2
DECEMBER 2018 CultureMagazine.com
CultureMagazine.com
DECEMBER 2018
3
4
DECEMBER 2018 CultureMagazine.com
CultureMagazine.com
DECEMBER 2018
5
inside
contents 12.2018
22 20
BEL OVED DIVA
R&B songstress Toni Braxton talks about her multifaceted career in entertainment, suffering from lupus and how topical hemp products have improved her quality of life.
30
features 38
36
30
Tis the Season CULTURE ’s complete Holiday Gift Guide is chock-full of gifts that are sure to impress all the cannabis aficionados on your holiday shopping list.
36
Charity for the Cause Embrace altruism this month by purchasing from cannabis companies that support local charities and causes.
38
Mixing Things Up Some holiday customs are ancient and odd, and now is the time to reimagine those traditions by bringing much-needed cannabis cheer to the holidays.
40
Effortless Charisma Shaun Latham’s comedy is hilariously relatable and best of all, it’s available Monday through Friday on SiriusXM.
42
departments
12 Letter from the Editor news 14 News Nuggets 15 By the Numbers 16 Local News 18 Legal Corner 19 Healthy Living reviews 20 Entertainment Reviews in every issue 42 À La Carte 46 Growing Culture 47 News of the Weird
6
DECEMBER 2018 CultureMagazine.com
Online Exclusive! d Recreational Cannabis Legislation Expected in Illinois d Infuse Your Hanukkah Celebrations with Cannabis
VOL 10 ISSUE 6
CultureMagazine.com
DECEMBER 2018
7
8
DECEMBER 2018 CultureMagazine.com
CultureMagazine.com
DECEMBER 2018
9
M
A
G
A
Z
I
N
E
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jamie Solis ASSOCIATE EDITOR Ashley Bennett EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Benjamin Adams EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Matthew Abel, Hilary Bricken, Devon Alexander Brown, Jasen T. Davis, Alex Distefano, Caroline Hayes, David Edmundson, Pamela Jayne, Heather Johnson, Carl Kozlowski, Emily Manke, Madison Ortiz, Denise Pollicella, R. Scott Rappold, Paul Rogers, Ed Rosenthal, Kimberly R. Simms, Lanny Swerdlow, Simon Weedn, Laurie Wolf PHOTOGRAPHERS Steve Baker, Kristopher Christensen, John Gilhooley, Joel Meaders, Mike Rosati, Eric Stoner, Bruce Wolf ART DIRECTOR Steven Myrdahl PRODUCTION MANAGER Michelle Aguirre GRAPHIC DESIGNER John Venegas ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Alex Brizicky, Angie Callahan, Kim Cook, Eric Bulls, Rocki Davidson, Casey Roel, Annie Weber, Vic Zaragoza OFFICE MANAGER Mikayla Aguilar DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Cruz Bobadilla CULTURE® Magazine is published every month and distributes magazines at over 600 locations throughout the Southern California. No articles, illustrations, photographs, or other matter within may be reproduced without written permission. CULTURE® Magazine is a registered trademark. All rights reserved.
2175 Sampson Ave. | Ste. 118 Corona | California | 92879 Phone 888.694.2046 | Fax 888.694.2046 www.CultureMagazine.com
CULTURE® Magazine is printed using post-recycled paper.
10
DECEMBER 2018 CultureMagazine.com
/freeculturemag
/iReadCulture
/iReadCulture
CultureMagazine.com
DECEMBER 2018
11
LETTER
FROM
THE
EDITOR
‘Tis the Season
C
heerful and festive cards arriving in the mail, shopping for the hottest deals, warm cinnamon rolls in the morning and spiked eggnog in the evening—there are endless signs that the holiday season is upon us. When it comes to holiday shopping, the experience wouldn’t be complete without small bells ringing outside of grocery stores, as volunteers accept donations for mainstream charities. As we get ready to wrap up the year, there is also no denying our cannabis culture’s
12
DECEMBER 2018 CultureMagazine.com
focus on giving back to the communities we live in. While we support the sentiment, altruism shouldn’t be limited to the holiday season alone. Year-round, our friends and neighbors are facing economical hardships, from not being able to feed their families to unemployment, low incomes and homelessness. Don’t limit your charitable actions to just the month of December—give back through donations and volunteer work year-round. And if you’d like to witness inspiring examples of how to act every day and month of the year, you need
not look further than the cannabis industry. Countless dispensaries, cannabis companies and entrepreneurs have adopted a culture of altruism into the identity and mission of their brands. While we can assume the desire to do this stems from compassion and dedication to helping others, it’s clear that these charitable actions also help dismantle the negative stigma that cannabis companies often face in mainstream society. It’s essential that as consumers we continue to support companies in the cannabis industry that elevate our identity and work to improve their surrounding communities. Be inspired and find ways to support those in the industry who are so dedicated to giving back to their communities throughout the year. In this issue of CULTURE, you can rest assured that you’ll find everything you need to elevate your holiday celebrations. From our annual Holiday Gift Guide to infused and shareable dessert recipes, we’ve packed these pages with loads of holiday cheer. Let’s continue to demonstrate through our actions the world in which we hope to live in. Happy holidays from the CULTURE family to you and yours. c Cheers!
JAMIE SOLIS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
CultureMagazine.com
DECEMBER 2018
13
NEWS
NUGGETS
Judge Strikes Down Portions of Flawed Fontana Cannabis Ordinance On Nov. 9, Judge David Cohn of the San Bernardino Superior Court struck down most of the sections of Ordinance No. 1758, stating the Fontana City Council had overstepped its bounds. The judge struck the bill down because under the ordinance, certain adults would be restricted from growing cannabis at home, even though Proposition 64 clearly states that any California resident 21 years of age or older is permitted to grow six cannabis plants at home. Fontana residents would have to apply for a permit and pay $411.12 for something that is already legal. “The issue in this
case is how far a city can restrict the category of persons who are entitled to grow marijuana plants and the circumstances under which they may grow the plants without running afoul of the [state’s] requirement that regulations be reasonable,” said Judge Cohn. “The city of Fontana has gone too far.”
Malibu Voters Approve Recreational Cannabis Regulations On Nov. 6, Malibu voters approved Measure G by 70.09 percent, implementing a 2.5 percent general tax on gross receipts for non-medical cannabis businesses. It also permits existing medical cannabis dispensaries to sell and deliver recreational cannabis. “This will allow, regulate and tax the adult use of marijuana and also allow home delivery,” said Arnold G. York, publisher of The Malibu Times. “Marijuana is here to stay and in medical cases, it’s a much maligned but very useful drug 14
DECEMBER 2018 CultureMagazine.com
for cancer patients and others.” Measure G Co-author and 99 High Tide Collective Co-owner Yvonne DeLaRosa Green sadly lost her home to wildfire damage, just days after the bill’s historic passage. The measure will allow Green and others to tap into the recreational market and potentially increase profit margins. The measure could also bring $75,000 to $150,000 in tax revenue to the city annually.
New York Health Department Releases Medical Cannabis Report The New York State Health Department issued its latest two-year report on the state’s medical cannabis program on Nov. 14. The report outlines recommendations including allowing doctors to prescribe cannabis at their discretion and allowing doctors who can prescribe controlled substances to become registered providers. It also recommends initiating a pilot study to explore insurance coverage for medical cannabis. “New York’s Medical Marijuana Program has grown quickly since its launch almost three years ago,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker. “Nearly 81,000 certified patients and more than 2,000 registered practitioners are now participating in the program. The recommendations in the two-year report are part of the continuous work to improve the quality of this program to help New Yorkers who are suffering from serious and debilitating conditions.” The report also recommends making amendments to promote research and allowing thirdparty contractors to work as security officers.
The amount of cannabis tax revenue, in millions of dollars, that was collected by the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration during the third quarter of 2018: (Source: California Department of Tax and Fee Administration)
93.1
The approximate total amount of money, in thousands of dollars, that the city of Pasadena will charge for two separate fees to apply for a cannabis business license after January 2019: (Source: Pasadena Star-News)
24
The number of epileptic syndromes that the new FDA-approved cannabis medicine Epidiolex can be used to legally treat: (Source: CNN)
2
The number of annual cannabis licenses that were granted to business applicants in Cathedral City and Palm Springs in November: (Source: Desert Sun)
4
The number of cannabis business owners in Costa Mesa whose permits were denied by the city’s Planning Commission in November: (Source: Los Angeles Times)
3
The estimated number of patients who registered for Pennsylvania’s medical cannabis program since it began accepting applicants in 2018: (Source: Philadelphia Magazine)
80,000
The percentage of Americans who said that they believe that cannabis should be legal: (Source: Gallup)
66
The estimated number of Americans who live in states that passed pro-cannabis legislation on Nov. 6: (Source: Yahoo! Finance)
14.8
Westside Growers
WHEN: Sat, Dec. 8 WHERE: Santa Monica Public Library, Community Room, 601 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica WEBSITE: plantbuddies.com/events
Is cannabis getting far too expensive in your area when you consider local and state taxes? The solution is easy: Grow your own. Sponsored by Plant Buddies, which offers home growing kits in the Los Angeles area, “Westside Growers: Learn How to Grow Your Own Cannabis from Home” is where you’ll learn everything you need to know about growing at home. Cultivators of all levels are invited to learn
the basics of home cannabis cultivation, with an emphasis on cannabis genetics. Unofficially, there will be a seed swap. If you don’t have any seeds, then event organizers will make sure you leave with a few seeds. Learn from individual growing experiences, which include some invaluable troubleshooting tips. Nothing is for sale, but you’ll leave with credible information and some seeds to get started. CultureMagazine.com
DECEMBER 2018
15
NEWS
LOCAL
Step by Step
Pomona voters approved a cannabis ta x r e g i m e a h e a d o f p r o p o s e d z o n i n g for cannabis businesses By Benjamin M. Adams
P
omona could become a cannabis business hub and simultaneously fix its current looming deficit, with the implementation of a new tax measure that was approved in November. The city’s proximity to Los Angeles makes it a prime target for the continued growth of California’s cannabis industry. Slowly but surely, the long reign of cannabis prohibition is coming to an end in Pomona. On Aug. 6, the Pomona City Council directed Measure PC to be placed on the ballot at the midterm elections. Exactly two months later, on Nov. 6, Pomona voters approved Measure PC, or the Cannabis Business Tax Measure, with over 70 percent of residents voting in favor of the bill. It establishes a tax of up to six percent of gross receipts. It also establishes a tax at $10 per square foot of canopy for cultivation businesses. Mayor Tim Sandoval said in a statement that he’s “thankful to the residents” of Pomona for voicing their opinion in developing a cannabis tax regime that both protects residents and generates revenue for the city. The lure of the “Green Rush” is especially appealing to Pomona’s leadership. The taxes could generate anywhere between $400,000 to $500,000 annually—and considering Pomona’s current fiscal crisis—it’s sorely needed. Pomona is facing upwards of $8 to $10 million in debt by the 2020-21 fiscal year.
16
DECEMBER 2018 CultureMagazine.com
Holiday Love Jam
A separate measure, Measure PG, established a sales tax on general goods that could also help combat the city’s financial problems. “These revenues could be used for all city services or programs,” according to Measure PC, “including increasing public safety activities and enforcement, crime prevention, and providing and maintaining other essential municipal services that support the residents and businesses in Pomona. The city council may adjust the cannabis business tax rates as long as the adjusted rates do not exceed the maximum rates approved by voters. The cannabis business tax shall also be adjusted annually to reflect increases in the Consumer Price Index. This tax would remain in place until repealed by the voters.” Pomona banned cannabis operations in late 2017, but the Pomona City Council spent that time developing an ordinance to regulate those types of businesses. After seeing success with cannabis in other Southern California cities, Pomona’s leadership is almost ready. A separate measure, the proposed Cannabis Act, would be the next step. The Cannabis Act would amend Pomona’s zoning code to allow cannabis businesses within a “safety access cannabis” zone in the downtown area and in slices of industrial areas of the city. But the rollout of implementing cannabis business zones could drag into the general election in 2020, after it was shelved by city council, delaying the legislative process. Preventing crime is always a high priority in Pomona. According to the latest reported annual crime data derived from police records, the crime rate in Pomona is 18 percent higher than the average crime rate in California and 29 percent higher than the national average. In years past, the rate has been much higher. Pomona’s rich hip-hop community, which includes Snoop Dogg’s Pomona City Movement, has vocally denounced violence in the city. Considering the crime factor, Pomona leaders are taking a slow, sensible approach to regulating cannabis, while assuring the city’s residents that they are taking all precautions. c
It’s cold outside— so curl up beside the fireplace with a loved one and listen to something sensual. Where else can you find the smooth sounds of soul and R&B featuring an impressive A-list roster? Featuring Boyz II Men, Keith Sweat, En Vogue and Charlie Wilson of The Gap Band, this is the R&B event of winter. Whether you’re single or in love, everyone can enjoy a great concert. Some of these groups have been making a comeback in a major way. Boyz II Men, for instance, recently was featured in a new track by Charlie Puth called “If You Leave Me Now.” Honda Center is enormous, but this event should sell out quickly. Don’t miss the opportunity to see several headliners at one event this holiday season. WHEN: Sat, Dec. 8 WHERE: Honda Center, 2695 E Katella Ave., Anaheim WEBSITE: 935kday.com/ amp-events/ holiday-love-jam
CultureMagazine.com
DECEMBER 2018
17
NEWS
LEGAL CORNER
•
One-Year Evolution
•
T h e B u r e a u o f C a n n a b i s C o n t r o l’ s final proposals under MAUCRSA By Hilary Bricken
I
n October, California’s Bureau of Cannabis Control (BCC), Department of Public Health and Department of Food and Agriculture each dropped proposed permanent regulations for the state’s cannabis industry, which, if no significant changes are made, will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2019. Here are some of the key proposed changes across the board:
Intellectual Property Licenses Basically, if you want to license your intellectual property (IP) to a cannabis operator in California, you’ll have to secure your own commercial cannabis license to do so. California would be the only state in the cannabis union to bar third-party IP-licensing deals for cannabis licensees, which will certainly undercut the business growth of a good amount of operators if this rule passes.
“Owners” and “Financial Interest Holders” The BCC’s proposed rules essentially state that, once and for all, for “owners” or “financial interest holders” that are entities, the BCC is going to go through the entire entity structure until it reaches the humans behind these entities in order to vet them accordingly.
Premises There are a number of modifications to the proposed rules concerning licensed premises, but here are the highlights: •
18
While it’s been routine for multiple licensees to operate on the same premises, the proposed modifications now expressly state that they do not “prohibit two or more licensed premises from occupying separate portions of the same parcel of land or sharing common use areas, DECEMBER 2018 CultureMagazine.com
such as a bathroom, breakroom, hallway or building entrance.” The premises must consist of permanent structures—shipping containers, modular buildings, or anything on wheels are not permitted—that are affixed to the ground and not capable of movement. There is now a form (BCC-LIC-027) to submit to the BCC to request to make a physical change or alteration to the premises.
Marketing and Promotions Licensees will be prohibited from selling or transporting goods that are identified as any kind of alcoholic product (and they cannot refer to anything as containing or being an alcoholic product). There are also now definitions for promotional goods and branded goods. If licensees want to sell branded goods that are not listed in the definition, they will need to seek BCC approval first. The proposed modifications also clarify that licensees can provide customers with promotional non-cannabis goods—and it looks like these goods could be provided at the premises or via delivery, too.
Packaging The proposed modifications set up a time tier for
“If l icensees wa n t t o sell branded goods t h at a r e n o t l i s t e d i n the definition, they will need to seek BCC a p p r o v a l f i r s t.”
cannabis packaging, whereby until Jan. 1, 2020, cannabis packaging needs to be tamper-evident, in some cases re-sealable, and must not look like packaging that is marketed to children. Until Jan. 1, 2020, retailers and microbusinesses can satisfy this rule by providing opaque exit packaging that meets the foregoing standards.
Retailer Packaging Similar to the revised distribution rules, the proposed modifications set up a timetable that require tamper-evident packaging until Jan. 1, 2020, and resealable, tamper evident and child-resistant packaging thereafter. There are opposite requirements for retailer exit packaging—it must be childresistant, re-sealable and opaque until 2020, and then just opaque thereafter.
Deliveries The rules now more heavily regulate a retailer’s use of tech platforms for delivery (i.e., the platform can’t share profits and can’t be the one doing the delivery, presumably unless it too is licensed). Delivery vehicles cannot contain any exterior markings that indicate that they are delivering cannabis goods. Delivery vehicles may now carry only $5,000 in cannabis goods at once. And the biggest change of all, per the modified section 5416(d), deliveries can be made into any jurisdiction in the state, so long as they comply with the BCC’s delivery rules. Currently, localities can and do prohibit deliveries from other jurisdictions. However, the BCC’s proposed regulations now open the floodgates to previously “dark” delivery jurisdictions. c
NEWS
HEALTHY LIVING
cognitive functioning due to cannabis consumption, regardless of the subjects’ age of initiation. These findings are in contrast to similar studies assessing the impact of alcohol use and other controlled substances on cognitive performance, which “have shown medium to large effect sizes.”
TOP 10 CANNABIS HEALTH STORIES OF 2018 By Lanny Swerdlow, RN LNC 2018 has been another record-breaking year when it comes to the sheer amount of cannabis news. More states have legalized recreational or medical cannabis, and many progressive peer-reviewed health studies on cannabis interacting with various medical conditions were published. As we complete 2018 and move into the last year of the decade, let’s review some of the top health and cannabis issues that were discussed this year.
Doctors and nurses support medical and legal cannabis Recent articles referenced a survey by WebMD of 1,544 doctors covering 12 specialties in 48 states found that 69 percent of those surveyed believe cannabis can help with certain treatments and conditions, 67 percent believe it should be a medical option for patients and 56 percent support making it legal nationwide.
Cannabis dependence is down A study published in 2018 in the journal Drug and Alcohol Dependence found the risk of developing cannabis dependence among heavy cannabis consumers to have declined since 2002 and that reported tolerance showed no significant change.
Youth cannabis consumption has not increased In October 2018, the journal Preventive Medicine found that adolescent cannabis use in Canada fell nearly 50 percent between the years 2008-2009 and 2014-2015 with similar declines in the U.S. Maybe cannabis is no longer the forbidden fruit to youth, since parents are more frequently using it.
Study confirms cannabis consumption can treat insomnia Although cannabis has been used for
thousands of years to treat insomnia, a July 2018 study in the journal Medicines confirmed that test subjects “experienced a statistically and clinically significant improvement in perceived insomnia levels.” Insomnia causes multiple health problems costing the U.S. over $100 billion per year in lost productivity and healthcare costs.
Legalization does not increase traffic fatalities A study published in March 2018 by the National Bureau of Economic Research found that cannabis legalization in Colorado and Washington is not independently linked to an increase in traffic fatalities. These studies confirmed a previous study published in 2017 in the American Journal of Public Health, which reported that “crash fatality rates for Washington and Colorado were not statistically different from those in similar states without recreational marijuana legalization.”
Cannabis consumption not associated with reduced cognition or motivation A comprehensive review published in April 2018 of 69 separate studies involving 8,727 subjects published in JAMA Psychiatry reported no significant long-term deficits in memory, attention or other aspects of
Cannabis can reduce in-hospital mortality PLOS One published in July 2018 the largest analysis ever done of hospital heart attack admissions reporting that cannabis consumers had a significantly decreased risk of in-hospital mortality. Separate studies have similarly identified an association between cannabis use and decreased in-hospital mortality in trauma patients, those undergoing orthopedic surgeries, patients with traumatic brain injuries, heart failure patients and burn victims.
FDA approves first cannabis plant medicine Although the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has previously approved synthetic cannabinoids, on June 25, 2018, the FDA approved Epidiolex, the first plant-derived CBD for the treatment of two rare forms of epilepsy. The Drug Enforcement Administration then reduced Epidiolex from a Schedule I controlled substance to Schedule V.
Cannabis is effective as opioid replacement Multiple research studies have been undertaken to confirm findings in 2014 that states with legal cannabis have 25 percent fewer deaths from opioid overdoses. Confirming the ability of cannabis to replace opioids and why cannabis can reduce opioid overdose deaths, studies released in 2018 have shown that in states with legal cannabis doctors prescribe fewer opioids and over two-thirds of chronic pain patients substitute prescription opioids for cannabis.
Legalization increasing adult cannabis use The August 2018 Annals of Internal Medicine released the survey results of 16,280 adults finding 14.6 percent using cannabis in the past year, including 8.7 percent admitting use in the last 30 days—the consumption rate doubling in just 10 years. c CultureMagazine.com
DECEMBER 2018
19
REVIEWS
entertainment
BOOK
The Essential Cannabis Book: A Field Guide for the Curious
RELEASE DATE: DEC. 7
MOVIE
AVAILABLE ON: NINTENDO SWITCH
BlacKkKlansman
Rob Mejia Pub. Spring House Press There are cannabis novices and cannabis experts, the cannasseurs and the cannabis curious. While The Essential Cannabis Book has the potential to be enjoyed by all who love the cannabis plant, it was written specifically with the cannabis-curious in mind. Covering some of the most basic cannabis questions like, “Can you really use cannabis and not get high?” this book might be a little boring at times for the monthly CULTURE reader. However, it is a great gift for those in your life who want or need to learn more about the intricate world of cannabis. (Jacob Cannon)
20
DECEMBER 2018 CultureMagazine.com
GAME
Super Smash Bros.™ Ultimate Dev. Bandai Namco Studios Pub. Nintendo This year the game industry is blessed with the fifth installment of the Super Smash Bros. series, entitled Ultimate, which features new characters and endless hours of soaring wins and epic losses. Play as Simon Belmont from Castlevania, Isabelle from Animal Crossing, a Piranha Plant from Super Mario Bros. and many other notable characters, all while testing out new stages and playable modes. Ultimate brings a lot to the table, both for seasoned fighting game aficionados as well as those who are new to the concept, and it’s the perfect game to play with your friends and family together this holiday. (Nicole Potter)
Dir. Spike Lee Focus Features For almost four decades now, Director Spike Lee has been bringing powerful and compelling stories to the silver screen. His most recent film, BlacKkKlansman, continues in this tradition telling the true story of retired Colorado police officer Ron Stallworth (played by John David Washington) and the incredible work he did infiltrating and investigating the Ku Klux Klan in the 1970s. Filled out with stellar performances by Alec Balwin, Adam Driver and Topher Grace, BlacKkKlansman does well bringing this nearly unbelievable tale to life through Lee’s unique lens and adds yet another stellar film to his already incredible body of work. (Simon Weedn)
MUSIC
Black Velvet Charles Bradley Daptone Records Late last year, modern soul legend Charles Bradley passed away after a fight with stomach cancer at the age of 68. On what would have been the week of his 69th birthday, Daptone Records released Bradley’s fourth and final studio album, Black Velvet, comprised of unused recordings from his three previous records. Brimming with all of the vintage style soul sounds that made Bradley a star in the final years of his life, Black Velvet is an incredible collection of songs. The album marks a fitting end to one of the most talented, brilliant and stunning artists of the last decade. (Simon Weedn)
CultureMagazine.com
DECEMBER 2018
21
SINGER TONI BRAXTON PUSHES PASSED THE HURDLES OF LUPUS TO EMPOWER HERSELF AND OTHERS
22
DECEMBER 2018 CultureMagazine.com
“BEING OPEN ABOUT MY CONDITION HAS BEEN EMPOWERING, AND IT LETS OTHERS W H O M AY B E SUFFERING KNOW T H AT T H E Y A R E N ’ T A L O N E A N D T H AT T H E Y D O N ’ T H AV E T O G I V E UP THEIR DREAM. I DON’T LET THE D I S E A S E S T O P M E .”
By Kiara Manns
With a decorated career and involvement in just about every corner of the entertainment industry, legendary singer Toni Braxton is more than just an R&B icon. Through years of success and dedication to her craft, Braxton has become a household name. From her solo music career to producing and starring in a hit reality TV show series, Braxton Family Values, the multitalented Braxton has nearly done it all. She first stepped into the scene with her four sisters as the musical group, The Braxtons, during the 1980s. Soon after, her first selftitled album debuted in 1993, which featured the hit song “Another Sad Love Song.” The album alone led to three Grammy Award wins, and Toni Braxton became one of the top female artists in R&B. Braxton’s next studio album Secrets was even more commercially successful and generated the chart-topping hits “You’re Makin’ Me High” and “Un-Break My Heart.” Currently, she has released eight studio albums, achieved a total of seven Grammy Award wins, 11 Grammy Award nominations, sold 67 million records, mothered two boys, produced two reality series and tapped into a successful career of acting and producing. She’s also the recipient of five Billboard Music Awards, an
Echo Award, a NAACP Image Award and several Soul Train Music Awards. Only a few years ago, in 2010, did Braxton publicly share her diagnosis of an autoimmune disease, systemic lupus erythematosus. As an autoimmune disease, lupus causes the immune system to attack healthy tissues and can affect any part of the body. The disease can also cause unwanted butterfly rashes to appear on the skin. Pain and inflammation are often side effects of the disease, but Braxton refused to let these challenging symptoms stand in her way. Braxton took her diagnosis story to the world in hopes of bringing a sense of community and connection for those who have also been diagnosed with lupus. She encourages others to not let their diagnosis halt their ambitions and hopes to lead by example. By committing to a healthy lifestyle and using all-natural health and beauty products, she continues to maintain her own plans for her performance career and future projects. Braxton is now taking on a new role as the brand ambassador for Uncle Bud’s Hemp, a company that specializes in “natural hemp-infused products for pain relief, skin care and personal care.” Uncle Bud’s Hemp prides itself in incorporating natural hemp oil, which is rich in fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants that help to promote healthy skin and slow cell damage. It’s a brand that Braxton can personally stand behind. CULTURE caught up with Braxton to receive insight into her career thus far and to learn how hemp products have aided in providing her a lifestyle that is healthy, safe and fulfilling. CultureMagazine.com
DECEMBER 2018
23
You have been involved in reality TV show Braxton Family Values not just on-screen, but behind the scenes as executive producer. What is it like producing a reality show that centers on your own family? I am enjoying being the executive producer on both Braxton Family Values and my recent movie roles. I like the control of making decisions that has a positive impact on my acting. You were also a contestant on Dancing with the Stars in its seventh season. How was that experience? It was really exhausting. At the time, I didn’t want the world to know that I was living with lupus. I committed to Dancing with the Stars to show that I was healthy and strong. You’ve been in the entertainment industry as both a solo recording artist and you’ve worked in various projects with your family. How have those endeavours impacted your life today? Family is first and foremost, of course. Professionally, music is my first love, and I have enjoyed the opportunities I have had to act both in movies and on Broadway.
1967
OCT. 7, Toni Michelle Braxton is born to Minister Michael Braxton and his wife Evelyn in Severn, Maryland.
1970s
Braxton grows up in a strict religious household, but she finds her true passion while singing with her younger sisters Traci, Towanda, Trina and Tamar at their father’s church.
1992
JUNE 30, Braxton’s breakthrough moment arrives. Anita Baker is unable to sing for the soundtrack of Eddie Murphy’s Boomerang, and Braxton is asked to fill in. The soundtrack attracts a lot of attention with several hit singles.
26
Not only do you have a big family, but you all have collaborated together from singing with your sisters to filming reality TV. What are the benefits of working with your family members? We love each other. If feelings are running high, you know at the end of the day, you are family, and you have to settle your differences.
DECEMBER 2018 CultureMagazine.com
1993
Tell us about your upcoming role in the Lifetime movie, Every Day is Christmas. It was fun to be the bad guy as a female Scrooge. I enjoyed doing a woman’s take on that wonderful holiday parable.
1990
Braxton and her younger sisters form The Braxtons. The group releases its first single “The Good Life,” and singer, songwriter and producer Babyface is impressed by what he hears. Babyface quickly signs Braxton to LaFace Records.
JULY 13, Braxton’s eponymous debut album is released and becomes an enormous hit, eventually selling over eight million albums and reaching number one on the Billboard 200 chart.
1994
MARCH 1, “Another Sad Love Song” earns her Best New Artist and Best Female R&B Vocal Performance awards at The Grammy Awards.
How has life changed for you since you were diagnosed with lupus? Being open about my condition has been empowering, and it lets others who may be suffering know that they aren’t alone and that they don’t have to give up their dream. I don’t let the disease stop me. I help manage my symptoms by using safe, natural pain-relief products like Uncle Bud’s, along with other healthy lifestyle alterations.
You’ll also be on tour at the start of the New Year. What can fans expect from this upcoming tour? I love my fans, and I will be doing all of my hits. It’s no secret with your extensive resume that you enjoy working in so many aspects of the entertainment industry. From singing and acting to producing, is there a favorite form of entertaining you have among them? I enjoy them all; music was my start, so that will always remain my favorite. How do you feel about being referred to as a diva? It is an honor to be a celebrated female singer. Many doors are open to me, because of that description. You’re a mother of two teenage boys; what are some of the lessons you hope to instill in your sons? I want them to be honest, kind, honorable and hardworking young men.
1995
MARCH 1, Braxton earns a Grammy Award for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance at the 37th Grammy Awards for “Breathe Again.”
2000
APRIL 25, The Heat, Braxton’s studio album, is released.
“ . . . THERE ARE SOME MISCONCEPTIONS SURROUNDING HEMP VERSUS CBD PRODUCTS, AND MANY M I S TA K E N LY U S E T H E T E R M S I N T E R C H A N G E A B LY. HEMP SEED OIL IS A N A L L- N AT U R A L O I L T H AT C O N TA I N S N O PSYCHOACTIVE PROPERTIES AND IS LEGAL IN THE U N I T E D S TAT E S .”
1996
FEB. 28, Braxton is nominated for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance at the 38th Annual Grammy Awards.
JUNE 18, Braxton’s second solo album Secrets is released and is also massively successful. “Un-Break My Heart” becomes her most successful single to date, followed by “You Make Me High.”
2001
FEB. 21, Braxton wins a Grammy Award for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance with “He Wasn’t Man Enough” and is nominated for another Grammy Award.
1997
FEB. 27 Braxton collects another two Grammy Awards for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. She is also nominated for two additional Grammy Awards.
2002
OCT. 23, Snowflakes, Braxton’s first holiday album is released.
NOV. 19, Braxton’s studio album More Than a Woman is released.
CultureMagazine.com
DECEMBER 2018
27
What is something about overcoming the symptoms of lupus that you would like others to know? Never stop living your life. Take control of your body, and carefully work yourself through life’s hurdles. It can be done. When were hemp-based products first introduced to you as a treatment option for lupus? I was first introduced to the power of hemp through Uncle Bud’s products. I am hooked. For those who are considering using hempinfused topical products, what’s something you’d like to share about how it helps you? That there are some misconceptions surrounding hemp versus CBD products, and many mistakenly use the terms interchangeably. Hemp seed oil is an all-natural oil that contains no psychoactive properties
2005
SEPT. 27, Libra, named after Braxton’s Zodiac sign, is released as her latest studio album. Braxton takes a short hiatus from the studio.
relief products, making them an essential part of an everyday routine for me, as I have long suffered from the painful and debilitating effects of lupus.
and is legal in the United States. Uncle Bud’s Hemp Pain Relief & Skin Care products do not contain any CBD. The industry can help dispel the conceptions by continuing to educate the consumer, and Uncle Bud’s will continue to be a source of information with the launch of their efficacious products, packaging and website. What types of treatment options did you try before resorting to hemp topical products? Rest, clean living, staying out of the sun.
2010
28
DECEMBER 2018 CultureMagazine.com
The company shares that it provides a natural remedy for various conditions; why is it important to you to work with a company that utilizes natural ingredients in its products? Having had to make healthy alterations to my lifestyle, this hemp-healthy brand specializes in pain
Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers? You are strong, and you can meet the challenges that life throws your way. c
2011
MAY 4, Braxton releases her studio album Pulse, and shortly afterwards, she decides to focus on other parts of her career.
MAY 14, Braxton releases her memoir Unbreak My Heart: A Memoir published by HarperCollins.
Why did you choose to partner with Uncle Bud’s over another brand or treatment option? I believe in the product, and it really works for me. I wanted to share that experience with others.
What is your favorite Uncle Bud’s product? Why? It is hard to pick just one. But right now, I am loving the Uncle Bud’s Topical Pain Reliever as it works super-fast, penetrates deep and relieves aches and pains better than any other over-the-counter product I have tried. All you need is a small dab. A close second is the Massage and Body Oil. It adds a touch of pampering to pain relief.
APRIL 11, The reality television series Braxton Family Values debuts on WE tv, and it receives three times the ratings of typical WE tv series.
2015 FEB. 8, Love, Marriage & Divorce wins a Grammy Award for Best R&B Album.
2014
FEB. 4, Braxton releases her collaborative album Love, Marriage & Divorce with Babyface.
OCT. 30, The Braxtons release a holiday album Braxton Family Christmas, in which all five of her sisters participate.
2018
MARCH 23, Sex & Cigarettes, Braxton’s most recent studio album is released.
www.tonibraxton.com
“ H AV I N G H A D T O M A K E H E A LT H Y A LT E R AT I O N S T O MY LIFESTYLE, THIS HEMPH E A LT H Y B R A N D S P E C I A L I Z E S IN PAIN RELIEF PRODUCTS, MAKING THEM AN ESSENTIAL P A R T O F A N E V E R Y D AY R O U T I N E F O R M E , A S I H AV E LONG SUFFERED FROM THE P A I N F U L A N D D E B I L I TAT I N G E F F E C T S O F L U P U S .”
CultureMagazine.com
DECEMBER 2018
29
2018
gifts for the cannabis lovers in your life
30
DECEMBER 2018 CultureMagazine.com
UNCLE BUD’S HEMP PRODUCTS Each good-for-you Uncle Bud’s Hemp product is formulated with pure organic hemp oil and is safe for men and women of all ages. Uncle Bud’s Hemp pain relief, skin care and personal care products utilize vitamins and antioxidant-rich hemp oil—a natural remedy to relieve arthritis, muscle pain, joint pain and other aches and skin conditions that affect millions of people worldwide! Products can be found at Walmart and GNC stores nationwide or at unclebudshemp.com.
CBX ESSENTIALS INTENSIVE SALVE Based on the awardwinning CBx Sciences line, CBx Essentials products contain all the benefits, with zero THC, so they can be shipped to anyone, nationwide. The new product line includes CBx Sciences’ Intensive Salve, the first product to introduce CBG to Colorado—and now the first CBG product available nationwide. Use promo “CULTURE15” for 15 percent off through Dec. 31, 2018.
PRICE: Prices range from $2.50 - $13.97 MORE INFORMATION: unclebudshemp.com
EYCE SPOON The patented Eyce Spoon pipe has been one of the most popular cannabis products for two years running. Why is this pipe so popular? Because it’s durability that rips. Eyce’s Spoon pipe is an all-in-one smoker’s arsenal, complete with a removable inlaid glass bowl, hideaway poker tool, hidden stash compartment and an unbreakable platinum cured silicone body that is protected by Eyce’s Lifetime Warranty. What more could you ask for under $20? Use code “CULTURE10” for 10 percent off when you buy two pipes or more at EyceMolds.com. Offer expires Dec. 31, 2018. (Patent US D825,101)
PRICE: $25 for 2 ounces MORE INFORMATION: CBxEssentials.com
PRICE: $19.99 MORE INFORMATION: eycemolds.com
RYOT ® SIFTER BOXES RYOT® Sifter Boxes are known for their quality and being constructed of the highest quality woods. Their monofilament screen and seamless glass base tray make them the perfect option for collecting the finest kief and storing your herbs. Not only are these stylish and sleek, the RYOT® Sifter Box makes for a timeless addition to anyone’s collection. PRICE: $36 and up MORE INFORMATION: ryot.com CultureMagazine.com
DECEMBER 2018
31
WILLIE’S RESERVE™ MULTIPACK TIN - HIGH FIVE PACK Willie’s Reserve™ High Five Pack contains five whole-flower halfgram joints. The only thing better than a beautifully rolled joint is having enough to go around! So, whether it’s a festival weekend or a night with the band, you’re prepared to share the legendary stash. PRICE: $30 MORE INFORMATION: williesreserve.com
SAMSUNG GALAXY WATCH SMARTWATCH Give the gift of never being offline or disconnected from the internet again—no matter where you are. Using the Samsung Flow app, users can sync the watch with all smart devices through Bluetooth. With 4GB of internal storage, recipients of this fine watch can store their entire music library, or whatever documents that are needed. Even the pickiest people on your shopping list will love being able to closely monitor sleep cycles, calorie intake and breathing, or they can even utilize the GPS system for an outside jog. The glass is made from Corning Gorilla Glass DR+ which is scratchresistant and hard as a rock. The 42mm design is available in Rose Gold or Midnight Black, and 46mm designs are also available. PRICE: $329.99 MORE INFORMATION: samsung.com
32
Dr. Dabber SWITCH If want you want to treat your loved one to the very best of the best when it comes to dabbing this holiday season, then Dr. Dabber has you covered! This powerful hourglass-shaped Dr. Dabber SWITCH will take cannabis consumption to the next level. This dabber’s sleek design with LED lights is outstanding and will impress just about anyone. The set comes with all the attachments or accessories that are needed for various forms of inhalation. Choose Leaf Mode, Oil Mode, Crystal Mode or choose up to 25 Advanced Mode settings. There is also Stealth Mode and 25 impressive LED light show settings. Take it on-the-go with a battery life of up to 33.3 watt-hours, 150 uses per charge and 120 watts of output power. PRICE: $399.99 MORE INFORMATION: drdabber.com
TROPIC TWIST GUMMIES Give the holidays a tropical twist this year. These fruity, delicious, indica-dominant gummies are guaranteed to relax your mind and whisk you away from wintry nights to sunny Caribbean shores. Fully infused, handmade Tropic Twist Gummies are easy to share with friends—and like all Dixie Edibles, they’re triple lab tested for consistency and quality. Tropic Twist Gummies are available only where Dixie Elixirs products are sold. MORE INFORMATION: dixieelixirs.com
DECEMBER 2018 CultureMagazine.com
Kannastör ® GR8TR ® V2 JAR BODY The Kannastör® GR8TR® V2 stands out above all other grinders, and this one has it all! The immediate standout features are the interchangeable Vape and Standard Easy Change Grinder plates for a variance of grinding options. Plus it has an Easy Change Sifting Screen, bonus storage options and all the variations of modularity that one could ever hope for. On top of that, the Kannastör® GR8TR® V2 comes in three amazing colors, comes with a lifetime warranty and is made from food grade hardened aluminum. Rest assured you’re getting quality, as it was rated number one by HuffPost and High Times in 2017! PRICE: $89 MORE INFORMATION: kannastor.com
THE AXE HAT BY CHIEFTON SUPPLY CO. This six-panel snapback is made from the highest quality hemp and organic cotton. Attention to detail makes this hat stand out from the rest. The game changer with this piece is the small tab on the right side panel appropriately called the “Joint Caddy.” No more sweaty broken joints will be tucked behind your ear. Check out www.chieftonsupply.com for a great selection of hemp apparel and accessories. MORE INFORMATION: www.chieftonsupply.com
PRESSIES Everyone knows someone who could use a little more sleep, energy, or even a bit more focus. That person may even be you. And it’s for that reason that Pressies were made, a series of wellness supplements that contain effective, targeted nutraceuticals plus a healthy dose of THC to help you do the things you do—on your own terms. Kind of like a present to yourself. MORE INFORMATION: pressiepills.com
NEST CAM We all have friends and family members who are impossible to shop for—after all, they have already bought themselves every little thing they could possibly want. Why not surprise them this year with something they didn’t know they needed? Give your loved ones the gifts of peace of mind and security this holiday season with the Nest Cam. With various models, you can give them peace of mind with an indoor Nest Cam for watching over pets, or gift them with an outdoor Nest Cam for added security. PRICE: Starting at $199 MORE INFORMATION: nest.com CultureMagazine.com
DECEMBER 2018
33
MINDSET Hybrid Vape Cartridge Discover the most consistent, best-tasting, highest potency vape cartridges currently on the market. 500mg MINDSET Hybrid Vape Cartridges are available with oil made from premium hybrid strains. During the CO2 extraction process, terpenes are removed at low temperatures to preserve taste, consistency and profile. The MINDSET Hybrid Vape Cartridge is available only where Dixie Elixirs products are sold. MORE INFORMATION: dixieelixirs.com
TOKER POKER ® Your stocking stuffer search ends here! Finally, your poker, tamper, hemp wick and lighter are in one, tidy place. This soulfully designed smoking tool has everything you need and nothing you don’t. Artist Editions are certain to be the hit of the season—as unique as they are useful. Use promo code “CULTURE25” at the checkout for 25 percent discount online at tokerpoker.com (offer expires Dec. 31, 2018). PRICE: $7.95 and up MORE INFORMATION: tokerpoker.com
GENIUS MINI With the Genius Mini’s incredible Genius Taster attachment, you can dab on-the-go and still experience all the benefits that the technology offers for flower. A waterless rig maximizes taste and allows the full flavor profile to be experienced. Other features include the Genius Mini’s Waterless Dimple Technology that cools and filters smoke and leads to less waste. It’s also amazingly efficient and virtually indestructible.
SYNERGY Relief Balm Infused with THC and CBD in a 1:1 ratio, SYNERGY Relief Balm delivers harmonious health benefits—so you can work hard and recover faster. Consumers report that its powerful anti-inflammatory properties are great for treating chronic and localized pain and can assist with neuropathic conditions. Added bonus: The balm is absorbed through the skin, so it doesn’t produce any psychoactive effects. SYNERGY Relief Balm is available only where Dixie Elixirs products are sold. MORE INFORMATION: dixieelixirs.com
34
DECEMBER 2018 CultureMagazine.com
PRICE: $75 MORE INFORMATION: geniuspipe.com
HUNI BADGER ® VERTICAL VAPORIZER KIT For $189, you can skip the torch and get a Huni Badger ®, the premium vertical dab rig with a full ceramic heating tip. Powered by a single rechargeable battery, the interchangeable high and low temperature on the HuniTip heats up in seconds and works on a variety of extracts/ consistencies. It comes in a waterproof case with accessories and mouthpieces compatible with a variety of water bubblers. PRICE: $189 MORE INFORMATION: www.hunibadger.com
BIOVELLE CBD COCONUT OIL Give the gift of all of the health benefits of coconut oil combined with the therapeutic value of CBD. This organic, virgin, unrefined cold-pressed coconut oil from the Philippines is infused with pure hemp-derived CBD. Biovelle CBD Coconut Oil is non-psychoactive, all natural, vegan, gluten-free and is free from sugar, GMOs, toxins or THC. This 8 fluid ounce bottle is packed with 360mg CBD. Eat it raw, blend in your coffee, use as a topical salve, body moisturizer or massage oil. PRICE: $50 MORE INFORMATION: biovelle.com
PEPPERMINT LATTE BATH BOMB Everyone needs to treat themselves with a little self-care after a long, hard day’s work. Soothe dry and cracked winter skin with the fresh and timely scents of peppermint and latte. The limited edition Peppermint Latte Bath Bombs by Kush Queen only come around during the holiday season. Each ball is infused with 25mg of CBD and is made using 100 percent organic materials. This Peppermint Latte Bath Bomb is perfect for those seeking the healing benefits of cannabis without any unwanted effects of cloudiness or laziness. Other CBD Bath Bomb varieties include Pumpkin Spice Latte and nourishing bath bombs with organic cloves, peppermint, citrus, lavender and rosemary. PRICE: $12.99 MORE INFORMATION: kushqueen.shop
BHANG ICE CHOCOLATE Treat yourself to holiday cheer with Bhang Ice Chocolate, an offering of milk chocolate with refreshing mint flavor, derived from natural peppermint oils. Bhang chocolate is for chocolate lovers who crave a high-quality edible containing an incredible, cannabis-free taste and verified potencies that achieve a premium experience. Bhang Ice Chocolate is available in compliant packaging, a variety of flavors and at an excellent price point with Fair Trade, sustainable-sourced cacao. More Information: gotbhang.com
CultureMagazine.com
DECEMBER 2018
35
PAY IT FORWARD Support cannabis companies and o r g a n i z at i o n s t h at g i v e back to those in need
36
By Caroline Hayes
F
or some, the holiday months are a time to celebrate and a time to give, receive and enjoy meals with loved ones. For others, this time of year may only highlight the fact that they may not be able to provide for themselves or their families. The holiday months are an opportune time to pay it forward thanks to the places of business that organize food, clothing and toy drives or donate to charities using revenue from their sales. This holiday season, cannabis consumers can help just by supporting the stores or companies in the industry that are taking an altruistic approach and helping others. Just as important as the charities in need are
DECEMBER 2018 CultureMagazine.com
Photo courtesy of The+Source
the medical patients in the cannabis world. Donating directly to dispensarysponsored programs that assist patients with free meds or patient-focused groups are also easy ways to get involved. Paying it forward can be as simple as buying products at a local dispensary that is using proceeds to supply meals, toys or services to those in need. For the second year in a row, The+Source, a Nevadabased dispensary, will donate to Three Square, Southern Nevada’s only food bank. Customers of The+Source can help support Three Square by purchasing one of the store’s select promo items during its 12 Days of December celebration. Customers can also bring in canned food in exchange for points to use in the store. Dan Zarrella, director of marketing for The+Source, shared with CULTURE the simple reason why the company donates. “There isn’t a great inspiration story other than our desire to find an inspiring way to give back and show off the spirit of the
community we all love,” Zarrella said. He added that The+Source’s customer response to the food drive in 2017 was impressive, and the community was generous. “We built massive towers of cans in our lobbies, yielding over 150,000 pounds of nonperishable food donations.” Bloom Farms, with locations in Nevada and California, is also committed to ending hunger in those states and has partnered with local food banks to supply meals. For every Bloom Farms product sold, including PAX Era oil cartridges, ultra-premium flower and pens, the company will donate a meal to one of the local food banks. Michael Ray, founder and CEO of Bloom Farms said he knew he had to help when he learned approximately one in eight Californians suffer from “food insecurity,” meaning that they don’t know where they will get their next meal. “We decided to build our onefor-one program deep into the foundation of company structure," he said. "It expands as we do because other states have similar or worse food insecurity and because contributing to our local communities in meaningful ways is part of our culture.” Ray has seen his company’s altruistic gestures create a new expectation in cannabis customers. Ray went on to share, “We are seeing firsthand the light bulb go off for some people when they realize they can contribute to real change simply through purchasing decisions that have some kind of social giveback, and we think it raises their expectations for what companies across all industries should be doing.” Bloom Farms’ year-round one-for-one program began December 2015 and has since donated more than $1.4 million in meals. Large cannabis companies in Colorado have also demonstrated a year-round dedication to giving back. Native Roots, a leading Colorado dispensary
“ W E B U I LT M A S S I V E TOWERS OF CANS IN OUR LOBBIES, YIELDING OVER 150,000 POUNDS OF NONPERISHABLE FOOD DONATIONS.”
chain, recently donated $1,000 to Servicios de La Raza, which provides essential human services to people in need and also to Victory Service Dogs, which assists veterans in obtaining service dogs, said Kim Casey, communications manager. Native Roots employees also volunteer at various shelters throughout Colorado during the year. Also in Denver, Colorado, GroundSwell Cannabis Boutique hosted a coat drive throughout the month of November. Medical or recreational customers who donated a coat received a discount on their purchase. Just by shopping at stores that organize drives and donate is a simple way to help as a consumer. A way to directly support medical cannabis patients in need is to seek out programs like Dispensary 33’s (D33) Cannabis Compassion Program (CCP) in Chicago, which donates at least one percent of sales to getting financially distressed patients free cannabis. Co-owner Zachary Zises told CULTURE that D33’s owners knew they wanted to run the program from the day they opened the store. “The basic idea is that, while it can be really helpful to offer those in financial need a 10 or 20 percent discount, the reality is that those discounts won’t really move the needle for the neediest patients—they still won’t be able to afford anywhere near what
they need,” he said. So, what’s more helpful than a discount? Free product. A small number of people each week receive an eighth of flower at no cost. “As we get bigger, so does the program, so at this point we give out about $50,000 in free product every year. It really changes people’s lives and is something we’re really proud of,” Zises said. These kinds of programs especially work when a dispensary is doing well and has revenue to spare. Cannabis customers can encourage the growth of programs like CCP by shopping at dispensaries that run them. Another way to help individuals is by donating to national patient-based groups such as United Patients Group, an organization that is a valuable resource for patients wanting to learn more about cannabis for specific medical conditions. United Patients Group provides people with resources to help them video chat with a certified doctor, learn what cannabis products are legal in their state, find doctors in their area who embrace cannabis use for medical treatment, explore learning blogs about cannabis and illnesses and more. To contribute to this cause, go to United Patients Group’s website and click “donate.” The companies and organizations talked about here, along with so many others not mentioned, demonstrate what it’s like to show a strong compassion to care for the welfare of others. Utilize these programs by supporting altruistic cannabis companies, so that others in the community can benefit. Even a small donation to a patient-focused group or program is helpful. Call around to your local dispensaries to find out if they are involved in any philanthropic efforts this holiday season—see how you can support these organizations and people in need. c CultureMagazine.com
DECEMBER 2018
37
38
DECEMBER 2018 CultureMagazine.com
By Jacob Cannon Decorating a dead tree in your living room, waking up at 4 a.m. for Black Friday shopping deals and leaving cookies and milk out for an old fat guy who’s going to break into your home while you’re sleeping—it’s safe to say that the world has many strange customs that are part of our holiday celebrations. This holiday season, choose to make your traditions all the more green and enjoyable by adding cannabis. Not only is cannabis a good alternative to alcohol, but cannabis can elevate other aspects of your holiday celebrations, from gift-giving to decorating.
CANNABIS MOCKTAILS AND TREATS Eat, drink and be merry―alcohol has long been associated with holiday parties. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Instead of embracing alcohol, pouring peppermint liquor in your hot chocolate and rum into your eggnog, find fun ways to use cannabis-infused ingredients instead. From THC-rich cannabis simple syrup to CBD hemp oil, your choices are endless when it comes to creating delicious cannabis mocktails that mark the holiday season. And where there are mocktails, there are sure to also be tasty sweet treats as well. Check out CULTURE’s monthly À La Carte section to snag some recipes for delicious holiday desserts that are meant for sharing, or check CultureMagazine.com for uniquely infused holiday recipes.
DIY CANNABIS DECOR GIFTS
CANNABIS GIFT WRAP
The holidays are known as a time to get crafty and creative. When it comes to holiday decor and DIY gift-giving with friends, cannabis can add a playful element to many creative holiday traditions. Take your decor to the next level, and add a cannabis leaf or nug to your the mistletoe hanging above your doorway (this makes a great DIY gift as well). Another cool DIY gift that doubles as a decoration would be to place a joint into a clear glass ornament. Then, you can use paint pens and glitter to decorate the ornament with seasonal colors and phrases. There are endless ways to incorporate cannabis into the thousands of do-ityourself gift ideas you find on Pinterest.
It’s not just the inside of the gift that counts! Add some cannabis flair to your holiday cards and gift wrap. Stamps, ribbon and glitter on cardstock will go a long way when it comes to making your own holiday greeting cards. From there, combine a cannabis leaf stencil with some craft paper and plain gift bags, and you have one-of-a-kind gift wrap. If you’re burned out from exhausting all your creative gusto making DIY Cannabis Decor Gifts, you can purchase pre-made holiday cannabis cards. One brand, KushKards, allows you to add your own pre-roll to the card to really set it over the top. Or you can get your cards and cannabis wrap from various shops on Etsy, such as SoChroma and Stash Box 420. c CultureMagazine.com
DECEMBER 2018
39
Pounding Thoughts By David Edmundson
C
omedian Shaun Latham is truly a renaissance man. The stand-up guru recently launched a new show on SiriusXM, The Shaun Latham Show, he is a certified international “garnishisist” (which is obviously a
40
DECEMBER 2018 CultureMagazine.com
C o m e d i a n S h a u n L at h a m i s the antithesis of the “lazy stoner” stereotype
made-up title he gave himself) in 20 Dollar Chef and he is a boxer in Barstool Sports’ Rough N’ Rowdy. He is the total package; he’ll make you laugh, cook your dinner and protect you if need be. Hit him up ladies, @ShaunLatham on Twitter. While making people laugh is Latham’s primary objective in life,
it’s his infectious personality and effortless charisma that draws you to him. Just watch a couple episodes of 20 Dollar Chef on YouTube, and you will be surprised at how quickly he lures you in. He is also an avid cannabis smoker, who truly bucks the “lazy stoner” stereotype.
Tell us about your new show on SiriusXM. The Shaun Latham Show [airs] Monday through Friday, 10a.m. to 11a.m. EST. It’s myself, YP and Jourdyn Berry. We take callers; it’s kind of a lifestyle show. I love having these two as co-hosts because of the energy they bring. We have a really good vibe even though we are complete opposite humans. It really helps muster up conversation. We’re talking about humorous things, stupid-ass shit. We do a lot of interviews with comedians and entertainers. We just launched in November.
“IF I SMOKE A SOLID SATIVA, I’M LIKE A MAN ON A MISSION ALL DAY LONG. JUST GETTING SHIT DONE, BEING CREATIVE, CATCHING THOUGHTS AND ADDING MORE FUEL TO THE CONTENT MACHINE.”
Where did the idea for 20 Dollar Chef come from? I’ve just been a comedian for such a long time, and I was at that point where I didn’t feel like I needed a regular job anymore. But money was tight, so I had no choice but to cook at home. And after so many years of eating basic shit, you just want to supe it up and make it better. Taking a 50-cent bag of Ramen and doing something different with it. So, I started filming it and putting it on Snapchat. I would do Snaps and film myself talking shit, and people really seemed to like it.
run with. It’s very similar to how I do my stand-up.
What’s the worst thing you ever made on the show? It was Thanksgiving stuffing. I never cooked it growing up. For Thanksgiving, I was always at my family’s or friend’s house, so I never made stuffing before. So, when I tried to make it, it just looked like shit! Are you scripting your episodes or is it mostly improv? It’s 85 percent off-the-cuff, but I will write material that comes to me during the day and incorporate it into the episode. I’m constantly pounding thoughts into my Notes app, so I have a couple pages of thoughts to try out. Typically though, it is a random thought I just
Have you ever cooked with cannabis? Yes I have, using weed butter and oil. I haven’t done it a ton because I’ve lived in such conservative areas, like Indiana, where they still look at weed like it’s the 1950s. I really want to do it a lot more. When it comes to cooking with cannabis on the show, it has more to do with the sponsor of the episode. Certain sponsors might not want weed in their episodes. If it’s in a nonsponsored episode, I can do pretty much whatever I want. Do you have a preferred strain or method for consuming cannabis? I go through stages, but right now I’m really into sativa, to keep me extroverted. I smoke weed a solid amount, and I like to be productive. I’m the opposite of the stereotype, of being lazy. If I smoke a solid sativa, I’m like a man on a mission all day long. Just getting shit done, being creative, catching thoughts and adding more fuel to the content machine. I think it is one of the most important things in my routine, it keeps life fresh. I went through a strong pen phase, but I’m old school, so I mostly smoke joints or out of a pipe. I really pride myself on my joint-rolling skills.
How did you get involved in Rough N’ Rowdy? Rough N’ Rowdy is an event that Barstool Sports puts on that features amateur boxing. It started as personalities in the office boxing each other. After training for a year and a half I told them that I would do it, and then I fought a guy out of the New York office. It was a really awesome event. It was on Payper-view, and it was great to hear feedback on the match. After that I really wanted to do it again. The deal is still being finalized, but I should be fighting Super Bowl weekend. I really want to fight a Twitter troll. There’s a guy who’s been heckling my friend, and I would love to punch him in the face. c shaunlatham.com
CultureMagazine.com
DECEMBER 2018
41
the Season of sharing
G i v e t h e g i f t o f d e l i c i o u s f l av o r w i t h r e c i p e s f o r s h a r e a b l e s w e e t t r e at s standing underneath the mistletoe or sitting beside a warm fireplace—and treats like these are best made to share with your loved ones. Here are just a few seasonal recipes that are perfect for sharing with others. As with all cannabisinfused recipes, be sure to keep the THC potency low so that everyone can enjoy their treats comfortably and safely.
By Laurie Wolf Nobody would argue if December’s unofficial slogan was the “Season of Sweets.” It is hard to deny that this month is the best time of year to enjoy a variety of comforting and tantalizing desserts. Of course, add a bit of cannabis into the mix and you’ve got the perfect treat to eat while
R u s t i c A p p l e Ta r t In late fall, when apples are still crisp and crunchy, all this tart needs is some cannabutter, apples, a bit of sweetener and a squeeze of lemon. And of course ice cream is always a nice touch. We recommend serving it with rum raisin or cinnamon bun flavored ice cream.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
1 9-inch store-bought pie crust, or your favorite recipe
1. Heat oven to 340° F.
3 tablespoons cannabutter, melted 2 apples, cored, peeled and sliced 2 tablespoons maple syrup 1 tablespoon lemon juice
42
2. Place the pie crust on your work surface. Brush the surface with the cannabutter. 3. In a medium bowl, toss the apples with the maple syrup and lemon juice. 4. Place the apples on the crust. Fold the outer edge of the dough around the apples. Bake until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.
DECEMBER 2018 CultureMagazine.com
Photos by Bruce Wolf
SERVES
9
Instructions: MAKES
1. Heat oven to 340° F.
36 BITES
P u l l-a pa r t P e c a n Cinnamon Sugar Tree This easy recipe is a morning treat or perfect for an infused afternoon tea. Go for it—you won’t be sorry. Don’t get carried away when eating this tasty sweet treat, because moderation is key.
Ingredients: 1 can refrigerated pizza dough 3 tablespoons cannabutter, melted 1 1/4 cups chopped pecans, toasted 3/4 cup brown sugar 1/3 cup chocolate chips 1/2 cup icing or frosting
1 tablespoon cinnamon 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar Candy for garnish 1 flat-bottomed ice cream cone, cut to form the base of the tree 1/2 cup melted chocolate
2. Place the pizza dough on your work surface. Gently stretch dough to 10 x 15 inches. Brush with the cannabutter. Cut into 36 squares. 3. In a small bowl combine the pecans, brown sugar, optional chocolate chips and cinnamon. 4. Place a heaping tablespoon of the mixture in the center of each square and pinch tightly to close. Be sure that all seams are pressed tightly. 5. Place the balls on a piece of parchment on a baking sheet. Make a holiday tree form and keep the seams on the bottom of the pan.
6. Bake at 340° F until golden brown, about 15-17 minutes. 7. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar and decorate with icing or frosting and candies. 8. Heat the melted chocolate on top of a double boiler. Stir and remove from heat before fully melted; it will melt off the remaining heat. Coat the bottom of the cone in the chocolate, holding it inside the top of the cone. Place on parchment to set. 9. Dip the cut part of the cone in the remaining chocolate and place on the bottom of the tree. It will set and stick in a minute or two.
CultureMagazine.com
DECEMBER 2018
43
SERVES
10-12
H o l i d ay T r i f l e Trifle is the perfect dessert, with cake, custard, fruit and whipped cream. Come on—how can this be any better? Well, we’ll tell you how. Cannabis. We have used our favorite medicated orange cake, as the base of this magnificent dessert. Feel free to change the cake, custard or fruit. It’s that easy. Remember— approach the trifle with a big spoon and dig deep; that way you get some of everything.
Ingredients: 1 Orange Almond Pound Cake* 4 tablespoons almond syrup 2-3 large packages instant vanilla puddings, depending on size of trifle bowl 5-7 cups milk for instant pudding 2-4 tablespoons cannabutter, melted and cooled for 10 minutes
1 tablespoon vanilla 1 teaspoon almond extract 2 cups raspberries 4 cups blackberries 2 cups heavy cream 4 tablespoons sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
Instructions: 1. Cut the cake into cubes and place half in the bottom of the trifle bowl. Drizzle with half of the almond syrup. 2. Prepare the pudding using the milk, cannabutter, vanilla and almond extract. Top the cake with half of the pudding. 3. Place half the fruit on top of the pudding. Continue with another layer of cake, almond syrup, pudding and fruit. 4. Whip the cream with the sugar and vanilla. Top the trifle with the whipped cream and sprinkle with the pomegranate seeds. The Holiday Trifle can be prepared a day in advance up to the whipped cream and pomegranate stage. Remember, dig deep. 44
DECEMBER 2018 CultureMagazine.com
*Orange Almond Pound Cake Ingredients: 1 teaspoon butter, softened 1/2 cup butter, melted 1/4 cup cannabutter, melted 1 1/3 cups sugar
2 eggs Pinch of salt 1 tablespoon freshly grated orange rind 2 teaspoons vanilla 1 1/2 cups flour
Instructions: 1. Preheat the oven to 340° F. Butter a 9-inch cake pan. 2. In a medium bowl place the melted butters. Add the sugar and mix well. 3. Add the eggs and beat until creamy. Add the remaining ingredients and stir well. 4. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until set. Allow to cool before cutting.
CultureMagazine.com
DECEMBER 2018
45
GROWING CULTURE
OAKLAND OUTDOOR GARDEN PART IV By Ed Rosenthal
T
he Oakland garden is now ripe and is being harvested. As expected, the buds were ripe on Nov. 1. However, there was a delay in preparing for it, and the crew is playing catch-up. Every cultivator eventually learns that plants don’t wait. No matter what your intentions, plants develop somewhat mechanistically; input determines outcome, including timing. The buds’ ripening is a case in point. The light extension regime, interrupting the dark cycle by passing high pressure sodium (HPS) lamps through the field several times a night, ended on Sept. 1. By that time, there was a long enough dark period each night to switch the plants to flowering from vegetative growth. At that point, it was time to start preparing space
to accommodate the plants that would be harvested. However, steps were taken only close to ripening and have delayed harvest. The buds ripened on Nov. 1, 60 days later, as expected. However, it was only a week after that the first drying lines were set up. Then harvest began. On Nov. 19, about 40 percent of the field had been harvested. We have been lucky as other parts of California suffered through fires, but our farm has not been affected. Through October and early November, California days featured clear bright sunshine with highs in the 70s and UV light ratings as high as five. These are the steps in the harvest process are: 1. The plants were trellised using netting. It started with one layer of netting, which the plant branches were woven into. Then, when the plants grew larger and had more branches, netting was wrapped over each side, so that there were three nets holding the plants in place. The outer nets had to be removed in order to clip the plants. At first, crew members cut it using small clippers. Later an electric mini hedge-trimmer was used to cut and remove the netting.
Mature plant is trellised so it has a width of less than 12 inches.
Close-up of bud. All but a few rows were OG Kush.
Plants drying off from the dip.
Craft paper is placed in between layers of dried plants to help with airflow.
Plastic being removed so plants can be cut.
The drying rack is full.
2. Using a limb cutter at first, then later a small chainsaw, the plants were cut down and placed on small garden wagons. 3. The wagons were pulled to the processing area. 4. In the processing area, the plants were dipped in one percent hydrogen peroxide solution and then hung on racks to dry outdoors. This prevents them from molding as they dry out. 5. The plants were cut into top and bottom sections and hung to dry. 6. The space was outfitted with a room dryer to keep the space warm enough for the plants to dry quickly. Fans were placed all around the drying area to support air circulation. 7. The plants dried in about a week and were placed in a separate area to cure at 55 percent humidity for another two weeks. 8. After the plants dry, they will be sorted into “A” buds, smalls and concentrate material. c
Plant being dunked in a one percent hydrogen peroxide solution to protect against mold and bacteria.
Remaining plants in the field.
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.
46
DECEMBER 2018 CultureMagazine.com
NEWS of the
WEIRD
BY THE EDITORS AT ANDREWS MCMEEL
LEAD STORY—NEW WORLD ORDER With the advent of driverless cars, new questions are being raised about a wide range of potential traffic situations. One example: What happens when police pull over an autonomous vehicle? According to The Washington Post, the company whose cars are now zipping around Phoenix is one car-length ahead of us: Alphabet’s Waymo cars (Chrysler Pacifica minivans) will use “sensors to identify police or emergency vehicles by detecting their appearance, their sirens and their emergency lights,” the company’s “Emergency Response Guide” explains. “The Waymo vehicle is designed to pull over and stop when it finds a safe place to do so.” Next, the car will unlock its doors and roll down its windows, allowing the police officer to communicate with a remote support team. The company will even send a human representative to the scene if necessary. So relax and enjoy the ride. Hal will take care of you. IRONY Kids at Pierre Part Primary school in Pierre Part, Louisiana, thought they knew what to expect during Red Ribbon Week, an annual alcohol awareness program, but a school administrator threw them a curveball, reported WBRZ-TV. Rachel Turley, 49, assistant principal
at the school, was on her way to work on Oct. 29 when other motorists reported that she was driving dangerously on Highway 70. Officers caught up with her at the school and took her to a police substation, where they determined her blood alcohol content was .224, nearly three times the legal limit of .08. She was charged with DWI and careless operation. “The fact that she chose to do this on the Monday of Red Ribbon Week is a slap in the face,” commented Niki Lacoste, grandparent of a Pierre Part student. ELECTION ROUNDUP An Independence, Missouri, city councilman who was not on the Nov. 6 ballot managed to let his temper get away from him that morning at a church polling station. Witnesses told KSHB-TV that councilman Tom Van Camp was in the parking lot of the church when another man yelled at him, “Tom Van Camp, you SOB!” Witness Lee Williams said the man then approached Van Camp, and the next time she looked up, Van Camp and the man were “down there on the grass and they’re punching each other. I was just shocked to see my councilman in a fist fight.” A voter called police, who responded, but both men had already left the scene in separate vehicles. Van Camp is under fire in Independence for spending public money on personal travel. He is up for reelection in 2020. The Associated Press reported on Nov. 7 that Virginia’s 5th Congressional District has a new Republican representative, Denver Riggleman, who beat
Democrat Leslie Cockburn despite Cockburn’s suggestion in July that Riggleman was unfit for the office because of a Bigfoot erotica book he had written, “The Mating Habits of Bigfoot and Why Women Want Him.” While Riggleman is indeed the author of “Bigfoot Exterminators Inc.: The Partially Cautionary, Mostly True Tale of Monster Hunt 2006,” he says the erotica book was a joke among himself and buddies from the military. (BONUS: Distillery owner Riggleman entered the race when incumbent Tom Garrett dropped out after announcing he is an alcoholic.) FAMILY VALUES In Italy, an unnamed 48-year-old woman was ordered to pay $1,000 in late October after failing to peacefully settle a two-year dispute with her mother. The daughter, a vegan, threatened her mother with stabbing after the mother prepared Bolognese meat sauce. The daughter told the court she had long avoided sensory and olfactory contact with animal products before moving back in with her mother, but the Telegraph reports, there had been an escalation of aggression between the two women, and apparently the long-simmering sauce was the last straw. “If you won’t stop on your own then I’ll make you stop,” the March 2016 complaint quoted the daughter saying as she grabbed a knife. “Quit making ragu, or I’ll stab you in the stomach.” BRIGHT IDEAS David Weaver, 37, of Nelson, British Columbia, glibly avoided becoming
dinner for 14 sharks at Toronto’s Ripley Aquarium on Oct. 12 after stripping naked and jumping into a 3-million-liter tank and swimming about as other patrons looked on and recorded his stunt. Weaver arrived around 10 p.m. and quickly climbed to an overlook of the “Dangerous Lagoon,” where the sharks and other animals are displayed. Onlookers exclaimed as he made several attempts to climb out of the tank, exposing both his front and back sides. “I thought he was a worker until I noticed he was naked,” said one witness. The sharks “seemed angry but also frightened of him. They are fed daily, so I guess they had no reason to attack him.” The National Post reported police also connected Weaver to an assault a few hours earlier outside the nearby Medieval Times dinner theater. He was later arrested near Thunder Bay. Two unnamed Marine Corps flyers have been grounded pending an investigation after they flew a penis-shaped flight pattern over the Salton Sea on Oct. 23, the Los Angeles Times reported. The pilots were outed by a Twitter account called Aircraft Spots, which tracks flight patterns. Josef Patterson, a Marine Corps spokesman, said the jokesters are assisting with other duties in their squadron at Air Station Miramar in San Diego. They can’t take credit for the idea, though: In November 2017, a Navy jet crew flew in a similar pattern over Washington, D.C.
CultureMagazine.com
DECEMBER 2018
47