are often far from household names. In dozens of fields, the Nobel committee identifies greatness and seeks to reward it both monetarily and with what is perceived to be a stamp of legitimacy on a life’s work. The Nobel Prize is also often a life changer for those who receive it: Authors see their work published globally and their sales increase exponentially; scientists are able to get grants more easily and able to command greater speaking fees; cheese is rendered more delicious. (Correction: there is no Nobel Prize for cheese—yet.) All this and more meant that BOB DYLAN recently winning the Nobel Prize for Literature was cause for a bit of controversy. Dylan has received almost universal praise in all this, but some have called into question the methods of the Nobel Committee, which justified their pick by saying that Dylan “created new poetic expressions within the great American song tradition.” Anna North, for example, wrote in a New York Times opinions piece that popular music “already receives the recognition it deserves,” joking that “we won’t be seeing Zadie Smith or Mary Gaitskill in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.”
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To her, the choice of Dylan fills a spot that should’ve gone to someone primarily known as an author, someone who’s life and livelihood would’ve changed significantly from the recognition garnered from the award. LEONARD COHEN, another musician known for his poetic lyrics, seemed to address this as well when he offhandedly said of the Dylan’s prize that it was “like pinning a medal on Mount Everest for being the highest mountain.” The funniest part of North’s article, though, comes when she says that by “honoring a musical icon, the committee members may have wanted to bring new cultural currency to the prize and make it feel relevant to a younger generation.” Nothing courts the 18-25 demographic like praising a 75-year-old folk musician. Matthew Schnipper, managing editor for Pitchfork, also questioned the choice. “[Dylan’s] work, certainly, is monumental,” Schnipper wrote in a recent editorial, detailing the singer’s accolades and influence. “His
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words changed songwriting— culture, even. And he has been awarded for that repeatedly in appropriate forums—with Grammys, an Oscar, the Presidential Medal of Freedom.” “But he is a musician,” Schnipper continues, drawing a line in the sand. “[H]is relationship with words is as a lyricist, someone whose prose exists inexorably with music. To read his lyrics flatly, without the sound delivering them, is to experience his art reduced.” And while writers like these are arguing in coolheaded prose, others are stirring up angrier rhetoric or drawing stranger conclusions, the result of which are headlines like of this Tim Stanley piece from The Telegraph: “A world that gives Bob Dylan a Nobel Prize is a world that nominates Trump for president.” There are many, however, that defend the choice vehemently or at the very least are just happy Dylan won it. Tim Parks, in a blog on the New York Review of Books website, said that the
Nobel Committee “revealed the pettiness, and boundary drawing that infests literary discourse.” He is refer to people arguing against songwriting as “literature.” “Why can’t these people understand?” he continues. “Art is simply not about a solemn attachment to this or that form. The judge’s decision to celebrate a greatness that also involves writing is a welcome invitation to move away from wearisome rivalries and simply take pleasure in contemplating one man’s awesome achievement.” Rob Scheffield made a similar argument in Rolling Stone, justifying the choice with passages of Ralph Waldo Emerson on the subject of Shakespeare. Tom Waits took the opportunity to send out a rare digital message, saying that it is a “great day for Literature and for Bob when a Master of its original form is celebrated. Before epic tales and poems were ever written down, they migrated on the winds of the human voice and no voice is greater than Dylan’s.” c
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Pato Banton is a famed reggae musician, profound community leader and cannabis advocate by Paul Rogers Reggae star Pato Banton was in the midst of his biggest-ever tour—a global trek for Peter Gabriel’s WOMAD organization in 2000— when he learned that two of his sons had been injured in a drive-by shooting in his native England. He immediately put his burgeoning career on hold to go hunt-down the perpetrator. Gunman found, he then turned his outrage and sorrow into the impetus for award-winning community and educational initiatives which would consume the next six years of his life. Reading like some gritty screenplay, this extended episode epitomizes a man whose fourdecade public presence has increasingly transcended music to convey a singularly positive and often spiritual message. Emerging from a working-class community in Britain’s second-largest city, Birmingham, in the 1970s, Banton is now based in Southern California, from where he continues to tour extensively while simultaneously serving as a mentor (and sometimes minister) to fans worldwide. Banton was almost born into a world of reggae sound systems, with his Jamaican DJ stepfather hosting illegal house parties in his childhood home at which the preteen served as a lookout, doorman 74
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and ultimately, performer. Born Patrick Murray, Banton’s nocturnal musical escapades earned him the nickname “Patoo,” a Jamaican word for owl (“Banton,” meaning formidable lyricist, was added by music producers later). By his late teens, “Ranking Pato” had been declared his hometown’s number one MC seven years in a row and was touring Europe with a local reggae band. But it was his performance on The Beat’s 1982 album Special Beat Service that put him on the mainstream map. Appearances on UB40’s 1985 Baggariddim and Little Baggariddim releases confirmed Banton as a major toasting talent and imminent solo force. Banton’s debut solo album, ‘85s Mad Professor Captures Pato Banton, is still regarded as a genre classic. A string of hits including “Absolute Perfection” and “Handsworth Riot” followed. By the mid 1990s he was topping charts internationally with a cover of Eddy Grant’s “Baby Come Back” (featuring Ali and Robin Campbell of UB40) and collaborations with Sting (a remix of “This Cowboy Song” and a remake of the Police’s “Spirits in a Material World”). Throughout, Banton has been an outspoken promoter of p h o t o s b y J o h n G i l h o o le y
cannabis (referencing how he “smoke up the ganja” on his second single “Allo Tosh,” and that he “only smoke the sensimilla” on 1987 classic “Don’t Sniff Coke”). A famously charismatic, inclusive live performer known for evocative storytelling and comic vocal characterizations, Banton threw himself into philanthropic work after his sons’ shooting, founding community projects, becoming a qualified music teacher, and setting up his own School of Musical Arts and Technology in Birmingham. He has earned numerous accolades for his musical and humanitarian accomplishments, including the BBC’s prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. Upon returning to musicmaking a decade ago, Banton embarked upon a mission to spread positivity, spirituality and universal love. He has two new albums slated for release in February and will be touring in the U.S., U.K., Africa and Asia next year. He just re-recorded “Baby Come Back” with Ali Campbell for a new UB40 release. CULTURE chatted with the affable Banton about his music, message, and long relationship with cannabis. >>
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Starting out in Birmingham in the 1970s, would you ever have pictured yourself still having a thriving career and living in sunny Southern California nearly four decades later? I would not! I had a lot of doubts about my future, but music was always my hobby . . . So it’s really just been an evolution of fun and just a continuation of my love of music and never really felt like an “official” career. Can you paint a picture of the sound system scene from which you emerged? We’d have our sound system in [a living room] with our music box with all the records in it and a speaker box that took up half the room! And we’d be playing music just really for our friends in a dark room and just going on the microphone and chanting lyrics, ‘til eventually it emerged for us to be in nightclubs doing the same thing. What does a typical week in the life of Pato Banton look like these days? Getting the band together . . . hitting the road; doing shows [and] doing interviews while I’m travelling. Writing lyrics. And I’m on my computer every chance I can get—I’m reaching out to new promoters, booking shows for months ahead, because I do my own bookings, I shoot my own videos, I record my own songs in my own recording studio. So it’s really non-stop. You seem to tour constantly. Is that the best part of the job? I get great pleasure out of meeting people—meeting my fans; meeting other artists in the industry; seeing new places. And one of my main motivations is to make people feel better, so I get a chance to meet my fans, talk to them, uplift their spirits—while I’m performing and in person. So I’m not just trying to build a fanbase—I’m actually building a spiritual family as well as I travel, and to me that’s the ultimate goal. Your live shows are unusually participatory experiences. What is your approach to concert performance? It’s not about me just going on stage and doing a rehearsed show—it’s about saying ‘how can I get this entire crowd of people . . . involved in this experience, connected to each other, and get everybody feeling good.’ We never have a set list . . . So it’s really a personal experience for the crowd and no two nights are the same. >> 76
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“[Cannabis] should be legalized and decriminalized and fully accessible— not just to an industry, but also to the individual in their own back yard.”
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How has your sense of humor helped you spread your message? I think the sense of humor is very important, especially considering that most of my lyrics are pretty serious . . . [It] allows people to let go of the stress and drama, enjoy the moment, but also reflect on subjects that are meaningful. From your earliest days recording with Ranking Roger and UB40 to your later hits with Sting and recent work with Mystic Roots, collaboration appears crucial to your creativity. Why is that? It’s friendship when I bond in the studio with another artist . . . And then creating something new, to me, is just very, very inspiring. You touch their audience with your style and then touch your audience with their style. I can do albums by myself, but it’s just much more fun when you go into a situation where someone who has a totally different style to you; a totally different approach to writing to you. Your career straddles the old music business, dominated by major labels and radio play, and the new era of downloads and social media. What have been the pros and cons of these two contrasting landscapes? The pros with a major label really are that you have a team . . . working on every single avenue of your career, because of their investment into you. The cons of a major label are that they only give you less than 10 percent of everything you earn. With downloading, the new era that we’re living in now, there’s no real control of your music . . . But the sales that you do make, you make 100 percent of your own sales. And so for me, as a live touring artist, I sell most of my CDs on the road . . . And, once I release my music digitally now, I own it 100 percent, rather than a record label owning my music. In May, you held your 4th annual Spiritual Gathering in L.A. Just what is Pato Banton’s Spiritual Gathering? A lot of people who are not in religion or in churches are looking for some kind of community . . . We give participants a 30-minute slot to give a presentation to everybody. And these presentations can be on prayer or a spiritual subject or a global subject that has a serious meaning to everybody. And then, in between each speaker, we have people who can sing or play instruments play some music. >> 82
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“The medicinal uses of marijuana and cannabis are so obvious now and so globally recognized now that it is insanity not to allow it to be explored and understood at increasingly deeper levels.�
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After your sons were shot back in Birmingham in 2000, you successfully set out to find the gunman. Tell me that story and about how it impacted your life. I was blown away . . . I thought to myself ‘wow, here I am doing so much for underprivileged and troubled communities around the world [with WOMAD] and I haven’t had a chance to do anything for my own community.’ That really bothered me. I went back home; I found out who shot my kids and it was actually a friend of mine—his son was trying to kill somebody else and my two sons got in the way . . . But, about six months later this kid went and shot somebody else and was caught and ended up getting a life sentence. I took my recording studio that I had at home and set it up in my community center locally and then started inviting all the kids off the streets. That became such a hit that local authorities . . . asked me to set up the same program in 16 other communities . . . Then that became such a huge hit that the local college invited me to set up a music department. Tell me about your personal history with cannabis and how it has impacted your life and music. Growing up in a Caribbean community in England, cannabis, marijuana was just a part of our culture . . . I started smoking myself about the age of 14, 15, but very casually. One thing I enjoyed about my experience with marijuana is that it always made me think deeply . . . my thought becomes profound; my reflections become deeper and my perspective becomes deeper. In reggae music [and] the Rasta community . . . they see marijuana as a sacrament. So it’s done with reverence—we smoke with reverence and respect for the plant.
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“In reggae music [and] the Rasta community . . . they see marijuana as a sacrament. So it’s done with reverence— we smoke with reverence and respect for the plant.”
What are your opinions about both the medicinal and recreational value of cannabis for society as a whole? Both approaches . . . are very, very important for society. Y’know, society needs a different option than alcohol, that’s for sure. [Cannabis] should be legalized and decriminalized and fully accessible—not just to an industry, but also to the individual in their own backyard. The medicinal uses of marijuana and cannabis are so obvious now and so globally recognized now that it is insanity not to allow it to be explored and understood at increasingly deeper levels. For you, how does cannabis enhance spirituality? When I was younger and when I smoked it, it made me think. Thinking is necessary for any kind of progress and profound thinking; deep thinking is necessary for us to go even further in our own personal and social development. So I think that, when I started my spiritual journey, marijuana helped me to become more thoughtful and more self-aware. I hardly smoke anymore; very rarely—I’m more into edibles now . . . but I will say that, when I do eat it, I still have awesome experiences of deeper meditation and deeper thinking.
What are your thoughts on current cannabis legislation in the U.S. and how do you foresee this changing? I feel like the legislation across the U.S. is muddled, confused, and between the federal state and the independent states there needs to be harmony. I think it’s changing and I do see some progress, because this can only go on while a minority of the states have got [cannabis] legislation . . . Once the majority of states slew towards legalization, the federal government will have to back off. Outside of making music, what are the great passions in your life? I do ministry [but] I don’t belong to a church; I don’t belong to any religion. If you want to have the most, you’ve got to give, and so I decided that I wanted to be a minister . . . I’m always serving my fans. I’m performing weddings; I’m christening people; we have spiritual gatherings [and] study groups at my home. Apart from that, I enjoy shooting videos . . . my own videos and I do videos for other people. Your last album was Destination Paradise in 2008. What’s on the horizon for you, musically? I’m working on two albums right now and one of them is basically done . . . It’s called Love is the Greatest and it’s coming from all different aspects of love. And then I’ve got another album that I’m working on called BrotherFriend which is more of a heavy album dealing with world issues. I have a third album as well that I’m working on which is called The Words of Rastafari, which is a three-CD album where I am narrating the words of Haile Selassie over some Bob Marley rhythms. c
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CANNABIS GIVES BACK Great benefits come from providing support to our local communities by Addison Herron-Wheeler
We’ve already seen all the good that cannabis can do. From providing medical relief and safe recreation to generating tax revenue thanks to astronomical sales, more and more people all the time are starting to come around to the idea that cannabis is a good thing that can do good for the community. But in addition to all of this, there are many
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programs within the cannabis industry that go a step further, intentionally using products and profits to make the world, or at least the local community, a better place. Here are a few ways that cannabis is giving back and helping contribute to positive change. >>
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Environmental Stewardship The double meaning of “going green” that makes cannasseurs chuckle is more than just a clever pun. The industry has been seeking ways to be more environmentally sustainable when it comes to things like growing large amounts of cannabis and extracting oil. The recent Cannabis Sustainability Summit in Colorado brought leaders in the industry together from across the country to talk about how to make the green more green. Also, an initiative in legal states has many local dispensaries sponsoring highways in order to keep them clean and litter-free.
Helping Underserved and Marginalized Communities In addition to helping out the environment, many cannabis businesses go out of their way to serve communities that otherwise would be passed over. Good Chemistry, a dispensary with production facilities in Colorado and Nevada, participates in many LGBTQ-friendly events because they hit close to home. “I became involved in the medical marijuana industry when my father and my father’s partner were diagnosed with HIV/AIDS,” stated Matthew Huron, Founder and CEO of Good Chemistry. “In 1996, when medical marijuana became available in California, I saw firsthand the symptomatic relief patients experienced from this alternative medical treatment. In 2000, I began growing medical marijuana for AIDS patients throughout the state, founding and operating a nonprofit medical marijuana co-op.” Now as a Denver-based dispensary, Huron makes sure to participate in the AIDS walk and One Colorado’s Ally Awards, in order to actively help the LGBTQ community. Additionally, Good Chemistry supports Urban Nights, a fashion show that benefits the homeless youth of Colorado, and many other organizations. “To be an industry that is not only accepted but also valued, we must extend our support to other communities and causes,” explains Huron. “We must continue to fight for other underserved communities. Good Chemistry Nurseries would not exist without the support and advocacy of others, and we prioritize giving back.”
Getting Underprivileged Patients Education and Access to Medicine Another great way for the cannabis community to help support those in need is for organizations to provide medical cannabis to those who don’t know
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“To be an industry that is not only accepted but also valued, we must extend our support to other communities and causes.” about it as an option or can’t afford it themselves. Missouri’s NORML is currently spearheading Project 22, an initiative that combines efforts between Saint Louis, Kansas City and Denver’s NORML organizations. NORML is currently collecting funds to educate local leaders by taking them on trips to Denver so that they can witness what legalization is actually like first hand. Additionally, they are raising money through Kickstarter and other means in order to purchase cannabis for veterans that suffer from PTSD.
Feeding the Hungry Last but not least, Denver NORML is currently raising money to contribute to the Denver Rescue Mission, which will be buying Thanksgiving meals for the homeless. They also plan to collect cans during the Holiday season that they will turn over to the Rocky Mountain Food Bank. Simple charity initiatives like this can be done without much money, yet still prove that cannabis enthusiasts are the first in line to lend a helping hand. This Thanksgiving season, it seems that more organizations than ever are stepping up to the task of giving back. c
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Veterans’ New
Battlefront
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Cannabis
by Benjamin M. Adams
In recent months, a landslide of states are moving forward and adding PostTraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as a qualifying illness. There’s never before been as many advocates becoming vocal about the efficacy of medical cannabis in military veterans suffering from PTSD. Eighteen states now recognize PTSD as well as the District of Columbia and Guam. In November, Montana will decide if they will make the same change. Pressure to add PTSD increases as the American Legion, who represents 2.4 million military veterans, challenged Congress with a bid to reschedule medical cannabis. The Legion passed a formal resolution addressing both the DEA and members of Congress. Dr. Sue Sisley was instrumental with the task of convincing the American Legion to join the battle to allow veterans to medicate with cannabis. The Phoenix-based physician was also a key player in the effort to launch the first Government-aided study on the effectiveness of cannabis in treating veterans suffering from PTSD. Recently, Congress passed a spending bill, but first dropped a provision that would have allowed veterans to have access to medical cannabis in states where it’s legal. The Veterans Equal 94
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Access Amendment would have allowed doctors to recommend cannabis as a treatment for PTSD. Military veterans could benefit from the unique healing mechanisms available from medical cannabis. According to a recent estimate from the National Institutes of Health, there are 7.7 million Americans suffering from various forms of PTSD. Patients say traditional PTSD treatments aren’t enough. Many states list PTSD as a qualifying illness explicitly and in others it falls under additional conditions. In Colorado, the debate has dragged on for a decade. Patients must rely on permission by the state’s Department of Health. The state’s Board of Health has denied many PTSD patients based on the excuse that there is not enough supporting scientific evidence. Colorado is the latest to make a move to add PTSD to the list of eight other qualifying illnesses. A handful of PTSD patients in Colorado filed a lawsuit against the Board of Health, prompting the state panel decision to vote in favor to add PTSD to its list of illnesses. The panel voted unanimously in favor 5-0 to endorse the addition of PTSD to the state’s 2000 medical cannabis law. The recommendation suggests that the state legislature make a move when work resumes in January. The Board of Health
has rejected four separate applications to add PTSD in the past. In New Jersey, Governor Chris Christie recently caved and signed a bill allowing PTSD sufferers to have access to medical cannabis. Remaining a staunch opponent of loosened cannabis laws, Christie stipulated that he hopes the bill will not be used to abuse cannabis. “Requiring conventional medical therapy to be ineffective in treating PTSD before medical marijuana can be prescribed is an appropriate threshold safeguard to deter misuse in the Medical Marijuana Program,” the governor stated after he signed the bill. PTSD joins New Jersey’s list of six other conditions. After several failed attempts, Illinois has claimed victory. Over the summer, Illinois’ Republican Governor Bruce Rauner signed Senate Bill 10 into law, adding PTSD to the list of conditions. Illinois’ Medical Cannabis Pilot program runs through 2020. Advocates believe adding PTSD is just what Illinois needs to sustain its medical cannabis program. Florida’s Amendment 2 would add PTSD to its list of conditions. Voters will decide in November whether to expand the state’s medical cannabis program, which allows low-THC products. Many retired veterans call Florida home and are addicted to opioid-based painkillers and other drugs. >>
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The states that recognize PTSD include the following:
PTSD as a qualifying condition
qualifies as approved by physician
Arizona
California
Connecticut
District of Columbia
Delaware
Illinois
Massachusetts
Maine
Nevada
Michigan
New Jersey New Mexico Ohio Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island Tennessee Washington
“Requiring conventional medical therapy to be ineffective in treating PTSD before medical marijuana can be prescribed is an appropriate threshold safeguard to deter misuse in the Medical Marijuana Program.� 96
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Industry Insider “There are a lot of pieces to it but we’re confident we’re going to get it done and get it done right.”
California’s Cannabis Czar Lori Ajax by R. Scott Rappold If you had to sum up 20 years of medical cannabis regulation in California in a word, that word would be “chaos.” Regulation is a patchwork of local rules varying from town to town, with patients, growers and collectives subject to the whims of mayors, city councils, district attorneys and sheriffs. What’s legal in one county can get you thrown in jail in another. Meet the woman in charge of finding some method to the madness in California; California’s first “cannabis czar.” Lori Ajax was appointed this year to oversee implementation of the Medical Marijuana Regulation and Safety Act, a job that involves creating a state agency from scratch and helping to draw up and implement new regulations. And then there’s the elephant in the room. If Californians approve legalizing recreational cannabis November 8, her job could become infinitely more complex. And time is not really on her side, with a mandate to begin accepting license applications for medical-cannabis businesses on January 1, 2018. >>
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p h o t o s b y M A NH A R T P HO T O G R A P HY
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She may be a Republican who’s never touched the stuff, but she welcomes the challenge. “That is an aggressive timeline and it’s a lot of work but we’re committed to getting it done. We’re confident we can do it, and there are a lot of moving parts,” said Ajax, 50. “There are a lot of pieces to it but we’re confident we’re going to get it done and get it done right.” Before being appointed by Governor Jerry Brown to run the Bureau of Medical Marijuana Regulation, Ajax worked for years in the state’s Department of Alcohol and Beverage Control, rising through the ranks to chief deputy director. While she touted her experience enforcing alcohol laws, Ajax knows cannabis is a very different ball game, emerging from decades of prohibition and 20 years of little state oversight. “Alcohol laws and regulations have been around 80 years or so. There’s a difference with cannabis. There’s a lot of stuff going on in a very quick time frame, a lot of changes, a lot of things on the horizon,” she said. But she likes a challenge and thought her skills would translate well to the new role, so she accepted the appointment. When Ajax took the reins earlier this year, she was literally a department of one. She has since hired 11 people, with plans to expand to 15 or so next year. One of the first challenges has been to build an information technology department. Since three separate state agencies will oversee different aspects of cannabis production, distribution and sale, setting up the shared infrastructure is no small task. Number two on the list of no small tasks is bringing the many different interests and stakeholders to the table for what promises to be the thorny process of drafting regulations to implement the Medical Marijuana Regulation and Safety Act. That legislation created 17 different types of licenses for cannabis businesses, as well as rules about the size of grow operations, vertical integration, deliveries and testing. Ajax has been traveling the state and hosting public “preregulatory meetings” to get input from the industry and the public on how all this will be implemented. She has sensed some trepidation among the industry but also excitement about finally being legitimized. “They’ve been doing it for the last 20 years without much regulation, and some at the local level. They’re concerned about us over-regulating them. They’re concerned about how our licensing fees will be. They want to make sure they’re not getting taxed too high,” she said. “At the same time, there’s a real positive response. They’re looking forward to it. They want to make sure they’re being heard.” Another group she’s been listening to intently is local officials and law enforcement, who have been the sole regulators of an industry the federal government still considers illegal. She assures them that under the Act’s dual licensing scheme—one from the local government, one from the state— local rules will remain in force, even when they are stricter than state regulations. The laborious process of drawing up the regulations will take place over the course of 2017. Until then, all businesses operating under local licenses may proceed with business as usual. And what does Ajax think about the fact that if the voters approve recreational cannabis, it will vastly change her and the Bureau’s responsibilities? One job at a time, she said. “We’ll just wait and see what happens and what the voters decide,” she said. “It does expand the scope of the Bureau. At 100
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“Alcohol laws and regulations have been around 80 years or so. There’s a difference with cannabis. There’s a lot of stuff going on in a very quick time frame, a lot of changes, a lot of things on the horizon.” the same time, our priorities are still there with both medicinal and recreational, with the eye of making sure we have safe cannabis, that we preserve public safety.” For her part, Ajax has said publicly many times that she’s never tried cannabis. Combined with the fact that she is a Republican, a party not known to be friendly to cannabis, should the industry be concerned? “I don’t think it should have any bearing. I think there are plenty of regulated industries, from alcohol to pharmaceuticals, where people don’t necessary use the product to regulate it. My job is to keep an open mind on everything and be flexible and listen to people and do my job.” So is she excited or nervous about the major changes coming to California and the big job ahead of her? “I’m probably a little bit of both. I’m excited and at the same time, I keep telling myself, ‘One day at a time.’ When you think too far ahead it gets a little overwhelming, but of course I’m looking ahead and we have our own the goals but at the same time it’s one day at a time and I’m confident we’ll get it done.” “Being nervous is not a bad thing.” c
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The Sweet and Savory Sound of Weekend Nachos The hardcore metal band infuses humor and lighthearted fun into its dark and heavy persona 102
by Addison Herron-Wheeler
Weekend Nachos is an interesting musical beast. Named for a goofy snack, the Chicagobased hardcore metal band embrace its sense of humor but also covers some serious concepts in its lyrics. Comprised of some straight-edge naturalists and some cannabis enthusiasts, Weekend Nachos can agree on the fact that cannabis should be legal and prohibition should end, despite how the members personally feel
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about smoking it. The band also hopes that cannabis enthusiasts can appreciate its doominfluenced riffs when it does choose to get slow and heavy. Its name alone entices cannasseurs to create their own paradise of nacho-based deliciousness. CULTURE recently caught up with vocalist John Hoffman to talk about prohibition, edibles as medicine, rock n’ roll and beans and rice. >>
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“In the same way that I think listening to Sheryl Crow or Mary J. Blige’s music should be legal, I also think smoking marijuana should be legal. You shouldn’t outlaw something that isn’t a threat to society.” How did you get started making music? All of us have been playing in bands since we were like 12 or 13 years old, so just the fact that we know each other meant that we were destined to eventually start a band at one point. That’s just what people in the music scene do; they eventually start bands with each other. Andy and I were living together in college when Weekend Nachos began. Do you have any upcoming shows, releases or projects in the works? We had our final European tour in October, and our last shows will be in Denver and Chicago towards the end of the year or beginning of 2017. After that, we all have other bands we’re working on, [such as] Spine, Like Rats, Belonger, Hateforce and Ledge. We hope to continue doing shit for a long time; we just don’t need to do much with Weekend Nachos anymore. How do you feel about metal and hardcore and their relation to the cannabis community? I think rock n’ roll in general goes hand in hand with mind-altering substances. So, a lot of people in the metal and hardcore scene use cannabis. Then there are some subgenres of metal like
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stoner metal, doom, sludge, shit like Electric Wizard and Sleep, where weed smoking is encouraged and embraced in the actual lyrical content. You can’t really go to a metal show without smelling weed in the air. How do you feel about legalization so far? Could anything be done better or differently? I think legalization of marijuana is important, because it is not dangerous, and outlawing it is just unnecessary. In America it is perfectly legal for a 21-year-old to drink alcohol, and that is a lot more dangerous than someone smoking a joint. It is perfectly legal for some redneck to own a rifle, and that is a lot more dangerous than someone smoking a joint. In the same way that I think listening to Sheryl Crow or Mary J. Blige’s music should be legal, I also think smoking marijuana should be legal. You shouldn’t outlaw something that isn’t a threat to society. Have you ever worked cannabis into your music as a theme? If so, how? In an early Weekend Nachos song, I almost added the lyric “Beans and rice are mighty nice, smoking weed with Jesus Christ,” but it never materialized. That being said, I always
wanted our really slow and heavy parts to appeal to people who were really high on weed. One time a dude told me he smoked weed to one of our sludge parts, and I thought that was cool because it means we wrote a really slow, really heavy part totally the right way. How has cannabis affected your lives and creative processes? Byron’s (Lueders, drummer) been smoking weed since he was young. He says he eats edibles to medicate his selfloathing. Andy (Nelson, guitarist) smokes weed sometimes too, which I think mellows him out. Drew (Brown, bass) and I prefer to live un-altered but definitely think everyone should be able to smoke a plant if they want, without going to jail for it. How did you come up with the food reference for a name? Okay, so we always knew we were going to be a very heavy, brutal, hateful band. But we never wanted anyone in the hardcore or metal scene to predict what we sounded like, so we decided to come up with an intentionally silly, lighthearted name to throw people off. c weekendnachos.bandcamp.com
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Haunting and Haute
Critically acclaimed artist Elizabeth McGrath creates magical worlds and creatures to populate her imagination and our dreams by Sarah Elise Abramson
It comes as no surprise that such charmingly unusual art would come from an artist who bears those same traits. Elizabeth McGrath is a Los Angeles-based artist who has shown work with the likes of Banksy, Robert Williams, Mark Ryden and SHAG, to name a few. McGrath’s unconventional childhood took her down a path that eventually led to the punk scene and from there; she began her career as an artist. When walking into McGrath’s studio it is hard not to notice all the aberrant relics strewn about. It is filled to the brim with exquisite and uncommon books of all sorts, cute/creepy little toys still in their plastic packaging, gems, clay, feathers, geodes, halffinished drawings and sculptures of equally half-finished creatures and faces. She talks a mile a minute but in the most endearing way. You don’t want to miss anything she’s saying for it’s all relevant and is invariably interesting. With as much success and popularity McGrath has earned, you can tell that is of little interest to her. For someone so unusual, she’s quite grounded with a humble attitude and a kind spirit. As so many things do, it all began with the discovery of punk music. McGrath sat down with CULTURE to answer a few questions ranging from what she’s been up to lately all the way to how she got her start in the art world. >>
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How did punk music and that whole scene influence you and your art? I was drawn in by the aesthetics. I remember seeing the Sex Pistols on the news, and after that I sought out anything having to do with punk rock. I grew up in a time when the internet was just being invented, and there were only a handful of TV and radio stations so art for me was found in local record and comic book shops through flyers, zines and the like. I liked the punk record covers the best. They were the ones that had drawings and stuff on them while all the metal and new wave bands had photos—except Guns N’ Roses did have that one Robert Williams cover.
“It’s no one’s business what I grow in my backyard or what I put into my body. If people can inject botulism and plastic bags into their body then why can’t I legally smoke what I want?” How do you think your music and art correlate? I was in a punk band called Tongue and made the flyers and T-shirts and such. I started a fanzine with a number of students from PCC and a man named Ed Dawson called Censor This—the motto was that we censored nothing and the logo was a walking middle finger hand and the finger was in the shape of a penis to symbolize that it was a place where anyone who wanted to, could share whatever they wanted to without judgment because it was a no judgment zone. We felt that symbol best described this. We mostly featured comics and art and lots of punk band interviews. Through the fanzine and punk band we ended up playing a Juxtapoz party and I was invited to hang some of my flyers in the art show that coincided with it. Greg Escalante's (creator of Juxtapoz Magazine) brother, Joe Escalante, was in The Vandals who we had just recently interviewed for the fanzine . . . and they were also on the bill. Greg, who was doing a lot of pop-up shows at the time, bought a piece of art I’d made and asked me to be in other shows he was putting on. That’s sort of how I got my start. >> 108
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What do you enjoy creating the most? What brings you the most joy and satisfaction? I love getting lost in a place while listening to audio books. Who do you make art for? Whoever likes it! Paint a picture of a normal day in the life of Liz McGrath. Right now it’s like a love/hate thing. I’m preparing for a show and only have a few months left to finish everything. So, I get into my studio on a Monday or Tuesday and I put on an audio book and I sculpt until I can›t see . . . usually about 18 hours. Then I crawl into a hidden loft bed cave above some shelves of materials and crash for five to six hours if I›m lucky and repeat this until the weekend. I’ll crack open a few cans of beans or whatever canned food I’ve stocked up on and do this until a Saturday. Then I go to my house, turn off my phone and hang out with my daughter until Monday. Then I go back to my studio and
repeat this process. It’s not ideal but until I›m done with this show, this is what I have to do to make it work. My daughter and husband have been really patient with me! What can we expect to see from you in the future? I have a bunch of merchandise stuff in the works after this show I’m working on that’s for Corey Helford Gallery. It’s on November 5. I’m in Gallery 3 and my friend Natalia Fabia is in Gallery 1. How do you feel about the legalization of cannabis in our country? I’m all for it being legal. Especially since it’s so natural. I can grow it in my own backyard. It’s no one’s business what I grow in my backyard or what I put into my body. If people can inject botulism and plastic bags into their body then why can’t I legally smoke what I want!? c www.elizabethmcgrath.com
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TAKE A DRAG
Laganja Estranja is a RuPaul’s Drag Race star who is a huge supporter of cannabis by Benjamin M. Adams
Laganja Estranja dazzled her audience with her witty comebacks and catchphrases as a breakout star on RuPaul’s Drag Race (RPDR) Season 6. Laganja is ripe with talent considering the progress of her musical career, but when she’s not performing and rapping, teaching dance school or starring on television, she’s promoting LA Hepburns, her line of ice water hash prerolls. After a live performance in downtown L.A., CULTURE caught up with Laganja Estranja over some flowers during a rare break in between her U.K. tour and Peru tour. >>
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I’ve seen dozens of aspiring drag queens, lined up, with starry-eyed dreams of breaking into the world of Hollywood and the music industry. Why did you succeed while so many others fall short?
What led you to tap into the cannabis industry? My name is Laganja Estranja, so it was only a matter of time. In college, about four or five years ago, I was doing a dance piece where I was lifted above three girl’s heads. Long story short, I was dropped and injured my back. I started seeing a chiropractor. I didn’t like it. I thought the technique was a little too aggressive to heal my body. My chiropractor said maybe I should try medical marijuana for my pain. I never really smoked growing up, so I wasn’t open to the idea. My grandma died of cancer, so any kind of smoking equaled cancer because it reminded me of my grandmother. My pain got worse, so I decided, fuck it. I got my card, and started medicating. I’ve tried it before, but never for medical reasons. I went to a real doctor. I went to a real collective, not one of those ones with bars on the windows. So fast forward a couple of years later, I got off my anti-depressants. I got off Ambien for sleep. I was able to get off any pharmaceutical that I was on.
Why is cannabis important to you? Naturally, as I was becoming a drag queen, I knew that I wanted to have a platform that I’d always be able to fall back on. Being a drag queen was never something that I planned on doing long-term. I saw RuPaul’s Drag Race as a launchpad for my career. I told myself that I wanted something embedded in my name that I can fall back on. I chose marijuana because at that time I was in art school, everyone smoked. I was seeing, even four years ago, how much more accepted cannabis was becoming. I told myself that I’m going to get on this wave, and become something. I will be the gay face of marijuana. My first introduction to marijuana was for medical reasons, so it’s very important for me to continue this idea and brand. You recently released partnered with San Francisco’s The Hepburns to release LA Hepburns, your own line of ice water hash prerolls. My products are all organic/veganic. It’s ice water hash, so there’s very little chemicals involved in that process. My joints are literally as healthy as a joint could be. They come in two sizes. There’s the Big Deluxe joint, which is for high rollers and those who are looking to party more. Then we have our little tin of bud joints—Those are more lady like. It contains almost an eighth. 114
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My secret to success is two things. One is: “L’important c’est de durer” by Yves Saint Laurent which means ‘’The important thing is to laugh’’ in French. Yves Saint Laurent was the longest lasting couture person there is. He lasted longer than Louis Vuitton, Chanel, all of them. There’s this amazing documentary where he is smoking cigarettes. In the documentary, he takes a big puff of his cigarette and he says it so beautifully. After Season 6, I thought that I’d never do drag again. I went back to that quote and remembered that it’s not about how I’m being perceived right now, but in the future. The other motto is “Don’t dream it, be it” from Rocky Horror Picture Show. c
“I was seeing, even four years ago, how much more accepting cannabis was becoming. I told myself that I’m going to get on this wave, and become something. I will be the gay face of marijuana.” Was Season 6 of RuPaul’s Drag Race a turning point for you and your career? Of course. Are you kidding me? Up until that point I was literally working for $50 a night. My booking fee automatically quadrupled because of my appearance on TV. I’m very thankful for having been on that show. It wasn’t always easy growing up in front of an audience. I think that I’m a lot better person because I survived everything that I went through on the TV show. I’m proud to be part of the RuPaul’s Drag Race experience and the legacy. I think I’m doing a great job of that regardless of whether I’m on RPDR All Stars or not. I was asked to do the show, and it didn’t work out. And I’m very happy about that, to be honest. I’m so proud to see Alyssa every week. I’m happy to host my own local RPDR viewing party. I enjoy being part of the brand without having to compete again.
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One Senior’s Journey to Health
From despising cannabis to advocating for access and education by Maggie J.
A senior citizen who wishes to remain anonymous didn’t use cannabis for 65 years. “I felt it was something that a bunch of young people did recreationally that did nothing but ultimately get them in trouble with the law. I also felt it was a gateway to harder stuff. I thought it led to crime. Because they couldn’t find work, I believed potheads would commit crimes in order to pay for their habit.” He didn’t have friends or family who used cannabis for the majority of his life. “I hadn’t known anyone who used it since the military, back in the '60s. If I had known of any friends or relatives that used it, I would have avoided them.” When he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, everything changed. He recounts the day he received the news. “Strangely enough, I was mostly concerned about my grandson and his well-being, his reaction if something would happen to me. As it turns out, I never told him.” In the first weeks after his diagnosis, he thought, “Should I do radiation? Or should I watch and wait?” He researched alternative treatments and consulted homeopathic experts. He even considered juicing. But, when he read about the effects of cannabis on cancer cells, his opinion began to shift. All of the stories and studies he read made him start to rethink his negative opinion. “Even some of the news stories I saw highlighted the benefits of medical marijuana.” Just before starting his radiation, a friend began giving him homemade cannabutter. He put it on his toast every morning. “I think the Cannabutter gave me a bit of an edge. I never really felt anything,
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like feeling high, from the butter at the time. But, I got myself to and from all of my appointments and still socialized some, including going to church and running my Sunday school class. Not everyone I saw was receiving their treatment as well and I think that my doing so well had something to do with the cannabis butter toast.” After the 42 days of treatment five days a week, the radiation was over. His PSA levels were checked. He was officially in remission. He stopped using the cannabutter for a year after remission. His PSA, “started creeping up from the hundredths to the tenths. I didn’t like that it was creeping back up and I wondered when this was going to stop.” Knowing cannabis could help his body keep the cancer from coming back, but not always wanting to feel the, “high” associated with cannabis, was frustrating. His friend suggested CBD oil. Every chance he got, he puffed on a CBD vape pen. He had never been a smoker, so learning to inhale was a big challenge. “The first PSA after I started using CBD oil, the upward escalation of the PSA number was less than it had been before. The second PSA was down a little bit from the one before. I do not have anything to attribute it to. I don’t eat any differently, I don’t exercise any more than I did before or after. There is just nothing different, frankly, except the use of CBD and cannabis. ” Since the start of using CBD a couple of years ago, his PSA has remained at a steady 0.2. He also recently started using a topical lotion for his arthritis pain. Since beginning, he has seen a great deal of relief in the pain in his hands and wrist. His doctor has prescribed Vicodin for pain, which he is allowed to take as needed.
“I’d rather use the lotion. I don’t feel loopy or sleepy by rubbing the lotion in like I do by taking pain killers.” When he smokes the whole plant, he feels, “Euphoria is too strong of a word. It’s like everything is good. So, happy is the best way I can describe it. And it doesn’t last all that long since I just take one or two puffs.” He adds that he eats pretty healthily, takes a few different medications as prescribed and sees his doctors on a regular basis. Today’s opinion? “I think it has medicinal value, at least for my ailments. My exposure to THC and CBD has caused me to be less judgmental about those who use it, because I don’t see it as this monster I used to see it as. I recognize it has medicinal value.” Although he no longer plays the role of Director of Diversity for a major oil company, he still chooses to remain anonymous. Why? “I’m a pillar of my community. I am looked up to by many people who would not understand, nor accept, my usage.” “You can’t do HR work if you do cannabis. And I still do some contract work. Sometimes, I can be hired to oversee things including the drug and alcohol testing programs. People would see it as the fox watching the henhouse. Simply, a bad idea.” He just celebrated his 69th birthday and will be cancer-free for five years in November. He continues to use cannabis in a red state because, “It helps. My PSA has been at a steady 0.2 for the last couple of years, with the most recent on taken at the beginning of September.” He closes with a laugh as he says, “Really, cannabis has helped me enjoy a higher quality of life.” c
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VIKINGS
AND CANNABIS
A new archaeological discovery shows that Vikings used cannabis
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by Jasen T. Davis
According to historians, the Viking Age started in 790 A.D. and continued up until 1066 A.D., when the Normans finally conquered England. Warriors, explorers and traders, these fearless women and men originated in Scandinavia and eventually spread throughout Europe, venturing as far as China, the Middle East, Russia and even America. They had their own distinct religion, culture and art, and when they weren’t raiding monasteries and villages along the European coastline for loot and slaves, they were setting up colonies
in places like Greenland and venturing as far as China. The Oseburg burial mound was excavated by an archaeologist from Norway named Haakon Shetelig and Swedish archaeologist named Gabriel Gustafson in 1904 A.D. After a farmer near Tønsberg in Vestfold, Norway discovered evidence of a large gravesite and contacted local authorities, workers dug up the graves of several women, dozens of horses and animals, several sleighs, a chariot and a large Viking ship, probably buried around the year 834 A.D. >>
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Amongst the everyday items and artifacts could be found bed posts, wooden chests, figurines, tools, woolen garments, silk, tapestries and leather pouches containing cannabis. The site was well preserved, mostly because of the large mass of clay surrounding the objects. Baskets of fruit and even bread dough were discovered. Historians have determined that the women were probably rulers, since normal individuals would not have been buried with so much treasure. The cannabis in question was probably given to the older women to treat cancer, since DNA evidence shows that she probably died from the disease. The Vikings were very proficient in herbalism, and knew that various plants could cure illnesses, treat pain and induce psychoactive effects. This isn’t the first time Vikings have been found growing cannabis. Another find, the Sosteli farmsted, was dug up in the south side of Norway in Vest-Adger County back in 2012 A.D. Archaeologists also found evidence of cannabis amongst the remains. Regardless of whether it was for religious purposes or recreation, did Vikings use cannabis for its psychoactive properties? Although science isn’t certain, according to historians on the subject Vikings would often eat hallucinogenic Amanita Muscaria mushrooms washed
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“The Vikings were very proficient in herbalism, and knew that various plants could cure illnesses, treat pain and induce psychoactive effects.” down with healthy amounts of reindeer urine to get themselves high before battle so that they would be numb to fear and pain. If they were willing to do all that for a buzz, smoking cannabis to wind down must have certainly been an option, and it would have been a lot easier than hanging out with pissing reindeer. Vikings were not the only people who used cannabis in ancient Europe. Other people grew the plant and used it for textiles and religious purposes. German pagans used cannabis in connection with the worship of the Norse goddess of love, Freya. They even smoked cannabis during fertility rituals. The Celtic people also made use of cannabis, since evidence of the plant have been found throughout Ireland and Scotland. Scientists also know the Sythians, a warlike, red-haired race that also ended up exploring regions as far as China, used cannabis in shamanist rituals or for
the purposes of engineering textiles. Although scientists haven’t found solid evidence to indicate that Vikings grew cannabis specifically for the purposes of mental intoxication (it is widely believed they just grew hemp for textile purposes), it wouldn’t be a stretch if they did since we know for certain that the tribes in Germany that worshiped the same gods as Vikings used cannabis for their religious ceremonies. Many other cultures at the time did the same thing, and the seafaring raiders film and television has made so famous came into contact with all of them. For example, Sikh warriors in the Middle East who used cannabis to deal with wounds they got from fighting. The Chinese used cannabis for medicinal properties, too. The Vikings met all of these people, so it would not be impossible to believe they learned about the power of the plant from the cultures they fought and traded with. c
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How did you get started making music? Right before I turned 12 years old, my mother brought a friend over to show my older brother’s band a few pointers on how to shred on guitar. Her name was Diane and she had long, '80s metal black hair, tight zebra-print skinny pants and a bright yellow flying-V guitar. I remember sitting on the couch with my jaw slack. I was blown away. I can’t recall thinking that I wanted to play like that myself, because it was so magic and awesome. A few days later, my mom tells me that she noticed how taken I was by Diane’s playing and asked if I wanted an electric guitar for my upcoming birthday. I was like, “HELL YES!” So it was on from there on out.
Carni Camaraderie
Carnival rock band Plankeye Peggy are all about the abnormal, free-flowing creativity and cannabis legalization by Addison Herron-Wheeler Over the past few years, the culture of cannabis has significantly shifted. Instead of the focus being nothing but reggae, rap and stoner humor, legalization and normalization of the plant have made it abundantly clear that cannabis is something that influences the artistic
output of many. Even bands from genres as unassuming as neoclassical and carnival rock are starting to come out as advocates. CULTURE caught up with Danny Tetrault, front man of carnival rock group Plankeye Peggy, to talk music, inspiration and the insanity of prohibition.
“Cannabis has personally helped me deal with all of my flying emotions on a daily basis. It really helps me understand that I don’t need to carry all the weight all the time.” 122
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Who are some of your biggest influences? I, personally, was influenced by metal from the late ‘80s and ‘90s. It wasn’t until I discovered Mr. Bungle when I was around 17 that other genres started seeping in. I was instantly enamored with the way they could mix so many genres together and still make it rock. It definitely inspired me to look further in my limited musical world. The more recent discoveries of bands like Man Man, Devotchka, Yann Tiersen and Andrew Bird definitely had a huge part in influencing the music that Plankeye Peggy is drawn to, with Mr. Bungle still at the heart of it. Brian Grasso (bass guitarist) grew up with more of a soul, funk and reggae background. Dave Gilbert (lead guitarist) was dipping into the world of free jazz and classic rock in his days. Jon Lauterer (drums) is the biggest Beatles fan I know and was brought up on classic rock and a lot of the same metal from my past. >>
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“It is completely insane for cannabis to be illegal in the first place. I hope to see more states following suit in the near future.”
Do you have any upcoming shows, releases, or projects in the works? We just had our first CD release in March of this year. We are currently playing locally in Asheville NC, and cities within two to four hours reach from us. We are shooting to expand that reach as much as possible. How do you feel about the genre you are a part of? What kind of support do you have? Our “genre” has been one of the hardest aspects of this band’s existence. We simply don’t fit in one. You can call it carnival rock. You can call it pirate sex. You can call it so many different things and still not really describe it. Experimental or experimental rock tends to be the only thing we can choose from all the drop-down menus we get to pick from if we even get that option at all. In truth, we are quite comfortable about the fact that we challenge the music scene in that way. It goes along with the way we tend to cross-dress pretty often on stage, too. We are breaking down the barriers between man, woman and genre, as if to say, “Don’t fuss over that shit. Let’s just have a good time!”
The support we get is from people that are real music lovers. We are not a band for everyone, and we know it. We attract people that are looking for music outside of the norm, and when they find us it’s like we all just fall in love. How do you feel about cannabis legalization so far? Could anything be done better or differently? I, personally, am happy about it! Let’s face it. It is completely insane for cannabis to be illegal in the first place. I hope to see more states following suit in the near future. I live in one of the states that it is still illegal, and find it hard to understand how people can still have their lives turned upside down and serve jail time for something that is proving to help people so much in the states that have made the change. It brings in so much money that can be taxed and used for education, just like it has been proven to work in Colorado. Have you ever worked cannabis into your music as a theme? I never was the kind of guy that preaches to the crowd. I am more the guy that slips into your head and shuffles things
around to get a different point of view. Then I slip out before anyone is the wiser. How has cannabis affected your lives and creative processes? It seems that my lyrics come from a mental state of desperation, mischievousness, depression, obsession and extreme openness (to name a few). Cannabis has personally helped me deal with all of my flying emotions on a daily basis. It really helps me understand that I don’t need to carry all the weight all the time. Is there anything else you’d like to add? Since we are fairly new to the scene, we need all the help we can get to have our music put out there. If we have stirred up any interest from you, we ask that you take the time to check us out. Go to plankeyepeggy.com to listen to our music, see live videos, and get on our mailing list. If you find yourselves moved by what we so vulnerably put out there for your pleasure, spread the word. Help get us get out to your side of the playground. c plankeyepeggy.com
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culture growing RECIPES UNKNOWN
by Ed Rosenthal
Last month I started an experiment trying to produce pollen from female plants. Because female plants carry only female sex genes any flowers pollinated using this pollen will result in seeds that will all become female plants. Three different chemicals were tried: 30PPM colloidal silver sprayed daily, silver thiosulfate (which is a combination silver nitrate and sodium thiosulfate sprayed three times) and a commercial product advertised for the purpose that was sprayed daily. Each liquid was sprayed on four plants, one each of Blue Dream, Candyland, Sour Diesel and Girl Scout Cookies. After 30 days the only plants that responded in any way to the treatments were the four plants that received
the commercial spray. It has been 30 days since the experiment was started and on the four plants sprayed with the commercial formula the male flowers are large and profuse. They look like they are about to open and to release their pollen. These plants have grown no female flowers. My plan is to collect the pollen from each of the bearing plants and then to use this to pollinate unsprayed females. The “unaffected” sprayed plants will also be pollinated to see if they are fertile and capable of producing seed. While this is happening, I am setting up another two groups of four plants to try different versions of the colloidal silver and silver thiosulfate experiment: Rather than use the colloidal silver at 30 ppm daily, the concentration will be increased to 100 ppm with daily spraying.
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Rather than just spraying the silver thiosulfate weekly, the plants will be sprayed with a different regimen. Several are being considered. All of them involve more frequent spraying. I was disappointed that the colloidal silver and STS didn’t work, but I attribute it to a flaw in method since both are successfully used all the time. The new plants will be clones transplanted to 6” containers placed in a 4’ x 4’ tray. They will be given continuous light for three days. Then they will be placed in the flowering section, which is a greenhouse that will get between 11 and 10 hours of sunlight daily, dwindling as autumn progresses. The sun is supplemented with a 1000 watt HPS lamp that is on for 12 hours daily. As the new plants commence flowering, the seeds resulting from the successful pollen production of the earlier experiment will be maturing. Shortly after they mature, representative samples will be germinated and flowered in standard 10” x 20” trays to check their femaleness and for hermaphroditism. At the same time, it will be a study in flowering plants directly from germinating seed. c
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Experimental garden. Three rows were treated with masculinizing agents. The fourth was used as a control.
Each row held four varieties—Blue Dream, Candyland, Sour Diesel and Girl Scout Cookies and coded with different colors for each spray product .
A Sour Diesel treated with the commercial spray switched sexes completely.
Bud of Sour Diesel female plant treated with the commercial product shows no indication of female flowers, just males.
Female flowers of Candyland treated with colloidal silver showed no effects.
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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TIP OF THE MONTH
Some gardeners have refrigerated or frozen the fresh fan or trim leaves from the harvest and manicuring. This leaf can be used to make a special bubble hash. In the living plant there is little THC. Instead the plant holds it as an acid, THCa. It only becomes psychtropically active when it dries and decarboxylates, becoming THC. When the glands go through the liquid sift as bubble hash is made, the THCa never has a chance to change over to THC. If the hash is burned or vaporized, the heat will quickly convert the THCa. However, if I used in preparations in which it is kept cool and moist or wet, most of it may remain as THCa. Since it is not psychotropically active, THCa can be used medically in large doses. To retain these qualities, it should be used in formulas or recipes that are not heated.
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Time to Go: Fall Weather: Cold with intermittent showers Budget: $$$$$
if you go: Prague may sound like a cannabis lover’s dream, but it isn’t as easy it is sounds. A tradition of using cannabis as medicines goes back thousands of years, so medical cannabis has always been accepted as a true medication. But like most European countries, it isn’t truly legal. However, Prague is the most openly accepting European city for growing your own and toking in public (just don’t do it in front of the authorities). Cannabis growers here do it privately and the best buds can be found by befriending cool locals. Just remember to ask politely and expect to pay top notch prices for whatever you can find.
Prague Magically Lights Up in November
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Cannabis enthusiasts visiting Prague, Czech Republic in November’s shoulder season can expect less tourists and more affordability, as well as an opportunity to witness the city’s famed Christmas markets that literally light up the chilly outside while club, concert, ballet, opera, black light and marionette theatre season gear up at indoor venues. Prague may be Europe’s most cannabis-friendly city, but it doesn’t wear its cannabis pride on its emerald sleeve, unlike nearby Amsterdam. As in most European countries, cannabis is still illegal and medical cannabis patients are left in limbo land without proper licensing or access to lab-tested premium meds. Still, Prague residents and visitors can rather easily obtain decent-to-excellent flower bud strains from private home-tomedical grade growers (see “if you go” section for buying recommendations).
Edibles and other ingestion methods such as vaping are still quite rare, but cannabis tinctures and salves are another matter. In fact, it is legal for citizens over 18 to grow up to five plants for medical use at home. This is why most Czech grannies and grandpas have grown their own for centuries to provide a fresh store of smoking bud as well as soothing transdermal medications to sick friends and family. The city’s famous Christmas Markets rev up this year starting Nov. 26 although Prague’s holiday lights and window dressings magically transform the city by mid-month. Both Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square are open from morning to late evening with dazzling decorations along with holiday shopping, charming carolers, traditional foods and warm drinks such as mulled wine and hot chocolate. c
Fun-Filled Facts Day tripping using Prague as a central base is one of the delights of this ancient city as it sits just slightly northwest of the country’s dead center. One of the best day trips is located just two hours north by train to a mountainous forest oddly enough called Bohemian Switzerland, which is actually sits on Germany’s south border. 1
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Prague’s O2 Arena is one of Europe’s best and biggest concert venues. Lit-up like a jewel at night, “The 02” rocks late fall with the world tours of Rod Stewart (Nov. 7), Jean-Michel Jarre (Nov. 8), Justin Bieber (Nov. 12), Petr Hapka (Nov. 24) and Elton John (Nov. 26). 2
If you are visiting the Czech Republic on Nov. 17, remember this is a national holiday called the Day of the Struggle for Liberty and Democracy. This no-work day commemorates a famous student protest in 1939 against the Nazi occupation and also celebrates the 1989 Velvet Revolution. Most tourist-laden businesses are open for the holiday, but shops frequented by locals will probably be closed or have limited hours. 3
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Jack Splitt
Age: 15 Condition/Illness: Severe Spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy with debilitating Dystonia, chronic pain and nausea Using Medical Cannabis Since: July 2014 - August 24, 2016
Why did Jack start using medical cannabis? Stacey Linn: When Jack hit puberty his Dystonia (constant, severe muscle contractions all over his body that caused contortions, pain and vomiting) became unmanageable. He was taking up to 10 pharmaceutical medicines, most of which were not specifically for Dystonia. All
of the medications sedated him to the point of being unable to think, or even keep his mouth closed, or smile. Jack was nonverbal and dependant on a specially molded wheelchair to sit up. He could not use his arms or legs. Cannabis started working for Jack immediately and I was able to wean him off 85 percent of his medications. He returned to being his bright, engaged self. He was relieved of a great deal of pain and anxiety associated with the Dystonia. He was also healthier in general. In the years prior to cannabis he was constantly hospitalized for respiratory
What’s the most important issue or problem facing medical cannabis patients? The scariest issue facing MMJ patients right now is the effort by cities and counties to create policies that circumvent the state constitutions that legalized medical marijuana and allowed patients to grow their own medicine. There are many ballot initiatives this November that restrict the ability of patients to grow their own medicine by limiting plant counts and ban the manufacture of oil-based medicine. MMJ patients like Jack need large quantities of oil concentrate to treat their illnesses. What do you say to folks that are skeptical about cannabis as medicine? “So was I!” We have all been raised with the antiquated prohibitionist attitudes
about marijuana as a dangerous drug. In fact, cannabis has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years— and was quite commonly used in this country until it was criminalized in 1937 for political reasons. The ensuing propaganda taught generations the wrong idea about marijuana. It is safe and non-toxic. There have been zero reported deaths from marijuana use to date. Compare the safety of marijuana to the epidemic of deaths from pharmaceutical overdoses—not to mention the addiction problems and dangerous drug interactions. Jack and thousands of others are living proof that medical marijuana works. It stops seizures, pain, muscle spasms, treats cancer and PTSD where traditional pharmaceuticals fail and/ or cause additional harm. It causes no harm. Allow yourself to be educated. Meet some real cannabis patients. Listen to their story of recovery and see with your own eyes what cannabis has done for them. Reversing the false information will only happen by learning the facts. Contact me at CannAbility, my foundation, which has a broad constituency of medical marijuana patients. Talk to them. We can give you countless research on the efficacy of marijuana medicine. Read it. Do this even you are fortunate enough not to have a debilitating condition. Please be compassionate. c
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disease. The first year on cannabis he was only admitted to the hospital twice for respiratory illness, whereas previous years he spent, on average, 10 weeks in the hospital. While on MMJ, Jack was able to lobby with me, his mother, to pass a groundbreaking law in Colorado to allow children like him to take MMJ at school. He was able to sit for hours through committee hearings and visit legislators to help educate them on the benefit of MMJ and the necessity of being able to take it at school. His bravery and bright, engaging spirit changed thousands of hearts and minds.
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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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Relishing in Fall’s Bounty
Local eateries with similar dishes: Post & Beam 3767 Santa Rosalia Dr., Los Angeles (323) 299-5599 postandbeamla.com
Sinners and Saints Desserts 2547 Lincoln Blvd., Venice (310) 970-2332 sinnersandsaintsdesserts.com
Yves’ Restaurant & Wine Bar
Menu:
5753-A E Santa Ana Canyon Rd., Anaheim (714) 637-3733 yvesbistro.com
Thanksgiving Stuffed Mushrooms
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recipes by Laurie Wolf The Fall bounty, which in my world includes harvesting outdoor cannabis, lends itself to the earthy, rustic flavors found in these recipes. Of course you can make them any time of year, but seasonal and local is how we like to roll. Happy Thanksgiving!
Yield: 16 Mushrooms, 8 Servings Serving Size: 2 Mushrooms
Thanksgiving Stuffed Mushrooms
Directions
This is the recipe for the folks who can’t get enough of the flavors of that food crazy American holiday. You certainly don’t have to wait for Thanksgiving to try it, everything is available year round. A tasty mushroom for sure.
Preheat oven to 325̊ F. Clean mushrooms using a paper towel to remove any dirt. Do not run under water. To prepare mushrooms: Remove stems, finely chop, and set stems aside. Lightly coat each mushroom with olive oil, salt and pepper; and place cap side up on a baking sheet for later use. In sauté pan over medium low heat, add 2 tablespoon olive oil and cook garlic, shallots, and celery until translucent but not browned. To same pan add turkey sausage, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, and poultry seasoning. Continue to cook until turkey sausage is mostly done cooking. Turn the pan to low and add the dried cranberries, applesauce, mascarpone cheese, cornbread and panko breadcrumbs. Blend until thoroughly combined. Blend in the canna-oil and mix for two minutes, ensuring the oil is evenly distributed. Fill mushroom caps with 1½ tablespoon of the filling and bake at 325̊ F for 20 minutes.
Ingredients 16 extra-large white button mushrooms
1 tablespoon chopped poultry seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon chopped dried cranberries
1 ½ tablespoon salt 2 teaspoons fresh ground black pepper
1 tablespoon cinnamon applesauce
1 large diced shallot
3 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened
2 minced garlic cloves
1/4 cup crumbled corn bread
1 stalk celery
1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
¾ pound turkey sausage
8 teaspoons canna-olive oil*
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Turkey Meatballs Medicating these glorious meatballs is achieving food perfection. This recipe is inspired by the brilliant chef Mario Batali, and acquired through my friend Freddi. These are now our go-to meatballs. They are amazing. And they are turkey. Go figure.
Yield: 10 Servings Serving Size: 2 Biscotti
Ingredients: 10 slices of day old bread
½ cup chopped parsley
2 lbs. ground turkey
2-3 tablespoons canna-olive oil*
¼ lb. prosciutto, diced ½ lb. Italian sausage
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 eggs
Salt and pepper
½ cup Romano cheese, grated
2 cups tomato sauce
Directions: Heat oven to 340° F. In a medium bowl cover the bread with water. After five minutes, drain the bread well. In a large bowl combine the turkey, prosciutto, and sausage. Mix well. Add the eggs, cheese, parsley, oils, salt and pepper and mix very well. Place the bowl in the fridge for 30 minutes. Line two baking sheets with parchment. Use an ice cream scoop to form into meatballs and place onto the parchment. They will be a little flat at the bottom but that’s okay. Bake for 40 minutes. Warm tomato sauce over medium/low heat. Toss meatballs with warm tomato sauce.
Yield: 2 Dozen Meatballs, 12 Servings Serving Size: 2 Meatballs
Cranberry Walnut Biscotti With a cup of tea or coffee these biscotti will kick your butt, but only in the best way. Biscotti are fun to make. It’s a process, but it has a great pace and it’s cool to see the transformation of the dough.
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour
concentrate
2/3 cups sugar
1 tablespoon orange rind
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 teaspoons vanilla
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped walnuts
2/3 cup sugar
½ cup dried cranberries
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 egg white
3 1/3 tablespoons canna-oil*
Sugar
1 tablespoon orange juice
Directions: Heat oven to 340° F. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar baking powder, and salt. In a small bowl, whisk together eggs and vanilla and add to dry ingredients and mix until moistened. Add walnuts and cranberries and knead into dough. Flour your hands, as the dough will be sticky. Divide dough in half and shape into two 10 x 2 ½ inch logs with floured hands. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Cool loaves on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Place on a cutting board and slice into one-inch pieces on the diagonal. Place the cut side down on ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 8-10 minutes on each side until light golden brown, a little longer if you like crisper biscotti. Cool completely on wire racks. Legal Disclaimer Publishers of this publication are not making any representations with respect to the safety or legality of the use of medical marijuana. The recipes listed here are for general entertainment purposes only, and are intended for use only where medical marijuana is not a violation of state law. Edibles can vary in potency while a consumers’ weight, metabolism and eating habits may affect effectiveness and safety. Ingredient management is important when cooking with cannabis for proper dosage. Please consume responsibly and check with your doctor before consumption to make sure that it is safe to do so.
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socal NOW! event listings
Temple of the Dog, Nov. 14
Russell Peters, Nov. 5
This Canadian comedian has been delivering the hilarity since 1989. Now is your chance to catch this perform his stand-up routine live! Irvine Improv, Irvine irvine.improv.com
LA Comedy Festival, Nov. 10-20
Get ready to enjoy comedy from all avenues of the craft. From movies and television shows to web series, standup comedy and live performances, Los Angeles will be laughing out loud for 10 days straight. Don’t miss all the film screenings and live shows that are part of the festival at the Let Live Theatre. Let Live Theatre, Los Angeles www.lacomedyfest.com
Jackalope: An Indie Artisan Market, Nov. 12-13
Now is the time to be thinking of gifts for your loved ones, and there’s no better place to find the perfect present than at this two-day fair. With a variety of hand-crafted goods from over 200 different vendors, there’s bound to be something for everyone. Central Park, Pasadena www.jackalopeartfair.com 134
This American rock band has been delivering alternative tunes on and off for over 25 years. With band members stemming from bands like Pearl Jam and Soundgarden, you know the night will be filled with great music from talented musicians. The Forum, Los Angeles www.fabulousforum.com
featured event
Autos & Art Experience, Nov. 18
Attendees will get an exclusive opportunity to preview vehicle debuts from North American and international companies. There will also be food, drinks and lots of fun! Your attendance will help benefit charity programs that focus on arts and music education. Los Angeles Convention Center, Los Angles www.lacclink.com
2016 Annual Mariachi Festival, Nov. 20 Immerse yourself in some Latino culture at this free event with upbeat mariachi music. Some of the musical talent includes Mariachi Sol de Mexico, Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles, Trio Ellas and more. Mariachi Plaza Station, Los Angeles mariachiplazafestival.com
Hollywood Christmas Parade, Nov. 27
Holiday parades really get us in the Christmas spirit. Get ready to watch as celebrities, floats and marching bands parade down the street. There will also be musical performances from popular
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RIP Horror Film Festival, Nov. 10-13
With the reputation as one of the best horror film festivals in Los Angeles, RIP Horror Film Festival is sure to show plenty of films that can be nightmare-inducing. If you’re ready to see some scary shorts, screenplays, student films, animations, features and more, be sure to buy your ticket before it’s too late. The Los Feliz 3 Cinemas, Los Angeles riphorrorfilmfest.org artists and other exciting surprises. Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles thehollywoodchristmasparade.com
Dragonette, Nov. 30
If you like electronic music and dancing all night long, then you’ll love Dragonette. This three-piece synthpop band is touring to share
everyone’s favorite songs off their latest album Bodyparts. The Roxy Theatre, Los Angeles www.theroxy.com
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Chuck Shepherd's
News of the
Weird
LEAD STORY—THESE SHOES WEREN’T MADE FOR WALKIN’ u The upscale clothier Barneys New York recently introduced $585 “Distressed Superstar Sneakers” (from the high-end brand Golden Goose) that were purposely designed to look scuffed, well-worn and cobbledtogether, as if they were shoes recovered from a Dumpster. The quintessential touch was the generous use of duct tape on the bottom trim. Critics were in abundance, accusing Barneys of mocking poverty. GOVERNMENT IN ACTION u The Drug Enforcement Administration has schemed for several years to pay airline and Amtrak employees for tips on passengers who might be traveling with large sums of cash, so that the DEA can interview them—with an eye toward seizing the cash under federal law if they merely “suspect” that the money is involved in illegal activity. A USA Today investigation, reported in August, revealed that the agency had seized $209 million in a decade, from 5,200 travelers who, even if no criminal charge results, almost never get all their money back (and, of 87 recent cash seizures, only two actually resulted in charges). One Amtrak employee was secretly paid $854,460 over a decade for snitching passenger information to the DEA. u Update: In August, the Defense Department’s inspector general affirmed once again (following on 2013 disclosures) that the
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agency has little knowledge of where its money goes— this time admitting that the Department of the Army had made $6.5 trillion in accounting “adjustments” that appeared simply to be made up out of thin air, just to get the books balanced for 2015. (In part, the problem was laid to 16,000 financial data files that simply disappeared with no trace.) “As a result,” reported Fortune magazine, “there has been no way to know how the Defense Department—far and away the biggest chunk of Congress’s annual budget—spends the public’s money.” WAIT, WHAT? u In August, the banking giant Citigroup and the communications giant AT&T agreed to end their twomonth-long legal hostilities over AT&T’s right to have a customer service program titled “Thanks.” Citigroup had pointed out that it holds trademarks for customer service titles “thankyou,” “citi thankyou,” “thankyou from citi” and “thankyou your way,” and had tried to block the program name “AT&T Thanks.” u In July in the African nation of Malawi (on the western border of Mozambique), Eric Aniva was finally arrested—but not before he had been employed by village families more than 100 times to have ritual sex to “cleanse” recent widows—and girls immediately after their first menstruation. Aniva is one of several such sex workers known as “hyenas” (because they operate stealthily, at night), but Malawi president Peter Mutharika took action after reading devastating dispatches (reporting hyenas’ underage victims and Aniva’s HIV-positive status) in The New York Times and London’s The Guardian, among other news services.
u The July 2012 Aurora, Colorado, theater shooter, James Holmes, is hardly wealthy enough to be sued, so 41 massacre victims and families instead filed against Cinemark Theater for having an unsafe premises, and by August 2016 Cinemark had offered $150,000 as a total settlement. Thirtyseven of the 41 accepted, but four held out since the scaled payout offered only a maximum of $30,000 for the worst-off victims. Following the settlement, the judge, finding that Cinemark could not have anticipated Holmes’s attack, ruled for the theater—making the four holdouts liable under Colorado law for Cinemark’s expenses defending against the lawsuit ($699,000). WEIRD CHINA u Misunderstandings: (1) “Mr. L,” 31, a Chinese tourist visiting Dulmen, Germany, in July, went to a police station to report his stolen wallet, but signed the wrong form and was logged in as requesting asylum, setting off a bureaucratic nightmare that left him confined for 12 days at a migrant hostel before the error was rectified. (2) In August at a hospital in Shenyang, China, “Wang,” 29, awaiting his wife’s childbirth, was reported (by People’s Daily via Shanghaiist.com) to have allowed a nurse to wave him into a room for anesthesia and hemorrhoid surgery—a procedure that took 40 minutes. (The hospital quickly offered to pay a settlement—but insisted that, no matter his purpose at the hospital, he in fact had hemorrhoids, and they were removed.) u Evidently, many Chinese wives who suspect their husbands of affairs have difficulty in confronting them, for a profession has risen recently of “mistress dispellers” whose job instead is to contact the mistress
and persuade her, sometimes through an elaborate ruse, to break off the relationship. For a fee (a New York Times dispatch said it could be “tens of thousands of dollars”), the dispeller will “subtly infiltrate the mistress’s life” and ultimately convince her to move on. A leading dispeller agency in Shanghai, translated as the “Weiqing International Marriage Hospital Emotion Clinic Group,” served one wife by persuading the mistress to take a higherpaying job in another city. IRONIES u Flooding from rains in August tore down a basement wall of the Connellsville (Pennsylvania) Church of God, wrecking and muddying parts of the building and threatening the first-floor foundation, but under the policy written by the Church Mutual Insurance company, flooding damage is not covered, as rain is an “act of God.” (Church Mutual apparently uses a standard insurance industry definition and thus recognizes, contrary to some religious beliefs, that not everything is caused by God.) u In 2005, India enacted a landmark anti-poverty program, obligating th government to furnish 100 days’ minimum-wage work to unskilled laborers (potentially, 70 percent of the country’s 1.3 billion people). Programs often fail in India because of rampant corruption, but a recent study by a Cambridge University researcher concluded that the 2005 law is failing for the opposite reason --anticorruption measures in the program. Its requirement of extreme transparency has created an exponential increase in paperwork (to minimize opportunities for corruption), severely delaying the availability of jobs.
THE PASSING PARADE u (1) Vegetarian Deb Dusseau of Portland, Maine, celebrating her 10-year anniversary of “all vegetables, all the time,” reported to a tattoo artist in August and now sports, on her right arm, wrist to shoulder, an eggplant, peppers, mushrooms, peas, greens, onions, a radish and multiple tomatoes—drawn in an “old seed catalog” motif. (2) Pro baseball player Brandon Thomas (of the independent Frontier League’s Gateway Grizzlies in St. Louis, Missouri) hit a bases-loaded home run on Aug. 21—over the fence, into the adjacent parking lot, where the ball smashed the windshield ... of his own car. A NEWS OF THE WEIRD CLASSIC (OCTOBER 2012) u Horse showjumping is a long-time Olympics sport, but since 2002, equestrians have been performing in “horseless” showjumping, in which horse courses are run by “riders” on foot (who, by the way, do not straddle broomsticks!). According to an October (2012) Wall Street Journal report, an international association headed by retired pro equestrian Jessica Newman produces at least 15 shows a year, with from 40 to 130 competitors, galloping over jumps that vary from 2 to 4 feet high (5 feet in “Grand Prix” events), with the “riders” graded as if they were on horses (timed, with points off for contacting the rails). Explained Newman, about the shows’ success, “It’s just fun to be a horse.” WHAT GOES AROUND, COMES AROUND u One of the Islamic State’s first reforms in captured territory has been to require adult women to dress devoutly—including the facecovering burka robe, which, in Western democracies famously presents security dilemmas because it hinders
identification. Now, after two years of Islamic State occupation in Mosul, Iraq, the security problem has come full circle on ISIS itself. Dispatches from the town reported in September that ISIS has likely banned the burka because it hinders identification of anti-ISIS insurgents who (female and male) wear burkas to sneak up on Islamic State officers. RECURRING THEMES u Barbara Murphy, 64, of Roy, Utah, is the most recent “dead” person battling the federal government to prove she is still alive (but seemingly getting nowhere). She said Social Security Administration bureaucrats, citing protocols, have been tight-lipped about her problem and remedies even though her bank account was frozen; Social Security was dunning her for two years worth of Medicare premiums (since her 2014 “death”); and warning letters had been sent to banks and credit agencies. Nonetheless, Murphy told the Deseret News in August that, all in all, she feels pretty good despite being dead. u Political connections in some Latin American countries have allowed convicted drug dealers and crime bosses to serve their sentences comfortably, and the most recent instance to make the news, from Agence France-Presse, was the presidential-suite-type “cell” occupied by Brazilian drug lord Jarvis Chimenes Pavao in Paraguay. When police (apparently not “politically connected”) raided the cell in July, they found a wellappointed apartment with semi-luxurious furniture settings (including a conference table for Pavao to conduct “business”), embellished wallpaper designs with built-in bookcases, a huge TV among the latest electronics—and even a handsome shoe rack holding
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Pavao’s footwear selection. Pavao also rented out part of the suite to other inmates for the equivalent of $5,000 plus $600 weekly rent. SOUNDS FAMILIAR u (1) Chris Atkins in Denver is among the most recent judicially ruled “fathers” to owe child support even though DNA tests have proven that another man’s semen produced the child. Atkins is in the middle of a contentious divorce/child custody battle in which his estranged wife wants both custody and support payments, and since Atkins did not contest his fatherhood until the child reached age 11, he has lost legal standing. (2) A high school girl and her parents told the Tallahassee (Florida) Democrat in July that they were on the verge of filing a lawsuit demanding that the school district order the Leon High School cheerleader squad to select her (even though she had fallen twice during tryouts). LEAST COMPETENT CRIMINALS u Not a Techie: The most recent perp to realize that cops use Facebook is Mack Yearwood, 42, who ignored a relative’s advice and uploaded his Citrus County, Florida, wanted poster for his Facebook profile picture, thus energizing deputies who, until then, had no leads on his whereabouts. He was caught a day later and faces a battery complaint and several open arrest warrants. SUPER-SIZE ME u Texan Monica Riley, age 27 and weighing 700 pounds, is the most recent “super-sized” woman to claim happiness in exhibiting herself semi-nude for “fans” (she claims 20,000) who watch online as morbidly obese people eat. She told the celebrity news site Barcroft Media in September that her 8,000 calories a day puts her on track to weigh 1,000 pounds soon, and 138
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that her loving boyfriend, Sid, 25 and a “feeder,” is turned on by helping her. Sid, for instance, feeds Monica her special 3,500-calorie “shake”—through a funnel— and supposedly will eagerly become her caretaker when she eats herself into total immobility. (“Safe For Work” website: SSBBW Magazine) NO LONGER WEIRD u Another DIY Overkill: Police in Centralia, Washington, arrested a man (not identified in news reports) for reckless burning in August when, trying to rid his apartment of roaches, he declined ordinary aerosol bug spray in favor of making a homemade flamethrower (the aerosol spray fired up by a lighter). He fled the apartment when he realized he might have taken things too far. (Firefighters were called, but the damage was minimal.) [The Oregonian, 8-8-2016] http://www.oregonlive. com/trending/2016/08/ washington_man_arre sted_ for_go.html u Population grows; goods must be hauled; traffic congestion is worse; and thus trucks keep spilling their loads on the highways. The really weird ones have set the bar perhaps unattainably high for this genre of news (e.g., the truck spilling pornographic magazines; the truck hauling ham colliding with the truck hauling eggs). In September, a tractor-trailer overturned on Interstate 295 in New Castle, Delaware, spilling a particularly low-value load. The truck, headed for the U.S. Mint in Philadelphia, was filled with 22 tons worth of increasingly shunned U.S. pennies, but these were even less useful (though perhaps, by metal content, more valuable!) because they were not-yet-engraved “blanks.” UPDATES u Roy Pearson, a former District of Columbia administrative law judge,
may be the only person in America who believes that his 2005 $54 million unsuccessful lawsuit against his dry cleaners was not frivolous—and he has still not come to the end of his legal odyssey. In June 2016, a D.C. Bar disciplinary committee recommended that Pearson be placed on probation for two years because of ethics violations, including having made statements “unsupported” by facts when defending his contention that the cleaners’ “satisfaction guaranteed” warranty made it liable for various negative occurrences in Pearson’s life following the loss of a pair of pants at the store. Not surprisingly, Pearson, now 65, announced that he would challenge the committee recommendation. u Russian performance artist Petr Pavlensky’s most infamous moment was in 2013 when, to protest government oppression, he nailed his scrotum to the ground at Moscow’s Red Square. (He had also once sewn his lips shut and, at another time, set fire to a door at Russia’s FSB security headquarters.) In August, the Burger King company announced a series of four limited-edition sandwiches inspired by Pavlensky for the artist’s hometown of St. Petersburg. The scrotum performance, for example, will be marked by an egg “nailed” to a burger by plastic spear. A company spokesperson said Pavlensky was chosen as the inspiration because he is popular with “the masses.” u Once again, Iceland’s “little people” have, when disrespected, roiled the country’s public policy. In August, a road crew had inadvertently buried a supposedly enchanted elfin rock along a highway being cleared of debris from a landslide, and immediately, all misfortunes in the area were attributed to the elves’
displeasure. According to an Agence France-Presse dispatch, crews were quickly ordered to re-set the rock. (The incident was one more in a long series in which public and private funds in Iceland are routinely diverted toward projects thought to appease the elves.) A NEWS OF THE WEIRD CLASSIC (NOVEMBER 2012) u Former Arkansas state legislator Charlie Fuqua is running again (in 2012) after a 14-year absence from elective office. In the interim, reported the Arkansas Times, he wrote a book, “God’s Law: The Only Political Solution,” reminding Christians that they could put their rebellious children to death as long as proper procedure (from Deuteronomy 21:18-21) was followed. “Even though this (procedure) would rarely be used,” Fuqua wrote, “if it were the law of the land ... it would be a tremendous incentive for children to give proper respect to their parents.” (Fuqua failed to gain his party’s nomination.) INSANITY DEFINED u Police and prosecutors in Dallas, appropriately sensitive at having been the site of the 1963 killing of President Kennedy, have apparently taken out their shame on assassination buff Robert Groden. As the Dallas Observer reported in September, Groden has been ticketed by police dozens of times for operating book sales booths near the “grassy knoll” (site of the alleged “second shooter” of the president)— and yet he prevails in court every single time (82 straight, and counting). (Tip for visitors from the Observer: Never publicly utter “grassy knoll” in Dallas, as it seems particularly to offend the police.) THE CONTINUING CRISIS u Stephen Mader, 25, native of Weirton, West Virginia, and former Weirton police officer, is fighting to get his job back after being fired for not being
quick enough on the trigger. When Ronald Williams Jr., in May, made a ham-handed attempt at “suicide by cop,” it was Mader who, rather than shooting, tried to talk Williams down (based on his Marine Corps and police academy training), but when Williams pointed his unloaded gun at two of Mader’s colleagues, and one of them quickly shot the man to death, police officials fired Mader for having been insufficiently aggressive. u Can’t Possibly Be True: Few U.S. forces in Afghanistan speak the native Pashto or Dari, and the war prospects would be dim were it not for courageous Afghan civilians who aid the U.S. as interpreters under promise of protection and future emigration to the U.S. However, the congressional battle over immigration policy has delayed entry for about 10,000 interpreters, who (along with their families) face imminent death if they remain in Afghanistan. Some in Congress also regard Afghans as riskier immigrants (despite the interpreters’ demonstrated loyalty). SUSPICIONS CONFIRMED u Master baker Stefan Fischer filed a lawsuit recently against Bakery of New York for wrongful firing—because he refused to use “bug-infested” flour to make batches of bread. According to Fischer, when he informed management of the bugs in the facility’s 3,000-pound flour silo, he was told simply to make “multigrain” bread, which Fischer took to mean that fewer diners would complain if they heard “crunching” while eating multigrain. LEADING ECONOMIC INDICATORS u News Corporation Australia reported in September the enviable success of a 16-yearold British entrepreneur, Ms. Beau Jessup, who has so far earned about $84,000 with a simple online app to help
rich Chinese parents select prosperous-sounding English names for their babies. Users choose among 12 personality traits they hope their baby to have, then receive three suggestions (including a list of famous people with those names). Jessup got the idea when living in China and noticing that some babies of the rich were given lame names, such as “Gandalf” and “Cinderella.” u Chinese Management Techniques: (1) About 200 employees at a travel service in Shandong Province were fined the equivalent of $6.50 each recently for failing to comply with orders to “comment” (favorably, one supposes) on the general manager’s daily posts to the Twitter-like Internet site Sina Weibo. (2) In June, a motivational trainer working with employees of the Changzhi Zhangze Rural Commercial Bank reportedly told the poor-performing bank personnel (among the 200 at the session) to “prepare to be beaten.” He then walked among the workers, whacking some with a stick, shaving the heads of the males and cutting the hair of the females. WEIRD SCIENCE u Trees talk to each other and recognize their offspring, according to Australian ecology researcher Suzanne Simard (most recently lecturing on the influential video series TED Talks). Trees are not independent organisms but belong to arboreal “families” with characteristics identifying them to other family members. According to Dr. Simard, “mother” trees that ordinarily expand their roots wildly may hold back to give nearby “kinfolk” tree roots a chance to spread. Using “isotope tracing,” she learned of trees passing healthful carbon, via fungi, to neighboring family seedlings, which she said renders the seedlings more resistant to future stress.
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