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inside
contents 06.2016
38 KEEPING
ROCK ALIVE
CULTURE takes a look at the Thin Lizzy Legacy, and chats with the band about new shows, old memories and their feelings on cannabis legalization. ON THE COVER: p h o t o c o u r t e s y o f T o ta l G u i ta r M ag a z i n e
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Living Social Social media is at the heart of the cannabis community, and its importance will only increase as cannabis becomes more widely accepted.
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Knowledge Abounds The Cannabis Business Summit & Expo returns for another year, full of industry-related seminars and discussion.
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Quirky Bellingham Hip-Hop Local group The Bad Tenants creates quirky and catchy hip-hop—and we can’t get enough.
online Exclusive!
departments news
10 News Nuggets 11 By the Numbers 14 Local News 18 Legal Corner
reviews
22 Company
d Former LAPD Leaders
Back Cannabis Movement
Highlights 28 Advocate Highlight 30 Strain, Edible & Concentrate Reviews 34 Cool Stuff 36 Entertainment Reviews
in every issue
57 Profile in Courage
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52 Washington Now! 54 Growing Culture 56 Destination Unknown
58 Recipes
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60 News of the Weird
d Colorado School District
Implements Medical Cannabis Use Policy
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Publisher Jeremy Zachary Editor-In-Chief Evan Senn associate Editor Ashley Bennett Editorial coordinator Victoria Banegas 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, Simon Weedn, Zara Zhi Photographers Steve Baker, Kristopher Christensen, John Gilhooley, Joel Meaders, Duncan Rolfson Art Director Steven Myrdahl production manager Tommy LaFleur Graphic Designers Tanya Delgadillo, Meilani Darby Regional Manager Justin Olson Account Executives Jon Bookatz, Eric Bulls, Kim Cook, Cole Garrison, Gene Gorelik, Teddy Helms, Emily Musser, Beau Odom, Jim Saunders, Chris Thatcher general Manager Iris Norsworthy Office Assistant Angelina Thompson director of digital media Brian Gingrich digital media Editor David Edmundson Ctv Contributors Quinn Marie Distribution Manager Cruz Bobadilla
Culture速 Magazine is published every month and distributes magazines at over 600 locations throughout Washington. No articles, illustrations, photographs, or other matter within may be reproduced without written permission. Culture速 Magazine is a registered trademark. All rights reserved. 815 1st Ave | #220 Seattle | Washington | 98104 Phone 888.694.2046 | Fax 888.694.2046 www.iReadCulture.com
CULTURE速 Magazine is printed using post-recycled paper.
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/freeculturemag
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NEWS
nuggets Washington State Sees Decline in Illegal Cannabis Seizures
Since cannabis has been legalized in Washington, the amount of illegal cannabis seized by the United States Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) has reduced drastically. According to reports from the DEA, the number of cannabis plants it has seized dropped 80 percent between 2010 and 2014, while the amount of processed cannabis has dropped from 3,126 pounds to only 635 pounds. While this may seem like a result of legalized cannabis within the state, the Washington State Patrol says that it is due to the collective efforts put forth by state, local and federal law enforcement. “Production has moved into other states that don’t necessarily have the response teams we do,” said Lieutenant Chris Sweet of the Washington State Patrol. However, sales and marketing consultant Eric Schoep believes that it is due to the state’s cannabis laws. “Due to very lenient MMJ laws (RCW 69.51a), the price was driven down to a point where the risk of operating illegally was no longer worth it compared to operating legally under state MMJ regulations,” said Schoep.
Oklahoma House Approves Bill that will Expand Age Range for CBD Use Oklahoma has not been shy about its opposition towards cannabis, but recently the state has learned to embrace the plant and its therapeutic benefits. In May, the Oklahoma House voted 69-14 to pass a bill that will expand the use of CBD oil to children, according to KOCO. Previously, CBD oil was only administered to cannabis patients under the age of 18, but the recently approved bill removed that age restriction. Conditions that qualify patients to medicate with CBD oil are those hoping to treat spasticity associated with Multiple Sclerosis and paraplegia, and those looking to alleviate symptoms of chronic wasting disease. This decision came shortly after Governor Mary Fallin signed House Bill 2154, allowing children with severe epilepsy to medicate with CBD oil. The House’s decision currently awaits approval from Governor Fallin.
Tacoma to Change Regulations for Recreational Access Points The Tacoma City Council took its first two votes in May on a new law that would limit the number of access points in the city to 16. This decision came after a five-month moratorium that was placed on access points, and will allow the 16 cannabis businesses to cluster near one another as well as allow groups of four to cultivate cannabis in “residential collectives,” as reported by The News Tribune. While these regulations are written in state law, the City Council decided to create its own regulations by requiring recreational access points to obtain endorsements that will allow them to sell medical cannabis, to ensure that patients are being sold un-taxed medicines. Another restriction added to the new regulations are decreased buffer zones between access points and schools, parks, jails and libraries. Instead of the state mandated 1,000 feet, access points in Tacoma will be required to be 500 feet from such establishments.
Eight Annual Cannabis Liberation Day Celebrated in the Netherlands Since the Cannabis Cup left the Netherlands, there is only one event in the country that celebrates cannabis: Cannabis Liberation Day. Now in its eighth year, the festival, which is organized by the Union for the abolition of cannabis prohibition (VOC), includes a variety of guest speakers and musicians from the Netherlands and abroad, all coming together for the advancement of cannabis reform. While there are still serious issues revolving around cannabis reform all across the globe, organizers of Cannabis Liberation Day created this event with the intent of creating a positive culture surrounding cannabis. Guests can enjoy the event’s Hemp Market and Cannabis Film Festival while checking out vendors and attending lectures. With the recent and unexpected passing of VOC founding member Josep Oomen, a tribute will be held in his honor.
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NEWS
The current number of retail cannabis access points operating in Bellevue: (Source: Bellevue Reporter)
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The estimated maximum amount of square feet, in millions, worth of cannabis that is needed to satisfy the medical cannabis market in Washington: (Source: Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board)
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The reduced percentage of cannabis plants that were seized by the DEA in Washington between 2010 to 2014: (Source: Merry Jane)
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The amount of money, in millions of dollars, that was made last year in Stevens County from recreational cannabis sales: (Source: The Independent)
The amount of money that it costs to purchase legal cannabis per gram in Washington, as of March 2016: (Source: RT)
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The number of medical cannabis dispensaries in Vancouver, Canada that have been issued development permits under the city’s regulations: (Source: CFJC Today)
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The amount of money, in millions of dollars, that Illinois made from medical cannabis sales in April, 2016: (Source: Fox 32)
The percentage of British people who support medical cannabis: (Source: International Business Times)
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26th Annual ICRS Symposium on the Cannabinoids WHAT: 26th Annual ICRS Symposium on the Cannabinoids. WHEN/WHERE: Mon, June 27-Thurs, June 30. Hotel Bukovina, Sportowa 22, 34-530 Bukowina Tatrzańska, Poland. INFO: For registration and additional details visit www.icrs2016.org. The International Cannabis Research Society (ICRS) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to research in all fields of cannabis science. This includes biochemical, chemical and physiological studies of the endocannabinoid system. While the ICRS is a great resource in cannabis studies, it also serves as a platform for other researchers to share their findings in cannabis science. With over
500 international members each year the ICRS brings together like-minded individuals in the cannabis research for its annual symposium on cannabinoids. In its 26th year, the ICRS will be hosting this event in Poland at the lavish Hotel Bukovina. Guests will be able to enjoy the many luxuries of Hotel Bukovina along with the culture of the Polish city Kraków, where guests can bus from.
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NEWS
LOCAL
Industrial Hemp Farming Basics & Hemp
HOPE ON THE HORIZON Washington State trailblazing progressive cannabis legislation
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by Emily Manke olland Gregg has been on a long, strange legislative trip. Part of the drug enforcement mess that was the Kettle Falls Five case, Gregg’s life has been forever changed because of failed, outdated drug laws. His saga has lasted for more than three years, with the stakes now higher than ever. After breaking his back snowboarding, Gregg found pain relief in cannabis. His wife, mother and father all had legitimate medical needs for cannabis as well. So like many before them, they, along with a friend, found growing their own cannabis to be the most economic choice for their medicine. Being legal in Washington, the Gregg’s figured as long as they stayed in their limits, it wouldn’t be an issue. They were wrong. Despite being compliant with Washington State law, Gregg’s family farm was raided by the Feds, and he and his entire family were arrested. The charges against his father, Larry Harvey, were eventually dropped. Unfortunately soon after, Harvey passed away from cancer. Last year, a federal jury found Gregg, his wife and his mother guilty. “It’s been the hardest thing I’ve ever had to deal with in my life when you see the government coming down on you for simply trying to be healthy,” Gregg told the Associated Press. Prison is on the horizon, but Gregg and his attorney have pulled out one last trick. A
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recent congressional amendment that ruled it was illegal for the Department of Justice (DOJ) to use funds distributed by congress for 2015 to 2016, to prosecute medical growers who were following state law. Gregg and his attorney think this includes him, his mother and his wife. And they’ve taken their fight all the way to the United States’ Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. The Ninth Circuit includes Alaska, Washington, Oregon and California, all of which have legalized either recreational cannabis, medical cannabis or both. University of Denver Law professor and cannabis regulation expert Sam Kamin spoke to the Associated Press about the case. “The Ninth Circuit is the biggest circuit, one that contains lots of marijuana states. If they were to say, ‘The federal government is prohibited from enforcing medical-marijuana law,’ that would be huge.” This ruling will have huge implications for states with legalized cannabis. If the law can be upheld as intended, the DOJ can no longer prosecute cannabis producers or sellers if they are compliant with their state laws. This kind of progress, though seemingly incremental, can in fact be monumental. The decision will be made soon. Thanks to Gregg’s diligence, and Washington State’s progressive stance on cannabis, his battle may soon come to an end. If justice is upheld, Gregg and his family’s struggle will have a special significance. c
Hemp is great for the environment and is versatile with a reported 25,000 products that can be produced using the plant. Now that hemp farming is legal in Washington State, it is time for you and everyone you know to learn the ins and outs of Washington’s hemp bill and how to farm the crop. At this event guests will learn the many aspects that go into hemp farming including field preparation, crop rotations, sowing and much more. Leading the event will be Joy Beckerman of Hemp Ace International and hemp agronomist Anndrea Hermann. This is a free event and where participants will gain essential insight on not only the cultivation aspect of hemp farming but also a better understanding of Washington’s hemp regulations and its hemp program. WHAT: Industrial Hemp Farming Basics & Hemp. WHEN/WHERE: Mon, July 25. 6 pm7:45 pm . Olympia Timberland Library, 313 8th Ave., Olympia. INFO: To register for this event visit eventbrite.com.
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NEWS
legal corner
“Despite the client being a first time ‘offender,’ the WSLCB had no interest in offering a monetary penalty, a suspension or any alternatives; it wanted only to cancel the processor’s license.”
CHOOSE YOUR BATTLES The WSLCB is strict when it comes to the flow of money in the cannabis industry by Hilary Bricken Washington tends to be pretty strict regarding the flow of money into and out of the cannabis industry. To date, it still allows cannabis businesses to be financed only by state residents (hopefully soon to be relaxed), and it only allows state residents to exert any control over licensed businesses and/or to share in the profits of licensed businesses. Even if you are a state resident, a licensee faces major risks if it shares profits with you without having declared you as a true party of interest and having received approval from the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) before sharing any profits with you. As many licensees know, however, where the rules are vague or ambiguous, it is generally the first impulse of the WSLCB (like most regulators), to say that the most conservative, restrictive answer is the correct one. And though listening to your regulators and complying with their wishes is usually your best and least expensive option, it sometimes pays off to push back, at least a little. In a recent case, my firm worked on a Washington case against the WSLCB dealing with the “profit issue,” where the client was a licensed processor based in eastern Washington that had
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contracted with an independent sales company to sell its product primarily in western Washington for a 7.5 percent sales commission. A licensed retailer complained about this arrangement, and the WSLCB sent an enforcement officer to interview the processor. The processor confirmed the basic agreement and the WSLCB then turned around and tried to cancel the client’s cannabis processing license. Despite the client being a first time “offender,” the WSLCB had no interest in offering a monetary penalty, a suspension or any alternatives; it wanted only to cancel the processor’s license. When my firm took on the case, our first goal was to achieve a reasonable settlement with the WSLCB. Few people that have been through litigation, including administrative litigation, would ever describe it as a fun or rewarding or inexpensive experience. Even when you have a good case, which we did, it often makes financial sense to pay a settlement than to pay your attorneys to fight. We tried to get the WSLCB to agree to a lesser penalty, but it was just not willing to budge, so we went through the administrative hearing process. The administrative judge listened to both sides and let us know about 45 days later that we had won.
Ultimately, the judge ruled that under WAC 314-55-035, someone who receives a commission on a specific sale is not receiving “a percentage of the gross or net profit from the licensed business during any full or partial calendar year” and, therefore, does not have to go through the WSLCB approval process for true parties of interest. State agencies get to write the rules they enforce so long as they go through the standard rule-making process–proposed rule, comment period, then final rule. Even if they don’t go through that process, they still get quite a bit of leeway when it comes to interpreting ambiguous rules. But once a rule is written, a state agency is not supposed to expand its scope beyond its text without first going through the rule-making process. When state agencies do act without going through the required rule-making process and then refuse to back down, it is important to use the legal system to push back. Nonetheless, it is always important to “pick your battles,” and to know when you are doing something that may cause trouble. In this case, the client probably would have liked to go back in time and not have paid the commission, as that would have meant it could have avoided having to fight the state at all. Ultimately, regulated businesses need to make decisions using a green light, yellow light, red light approach. Green light decisions are clearly allowed and red light decisions are clearly rule violations. Yellow light decisions are the trickiest, as those are the ones that could go either way based on rules interpretations. For these decisions, it’s all about deciding whether the risk of losing a legal fight against the regulator is worth the potential reward of making the decision. Most of the time, you will want to be cautious, but every now and then, the fight is worth it. c
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REVIEWs
company highlight
What words of advice would you offer anyone seeking to enter the world of cannabis business? More specifically, what is unique to this type of work / this industry, in your opinion? Whether you want to start home gardening or become a large scale agriculturalist, the company has to have a passion for progress. If you are doing what you love, the juice is always worth the squeeze.
Green Thumb Indoor Garden Supply
10120 128th St. Ct. E., Puyallup, 98373 (253) 460-GROW (4769) greenthumbindoorgarden.com
How would you describe your company? What is your specialty? Green Thumb is a dedicated horticulture and garden supply company. Our specialty coincides with our company’s mission, and that is providing all garden enthusiasts with superior products and connects the community to the latest information and plant science. What do you offer consumers/clients that others don’t? Green Thumb has decided that in order to flourish in a competitive market place, we have diversified as a company and started offering specialty
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flower arrangements and exotic landscaping foliage, with plans to tap into the home brew beer market, pun intended, in addition to the tropical plants in our green house as well as the traditional garden catalog products. How and why did your company start up? The owner, Julie, has always been enthusiastic in regards to horticulture and once wrote a garden column for the community newsletter. We have followed in her steps, and as a team we have managed Home Depot garden departments, East coast horticulture and hydroponics stores and Humboldt
What are the goals and vision moving forward for your company? Where do you see your company in five years? We are currently focused on the above mentioned mission statement and our vision moving forward is to streamline information to our end customers, while continuing to learn and evolve with the times.
wholesales of New Jersey. The team has a great number of years in the industry with a vast knowledge base. With the changing landscape of MMJ and recreational cannabis, what do you see as the biggest challenges to your progress as a company? Any advantages? We as a company are dedicated to all types of gardening, and find our passion is not dictated by legislature, but by our passion for progress in the gardening community as a whole. We would like to serve everyone, be them I502/New Medical or those who just want to have a small patio garden.
What do you hope to accomplish in the MMJ industry? Bridge the gap from your grandparents growing tomatoes and okra to your other grandparents—growing cannabis. Any sneak peeks on new products or news you’d like to share? Customer Appreciation Days and parties. The next one is June 4 at our Tacoma Location. Speak with representatives from the leading manufacturers in the industry to get accurate information and chances to rub elbows with the area’s top gardeners. We also offer huge raffles, including DE 1000w complete systems, 1000w ballests, bulbs, soil and nutrients all to be won! And of course, we often barbeque food and have a DJ bumping music. We look forward to growing with you. c
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company highlight
our growth more effectively, which is what has enabled us to be where we are today. This gives us a foundation upon which the future can continue to develop. What are the goals and vision moving forward, for your company? Where do you see your company in five years? We want to continue evolving with the growing industry while maintaining our core principles and vision. We want consumers and retailers to know that we carry a wide variety of quality products and brands, providing our customers with options to meet their needs. A lot about where we will be in five years depends on how the industry develops, so the key is to remain flexible. We foresee ourselves providing, not just to the state of Washington, but to clients in other states, and hopefully in other countries, as culture continues to evolve.
Alis Group, LLC 624 S. Lander St. #47, Seattle www.alisgroup.net
if you will, and strives to ensure that all of our products are the type of products we would choose also.
How would you describe your company? What is your specialty? The Alis Group’s mission is to provide consumers and clients with high quality products and excellent service. We take pride in being flexible enough to work with both large and small retailers, while maintaining standards and expectations. We believe in honesty, and want to be known as a company people can trust.
How and why did your company start up? The company began in medical cannabis, offering premium hash oil as X-tracted Labs, Seattle Refine’s main distributor. From there, we grew to service more than 35 store locations with top quality oils, flower and other cannabis related products. Anticipating the evolution of this new industry, we applied for all three of the producer/ processor licenses, enabling us to be flexible as the future unfolded.
What do you offer consumers/ clients that others don’t? We believe in going the extra mile. For example, we seal all of our useable cannabis, which isn’t required by law. However, we believe it is important for consumers to know that their products have not been tampered with in any way. Our crew is also rather passionate about cannabis, cannabis connoisseurs
With the changing landscape of MMJ and recreational cannabis, what do you see as the biggest challenges to your progress as a company? Any advantages? Seeing the landscape change is why I applied for my licenses. Beginning with our processing facility first, due to zoning regulations at our Seattle headquarters, it enabled us to control
(425) 786-4549
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What words of advice would you offer anyone seeking to enter the world of cannabis business? More specifically, what is unique to this type of work/this industry, in your opinion? It seems as though the ancillary businesses can generate a great deal of revenue, with much less regulation and scrutiny, so it would be wise to look into those types of businesses. However, the number one piece of advice is to realistically crunch the numbers for your cannabis venture before starting. A good rule of thumb is that everything will cost twice as much as you think, as there are a lot of unexpected costs along the way. What do you hope to accomplish in the MMJ industry? MMJ is dead in Washington State, so there really isn’t anything left to accomplish, having done all that was possible during its time here in Washington. Nevertheless, there are many positive possibilities for the MMJ market in other states and countries, which will be beneficial to MMJ patients. Any sneak peeks on new products or news you’d like to share? We have expanded our facility at Soma Farms, having added six new hoop houses, which will produce high quality cannabis in a greenhouse environment, while utilizing light dep techniques to maximize both quality and production. c
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REVIEWs
advocate highlight
stress, and with alcohol and prescription drugs many people find themselves addicted and harmed by the substances they choose. Cannabis is far less habitforming, and in my opinion completely healthy. What’s your greatest achievement to the cannabis cause? Aside from signing the petition and eventually voting for its legalization. I would say being involved in the first potentially successful presidential campaign [Bernie Sanders] that has openly called for the complete federal legalization of cannabis. Who do you look up to or admire? I look up to the one candidate running for president who stands by the issues that affect us all. The candidate who has a grass roots movement of people ready to change our destructive policies that continue to bleed the wealth from the middle class of this country, Bernie Sanders.
Jack Schramer When and how did you become an advocate for cannabis? I became an advocate for cannabis when I was in my early 20s. Although I used it for recreational means for years prior, I became aware of its medicinal qualities on my life as well as my spouse’s life. It was beneficial to a back injury I had acquired snowboarding, and in pain management in general— which I greatly preferred
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over an opioid prescription from my doctor. I had seen a lot of my peers fall into addiction shortly after high school, as heroin is readily available in my region. I realized cannabis is a healthy alternative to all the drugs— prescription and recreational, which are extremely dangerous to your mental and physical health. How has cannabis benefited your life? Cannabis has benefited me in many ways. In a big way,
it seeded my friendship, and eventual marriage to my wife. After smoking cannabis we would have deep and bonding conversations and a common activity provided a sense of companionship. In a way, I think it enhanced the time we spent together and built our relationship with laughter and free thinking. It also helped me relax when the stress of living in the low economic environment that occurred in 2008 and years after. I feel many people seek an external means to manage
If you could change one thing about the way cannabis is viewed and/ or treated right now, what would it be? If I were to snap my fingers and change something today, it would be the stigma that still surrounds cannabis. The years of prohibition and misinformation has stained our culture toward treating cannabis as a dangerous, addictive and restricting substance. I often find it socially inappropriate to smoke cannabis at a party. Alcohol is celebrated as a perfectly acceptable activity while cannabis still has years to go before the reputation built over years of jail time for its possession and its effects causing “lazy unproductive behavior.” c
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REVIEWs
strain, edible & concentrate
Peppermint Patties by Proper Chocolates When you hear the word proper, you may think of tea with a queen. Maybe a bit of chocolate as well. If there were ever a cannabis-infused chocolate product fit for a queen, these Peppermint Patties by Proper Chocolates would be it. From the package, to the chocolate itself, everything about these Peppermint Patties screams quality. The vintage-inspired cocoa, white and turquoise packaging are truly a work of art. The white text over a cocoa background, are a design element that carry over from the inside of the package, to the chocolate itself, which is so exquisitely decorated it’s almost too beautiful to eat. Thank goodness we were able to get past the ornate, detailed appearance of the product and eat it, because it was a delicious experience. The Peppermint Patties tasted like an upscale version of popular store brand mint and chocolate candies. The chocolate was appropriately dark, and the mint flavor strong and refreshing. There were no detectable hints of cannabis flavor to speak of. As the 5mg per chocolate dosage suggests, these chocolates are the perfect product for a novice cannabis or lightweight cannabis user. The doses are small and totally reliable. If anyone were on the fence about edible cannabis use due to concerns regarding dosage, or flavor, this is the perfect product for them. And a delightful snack for the more practiced cannabis veterans.
Available at: Greenside Recreational in Des Moines and Greenside Recreational in Seattle.
LA Chocolate by 710 Reserve
Available at: Evergreen Market in Auburn and Renton.
As seasoned cannabis connoisseurs, it’s not very often we are given a product that astonishes us. With so many incredible products out there, it’s hard to stand out from the crowd. Hydrocarbon Extracted LA Chocolate by 710 Reserve manages to do just that. It’s not just in the impressive numbers: 71.25 percent THC. The packaging design is attractive and functional, with a plastic case, and silicon sleeve the extract doesn’t get caught in the seal, like in all silicon, or get stuck to the container, like with plastic. But what’s most important, is what’s in that container. The extract itself was what made this product so outstanding. The texture of this product is perfection. Soft and malleable, but doesn’t fall apart. Somewhere in between shatter and wax. We consumed LA Chocolate using a quartz bowl piece in a water pipe. The flavor was immediate and overwhelmingly pleasant. A delicate milk chocolate, hazelnut and light fruit flavor that was reminiscent of some out of reach memory. Within minutes of inhaling this sweet, delicious extract, the effects took hold. True to its numbers the product was powerful. Effective for pain relief and relaxation, this extract could be applied to any number of uses. Available at: The greater Puget Sound area.
Cigaweed - Sativa Picture this: You’re at a gathering with some new friends, feeling good. Music is just your style, and the craft brew selection is up to par. One thing is missing though, cannabis. As far as you can see, this is a dry party. But you get a break, someone goes out to smoke a cigarette. Now’s your chance! Enter Sativa Cigaweed. The perfect product to break the barrier, and start the cannabis conversation. The attractive silver, black and green package contains 8-individually sealed cannabis cigarettes that look identical to tobacco cigarettes. Clear labeling makes strain selection a breeze. This sativa was perky and enjoyable. These machine-rolled beauties are capped at the end to ensure freshness, and feature hemp paper, and a high-flow filter specially designed to allow the passage of THC. We noticed while smoking, that the smell of the paper, and the filter work to mask the cannabis fragrance somewhat, further adding to the inconspicuous nature of the product. This is the ideal urban portable smoking device.
White Gorilla
Available at: Hypeherbally in Lynnwood.
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This flower is pretty much a cannabis grower, processor, or just consumer’s dream. The result of White, crossed with Gorilla Glue #4, is this insanely gorgeous flower. The buds are huge, long and dense, with all of the weight in the flower, not the stem. To say the crystal density was terrific, is an understatement. Two crystalline strains crossed, produced genetics that are perhaps even more crystal-packed than its predecessors. It was literally impossible to say what shade of green the leaves were because they were so covered in white crystals. Hairs were sparse, light orange and tangled in the THC. The fragrance was sweet, strong, and piney, exhibiting the best traits from both of its parental strains. After consuming this product in a water pipe, the flavor was reminiscent of the fragrance with hints of sweetness and pine, but the flavor had a more prominent earthy tone as well. Once consumed, we were impacted with a tranquil and joyous feeling that lasted longer than your average flower effect. Though not a provider of steady energy, this strong bud is not incapacitating either. It would be the perfect companion to paint a picture, take a walk to the beach or binge watch your favorite series on Netflix. Depending on the tolerance and preferences of the user, this flower may be appropriate for daily medicinal use as well.
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For More Products Go To iReadCulture.com
3. Malin + Goetz Cannabis Hand and Body Wash
1. Fresh® Cannabis Santal Eau de Parfum Cologne
Start off this summer with beautiful skin that is nourished and hydrated with Malin + Goetz Cannabis Hand and Body Wash. Unlike most body washes that dry skin, Malin + Goetz Cannabis Hand and Body Wash gently cleanses and balances skin without stripping it of its essential oils. Although this product does not contain any extracts from the cannabis plant, it contains a Cannabis Eau de Toilette Fragrance that leaves skin slightly scented. While this product works great as a hand or body wash, it can also be used in a relaxing bubble bath. PRICE: $22 MORE INFORMATION: www.malinandgoetz.com
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For the cannabis-loving man looking to class things up a bit, checkout Fresh’s Cannabis Santal Eau de Parfum Cologne. The original fragrance in Fresh’s cannabis-inspired line, Cannabis Santal has a woodsy scent with top notes of bergamot and black plum, and has received wide popularity amongst fragrance lovers. Like most designer fragrances, Cannabis Santal, gives off an irresistible, masculine scent that leaves a lasting impression on those who encounter its distinct aroma. Made with natural ingredients Cannabis Santal is a must have fragrance designed by renowned fragrance designer Caroline Sabas that is perfect for any man. PRICE: $50 MORE INFORMATION: www.fresh.com
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4. Hemp Heart Bites
2. Cannadent Hemp Toothpaste Most major toothpaste brands contain unnatural chemicals or substances that aren’t ideal to go in your mouth. To save you from submitting yourself to unhealthy dental habits try Cannadent, a hemp toothpaste produced by European cosmetics company Cannaderm. With ingredients like pure hemp oil, grapefruit seed, oak-bark and rosemary extracts, Cannadent is gentle on the mouth but cleanses effectively. Not only does this toothpaste help keep your mouth clean and odor free, it aids in calming and preventing tooth sensitivity, canker sores and bleeding gums. Give your mouth the care it deserves and enjoy the miraculous benefits of hemp hygiene. PRICE: $14.90 MORE INFORMATION: www.cannabis-cosmetics.com 34
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entertainment
REVIEWs
BOOK
Marijuana Horticulture Fundamentals K of Trichome Technologies Green Candy Press If you know your cannabis cultivator trivia, Trichome Technologies’ breeder “K” is a legend in growing. This new book by K is an easy-to-understand guide for any level of horticulturist. It goes into great detail about every level of growing cannabis, teaches the useful information about the plant and exactly how to grow your perfect strain of cannabis, whatever that means to you. Marijuana Horticulture Fundamentals is a great book for anyone looking to improve their cultivation or start one! (Alex Bradley)
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Release Date: JUNE 21 Available on: PS4 and PC
GAME
No Man’s Sky Dev. Hello Games Pub. Hello Games Survival games have their appeal in the gaming world, but none more than the upcoming science fiction game, No Man’s Sky. Players are introduced to a massive universe with 18 quintillion different planets to visit, which they will navigate using their own spaceships to investigate planets with their own unique plants, animals and atmospheres. Explore this seemingly unending universe in search of ship upgrades, and best of all, you can either travel the stars with friends or make it a single-player adventure with offline mode. (Nicole Potter)
MUSIC MOVIE
Deadpool 20th Century Fox, Marvel Entertainment Dir. Tim Miller
Combining intense action, witty, dark humor, and actor Ryan Reynold’s knack for comedic timing and delivery, Deadpool hits hard and delivers like few in the X-Men franchise have been able to so far. Unburdened by the need to seek a PG-13 rating, Deadpool is able to be the no holds barred fight/laugh fest. Reynolds’ delivery of the character is mesmerizing, and a supporting cast of brilliant young character actors, including T.J. Miller (Silicon Valley), Karan Soni (Safety Not Guaranteed) and Morena Baccarin (Serenity), ensure the film’s perfection. (Simon Weedn)
Blews Sick Sad World Self-Released Just in time for its tour with fellow Seattle locals, La Luz, Sick Sad World has seen fit to grace the masses with a brand new digital/ cassette tape EP entitled, Blews. Picking up pretty much right where it left off on its highly praised debut album, Fear And Lies, Sick Sad World strides through six tracks of some of the most stripped down and straight forward, yet catchy and endearing power pop. Truly an awesome all around musical package, Sick Sad World is certainly worth a listen and is surely not a band to be missed live. (Simon Weedn)
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by Simon Weedn hen it comes to classic hard rock acts, few are thought of so highly and loved by so many as Irish rockers, Thin Lizzy. Managing to transcend their own genre and endearing themselves with punk rockers, metal heads and rock and roll enthusiasts of nearly any variety, Thin Lizzy took the world by storm in the 1970s and ‘80s. The band, through years of hard work and relentless touring, became extremely well known for bringing a thunderous maelstrom of driving, frenetic rhythms and bass lines, blistering dual guitar leads, and some of the most brilliantly authentic, honest and personal lyrical story telling of the genre and time. Unfortunately, Thin Lizzy’s trajectory was ground to a halt in 1984 when an array of personal turmoils forced the band to split. Then two years later, the unexpected and sudden passing of founding member, front man, and primary songwriter, Phil Lynott, denied the prospect
of any immediate reunions for the group. However, even with Lynott’s untimely passing, Thin Lizzy’s legacy had already been firmly cemented, and songs like “The Boys Are Back In Town,” “Whiskey In The Jar,” “Jailbreak” and “Waiting For An Alibi” have become hard rock staples over the years and are played by bands, both popular and obscure, nightly, all over the world. In recent years, Thin Lizzy guitarist, Scott Gorham, has taken it upon himself to reform the band with its surviving members every so often, to perform reunion shows to celebrate both Thin Lizzy’s legacy and music, as well as the life and legacy of the late Phil Lynott. Recently, CULTURE was able to catch up with Scott and hear all about the band’s upcoming shows, his memories of recording the Jailbreak album which turned 40 this year, his feelings about cannabis, and his recollections about his beloved friend and bandmate, Phil Lynott. >> iReadCULTURE.com JUNE 2016
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You mentioned the whole “third record” aspect of things. Do you think that pressure also contribute to the heightened energy on Jailbreak? Were you as a band sort of at your hungriest at that point because of that pressure? Yeah! You know, I think the fear factor makes you concentrate a hell of a lot more. It didn’t feel like playtime anymore, all of a sudden everything got real. I think the other helpful side of it was that we already had two albums under our belt together, so we kind of knew each other’s moves, it was easier to play with each other, and it was easier to come up with suggestions and not feel embarrassed about it. So, I think the experience from the previous two albums really helped a lot and the fear factor gave us a kick in the ass.
First and foremost, you’ve got some dates coming up to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Jailbreak as well as 30 years since the passing of Phil Lynnot. Is it at all surreal for you that it’s been four decades since Jailbreak’s release? Scott Gorham: You know something, it really is. I hadn’t even realized it until last year when a journalist said to me, “Wow, so 40 years since Jailbreak came out.” And I said, “No, no, no, that can’t be right.” But, then I counted back and I said, “Holy crap, you’re right! It’s been 40 years!” So it is strange, that all of these years have been reeled off, and you’re not even thinking about it, then all of the sudden your bones start to hurt. It is amazing that people still want to come out and see the band play, buy the records, and talk about it. It doesn’t get much better than that. Do you still have any particularly strong memories about recording the album? I do! This was our third album. Back then in the ‘70s, it was kind of expected that if you hadn’t made it on the first or second record, that you’d better make it on the third or you were out the door. I mean, there was no talking about it. People kept saying this to us, things like, “You know this is the third album man, and you haven’t broken through yet.” The pressure was building on us to really turn this into something special. So, what we did is, we went out and bought an eight-track, we rented a farm house out in the country, that way nobody could disturb us and there’d be no distractions, and Phil, myself and the two Brians went out there and started 40
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“We were a band who wasn’t afraid of this new regime that was sweeping through the rock world, which was really scaring the shit out of a lot of the hair bands.”
writing. We ended up writing about 15 songs all in all, and then we had to carve out a list of ten that we were going to take into the studio and record. Of those 10, the song “The Boys Are Back In Town” was not included. So, one of our managers came down and said, “I’ve heard the 10 that you guys want to do, and they sound great, but let me hear the other five that you don’t want to do.” So we played them for him and he went straight to “The Boys Are Back In Town” and said to us, “You know, there’s something about this song I really like. Can we add this to the list?” And we said, “Sure! Why not? There’s at least one guy who likes that song.” And if that song hadn’t made it on the list, you and I probably wouldn’t be talking right now.
Was there any sense, once you all got into the studio and fleshed things out, that the record was going to be as successful as it became? No, not at all. I mean, you gotta remember, on the first two albums we, the guys in the band, were the ones that chose the singles and, obviously, they totally and horribly flopped. So on this third album, we decided we’d let the record company choose them this time, and they picked the title track, “Jailbreak,” for the first single. But, it was two disc jockeys out of Louisville, Kentucky that latched onto “The Boys Are Back In Town” and played it to f*cking death. To the point where other radio stations around them caught on, and they started playing it heavy, and it began this huge spiral thing across the whole of America. It was really cool to see that happen. So, it really had nothing to do with us or the record company picking things, they didn’t really do any PR on it or anything; it came down to the listenership of all of these different radio stations. Were you guys on tour at the time this was happening? How did you all find out the song was taking off? Well, we were on tour, and I remember distinctly that we were playing at this club and one of the managers walked in and said, “Well guys, it looks like we’ve got a hit single on our hands!” And we said, “Re-really? Wh-what song?!” And that’s when he told us it was “The Boys Are Back In Town.” That’s incredible; I bet you guys must have felt so relieved. Oh, the weight off our shoulders was immense. >>
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What does it feel like for you nowadays to play through these songs? To pick up your guitar and run through these riffs? Well, you know, it’s not like I fall down on my knees and thank the Lord every time I play one of these songs [laughs]. But, because we’ve been playing these songs for such a long time, we know the reaction we’re gonna get when we strike up the chorus to “The Boys Are Back In Town,” “Jailbreak,” “Emeralds” or any of the songs on our list because the audiences are really familiar. So, there’s a lot of confidence with our set. I mean, we can go out there, play for an hour and a half or and hour and 45 minutes and, really, nobody is gonna get disappointed. That’s the great thing! You all have Scott Travis from Judas Priest on drum duty for the majority of these upcoming shows and that’s pretty spectacular. How did Scott’s name come up when deciding on a drummer? Well, you know, in 2011 we toured with Judas Priest for about four weeks. It was a great tour, and we got to know all of the guys in the band. It’s funny, I’ve got a real thing about drummers and I don’t laugh at drummer jokes and all that because, to me, they’re the real back bone of the band. Guitar players, we’re kind of just the fluff on top. So I kind of gravitate towards those guys. When we were touring with Judas Priest, I kept checking out what Scott actually did and how well he did it, and I remember thinking, “Wouldn’t it be great to do something with this guy! I don’t know how, when, why or where, but doing something would just be a really cool thing!” So, here comes the opportunity, and when we reached out to Scott, his exact words were, “I’m into this onethousand percent!” You’re also going to have Tom Hamilton, a founding member of Aerosmith, on bass, another stellar addition to your line up. Can you tell us a bit about how it was decided that he was going to join you as well? You know, we put a wish-list together and he was literally the first name on the list, and Tom stepped right up to plate and started swinging. He said, “I’m in! When are the dates? Where are we going? Who else is on the bill?” And as soon as I heard those questions I knew he was in for sure. It’s all happening really quickly and in a really good way, and right now all of the band is nailed down and we’re just getting ready for rehearsals. >> 42
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Will you guys be playing exclusively Jailbreak material, or will there be other tunes worked in as well? Oh no, it’s going to take-in all of the albums. It’s hard to make a concert from just one album. At most, you have maybe 40 minutes of music on there, and we plan on being up there for nearly two hours. It’s going to be like Live & Dangerous was; it took in songs from a lot of different records. During this hour and 45 minutes or so, we’ll probably be adding in some songs that we have never really played on stage before. So that should be cool too! As somebody who’s been playing music all over the world for quite a long time now, you’ve gotten to see a great variety of cultures and social movements of all types, including the growing cannabis legalization movement. You’re prolegalization, right? Well, I’m definitely pro medical marijuana! Obviously, my background has a lot to do with having problems with drugs in the past, but the medical marijuana thing—that’s a whole different ballgame. Now we’re trying to get people out of severe pain, if this is the way to do it, then absolutely by all means. I’m sure people will be using it recreationally, I’m quite positive of that. But, when somebody has a real honest-to-God ailment and their quality of life is shit, then let’s make it un-shit. Let’s get them relief from the pain from whatever the problem might be. I am pro-legalization. We’ve been seeing some gorgeous re-issues of Thin Lizzy records on nice 180 gram vinyl on record store shelves everywhere we go. Do you enjoy knowing that a new generation of fans are getting the chance to enjoy your band’s music on the medium you all were originally releasing your music on years ago? 44
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“I am definitely pro medical marijuana!” It is pretty cool! You know, if you ask any musician of any age who was around when the album thing was still happening, they’ll tell you that was the coolest thing. You took the cellophane off of the record, slipped out this big huge square cardboard thing, and all of the artwork that the band put into it was really worth it because you could see it all in detail. Is it cool knowing this new generation of fans is getting that same experience with records that you had as a kid, or that you and the band had when you released this material for the first time? I think that’s a really great question, and a really good point. It’s like, “This is what we went through, what do you guys think?” You know, when I look down from the stage, I see fathers with their sons and uncles with their nephews, its people of all ages these days. So I think it’s kind of cool that the next generation gets to experience how we listened to records and learn the ritual of wiping the record off, dropping the
needle on, and then sliding it carefully back into its case so you don’t scratch it. It seems like, while many of your band’s peers seem to fade from the contemporary musical lexicon, Thin Lizzy’s name and music continues to be prominent and relevant. What are the qualities that you think have made Thin Lizzy’s music so timeless and have contributed to its staying power? That’s a really good question, and one I’ve never really been able to answer, because I can’t look at it objectively; I’m too close to it. I think some of it is from us being semi-connected to the whole punk thing. We were a band who wasn’t afraid of this new regime that was sweeping through the rock world, which was really scaring the shit out of a lot of the hair bands. As soon as they saw the Sex Pistols come out, they sort of knew it was over; whereas, we embraced it. In fact, we even started a band with Steve Jones and Paul Cook called The Greedy Bastards.
When you think of Phil Lynott, what are the strongest memories that come back to you? Well, what immediately comes into my head is how he didn’t want Thin Lizzy to become a one man show. He always said, “If I wanted it to be a one man show, I’d call it “Phil Lynott’s Thin Lizzy.” But we’re not, we’re a band.” He was constantly trying to include everyone into the songwriting and he wanted to make sure that each guy in the band had his own set of fans and all that. He’d always make sure that interviews were set up for everyone in the band, some people were good at it, some were not so good, so that kind of got paired down to me and Phil after a while [laughs]. But, he was really generous that way. He figured that if everybody in the band succeeded, then that meant that the band would succeed; and him along with it. He was that guy. He was the fearless leader who kept it all together and wanted everybody to do well. So, how cool to be working with someone like that, right? c
thinlizzyband.com
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by Madison Ortiz The cannabis community has exploded onto the internet by way of social media. Though every platform offers something unique, there’s a shocking presence of patients, artists, dispensaries and brands, standing strong and making us proud, everywhere we look. Instagram (arguably) dominates the majority of the cannabis community’s interactions, if nothing else acting as a home base to return to. Reviving the days of snail-mail and pen-pals, an extremely common trend within this community is to send and receive non-medicated treats via post. These packages often include stickers, art, apparel or small gifts from fellow IG accounts—a truly brilliant and simple form of promotion, as upon receiving the mail, documentation and sharing surely occurs. Many brands set up affiliate programs or provide discount codes for influential accounts to share with their unique audiences. Equally so, many patients and advocates have been able to generate a part-time income and beyond, for proving their promotional value to the right brand(s). Though the cannabis community is clearly present on Facebook, we don’t seem to be as overly boisterous about it on our personal posts. Maybe because there are private groups and
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pages made specifically for this topic, or maybe, just maybe, both mom and grandma have come around to figuring “this contraption out” causing us to be way more courteous of the content we share. Because we are most likely connected with family members or potential employers on platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, "closet medicators," or simply those who have to be a bit more concerned about associating themselves with cannabis, have found platforms/apps that are directly intended for this community, such as @Leafly (116k), @WeedMaps (10.8k), @MassRoots (411k), as well as platforms that offer a bit of anonymity like Reddit, Forums and Private Chat Communities, or even apps that offer a sense of impermanence such as SnapChat. Our community has also found ways to connect by means of video dominant platforms. Owner of @SocialEyesLash (53.1k) and YouTube icon @KarissaPukas (369k) encourages her fans to educate themselves about cannabis and hemp. In addition to dominating Instagram with her beautiful botanically dominated photography, @SheSmokesJoints (257k) content is received very well through Vine and Periscope.
“As acceptance of legalization sweeps the nation, it’s incredible to see where the growth of our community is not only appreciated, but most easily nurtured. All of these social media platforms provide us with rabbitholes of information to absorb an eternity-of-clicks worth of friends to connect with.” As acceptance of legalization sweeps the nation, it’s incredible to see where the growth of our community is not only appreciated, but most easily nurtured. All of these social media platforms provide us with rabbit-holes of information to absorb an eternity-of-clicks worth of friends to connect with. Grateful for the acceptance, understanding and camaraderie we’ve found in one another, it is up to us all to remain responsible with our usage of these platforms, as deactivation still happens often. Please, continue to use these tools and wisely, friends. Gratitude to all the friends we’ve mentioned and so many more for setting a good example for your peers in this community. Keep up the great work. >>
Our friends in this community have found such an incredible way to bond through Instagram over the past few years. Sure, at first glance there are lots of butts and bongs, but we’re proud to share that we’ve dug deep and see so much more development than that: We laugh at ourselves via meme, by way of accounts such as @WeedHumor (1.5m).
We indulge our cravings, with friends like @ItsDelisiouslyDee (30k), by following along with recipes through her blog as “The Happy Chef”.
We meet mothers like @_MotherGreen (62k), who work hard to show the world that cannabis cures, by nurturing education based communities such as @ ParentsForPot (20.6k).
We get a peek into the lives of patients such as @Princess__High (63k) who push past chronic, (often invisible) illnesses, sharing their daily thoughts and lives as catalysts for positive discussions with their peers.
We also see patients such as @HappyTokes (53.4k), blossoming into natural activists, creating communities and becoming representatives for both patients and brands, alike. @HappyTokesTribe member, @HoopLoveFireAndFlow (3.2k) regularly goes above and beyond with political based activism—We especially loved watching her recent video hula-hooping with Bernie Sander’s wife (Jane) and daughter (Carina) during the Alaska caucus.
The brands that are available to interact with on Instagram are endless: For rolling papers and basic herb related accessories, check out @FuturolaUSA (41.3k). For a reliable brand that offers discreet medication, check out @OpenVape (15.9k). If novelty accessories are up your alley, boss-up with a 24k gold joint from @ShinePapers (167k), or get insanely playful with some @Monkey_Os (16.3k). Plenty of one-stop, online-shops with visually stimulating documentation of brands you know and love, such as @ BillowbyCo (11.8k). Subscription services like @MyBurnBox (10.7k) offer discreet monthly shipments of non-medicated smoking products and accessories, delivered to your door. Though you can’t get medicated treats like @KushCakePops (94k) delivered, due to legality issues, brands like these are great at sharing appealing visual content for their current and future customers.
The creators within this community are also getting a spotlight on Instagram: Glass artists such as @ElboGlass (153k) & @MikeShelbo (63.4k) are iconic visual staples within the community. Digital illustrator @Trevolution_Art (43.3k) reimagines his follower’s selfies as aliens, warriors, and galactic goddesses. The presence of cannabis leaves, joints and smoke are common. Stunning organic jewelry crafted from the center of the world’s densest pinecone comes from @ThirdEyePinecones (143k). Look for these spiritually bonding pieces decorating the necks of others, and you’re sure to see the very cannabis friendly “pinecone family” is everywhere. c
*Follower counts were all referenced from Instagram, despite the platform being discussed.
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Cannabis Business Summit & Expo
Join fellow industry professionals in celebrating and discussing the future of cannabis
The progression of the cannabis industry is in its prime right now, and a decade from now when many more states will likely legalize cannabis, they’ll look back and see that that progress came from industry events like the Cannabis Business Summit & Expo. This year’s Summit is making its mark amongst the greatest cannabis events with a long list of unique seminars, workshops and a large trade show floor to explore. Anyone who wants to better their business, learn about new trends and network with a wide variety of business
professionals will find themselves right at home here. An estimated 3,000 people will be attending this year’s Summit, bringing business men and women who work as growers, dispensary owners, infused product manufacturers and many other careers. Those who attend are invited to check out a variety of workshops, panels and lectures, which will be led by professionals, speaking about topics ranging from the role of cannabis nursing in the industry, banking, technological advances for businesses, all the
way to sustainable approaches to cannabis cultivation. Tours will also be available throughout the first day (limited to 20 people per tour) which will take attendees out to famous and successful local cannabis businesses such as Harborside Health Center, Analytical Laboratories, Berkeley Patients Group, Steep Hill Labs and Dark Heart Nursery. Following the end of the day’s events, attendees can spend a few hours exploring the show floor, and check out a great welcoming reception. It isn’t until the “General Summit Day One,” technically the second day of the event, where the Summit truly shines. Following exciting keynote speeches by Ahmed Rahim, cofounder and CEO of Numi Organic Tea, and Gavin Newsom, Lieutenant Governor of California, the show floor will officially open to all attendees, allowing everyone to explore the Summit’s countless vendors, and make a few networking friendships in the process. The seminars include: “The Fine Print: Money, Law and Your Business,” “Cultivation & Processing,” “Running Your Cannabusiness,” “Policy & Reform” and “Leading Edge: Emerging Topics in the Cannabis Industry.” “General Summit Day Two” will continue at the same pace, opening up with Cody Bass of Tahoe Wellness Collective and Steve DeAngelo of Harborside Health Center in the morning, and offering even more seminars regarding the previous days’ unique topics, with the addition of the “Medical Applications of Cannabis” category. At the heart of the event are the many well known and well respected industry experts who have been invited to speak. Rob Kampia of the Marijuana Policy Project, Sue Sisley M.D., the Director of Medical Plant Research at HelioSpectra, Attorney Hillary Bricken of Harris Moure PLLC, are just some of the amazing individuals representing their niche expertise in the industry. There is an astounding amount of knowledge to be had at this year’s Summit. c
WHAT: Cannabis Business Summit & Expo. WHEN/WHERE: Mon, June 20-Wed, June 22. Oakland Marriott City Center, 1001 Broadway, Oakland, California, 94607. INFO: Visit cannabisbusinesssummit.com for details.
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was a lead trombone player in high school days. I have my own brief background in playing viola in high school orchestra. But quickly realized I didn’t like it, and got my first set of turntables. Where are you all from? I am from Bellingham—born there; the other two fellas grew up in Southern California, independently of each other. Matt had lived in Bellingham in middle school, so I actually knew him since way back when. Casey moved to Bellingham as a teenager, and ended up in the same high school as Matt, in Bellingham, which is how they met.
What’s Good With The Bad Tenants
Getting to know the Pacific Northwest trio, and their fresh spin on hip-hop by Emily Manke
Seattle hip-hop is having a moment. But what about Bellingham hip-hop? The Northern college town is known for its killer bud, and is not the most likely candidate for fresh hiphop exports, but The Bad Tenants may be the exception. Casey Gainor, Matt Goodwin and Gabe Ghirardini, form the hip-hop trio. Though they all live in Seattle now, the group originally formed in Bellingham and their unique hip-hop shows it. Effortlessly blending horns, live vinyl, beats and rapping, The Bad Tenants create original hip-hop so unique, it’s bordering on weird. Their brand of weird is the best kind. Just imagine the coolest music nerds in jazz band and orchestra grew up, teamed up and started rapping. Now you have an idea of the Bad Tenants. June is a busy month for the group, with performances all over the state. The Bad Tenants will be at the Inlander Music Festival in Spokane on June 3, on June 10 at Copper Glance in Winthrop, and June 23 at Barboza in Seattle—opening for Spekulation. CULTURE caught up with Gabe from The Bad Tenants in the midst of this chaos, and got some insight into what makes this unique group shine.
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When and how did The Bad Tenants get started? Gabe Ghirardini: The Bad Tenants got started toward the end of 2010 in Bellingham. Matt and Casey went to high school together, and Matt had put together a project called the Dish Pit Dons. Then Casey started getting involved. There was one drunken, stoned night, where Matt and myself went to my apartment and freestyled into the wee hours of the night. He told me about this group that they had gotten together. At that point I was kind of in between projects and not really DJing very much. And that was the genesis of The Bad Tenants. Deep Bellingham roots, if you will. What is the group’s musical background before becoming The Bad Tenants? Everyone has their own unique musical background, Matt has always been really into the blues, played guitar, is also an accomplished singer, and has been playing music since he was a kid. Casey has a solid jazz background, he
Do you think the permissive, cannabis-infused culture of the Northwest has influenced your artistic process or your art itself? I’m sure that it has in some ways that may be less measurable. But I think the overall demeanor and attitude we have towards life is influenced by being ourselves and letting everybody kind of do their own thing. Being friendly with the herb, and just being from the part of the world that we live in has allowed for a lot of individuality and expression. What’s your favorite music to listen to when you’re consuming cannabis? It depends on the mood I’m in, or what I’m doing. If I’m chilling around the house, I really like some down tempo electronic, hip-hop-esque type stuff— like Wax Tailor, Blockhead, Grammatik, that kind of thing—if I’m just laying around and hitting the bong. But, I also love getting into some lyrical hip-hop, like Open Mike Eagle, Kendrick Lamar or Chance the Rapper, something more stimulating. Can’t go wrong with some classic reggae either. So yeah, it all depends on the mood, maybe the weather or even the strain! c
www.thebadtenants.com p h o t o s b y Dylly n G ree n w o o d
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washington NOW! event listings
Drink and Draw, Every Second and Fourth Saturday of each month
Drink and Draw is a monthly event sponsored by BLICK Art Materials. Participants are able to exercise their drawing skills with a live model while enjoying delicious drinks from Seattle’s newest cider bar. Capitol Cider, Seattle capitolcider.com
Silk Tease Burlesque Presents: Wicked Wednesday, June 15
featured event
Founded in 2014, Silk Tease Burlesque has been working to present Seattle with quality entertainment. During its Wicked Wednesday event, the troupe presents a variety show of classical burlesque dancers, comedy and vocal talent. Highline, Seattle highlineseattle.com
“Animals in Art,” Opens June 18
At the Drive In, June 8
Fans of this Texas hardcore band were excited to hear of its reunion at the beginning of 2016. Differences aside, the members of At the Drive In are back and ready to put on their stellar shows with fresh new music. Showbox Sodo, Seattle showboxpresents.com
Discover how animals became the source of inspiration for many historic artists. Borrowed from The Reading Museum’s collection, this exhibit will include works from Francisco Jose de Goya and Peter Moran, amongst others. Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture, Spokane northwestmuseum.org
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Flight of the Conchords is a comedy band who became known from its HBO series of the same name. After a two year touring hiatus, the band is back with new material for its “Flight of the Conchords Sing Flight of the Conchords Tour.” Marymoor Amphitheater, Redmond www.marymoorconcerts.com 12 local food trucks will be available for your enjoyment as well as refreshing drinks, and live entertainment. Sehmel Park, Gig Harbor penmetparks.org
Cabaret, June 13-25
Cabaret is a Tony Awardwinning Broadway musical based off writer Christopher Isherwood’s time in Bohemian Berlin during the 1930s. Sexy and fun, Cabaret will take you back in time and through a whirlwind of emotions. Paramount Theater, Seattle paramount.theater-seattle. com
Flight of the Conchords, JUNE 22
Tacoma Highland Games, June 25 Food Truck Feast, June 18
Celebrate Father’s Day weekend with the first annual Food Truck Feast. At this event
If you’re not into the frills and fun of Renaissance fairs (like the one listed here), checkout the Tacoma Highland Games. In its 47th year, these games put strong men and women to the test.
Frontier Park, Graham tacomagames.com
Midsomer Festival, June 25-26
Enjoy medieval festivities and cuisine at the Midsomer Festival. Set in the world of English author Geoffrey Chaucer in the year 1376, this festival encourages those who visit to leave behind the 21st Century. Camlann Medieval Village, Carnation camlann.org
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culture growing RECIPES
Testing The Varieties: Part 5 In January, clones of 35 varieties were started n a 4’ x 4’ tent under a 1000 watt HPS lamp. After two weeks the adolescent plants were forced to flower by changing their light cycle from continuous light to 12 hours of light and 12 hours of uninterrupted darkness. At the same time the fertilizer was changed from a vegetative to a flowering formula. The plants were still growing as they flowered and they were getting crowded, so in late February I moved them to a 4’ x 8’ section of a dimly lit greenhouse and provided the plants with five hours of supplemental light daily to elevate the intensity and increase the day length to 12 hours. The harvest began on March 25 and ended three weeks later. The plants were slowly dried in a cool room with temperatures under 70 0 most of the time.
TIP OF THE MONTH FROM ASK ED® This is the ideal time to get your plants outside for a big harvest in the fall or a smaller, but more potent harvest in late summer. Whether you have adolescent plants, clones or seeds, now is the traditional time to plant. The day length is long so the plants will grow vegetatively to start. The strong stem will support branches and leaves for now. The flowers will grow later in the season. Most people start seeds in containers and then transplant them. Living plants can be planted directly in the soil or grown in containers. Enjoy!
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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by Ed Rosenthal
They were hung in tents with a gentle draft generated by an oscillating fan. After drying and curing, the plants were manicured and weighed. The results were not impressive, which was a result of low total light level during flowering and harvest. The outdoor plants were also manicured and weighed, all of which are being tested for cannabinoid content and the results will be published next month. Meanwhile, my five-plant spring garden is coming along. The varieties are Romulan Grapefruit x2, Sour Grapes, Killawatt and Sour Tangie. They are all in five-gallon soft containers in a 2’ x 4’ tray mounted on rolling tray. They started flowering in early April soon after they were placed outdoors. Although it was past the Equinox and the plants were receiving fewer than 12 hours of darkness, they are flowering profusely. Their critical dark period is shorter than that, probably 9½-10½ hours, although it could be even shorter. Thought of another way, the plants could probably be induced to flower under a regimen of 13½-14½ hours of light daily. Many outdoor varieties start to flower in early August, when the light period is still considerably longer than 12 hours. When the plants were placed outside, the dark period was just under 12 hours. Now dawn to dusk in San Francisco (as of May 9) it is 15 hours and 3 minutes. The dark period is only 8 hours and 57 minutes and the plants will soon be heeding the signals of the shorter dark period to revert to vegetative growth. For this reason, I will be providing the plants with a custom-made darkroom. From this point on, the plants will be wheeled into the dark space nightly anytime after dusk. They will be wheeled out again 12 hours after dusk, which occurs now at 8:37pm . Dawn lights up at 5:34am, but the plants will be napping until 8:37am, when they will be wheeled out to the sun for another fine day of sunbathing and photosynthesizing. c
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Close-up of dried Harlequin Bud.
Close-up of dried Grand Daddy Purple.
JUNE 2016 iReadCULTURE.com
Plants were measured and photographed to picture their shapes. This is a Sour Diesel.
Plants on wheels (a dolly) can be moved as the sun’s position changes or pushed into the darkroom.
The plants in the tray are basking in the sun.
These Sour Tangie buds indicate that the plants are well into flowering, with about five weeks to go.
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Photo by Sean Pavone
Photo by Tumar
Berlin and Hamburg Bloom in June by Sheryll Alexander
With Germany set to legalize medical cannabis in 2017, did you know Berlin and Hamburg are the country’s two top cannabis-friendly travel destinations? And it’s no surprise either as these freewheeling German metropolises—Berlin and Hamburg (which are just a two-hour train or threehour car drive away from one another)—are filled with summertime revelers in June as outdoor art, dance, music festivals, markets and even nightlife abound. This summer, the celebrations of summer in cannabinoid-loving Germany (cannabis is more popular even than in neighboring Holland)
may be ever more raucous as health minister Hermann Gröhe recently announced the country will pass a law by early 2017 to create a national medical cannabis policy. Not only will chronically sick and terminally ill Germans supposedly be able to buy cannabis in local drug stores, but Germany will be the first European nation to allow the medicine to be covered by health insurance. This, in turn, will help cannabis patients cut down on their medication costs. So, why Berlin and Hamburg for an uber-cool summer getaway? Dubbed “the other city that doesn’t sleep,” Berlin blooms in June as the gateway to summer’s many frivolities. Berliners
begin to wake up in June as summer’s warmth brings them out of doors for smoking in parks (especially at the notorious Görlitzer Park where illegal and mostly immigrant cannabis “dealers” sit at benches to offer their wares) and at the season’s many public classic cultural and pop culture events. Because of a legal loophole, Berliners cannot be arrested if they are found with 16 grams or less. Perhaps it is Hamburg’s location as the “gateway of the world,” which makes Germany’s second largest city so vibrant. Situated east of Amsterdam, west of Berlin and south of Copenhagen along the city’s mostly industrial harbor, Hamburg sits in the very center of Northern Europe. Just like Berlin, cannabis is easy to get in certain public parks and it is legal to carry up to six grams of cannabis flowers. Ready to relax and revel in Germany’s lax cannabis cities such as Berlin and Hamburg? Summer is definitely the time to visit these urban wonderlands where cannabis is about to take the stage as a viable medical option for medical cannabis patients. c
Fun-Filled Facts Both Berlin and Hamburg are centers for Germany’s lively and sometimes queer community. The Berlin LGBT bar and nightlife scene is legendary while Hamburg is better for romance with its picturesque harbor. 1
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Don’t miss a day touring Berlin on any Sunday in summer. Open-air markets of all types—especially flea markets full of cheap retro items and antiques—can be found in every neighborhood along with quirky festivities such as karaoke at Mauerpark’s stone-laden amphitheater in northern Berlin (near Gesundbrunnen station). 2
GET YOUR CLICKS
HERE Time to Go: June and through autumn Weather: June begins the summer season in Germany with an average of 14 days of rainfall and temperatures ranging from a low of 63F to a high of 72F. Budget: $$$$$
if you go: Cannabis is smoked rather casually in Berlin and Hamburg’s vast open public spaces, but tokers are smart. They mind the cops and avoid mothers with kids, schools, government buildings, libraries and classic restaurants and cafes. Open air beer gardens and temporary al fresco dance halls seem to not mind groups of smokers either. While studies show 30 percent of Germans are proponents of full legalization, it seems the upcoming 2017 legislation will usher in a state-controlled system of cannabis at dispensaries and pharmacies, which could usher in the legal sale and consumption of medical grade THC and CBD products (and bring a whopping €1-2 billion in annual to the government’s coffers). Perhaps soon, the eternal question one hears at Germany’s parks—Want ganja? or Alles klar?—may no longer be necessary once Germans can buy their medication cheaply and easily at state-supplied pharmacies.
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Libbie Whited-Seabourn
Age: 47 Condition/Illness: Calciphylaxis, chronic pain, chronic migraines, high blood pressure Using Medical Cannabis since: 2012
Why did you start using cannabis? My cousin had told me to try smoking cannabis to see if it would help alleviate the pain caused by the calciphylaxis. Did you try other methods or treatments before cannabis? I tried Percocet, Vicodin, (I soon found out that I am allergic to those), dilaudid, imitrex (which I am also allergic to), hyberbaric oxygenation treatments and an internal pain pump.
What’s the most important issue or problem facing medical cannabis patients? Not being able to obtain the medications legally. What do you say to folks that are skeptical about cannabis as medicine? I tell them what I deal with on a daily basis and how cannabis has helped me to live a little more of a normal life. Without cannabis, I am a hermit because I am unable to go out and do the things that I used to do. I am unable to be the mother I need to be to my children— although my older two are grown—without the help from cannabis. c
Are you an MMJ patient with a compelling story to tell? If so, we want to hear from you. Email your name, contact information and details about your experiences with medical cannabis to courage@ireadculture.com.
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Menu: Lemon Curd Tart Sweet Potato Croquettes with Honey Mustard Sauce Grilled Apricot with Fresh Ricotta and Lemon Vinaigrette
I absolutely love Summer. When CULTURE asked me to do a few recipes for their June issue, I jumped at the chance to bring something light and vibrant to the culinary side of the cannabis industry. Citrus and stone fruit sings Summer to me, which is why I have chosen to make those my focal points for the articles. All my recipes are meant to be very light doses, meaning a maximum of 10mg THC for one serving. Enjoy!
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Swing in to Summer with The Herbal Chef
recipes by The Herbal Chef™ aka Christopher Sayegh
At his core, The Herbal Chef™, aka Christopher Sayegh, is a passionate science and biology student who turned to the chemistry of food and herbs to feed the intellectual side of his creations. A walking brand full of charisma and charm, Chris has pioneered cannabisinfused fine dining in an effort to elevate the perception of cannabis through mainstream media. Currently, Chris is producing gourmet edibles, frozen CBD- and THCinfused dinners, as well as catered and private dinners. With the innovation of Chris’ frozen, infused meals, coupled with two shows currently in production, Chris has already been able to solidify his space as the #1 cannabis infusion chef. With a seemingly endless supply of passion and drive, Chris has his sights set on leaving a positive impact on the world through his medium of choice, food. Having faced intense struggles to pursue this commendable dream, leaves him open to sharing his vision with the world that is The Herbal Chef ™.
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Lemon Curd Tart
Who doesn’t love a good lemon meringue tart? So simple, incredibly refreshing and perfect for a passed dessert.
Ingredients 1 tablespoon lemon zest 1 cup fresh lemon juice
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9 tablespoons soft butter 1 tablespoon cannabis butter (equaling 20mg total) t 4 egg yolks 1 egg
Directions
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Beat the eggs with the sugar until lighter in color, and then add the lemon juice and zest. Put that into a pot on low-medium heat and continually stir for 2 minutes until combined. Add butter and slowly incorporate into mix. Cook down until the curd is a thick consistency. It will thicken up as it cools. Empty the curd into a bowl, in an ice bath and let cool completely.
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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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t Additional recipe can be found at iReadCulture.com
culture
Sweet Potato Croquettes with Honey Mustard Sauce
growing
Sweet potatoes are so in right now. They are also high in complex carbohydrates, if anyone was wondering. Potatoes like these are also sensational when paired with a sweet and tangy honey mustard. Great for an appetizer!
Ingredients 3 sweet potatoes
3 cups Panko bread crumbs Salt, to taste
Honey Mustard Sauce
Great for a home-style sharing appetizer, or you can add some of your favorite sliced prosciutto, balsamic reduction and make it a dish!
Ingredients
Ingredients
2 ounces (1 jar)
4 fresh apricots (or peaches)
Pepper, to taste 1 quart soy bean oil
The Herbal Chef’s Whole Grain Mustard t
1 cup whole milk
1/3 cup your favorite honey
½ cup heavy cream
½ tablespoon sherry vinegar
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1 pinch salt
1 tablespoon olive oil to brush
1 teaspoon pepper
on the halves of apricot
Directions for Croquette
Peel potatoes and cut into one-inch cubes. Add to a medium pot and cover with water. Add a tablespoon of salt and bring to a boil, turn the heat down to a simmer and cook until tender. Drain well and put sweet potatoes into a food processor. Add in herbs, almond flour, egg and parmesan. Mix well, then add salt and pepper to taste. Put in a container and let set in the fridge for 4-5 hours. Heat the soy bean oil to 350-375 degrees. Set up a breading station of almond flour, whisked eggs and Panko bread crumbs. Form the sweet potato dough into small circles. Cover with flour, then egg wash, then coat with Panko. Set in the fridge for 30 minutes. Fry until golden brown and hot on the inside (about 3 minutes), finish with sea salt.
Directions for Honey Mustard Sauce
Put all ingredients into a bowl and whisk together. Add dijon mustard if you want it a little spicier, or add more honey if you would like it sweeter.
1 tablespoon (per half) The
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Grilled Apricot with Fresh Ricotta and Lemon Vinaigrette
Herbal Chef’s Lemon Haze Vinaigrette t Salt, to taste
Directions
Bring the milk and cream to boil, turn off heat and add lemon juice. Stir until you see the curds separate from the whey. Secure the cheese cloth on a bowl with a rubber band. Remove the whey liquid from underneath and strain for 3 minutes before emptying the cloth into a glass bowl. Fold in salt to taste. This is such a light, fresh mixture, and I would caution using more than 1.5 tsp. Put in the fridge to cool. Cut the apricots in half and brush with olive oil before putting them on a hot grill. Don’t move the apricot around after you have placed it on the grill, you want the heat to caramelize the sugars in the apricot. Leave on the grill for 3-4 minutes or until the apricot can be easily removed. Put the apricot down with a heaping spoonful of ricotta and drizzle with a tablespoon of The Herbal Chef’s Lemon Haze Vinaigrette. iReadCULTURE.com JUNE 2016
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1.5 eggs
Special Equipment: • Cheese cloth or a fine mesh strainer (cheese cloth preferred) • Grill
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3 tablespoons almond flour (fine)
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5 leaves sage (finely chopped)
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8 sprigs thyme (stems removed and finely chopped)
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Chuck Shepherd's
News of the
Weird
LEAD STORY—THE POWER OF PRECEDENT u Department of Veterans Affairs employee Elizabeth Rivera Rivera, 39, was fired after her arrest (followed by a February guilty plea) for armed robbery, but when she was sentenced only to probation, an arbitrator ordered the VA to rehire her—and give her back pay she “earned” while sitting in jail awaiting trial. (She had been the driver for a man arrested for a street robbery in San Juan, Puerto Rico). Rivera’s union had demanded the reinstatement without salary penalty—for “fairness”— because the same Puerto Rico VA office had earlier hired a convicted sex offender, and
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the office’s hospital director, recently charged with DUI and drug possession, avoided VA discipline because of technicalities about the traffic stop. EVOLUTION OF THE CIVIL RIGHTS STRUGGLE u Turmoil in Selma, Alabama, March 1965: The historic “Bloody Sunday” at the Edmund Pettus Bridge ultimately became a turning point in the battle for voting rights. Turmoil in Selma, Alabama, March 2016: The town is riven by demands for stricter enforcement of the ordinance requiring horses on the street to be wearing diapers—a campaign led by Ward 8’s Councilman Michael Johnson (an African-American): “I’m tired of it because there’s other things I could be doing than dealing with horses.” COMPELLING EXPLANATIONS u Urges: (1) Ms. Ashton Barton, 33, charged with
shoplifting a vibrating sex toy from a CVS pharmacy in Largo, Florida, in February, tried for police sympathy by explaining that she was in a troubled marriage. “My husband doesn’t want to touch me anymore,” and “I would rather do this than be unfaithful.” (2) Neighbors of a loudly frisky couple in a Stockholm, Sweden, apartment building were so frustrated by the noise that they reached out to the country’s health minister, Gabriel Wikstrom—who took the side of the randy couple (according to a translation by Stockholm’s The Local): “Sounds nice for them, I think. Good for their wellbeing and thus public health as well.” u Nice Tries: (1) Benjamin Grafius, 39, charged with several instances of indecent exposure to Amish people near New Holland, Pennsylvania, told police that he targeted them because
he knew they would not use phones to call police (March). (2) Valerie Godbout, 33, visiting Orlando from Montreal and charged with drug possession after alerting police with erratic driving, told the officer that she was on the wrong side of the road because that’s the way traffic works in Canada. (It’s not). (March). (3) Emily Davis, 21, caught by police displaying her recently deceased grandmother’s handicap-parking badge, explained that she was merely “using it in her honor.” (Portsmouth, England, February). BREAKTHROUGHS IN SCIENCE u German researchers, publishing in March, revealed that female burying beetles uniquely discourage their mates from pestering them for sex after birth—thus explaining how the male of this species is observed actually helping with child
care. The females apparently release a chemical “antiaphrodisiac” to the father’s antennae. Said the lead researcher (a woman), “They are a very modern family.” Said another biology professor (also female), “Burying beetles are supercool.” u Science magazine called the “butthole” “one of the finest innovations in the past 540 million years of animal evolution”—in that, until it developed, animals’ only channel of waste removal was through the same opening used for food intake. However, the recent discovery, announced at a March conference by a University of Miami biologist, that gelatinous sea creatures called comb jellies can excrete via other pores, was labeled by the magazine as “stunn(ing).” u The Emerging American “Right” of Rejecting Science:
In 2000, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention declared that measles had been eliminated in the United States, but by 2014 Americans had resurrected it (677 reported cases), and researchers from Emory University and Johns Hopkins set out to learn how—and recently found the dominant reason to be the purposeful decision by some Americans to refuse or delay widely available vaccinations (especially for their children). (The researchers found similar, but less-strong conclusions about whooping cough). UNDIGNIFIED DEATHS u (1) An 86-year-old woman died in February in New Cumberland, Pennsylvania, when she tripped and got her medical alert necklace caught on her walker, strangling herself. (2) A 25-year-old off-duty New York City police officer was killed on a highway near
Elizabeth, New Jersey, in March. According to the police report, the officer had rear-ended another car and had gotten out to “discuss” the matter, then suddenly pulled his service revolver and threatened the driver using road rage-type language. As the officer backed up while pointing the gun, a passing driver accidentally, fatally struck him. FINE POINTS OF THE LAW u Joe Vandusen said he has had no contact whatsoever with his estranged wife for “16 or 17 years” and that both moved long ago to other relationships (Joe currently living with a woman, raising both his two children and her two, as well). Nonetheless, Vandusen’s “real” wife recently gave birth, from another father, and, without claiming Vandusen as the father, filed in February for child support from him.
In the Vandusens’ home state of Iowa (like the law in many states), he must pay, irrespective of any DNA test (unless he gets an expensive court order to “de-establish paternity.” IRONIES u (1) Ervin Brinker, 68, pleaded guilty to Medicaid fraud as CEO of the Summit Pointe health care provider in Michigan and was sentenced in January to 32 months in prison. He had embezzled $510,000 in “mental health” payments and apparently spent it all on a Florida fortune teller. (2) Two of the three candidates for the Republican nomination for county property appraiser in Erwin, Tennessee, in November died before the election, leaving Rocky McInturff the only survivor. However, he is ineligible for the nomination because he lost badly on election day by one of the two dead candidates.
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