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contents
inside
09.2016
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DOWN TO EARTH
Actress Lucy Lawless talks about her heritage, her versatile acting experience and her support of medical cannabis.
ON THE COVER: p h o t o b y M a le a k res h o k
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features
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The Re-Scheduling Cannabis Debacle DEA won’t re-schedule cannabis right now, but is pushing for more research by FDA in order to do so in the near future.
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Rock On This year’s premier event in music, Evergreen Fest, is right in your backyard—don’t miss this spectacular festival.
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Basement Success Rock band Violent Human System is impressing the northwest with its classic music.
departments news
online Exclusive!
10 News Nuggets 11 By the Numbers 12 Local News 14 Legal Corner
reviews
16 Company Highlight 18 Dispensary Highlight 20 Strain & Concentrate Reviews 22 Cool Stuff 24 Entertainment Reviews
in every issue
44 Growing Culture 46 Destination
Unknown 47 Profile in Courage 48 Recipes 52 News of the Weird
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d Texas Wants to Expand Cannabis
Laws in 2017 d Arizona Puts Legal Cannabis on
the Ballot
Vol 8 IssUE 3
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CULTURE M
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Publisher Jeremy Zachary Editor-In-Chief Evan Senn associate Editor Ashley Bennett Editorial coordinator Jamie Solis Editorial Contributors Benjamin Adams, Sheryll Alexander, Marguerite Arnold, Jake Browne, Cole Garrison, Jasen T. Davis, Alex Distefano, David Downs, Natasha Guimond, Addison Herron-Wheeler, Anthony Herrold, Pamela Jayne, Heather Johnson, Joe Jatcko, David Jenison, Kevin Longrie, Emily Manke, Tyler Markwart, Meital Manzuri, Sandy Moriarty, Madison Ortiz, Denise Pollicella, R. Scott Rappold, Paul Rogers, Joy Shannon, Lanny Swerdlow, Simon Weedn, Zara Zhi Photographers Kristen Angelo, Steve Baker, Kristopher Christensen, John Gilhooley, Joel Meaders, Duncan Rolfson Art Director Steven Myrdahl production manager Tommy LaFleur Graphic Designer Tanya Delgadillo Regional Manager Justin Olson Account Executives Rob Bayless, Jon Bookatz, Eric Bulls, Kim Cook, Cole Garrison, Gene Gorelik, Teddy Helms, Brad Hoffner, Emily Musser, Beau Odom, Chris Thatcher, Vic Zaragoza general Manager Iris Norsworthy Office Assistant Angelina Thompson digital media Editor David Edmundson Ctv Contributors Quinn Marie Distribution Manager Cruz Bobadilla
Culture® 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® 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® Magazine is printed using post-recycled paper.
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/freeculturemag
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NEWS
nuggets
Puyallup Tribe to Begin Growing Medical Cannabis The Puyallup Tribe has taken another step toward entering the cannabis industry, this time through legally growing medical cannabis. The tribe signed a compact earlier this year with the state governor, as well as the Liquor and Cannabis Board, which enabled them to open a cannabis testing lab called Medicine Creek Analytics, located in Fife. The original text of the compact gave the tribe room to grow and do more with cannabis in the future, “The parties may agree to expand this compact, by amendment after its initial adoption to cover a range of the elements of the broad subject of regulation of marijuana, including medical marijuana, growing, producing, processing and retail sales of marijuana, marijuana concentrates, and marijuana-infused products.” The tribe has decided to amend the compact, in hopes of growing cannabis to be used for individuals in the tribe, specifically those suffering from cancer. The tribe is preparing a warehouse in Tacoma dedicated to growing medical cannabis, although there is no announcement yet as to when they will begin growing or offering cannabis to patients.
Illinois Becomes the 21st State to Decriminalize Cannabis Governor Bruce Rauner signed SB-2228 into law, which makes possession of cannabis up to 10 grams punishable by a citation and fine up to $200. This law makes Illinois the 21st state to decriminalize cannabis. The new bill also outlines specifics to determine whether someone is driving under the influence of cannabis. While Rauner has received some negative feedback from local police forces in regards to this new legislation, he clearly has the support of the cannabis community. Founder and CEO of an Illinois cannabis cultivation company, Revolution Enterprises, and Co-Founder of the Medical Cannabis Alliance, Tim McGraw shared his support for Rauner’s decision with CULTURE, “I think it’s positive overall for the industry and the movement, and [we should] not be locking people up for cannabis. It’s ridiculous. Anybody who gets locked up for a plant that gives them therapeutic value,” he said, “I think that finally the administration is seeing how it can economically help the state.” McGraw and many others who support the bill hope to see it eliminate the negative stigma around cannabis use and keep those who possess small amounts of cannabis from having a criminal record.
West Seattle Gains its First All-Natural Cannabis Certification Program The Origins Certified Program launched in early September, and it’s going to give the local cannabis community a new and natural way to ensure caretakers are choosing the freshest cannabis products in Washington State. Headed by Origins Recreational, the company’s team plans to work with individual growers to aid them in seeking out the highest grade of naturally grown cannabis. The company works to make sure each certified grower is meeting all standards by regularly receiving farm visits, panel testing and lab testing. Beyond that, the company will also re-test all certified products. The company shared in a release, “The benefit of participating in the Origins Certification Program is simply put—it’s peace of mind. It is knowing that every time you opt for an Origins certified product you are aware of what you are going to receive—a unique product that represents the qualities that Origins Recreational hopes to instill in future generations including: Excellence, responsible and sustainable farming practices, as well as producing a truly honest and enjoyable product.”
Puerto Rico Certifies its First Medical Cannabis Doctor Dr. Michael Soler became the first doctor in Puerto Rico to recommend medical cannabis. Soler originally started his cannabis training in the state of Colorado. Then, once the regulation was approved in Puerto Rico, he complied with all the new regulations that had been enacted by the governor and coincidentally became the first doctor permitted to prescribe medical cannabis. Although Dr. Soler can legally prescribe cannabis, he explained how this is just the first step in the process to get patients high-THC cannabis in an interview with CULTURE, “In Puerto Rico, it is clearly established that anything that is dispensed and provided to patients has to be grown and produced on the island. In that sense, we are basically at the very first stage of the process. Stage two is now starting to become a reality. Crops are being grown, cannabis clinics are starting to be established throughout the island. We still need about six more months for the product to become available on the island.” There are 14 conditions that qualify patients for medical cannabis, which include HIV, cancer, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, migraines and chronic pain, among others. 10
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NEWS
The number of votes, out of eight, that were in favor of allowing licensed cannabis businesses to operate in King (Source: UnionCounty: Bulletin)
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The amount of money, in dollars, that the average cannabis consumer in Washington State spends on recreational cannabis per year: (Source: CNS News)
The amount of money, in millions of dollars, worth of medical and recreational cannabis that was sold in Washington during the month of July this year: (Source: KXLY.com)
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The amount of money, in millions of dollars, that the state of Washington collected in excise taxes during the month of July, which was the same month that the state closed medical cannabis dispensaries in favor of its new regulations: (Source: The News Tribune)
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The amount of money, in millions of dollars, that has been made from cannabis sales in the state of Washington between January and August 2016: (Source: The News Tribune)
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The amount of money, in millions of dollars, that the state of Maryland has spent on reviewing applicants for medical cannabis business licenses since January: (Source: The Baltimore Sun)
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The updated cost to apply for a medical cannabis card in Montana, in dollars, decreased from its original price at $75: (Source: San Francisco Chronicle)
Lift Cannabis Expo
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The estimated percentage of professional football players who use cannabis to treat their various ailments, according to former running back Ricky Williams: (Source:
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International Business Times)
WHAT: Lift Cannabis Expo. WHEN/WHERE: Sat, Sept. 17-Sun, Sept. 18. Vancouver Convention Centre, 1055 Canada Pl., Vancouver. INFO: Visit www.vancouverconventioncentre.com for details.
Canada continues to push the global cannabis industry forward, especially considering the new suspected promise of recreational cannabis legislation by the country’s federal government. This positive groundwork makes Canada the best place for Lift Cannabis Expo—a weekend dedicated to cannabis education and awareness. Drop by the expo to learn from presentations and discussions by top leaders
in the cannabis industry. There will also be a huge exhibitor hall where you’ll find vendors for seeds, nutrients, hydroponics, as well as many other cannabis-related products and services. The expo will be particularly useful to anyone who is working within the cannabis industry, however everyone is welcome to participate. Rest assured, everything you need to celebrate cannabis will be under one roof at Lift Cannabis Expo. iReadCULTURE.com september 2016
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NEWS
LOCAL
AN ISSUE OF PUBLIC SAFTEY
Washington Congressmen continue to try and end cannabis banking woes
U
by Jamie Solis nited States Representative Denny Heck for Washington continues to push for the Marijuana Businesses Access to Banking Act in hopes to aid cannabis-related businesses with their current banking issues. Current federal banking laws do not permit banks and credit unions to work with cannabis-related businesses. With cannabis legal in states like Washington, it is ultimately an issue of public safety because many cannabis-related businesses continue to stand as targets for robberies, some of which can be fatal for security guards and employees. Representative Heck stated in a press release, “First and foremost this is an issue of public safety. Not only are the proprietors at risk, but the employees and customers are also at risk of serious and violent crimes.” While the passing of this bill would benefit cannabis-related businesses in Heck’s home state of Washington, the Marijuana Businesses Access to Banking Act would also make a difference nationwide, “The federal government can’t keep an eye on business practices if they are forcing them offline and underground. Forcing businesses into cashonly territory is a dangerous step away from legitimacy, transparency and regulation and a huge step towards crime, tax evasion and access to minors.” If passed, this legislation would allow banking institutions civil protections when working with tightly regulated cannabisrelated businesses. Federal banking regulators couldn’t threaten bank and credit unions that are working with legitimate cannabis-related businesses, which is currently not the case.
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This is the third year that Heck has proposed this legislation, and he continues to see the necessity in doing so to protect businesses, residents and even the government. In June, Heck and Perlmutter introduced an amendment to the Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act 2017 to the House, with hopes that the amendment could prevent federal regulators from penalizing banks and credit unions that choose to work with regulated cannabis businesses. Unfortunately, House Republicans in a Rules Committee blocked votes on the amendment proposal. In response to the House Republicans’ decision, Heck stated, “Frankly, I’m frustrated by this terrible decision, and the American people should be, too. We’ve been pushing for this common-sense change for more than three years now, received bipartisan support . . . and now all the sudden this issue is labeled a ‘poison pill.’” While it is a disappointment to Heck and other supporters of making this positive change for cannabis businesses, there still seems to be hope in the future. CULTURE was able to connect with Kati Rutherford, Deputy Chief of Staff and Director of Communications for the U.S. House of Representatives regarding the issue, “One thing I can tell you is that we are proposing changing the federal law, so if passed, this bill would apply in all states with legal recreational and medical cannabis markets.” It appears that Heck and his team will not end the fight to allowing banks and other financial institutions to work with cannabis-related businesses without fear of negative repercussions. c
Fremont Oktoberfest Get ready to drink up at Seattle’s largest beer festival in the fall. Fremont Oktoberfest has been a tradition in Fremont for over 20 years, and this three-day event will make sure you sample frothy tastes of over 80 craft beers that were brewed in Seattle and beyond. The food line-up includes Fremont Oktoberfest pretzels, Grilled Cheese Experience, Crepealicious and many others. There will also be music blasting on the main stage, a Texas Chainsaw Pumpkin Carving, Stein Hoisting and the Miss Boxum Contest. There will also be the Alpine Climb 5K for participants who want to be active while drinking beer. Other special events like Dogtoberfest allow you to bring your dog on Sunday, and they can participate in the Cover Dog Model Contest for CityDog Magazine. WHAT: Fremont Oktoberfest. WHEN/WHERE: Fri, Sept. 23-Sun, Sept. 25. 3503 Phinney Ave., Seattle. INFO: Visit fremontoktoberfest. com for details.
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NEWS
LEGAL CORNER
“Last month, King County adopted a new ordinance to end the current moratorium, but to further regulate producers, processors and retailers.”
LOCAL LAW
New cannabis regulations approved for King County by Hilary Bricken
In a somewhat surprising turn of events in April, King County initiated a four-month ban on any new statelicensed cannabis businesses within its borders. The surprise was because King County has been relatively liberal in embracing cannabis businesses licensed by the State Liquor and Cannabis Board. Equally surprising is that the county imposed the fourmonth ban without any notice to the public or input from effected stakeholders. An additional kicker is that the county this week opted to tighten existing regulations on producers and processors while also expanding access to cannabis retailers. In the 2012 state election, 63.5 percent of King County voters supported Initiative 502 legalizing cannabis. All but five percent of the precincts throughout King County supported I-502. The weakest support came in Maple Valley, Enumclaw, Black Diamond, Federal
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Way and Hunts Point. But even in those cities, a majority voted in favor of the initiative. Apparently though, as of April 2016, at least one county council member received multiple complaints from citizens about the “clustering” of cannabis businesses in certain parts of the county and alleged odor issues and property value declines due to the proximity of cannabis businesses. Some King County council members also expressed dissatisfaction regarding a lack of regulations on producers and processors, aside from existing land use and permitting requirements. Last month, King County adopted a new ordinance to end the current moratorium, but to further regulate producers, processors and retailers. This new ordinance will go into effect 10 days after the County Executive signs it. King County’s own website describes the new ordinance as follows: Removes all parcels under 10 acres
and designated as Rural Area (RA) zones from use in the production (growth), processing and retail sale of cannabis . . . [and] requires the County Executive to identify 10 locations suitable for retail in Neighborhood Business (NB) zoned areas across unincorporated King County. This new ordinance will allow 10 cannabis retailers to enter certain neighborhood business zones, which currently have no cannabis shops but it also breaks up “clustering” by mandating new 1,000-foot buffer requirements between retailers. The ordinance limits production and processing facilities to zones with lots of 10 acres or larger, while still allowing producers and processors to locate in agricultural or industrial zones. There is probably not much that can be done to change this ordinance as the passage of HB-2136 effectively ended the game of chicken between cannabis businesses and local governments regarding the legality of municipalities banning or regulating cannabis business. There is fear is that King County’s ban is a sign of what is to come from other Washington cities and counties that want to fight back against the statewide increase in the number of retail cannabis stores. The bottom line? The bottom line for anyone with a cannabis business or looking to get into the cannabis industry remains the same: Make sure you know your local laws before pursuing a cannabis business license or taking any major business step. Cities and counties have proven more than willing to change their minds about cannabis regulations, bans and zoning laws at the drop of a hat. c
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REVIEWs
company highlight
INTEGRA®
by Desiccare Inc. Interviewed: Ben Blankenhorn, Manager of New Business Development 985 Damonte Ranch Pkwy. Suite 320, Reno, NV (775) 393-1500 www.integra-products.com How would you describe your company? What is your specialty? Desiccare Inc. has been in operation since 1994 providing quality atmospheric packaging solutions to a wide variety of Pharmaceutical, Nutraceutical, Food Safety General Packaging and Military applications. Desiccare is well known in and trusted worldwide by many of biggest names in Pharmaceutical and Food Packaging. The INTEGRA™ brand is aimed specifically at cannabis, cigars, produce and other agricultural products which are sensitive to atmospheric conditions 16
in their environment. Our philosophy is simple; provide cost savings by eliminating waste and preventing risk. In the case of Integra™ and the BOOST™ products, the industry and consumers need it. We prevent profit loss for those on the industrial side of the industry, and we preserve the integrity of the cannabis purchased by the consumers. What do you offer consumers/clients that others don’t? A lot of our clients in the cannabis industry have carried similar products in the past but have been burned by their suppliers
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and their questionably unfavorable business tactics. We depend on our worldwide distribution network therefore we understand the importance of loyalty and trust in the business world. Trust and loyalty is ever so important and valued in the cannabis industry. The folks who partner with us really appreciate that. As for our Integra® products, we offer a full line of products which have proven to be perfect for cannabis. We have specialized products for drying cannabis, monitoring humidity, removing oxygen, ethylene control and much more. The most popular product in our lineup is the new BOOST® humidity control pack. This pack absorbs or releases moisture to regulate relative humidity (RH) within a contained environment. This is a salt-free solution that regulates RH in a container. This prevents weight loss, preserves the terpene profile and maintains the integrity of the plant material. It allows for a large outdoor grower to harvest a specialty strain in August and hold on to it into winter or early spring when it can be sold in it’s original state as a premier product. What separates the BOOST® from other humidity control solutions, is that it does not contain silica and it is a saltfree solution. The use of salt is very common as a humidity control solution however we don’t feel it is appropriate in the cannabis world. The leading salt producers advertise on their website, various ways to reduce odors using salts. Considering that cannabis is sold exclusively by weight and scent, we had to find another way to get the job done, and we did. And people are loving it.
How and why did your company start up? Desiccare Inc. was formed in 1994 in Santa Fe Springs, California. Anytime someone asks me in a hotel lobby bar what I do for work, I say, “Do you know those little packs that say “Do Not Eat” in pill bottles and jerky?” That’s what we do and have been doing for over 22 years. In addition to providing atmospheric control to the world’s largest pharmaceutical firms, Desiccare is trusted by America’s largest grocery chains to provide food safety solutions which ad up to 35 days of shelf life to fresh beef. Desiccare is also trusted by major goods packagers, and is an authorized supplier to the United States Military. What words of advice would you offer anyone seeking to enter the world of cannabis business? Enter the industry like you are walking on to the court for game seven of the NBA finals. Keep your head on a swivel and eyes wide open. There is a lot going on, and it is all happening very fast. It will keep you up at night, it will drain you, but it is fun! What do you hope to accomplish in the cannabis industry? We hope to continue to help growers, dispensaries and consumers produce, supply and enjoy the best cannabis products possible. I hope to assist the entire cannabis industry in seeking its legitimacy in the mainstream. To do that, producers and sellers must employ the proper quality control and precautionary measures in place just any legitimate food or pharmaceutical producer in the country. INTEGRA® by Desiccare Inc. can most certainly help the industry become what it struggles to be. c
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REVIEWs
dispensary highlight
Natural Blessing
Interviewed: Corey Stevens, Manager
17024 Pacific Avenue South, Spanaway, 98387 naturalblessingpotshop.com
How and when did your dispensary start up?
room, and we offer prices that fit everyone’s budget.
We started July 22, 2016, once the moratorium in Pierce County was lifted on July 1, 2016.
How has the cannabis industry in Washington changed since you have been in the business? Where would you like to see it go?
What’s the story behind the name of your dispensary? It was just three friends sitting back in the backyard discussing names and we came up with it. We figured cannabis is a natural plant that comes from the earth and is a blessing to have. What does your dispensary offer patients that they can’t find anywhere else? We offer a home feel. It’s comfortable like your living
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It has helped and hurt some. Glad that it makes people aware that there are healthier alternatives than using synthetic drugs that can hurt your body. We would like to see it legalized in every state. What are the biggest challenges you face in this industry as an dispensary? Biggest joys? Being so small. We are a little quick-stop for people, but we work with the space
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pleasant environment, along with medical endorsements for medical patients. Top Selling Strain: Phat Panda’s OG Chem Top Selling Concentrate: Altered State AK420 Top Selling Edible: Kronic Tonic Tinctures
that was given to us. Anyone that we can help to make their day better is complete satisfaction for us. What is the one thing you want patients to know about your dispensary? You can come here and know that you will be taken care of completely. We have knowledgeable staff and a
If someone wanted to open an dispensary and get their feet wet in the industry, what advice or counsel would you give them? Have money to spend, be patient, stay positive and do your research to know what you are getting into before you take the plunge. What is the most important thing you hope to accomplish while in the MJ/ MMJ community? To help and heal those in need, and to educate people about marijuana and the various benefits that it offers. c
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REVIEWs
strain & concentrate
Super Lemon Haze by Oleum Extracts As with everything from Oleum, this extract was a delight. This cartridge contains “No additives. Just oil” which you can tell from the first puff. You can truly taste the purity of this product. Terpenes are present in the extract, flavoring the oil with the signature sweet, lemon flavor that makes Super Lemon Haze such an absolute delight. After vaping this product, it took a few minutes to notice just how powerful its effects were. But soon, the giggles, the euphoria, and the utter care-free quality inherent to sativa strains was in full force, and the enjoyment commenced. Due to the delightful Super Lemon Haze fragrance, this cartridge provides an extra layer of discretion to the already stealth business of vaping. If you’re looking to be a popular addition to a social gathering, bring this little baby along! It’s tasty, smooth and will pack a punch without rendering you unconscious.
Available wherever: Oleum Extracts products are carried.
Gorilla Glue 4 (GG4) by From The Soil Farms Available at: Greenside Recreational in Des Moines and Seattle.
This is a supreme product, from top to bottom. The packaging is reusable, fetching and keeps the product perfectly fresh. The famous strain is 80 percent sativa and 20 percent indica, and has notes of pungent, earthy, and pine flavors and aromas, according to the label. But you don’t need the label to tell you that! The packaging keeps this flower fresh, and you can smell the powerful fragrance as soon as you pop the cork from the little the glass jar. After trying this flower in both a vaporizer and water pipe, the pungent, earthy, pine flavors were definitely present. Soon after hitting the GG4, this sativa showed that it is powerful stuff! At 27.5 THC, and .17 in CBD, if you’re looking for a sativa to take you higher, this is the one. Don’t let the fact that it’s a sativa fool you into thinking this flower isn’t super powerful. While the renowned sativa joyful euphoria was present, so was the relaxed, cerebral quality of its indica parentage. This is a perfect strain to enjoy before a movie, concert or night out on the town.
RGB by Bud Commander Looking at the package that read “RGB,” we couldn’t believe our eyes. The elusive strain was a pleasant surprise. This sativa-dominant hybrid has genetics shroud in secrecy, but it is estimated to be about 70/30. Atomic Green is the producer, and Bud Commander is the brand responsible for this exquisite flower. The flower is lime green and coated in a dusty white layer of crystals. Once we gave the dense, compact nugs a squeeze, a piney-citrus scent emanated from the flower. We sampled this flower using a water pipe, and it smoked outstandingly clear and smooth. The flavor was gentle, with hints of lemon and kush, subtly hinting to its genetics in your taste buds. A sweet aftertaste was also noted. One of the beloved traits about this strain, is its energetic and happy effect. This RGB from Bud Commander delivered the desired results, consistent with the strain. If you’re looking for a strain that provides a boost of energy and pleasure without bogging down your mind and rendering you incapable of being productive, this is it. Roll up some joints with RGB and pack them on a hike, kayak, or any of the other summer adventures you can still squeeze in! 20
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Available at: Bud Commander in Tumwater.
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REVIEWs
For More Products Go To iReadCulture.com
3. PuffCo Plus
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1. Sagely Naturals’ Relief & Recovery Cream Using hemp-derived CBD extracted with CO2 extraction, Sagely Naturals makes CBD cream like no other. The scent is reminiscent of a lightweight Origins cream and doesn’t feel greasy or smell of cannabis at all. The cream is easy to apply, beautifully packaged and takes effect within a few minutes. Pain and inflammation seem to simply melt away. This is evidence that the popularity of high-end topical is rising, and Sagely Naturals is raising the bar in the topical game. PRICE: $36 MORE INFORMATION: www.sagelynaturals.com
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4. CannaSmack HappyTokes Peach Natural Hemp Lip Balm
2. HÄLSA Hälsa creates high terpene essential oil topical roll-ons that utilize cannabinoid therapy and aromatherapy. With three signature products: UNWIND, HEAL and SOOTHE, Hälsa appeals to many different people. The UNWIND blend was our favorite— the scent is instantly relaxing, featuring lavender, ylang ylang, orange and lemon oils, as well as 100mg of CBD and THC. This tranquil experience instantly relieves muscle tension and anxiety, and promotes clarity of mind and emotional balance. So easy to use, simply roll on reflex points on hands, back of neck and/ or feet, and you can feel almost instant relaxation. PRICE: $50 MORE INFORMATION: www.halsa.us 22
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With a sleek appearance and top-notch technology, this awardwinning vaporizer is crushing the competitive vape scene with not only a great design, but also by utilizing top-notch technology. The PuffCo Vaporzier features an atomizer that is all ceramic, which means it’s free from exposed metals or glues and keeps your product tasting delicious. The coil-less chamber ensures your cannabis oil is vaporized evenly, and it’s also easier to clean and very durable. With three temperature settings, users can effectively choose the right heat level for their personal needs, while the unique mouthpiece minimizes spillage and preserves your oil. Another cool feature is the Session Mode, which allows up to 12 seconds of continuous vapor, makes this product not only ideal for a single user but for groups as well. PRICE: $99.99 MORE INFORMATION: www.puffco.com
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Get ready to treat your lips to this decadent limited edition, hempinfused lip balm! Smelling as sweet as peach candy, Limited Edition CannaSmack HappyTokes Peach Natural Hemp Lip Balm is sure to become your latest makeup bag essential. Created using beeswax and all-natural plant extracts with cannabis sativa hemp seed oil, this peach lip balm will moisturize your lips with essential oils and vitamins. This lip balm is also cruelty-free and produced in the United States, so you can apply over and over again, completely guilt-free. Positively inspired by popular Instagram star and CULTURE writer @HappyTokes, CannaSmack HappyTokes Peach Natural Hemp Lip Balm will be a fun addition to your beauty routine. PRICE: $2.99 MORE INFORMATION: cannasmack.com/happytokes
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iReadCULTURE.com september 2016
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REVIEWs
entertainment
BOOK
Release Date: September 20 Available on: PlayStation 4 and Xbox One
Baking To Get Baked MJ Odingreen Ursa Minor Media Ltd. In an innovative infused twist, this cheeky cannabis cookbook teaches homecooks how to use cannabisinfused flour for making baked goods, instead of the more traditional cannabisinfused butter method. Baking with cannaflour can be easier to control dosing and has no cannabis taste. A small selection of classic baked goods and color images make this book a great starter cookbook. Odingreen’s recipes are easy to follow, and his humor and wit make this cookbook entertaining too! (Alex Bradley)
GAME
Destiny: Rise of Iron Dev. Bungie Pub. Activision Fans of Destiny will soon be able to embark on a new and epic journey with Destiny: Rise of Iron. In this fourth expansion, players will follow the guidance of Lord Saladin, the last of the Iron Lords, while exploring a new campaign that revolves around the Fallen, and includes new missions, designated PvP and PvE maps, gear, weapons and of course, a new raid. Rise of Iron is vast and filled with plenty of action, but keep in mind that this expansion is the first to become unavailable on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, unlike previous Destiny games. (Nicole Potter)
MOVIE
Keanu Warner Bros. Pictures Dir. Peter Atencio While many may have worried that the comedic partnership Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele may have worn itself thin by the end of their much beloved sketch show Key & Peele, those fears were handily assuaged by the pair’s big screen debut, Keanu. Revolving around the recovery of an incredibly cute kitten by an incredibly violent, drug trafficking street gang, led by none other than Method Man, Keanu deals big in belly laughs, personal transformation stories and George Michael jokes. Proving that Key & Peele’s charm can be stretched further than half-hour installments, Keanu is the perfect debut film for the two. (Simon Weedn)
MUSIC
How The Moon Shines In The Shit Somnia Rumbletown Records Boasting members of The Max Levine Ensemble and RVIVR, Olympia’s newest group, Somnia, easily distinguishes itself as a powerful new face in national pop-punk scene. How The Moon Shines On The Shit marks Somnia’s first recorded output and draws from the same pool of influence as the band members’ other groups while still managing to sound completely distinct from them. The urgency, power and anthemic qualities which has defined the styles of The Max Levine Ensemble and RVIVR certainly also applies to Somnia as well, yet Somnia also bears a richness and polish to it which sets it apart. (Simon Weedn)
CORRECTION: Last month, in the review for Big Book of Buds Greatest Hits, we cited the publisher of this book as Green Candy Press, but the publisher of the book is actually Quick Trading Co. 24
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Tenacious Talent Actress and Activist Lucy Lawless is Fierce, Fearless and Will Fight For What is Right by Paul Rogers
“Listen, its being available hasn’t made me start smoking [marijuana] any more than legalized homosexual marriage has made me want to turn gay . . . I don’t know what they’re afraid of!”
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p h o t o s b y M a a rte n de B oer
Lucy Lawless thinks before speaking. Only not, apparently, to consider what her publicist or manager might want her to say. For while she’s forever associated with fantasy action roles, the refreshingly opinionated Ash vs Evil Dead actress conveys a defiantly down-to-earth demeanor in her unaffected Down Under brogue. Raised with five brothers (whom she describes, retrospectively, as “dickheads”) in suburban Auckland, New Zealand, Lawless embraced toughness and humor as survival mechanisms in a boy’s world. Her mother recalls a daughter who was not even aware of being a girl until age eight, yet became a teen wife and mom before being crowned “Mrs. New Zealand” at age 21. Following a stint on a domestic television comedy show, Lawless’ portal to pop-icon status was an ostensibly mundane 1995 twist of fate. When another actress fell ill and was unable to travel to New Zealand for filming, Lawless landed the role of a leather-clad warrior called Xena in an episode of fantasy TV series Hercules: The Legendary Journeys. The episode was titled “Warrior Princess.” Created by Lawless’ now-husband, writerdirector-producer Rob Tapert, Xena: Warrior Princess grew into a six-season spin-off smash shown in more than 100 countries, making the statuesque Lawless a global sex symbol (declared one of the “50 Most Beautiful People in the World” by People magazine in 1997). While Lawless remains synonymous with Xena, she’s stayed busy ever since, often portraying similarly stoic characters in TV productions including the Starz network’s Spartacus: Blood and Sand; Sci-Fi Channel’s Battlestar Galactica; WGN America’s Salem; and lately as the mysterious Ruby Knowby in Starz’ wildly popular horror comedy series Ash vs Evil Dead. Not to mention having two more children, an occasional singing career and getting arrested for environmental activism. CULTURE chatted with the affably self-assured Lawless about her disinterest in the fantasy genre, celebrity responsibility, pro-pot tweeting—and nice problems to have. iReadCULTURE.com september 2016
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Season 2 of Ash vs Evil Dead premieres in October. Without spoiling anything, what can you tell us about the new season? Super-high-octane! It’s like four times the size of last season. I don’t really know how that happened . . . it just evolved that way. The footage that we’re shooting, honestly, it’s like . . . two Spartacus episodes crunched down into [a] half-hour of Evil Dead. It’s super-technical, it’s superrewarding . . . it’s just ferocious this season. And very funny! What are the unique joys of portraying Ruby in the series, compared with your career’s many other roles? I guess I’ve always played sort of outsiders, in a way, but it strikes me
with you. Like, American comedy eludes me. I’ve dabbled in sitcom and things, but it’s not something that I understand on a cellular level . . . I really admire it, and I really like it—I just can’t really do it. A recurring figure in your career is producer Sam Raimi, creator of the Evil Dead universe, producer of Xena: Warrior Princess, and executive producer of Spartacus: Blood and Sand. How would you define Sam’s genius? Sam is the ultimate kook. He’s a very unique individual. He’s kind of like Hollywood’s Mork from Ork—y’know, he’s been pulled out of another time and place. Your husband is Sam’s longtime collaborator Rob Tapert. How is it
I just think it’s twisted that we withhold available medications from somebody in pain—it’s disgusting. Why wouldn’t you give it to them? How completely sick. We’re the ones who are sick—we’re sicker than they are. that she’s the farthest of the outliers I’ve ever played, because she is not liked or trusted even within her own gang . . . It’s funny to play somebody who’s really hated. Your first ever TV job was in a sketch comedy series and Ash vs Evil dead is comedy horror. Are your comedic talents something you’d like to indulge more often, or do you instill subtle humor into most of your roles? Some things are just situationally funny. I mean, I’ve always thought that the parlor games in Spartacus were really funny— really ironic, really painful . . . So, yeah, I do find most of what I do funny, ‘cos life is a divine comedy. I would like to get back to [comedy]. I’d like to be better at it, to be honest 30
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working with your spouse, and how does that blur the line between your personal and professional lives? We work together great, because really our roles do not overlap. My role as an actress—that’s the easy bit. The much more demanding aspect of my, I say “job” in inverted commas, is being spouse of the producer—hearing the download of all the production issues and personnel issues and being supportive . . . not to get involved myself, but keeping everybody calm is what I do. What were your acting ambitions in your teens, and how do these compare with the actuality of your career to date? Oh, I wanted to go to RADA [Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, in London]!
I don’t know what happened—I wanted to play Lady Macbeth, and then I get tricked into this crazy action television, which was a complete assault to my being, because I was never good at sports. My nickname at school was “Unco,” for “uncoordinated,” and here I was getting bloody bashed 24/7 by stuntmen and training and trying to develop some sort of reflexes—which I did, [but] the first couple of years I was black and blue. It was a big shock to me. To be honest with you, I don’t watch fantasy shows, myself. I’m really not into that stuff. At this stage of my life, I wanna see people . . . having real problems like me and my friends—y’know, real-world problems. I’m not into the hunt for the magic bloody unicorn, or whatever. There was an element of fate in your being cast as Xena back in 1995. How different might your life have been today had that not happened? I would have had a different family; I’d probably be living in Italy . . . I would not be living in New Zealand, and I would never have stopped moving. I’m in love with perpetual motion, so had I not married [Xena creator Rob Tapert] I would not have the stability in my life; my children wouldn’t have had that stability—I’d just be a gypsy. Inadvertently or otherwise, you’ve become an icon of “comic-con” culture. That seems to be something you embrace. What am I going to do—crap on it? You should be so lucky to have these “problems!” I’m very good at rationalizing anything I can’t change . . . You better stick with the fans, and they’ll stick with you. I’ve been given this amazing opportunity to have a great life—mustn’t grumble! Would you say you’ve been somewhat typecast over the years? If so, do you necessarily see that as a negative? I suppose if you look at my major characters, I get cast as strong, slightly edgy, twisted people—or at least that’s what I try to bring to every role. No matter how she’s written, I’ll try to find the twist on it and try to make them compelling and make a bad person likeable and a good person a little bit gritty. So in a way I’ve taken fate and run with it and tried to make as much of it as I could.
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How close are those character traits on-screen to your off-screen self? My brothers used to give me assholes about being a show-off and dancing around to ballet and “who do you think you are?” kind of thing. And really punishing me for, I now see, being a girl . . . So I really had to drive all my femininity underground a little bit. It’s taken me to my 40s to start to try to reclaim that and discover some sort of softness. Because being tough and funny was the only way to survive in my house. Even though I am a feminist, I don’t have a hatred of men or a chip on my shoulder about things. I just . . . grew up thinking, in a way, I was one. You’ve also embraced your status as a gay icon, including participating in pride parades, but are a married heterosexual mom. Why are you so supportive of the LGBT community? Cos I like underdogs, and I feel that I relate to the underdog . . . I believe in justice and I feel like many gay people— obviously not all—understand global justice for everyone. You were a teen mom. How did rising to that considerable challenge help form the character that has made your so successful since? I didn’t understand it was a challenge. I think my family thought “oh, there go all her dreams of being an actress,” but within days of coming home from the hospital . . . I was full of energy; I was writing skits and things to produce into a show reel [and] went and filmed it. Jobs started to come from there. I just didn’t know any different, y’know? My parents never told me you can’t do something. Even if they secretly thought it, they didn’t tell me it—and I try to do the same for my kids. 32
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world in skin cancer, I realized that the actions of people globally can affect people locally.
I don’t think I knew that marijuana could be medical when I was growing Up . . . [but] I know it does a lot less harm to society than alcohol.
You still live in New Zealand. How has impacted your relationship with celebrity and the media compared with living in, say, L.A., New York or London? If you live in L.A., you’ve just got all these comparisons of how “not-cool” you are . . . Living in New Zealand, nobody cares about that stuff anyway, so it’s a non-issue. Also, I like to go it alone . . . I don’t have entourages; I don’t tell people what I’m up to. You have been active with environmental NGO Greenpeace, 34
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including being arrested in 2012 for boarding an oil-drilling ship. Why Greenpeace? I knew the director [of Greenpeace New Zealand], and I knew a bunch of those people from 20 years before when I acted [in] . . . The Sinking of the Rainbow Warrior [TV movie about the sinking of the Greenpeace ship Rainbow Warrior, in Auckland, by the French intelligence service]. So I had a long-standing respect for them as individuals . . . And, also, because [New Zealanders] lead the
You’re a board member of New Zealand’s Starship Foundation, benefitting children’s healthcare, and have been involved with animal rights organizations such as Paw Justice. Do you see it as your responsibility to use your celebrity for good in those ways? Well, I don’t want it to bloody sell lipstick! That just bores the shit out of me, all that stuff . . . [Celebrity is] currency, y’know— use it for something that does some good for the world. In May, you tweeted a fairly stronglyworded pro-medical cannabis statement. Could you expand upon the sentiments behind this? I just think it’s twisted that we withhold available medications from somebody in pain—it’s disgusting. Why wouldn’t you give it to them? How completely sick. We’re the ones who are sick—we’re sicker than they are. How have your views on recreational and medical use of cannabis changed over your lifetime? I don’t think I knew that marijuana could be medical when I was growing up. My views of marijuana haven’t really changed . . . I know it does a lot less harm to society than alcohol. I certainly tried it as a kid, I do think we have to be really informed about the facts, but it doesn’t bother me if people smoke pot. What are you views of cannabis legislation, both in New Zealand and elsewhere? They should legalize it so they know where it’s bloody coming from. Listen, its being available hasn’t made me start smoking [marijuana] any more than legalized homosexual marriage has made me want to turn gay . . . I don’t know what they’re afraid of! Your work with Greenpeace suggests that you’re very pro-active regarding issues about which you are passionate. Might you become more involved in medical cannabis activism? I doubt it, except to say that I absolutely support—I mean, I really, wholeheartedly support [medical marijuana]. It’s medicine, man—nothing works like it, is what I’m hearing, so it’s very cruel and unusual to deny a palliative medicine from these [seriously ill] people. c
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FDA is the Real Reason that DEA Can’t Re-Schedule Cannabis
DEA won’t re-schedule cannabis right now, but is pushing for more research by FDA in order to do so in the near future by Alex Bradley and Nicole Potter
There’s been a lot of media attention recently revolving around the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), which was rumored to be planning a monumental decision to re-schedule cannabis from its Schedule 1 label. However, news broke on August 10 that the agency is still working on rescheduling cannabis, but for the time being, they cannot reschedule it. The DEA must get an official recommendation from the FDA about the evidence and studies related to the substance before it can reschedule anything. The DEA sent out a press release, stating that it has denied two petitions to reschedule cannabis. Before any rescheduling occurs, the DEA has requested that more scientific research be conducted. It also asked for “a scientific and medical evaluation and scheduling recommendation” from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), which was already administered by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and National
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Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). “Based on the legal standards in the CSA, marijuana remains a schedule 1 controlled substance because it does not meet the criteria for currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States, there is a lack of accepted safety for its use under medical supervision, and it has a high potential for abuse,” the DEA stated in the announcement. “The HHS concluded that marijuana has a high potential for abuse, has no accepted medical use in the United States, and lacks an acceptable level of safety for use even under medical supervision. Therefore, the HHS recommended that marijuana remain in Schedule I,” according to the 21 CFR Chapter II, Denial of Petition, from the DEA. “Based on the HHS evaluation and all other relevant data, the DEA has concluded that there is no substantial evidence that marijuana should be removed from Schedule I.” “Although the HHS evaluation and all other relevant data lead to the
“What DEA did change was to allow more people to register with us to grow marijuana for researchers to use.” conclusion that marijuana must remain in schedule I, it should also be noted that, in view of United States obligations under international drug control treaties, marijuana cannot be placed in a schedule less restrictive than schedule II. This is explained in detail in accompanying document titled ‘Preliminary Note Regarding Treaty Considerations.’”
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to not move the cannabis plant into another schedule, based on their limited research and trials. There will be more, and the DEA has mandated that. They have updated their policy, to facilitate and foster more research by expanding the number of registered growers for cannabis in the country. “This change illustrates DEA’s commitment to working together with the FDA and NIDA to facilitate research concerning marijuana and its components. DEA currently has 350 individuals registered to conduct research on marijuana and its components. Notably, DEA has approved every application for registration submitted by researchers seeking to use NIDA-supplied marijuana to conduct research that HHS determined to be scientifically meritorious.” Correno assured us in an interview that the DEA is still considering rescheduling cannabis in the future. They just need the official structure and process to fall in line with that, ie. the FDA approving and providing the DEA with proper evidence and studies about the medicinal qualities of cannabis. Currently, the FDA is doing trials for Epidiolex, which could possibly be the third approved cannabis-related pharmaceutical by the FDA. Correno, at the DEA says that if the FDA approves Epidiolex, there is a large possibility that they could recommend the DEA to reschedule the main part of that drug, CBD to be a Schedule II substance. In more detail, the second Denial of Petition to Initiate Proceedings to Reschedule Marijuana, Michael J. Lewis, Office of Diversion Control and Chuck Rosenberg, Acting Administrator of the DEA, state that based on the HHS evaluation and all other relevant data, the DEA has concluded that there is no substantial evidence that cannabis or marijuana should be removed from schedule I.
“DEA has not had a change of heart on rescheduling cannabis—it is going to stay in the same schedule (Schedule I) where it’s been, because the FDA still says it is not a medicine.” The rejected petitions to reschedule cannabis were submitted by Rhode Island Governor Gina M. Raimondo, Washington State Governor Jay R. Inslee and Bryan A. Krumm (whose job title and address title were blocked out). DEA Acting Administrator Chuck Rosenberg responded to it in four-page letter detailing the decision. The DEA does further state in its August 11 announcement that, as according to its new policy, it plans to increase the number of cannabis manufacturers that supply researchers. The only approved cannabis manufacturer is at the University of Mississippi, which is under contract with the NIDA. The DEA hopes to open more manufacturers in the near future that comply with FDA-authorized research. “This change illustrates DEA’s commitment to working together with the FDA and NIDA to facilitate research concerning marijuana and its components,” the statement continued. “DEA currently has 350 individuals registered to conduct research on marijuana and its components. Notably, DEA has approved every application for registration submitted by researchers seeking to use NIDA-supplied marijuana to conduct research that HHS determined to be scientifically meritorious.” CULTURE spoke with DEA representative Barbara Correno, DEA Headquarters Public Affairs Officer regarding the recent update, and provided us with more understanding, and a little more hope for the future, than most regarding this matter at first sight. “DEA has not had a change of heart on rescheduling cannabis—it is going to stay in the same schedule (Schedule I) where it’s been, because the FDA still says it is not a medicine. We schedule all substances jointly with the Department of Health and Human Services. We study a substance to determine if it meets the eight criteria in the Controlled Substances Act for controlling. If it does, we send it to DHHS for scientific studies. After they conduct these studies, they send us a recommendation as to whether to schedule (or reschedule) the substance. If they recommend against scheduling or rescheduling, we cannot do so. If they believe something should be scheduled or rescheduled, then we begin the regulatory process of doing so,” she told CULTURE in a phone interview. “What DEA did change was to allow more people to register with us to grow marijuana for researchers to use. Information on that is in our press release about today’s announcements,” she said. Correno explained that many people don’t understand the process in which a substance becomes a part of the CSA, or how it becomes schedule or rescheduled. As a department of justice for the country, the DEA can only take actions based on research and evidence supplied by other government agencies, such as the FDA. The FDA sent the recommendation
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In short, marijuana continues to meet the criteria for schedule I control under the CSA because: Marijuana has a high potential for abuse. The HHS evaluation and the additional data gathered by DEA show that marijuana has a high potential for abuse. Marijuana has no currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States. Based on the established five-part test for making such determination, marijuana has no ‘‘currently accepted medical use’’ because: As detailed in the HHS evaluation, the drug’s chemistry is not known and reproducible; there are no adequate safety studies; there are no adequate and well-controlled studies proving efficacy; the drug is not accepted by qualified experts; and the scientific evidence is not widely available. Marijuana lacks accepted safety for use under medical supervision. At present, there are no U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved marijuana products, nor is marijuana under a New Drug Application (NDA) evaluation at the FDA for any indication. The HHS evaluation states that marijuana does not have a currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States or a currently accepted medical use with severe restrictions. At this time, the known risks of marijuana use have not been shown to be outweighed by specific benefits in well-controlled clinical trials that scientifically evaluate safety and efficacy. c
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Sat, Sept. 17. Gates open at noon. White River Amphitheatre, 40601 Auburn Enumclaw Rd. SE, Auburn. Check out evergreenfest.com for details.
While it’s fun to look forward to annual music festivals that occur every year, there’s something much more exciting with brand new events. It gives coordinators and hosts a chance to redefine events and hand-pick musicians that are sure to offer a new assortment of entertainment never before seen. The Evergreen Fest is just such an event, hosting its very first festival with the hopes of bringing great music, art, food and vendors to the city of Auburn. The featured musicians
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at Evergreen Fest are many, and range between a variety of musical inspirations and sounds. First and foremost, Jewish American reggae artist Matisyahu will be headlining this event, featuring a variety of music from his career (CULTURE got a chance to speak with this amazing artist back in late2014, and he’s definitely a supporter of both recreational and medical cannabis.) Uninterrupted, the list of other musicians who are planned to perform is both extensive and exciting: House of Pain
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featuring Everlast, Collie Buddz, Anuhea, Sammy J, Devin the Dude, Afroman, Josh Heinrichs & Skillinjah, Madchild, Potluck, Layzie Bone, Peni Dean of Natural Vibrations, Power Laces, Stay Grounded, Foreign Talks and Donald Glaude. There will be three different musical stages that will allow you to experience a ton of performances in a single day, but while you’re waiting for your favorite band or musician to start their set, be sure to check out the 100-plus vendors available. The hosts of the
Evergreen Fest are from Hempfest (previous hosts of events of the same name), Mad Dabler (who is known for its premium cannabis glass pieces) and LPM, and they guarantee that you’ll have a great time at the first ever Evergreen Fest. Tickets range from $27 for access to the lawn area, all the way to $66 for entrance into the pit area, so the tickets are fairly priced for an event that boasts such a great selection of musicians. c
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How did VHS get started? Jawshua Hageman: It started with me recording by myself. Eventually I moved up here [to Seattle] and started recording a couple songs with Chris. That resulted in a couple tapes, our first two tapes, Vultures & Hungry Spirits and Art Decay. After we had those tapes recorded, we found some people to play with, so we got Morgan Travis on guitar. Then we asked Gavin Tiemeyer, the drummer for Jason Clackley and The Exquisites, to be in the band, and he said yes.
Get Your Head Bang On With VHS
Where are you guys all from? Me, Morgan and Chris are all from Reno, Nevada. Chris has been living up here for quite a few years. Mo and I just moved up two years ago. And Gavin’s from Washington.
Catch Seattle’s up-and-coming vintageinspired, punk superstars
What bands have influenced your sounds?
by Emily Manke Like so many great Pacific Northwest bands, Violent Human System (VHS) began in a basement. Some of the greatest bands that the world has ever known began practicing their music in a home basement or garage, and it was bands like those that were just focused on creating good music. The earliest origins of VHS are posted to its Facebook profile, detailing the exact moment when the band first came to be, “During the winter of 2013, in his dusty, cobweb filled basement in Reno, Nevada, Jawshua Dean Hageman spent his time with his eighttrack writing and recording what would later be released as the first VHS tape.” Of course, like many famous bands, Hageman practiced to the point that he could finally leave the basement and move to Seattle, Washington, where he connected with his bandmates. Since then, all of their music careers have taken off. In addition to Jawsh on vocals and guitar, the band includes
bassist Chris Costalupes, drummer Gavin Tiemeyer and guitarist Morgan Travis. It doesn’t take much listening to VHS before you realize why its sound has travelled all the way from a dusty Reno basement to the dank, damp and weird Pacific Northwest. Their fulllength debut ironically titled, Gift of Life, explores themes critical of mainstream culture and society. Deep lyrics and heavy content make this album the perfect companion, especially when you have some strong cannabis at your disposal. VHS can be described as a local band that’s on its way to greatness, not just because it started in a basement, but because its unique rock and grungy flair both honors the greats and creates a niche for itself in the Washington music scene. CULTURE caught up with singer and guitarist Hageman to get the back story on VHS, what influences its sound and how cannabis affects the band.
Bands like the Wipers, Wire and Devo. I think you can definitely hear it when you listen to us. Nothing too out there. Has the accessibility and acceptance of cannabis impacted VHS in anyway? Well I don’t smoke weed, or drink alcohol or anything, so not for me. Everyone else in the band smokes. And I would definitely rather be around stoners than drunk people, or people on any other drug. So there’s that! c
violenthumansystem.bandcamp.com
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culture growing RECIPES UNKNOWN
by Ed Rosenthal
Today was harvest day, and 25 of the 28 Purple Pineapple (PP) plants were harvested. The other three plants were reserved for other experiments or photography. There were three very obvious signs that they were ripe.
1 They were very odoriferous. Over the past week the intensity of their smelliness kept increasing. The pineapple-fruity/sour perfumes were wafting out of the greenhouse and into the yard. 2 The plants had stopped growing, all the stigmas dried and turned color and the glands sparkled in the light. 3 A close-up look at the trichomes showed that their caps were stretching with resin and a few of them had turned color. This was their peak moment. This version of PP is very unusual. It stays in vegetative growth stage as long as it receives no more than three-four hours of continuous
darkness. When it receives more, such as on June 22, the longest day of the year, it received a little more than 9 hours, which initiated flowering. One way to grow this plant is to prep it by growing vegetatively until it reaches the desirable size. To do this the dark period must be interrupted every 6090 minutes with a lamp containing red light. Both HPS lamps and warm white fluorescents can be used for this purpose. The light can be regulated by a timer, and large areas can be covered using a light mover. When using light to regulate photoperiod response think of it as a water spray that much cover the entire plant including all its leaves. The duration of time that the light is used for each plant doesn’t matter. As long as the plant doesn’t experience dark periods of more than four hours, it will keep growing vegetatively. As soon as its regimen changes, so it receives a dark period longer than four hours, its growth changes to flowering and within a week, flowers appear. When I received the plants they were about 10 inches tall. A week later they had grown another inch, but
TIP OF THE MONTH
they were already flowering. They were only 12-15 inches tall at harvest. The plants were selfwatered using nylon wicks that drew water up from a reservoir underneath to the planting mix using capillary action (like a tissue drawing up water), so flushing was a simple task. The tap water here originates as run-off, rather than from a well, so it has a mineral content of only about 70 ppm, which is very low. Twice during the last week, I ran tap water through the 6-inch containers until about 20 percent of it drained out. As it soaked through the containers soluble salts dissolved in the water and drained away, so the roots had a chance to sip clear water. This didn’t remove nutrients from the plants, but they used up what was in their systems. Now the time had come. The buds were ripe— HARVEST! c
Postscript: The water in the reservoir, which contains the extra nutrients from the double flush, has been pumped into a holding container. I will dilute it a bit, and then use to feed my garden plants.
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Midsummer Harvest
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The garden is ready to harvest. All the plants were clones so they all matured at the same time.
All the buds on the plants had received light so they were all mature.
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Close-up of a bud.
Cutting the plants was an easy task. A pruner was used.
The plants were hung to dry and cure over five or six weeks. Then they will be manicured. The room stays in the 60s to low 70s, with moderate humidity.
Now is a great time to start an indoor natural light crop. All you need is an unobstructed south-facing window. The sun is lower on the horizon now so it’s light shines right into the window for hours daily. In areas with bright sun, rather than cloudy weather, this may be enough light to support flowering. Since the light duration is fewer than 12 hours daily the plants will start to flower almost immediately will ripen early, so the plants will remain small and will produce small buds, but with little effort on your part. This works best if you can start with plants rather than seeds. Some dispensaries sell “adolescents,” and those are great candidates for a project like this.
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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PROFILE
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culture
Time to Go: September Weather: Highs in the mid-60s to lows in the mid-50s, with some cloudy/rainy days. Budget: $$$$$
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if you go:
Toronto Sizzles in September by Sheryll Alexander
Toronto is Canada’s second epicenter of cannabis culture (with the first being Vancouver, British Columbia), so a trip to The Six can be a medical cannabis connoisseurs’ North American travel dream come true. Of course, Toronto’s cannabis culture is but one reason for such a Canadian getaway, especially in the spectacularly scenic late summer and early fall. That’s because Toronto is Canada’s most culturefilled urban center. In Toronto, there’s literally more things to do, see, eat, drink and smoke than any visitor can imagine especially when it comes to food, film and theatre arts. Some come to Toronto for the nightlife. No matter the weather, Toronto heats
up when the sun goes down, and its millions upon millions of locals and tourists continue to party through the wee morning hours at some of the world’s hottest music venues and dance clubs. If your Toronto travel focus is on cannabis and the cannabiz, however, then you won’t be disappointed. Toronto is ground zero for some of Canada’s most innovative cannabis entrepreneurs, so there’s a lot to see, do, learn and experience. Definitely don’t miss a day or night time walking excursion to both Toronto’s Kensington Market and Queen Street West sections for a peek inside some of the best cannabisthemed shops in the world. With the rise of
cannabis shops in Toronto and all over Canada, however, has come a surprising crackdown this spring by local governments just as it seemed youthful Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s federal government would relax its restrictions and decriminalize this miracle medical plant. Much like in the U.S., the cannabiz in Canada— including Vancouver and Toronto—is in a state of uneasy flux. Just remember, cannabis is still only medical and very unfortunately for Canadian residents only. This hiccup as well as other legalities can still potentially land you in prison. Still, anyone can enjoy a travel trip to vibrant Toronto for its cannabinoidloving culture. c
Fun-Filled Facts Hot Box Café has a popular “medilounge” where (licensed in Canada only) medical cannabis smokers can hang and medicate out in a relaxed atmosphere. 1
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For those into shopping, check out The 401 Richmond Street West Complex. This restored industrial building has been dubbed “The Warehouse” by locals and holds around 140 artist studios for some of the best one-off art and culture shopping as well as other eclectic shops, events and festivals. 2
Toronto is located in the southern part of the central Ontario province where medical cannabis, edibles and other cannabis products can be purchased by residents at seemingly endless dispensaries. Unlike the United States, Canada’s central government has classified cannabis as a Schedule II drug, but this unfortunately still makes possession a crime. What this means today to Toronto-bound travelers is a cannabis conundrum. While you will enjoy being in the center of Canada’s cannabiz culture, you can’t legally buy flower buds or edibles even if you are a licensed patient in your home medical or recreational state. This is quite the bummer as Torontonians toke rather freely in public most notably near the pulsating nightclubs of Richmond and Adelaide streets. Hearty and perhaps foolhardy Canadians do smoke outside discreetly and comply politely—if bothered— with the mostly lax authorities although cops do have the right to hit smokers with a hefty fine.
culture growing
Melissa Mentele
Age: 39 Condition/Illness: RSD/CRPS, five herniated lumbar discs and a labral tear in left hip
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Using Medical Cannabis Since: 2013
Why did you start using cannabis? I was severely injured in 2012 and prescribed opiates that I consistently had adverse reactions to. In March of 2013 I had my shoulder rebuilt and my bicep reattached. During the recovery I was diagnosed with RSD/ CRPS. Knowing the diagnosis carried a lifetime of pain meds and medical interventions, I started looking into alternative options. Cannabis lotion has been a miracle for the nerve pain and tactile pain in my arm. It gave me my life back. I was at a point where I couldn’t wear long-sleeved shirts and the breeze going across my arm would drop me to my knees. I traveled to Colorado and started to experiment with options. I was floored by how well it worked. I was also astonished by how I didn’t feel drugged; I could carry on with my day, and I was less irritated with life. After that I started to advocate for cannabis reform in my state. Did you try other methods or treatments before cannabis? Yes, you name an opiate, and I have tried it. I even at
one point was prescribed Fentanyl patches and quick-release morphine together. I was a druggedout mess on them and stopped taking them. What is the most important issue or problem facing medical cannabis patients? Lack of education in non-legal states and lack of funds to change that. More organizations need to get involved and donate towards states that are struggling to legalize. What do you say to folks that are skeptical about cannabis as medicine? Each and every one of us knows someone who has battled cancer; we have all seen someone in hospice care and we have seen children struggle with deadly seizure disorders. Ask yourself: If that was your loved one, wouldn’t you want options? Wouldn’t you want a choice? If the answer is yes then sit down, get comfy, and open Google. Enter “medical cannabis uses” and start reading. Read a little every day then when you have read enough patient stories, science and testimonials, get up and get involved. There is an organization in every state that advocates for cannabis reform. Get involved and be a part of history. c
Are you an MMJ patient with a compelling story to tell? If so, we want to hear from you. Email your name, contact information and details about your experiences with medical cannabis to courage@ireadculture.com.
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culture growing RECIPES UNKNOWN DESTINATION
Invigorate Your September and Spice It Up! Menu: Freaky Fish Tacos with Lime Chipotle Canna-Aioli Hazy Thai Wings
recipes by Jeffthe420Chef September is a great gathering month, where friends and family tend to come together at least a couple of times. It is still warm from the end of summer dragging on, but also can get a little crisp out, in the beginning of the harvest season, offering a great variety of nights, themes and events for folks to come together and eat. Fish tacos are a perfect dinner party meal. These Freaky Fish Tacos are not only really tasty (and authentic), but they’ll knock your socks off if you eat more than two. There is also something really rewarding about making your own salsa, so I included my cucumber avocado salsa in this recipe for you. It’s the perfect complement to this dish. My second recipe for September, the Hazy Thai Wings are an ode to Pok Pok, Chef Andy Ricker’s renowned Thai street-food restaurant. The first time I had authentic Thai wings was at Pok Pok Noi in Portland, while visiting Chef Adrian Hale of Communal Table—and I fell in love! For days, all I could think about was how to re-create these awesome wings with one (or two) added ingredients. And here you have it! You’ll never look at wings the same way again, guaranteed.
Freaky Fish Tacos with Lime Chipotle Canna-Aioli Ingredients: 1/2 red onion, diced 1 half cucumber, diced 1 avocado, diced
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1 large tomato, diced
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1 clove garlic, minced 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (reserve some for garnish) 1 jalapeño, stemmed and chopped Red wine vinegar 1 teaspoon salt, plus more for seasoning
1 cup all-purpose or whole-wheat flour 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1 1/3 teaspoons ancho chili powder 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1 pound flaky white fish (such as mahi-mahi or cod), cut into 4 pieces Salt and freshly ground black pepper Olive oil for frying
2 teaspoons lime juice
8 fresh corn tortillas
1 tablespoons
1 cup shredded cabbage (use a mixture of red and green)
canna–olive oil plus 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 limes, cut into quarters
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Number of servings: 8 tacos Preparation time: 30 minutes Cooking time: 30 minutes
Approximate THC per Serving* 10%: 3.8 milligrams 15%: 5.7 milligrams 20%: 7.6 milligrams
The Lobster Shop
4015 Ruston Wy., Tacoma (253) 759-2165 www.lobstershop.com
Ta Ra Rin Thai Cuisine
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Put the onion, cucumber, avocado, tomato, garlic, cilantro and jalapeño in a small bowl. Pour in just enough red wine vinegar to cover well. Add a pinch of salt, the lime juice, and the canna–olive oil. Set aside for at least 30 minutes. In a large bowl, combine the flour, 1 teaspoon salt, garlic powder, chili powder and cumin. Sift together well with a fork. Season the fish with salt and pepper, then coat the fish with the flour mixture. Preheat oven to 340ºF. At the same time, heat a large skillet over medium-high
heat. Add 1 inch of olive oil. Gently fry the fish for 3 to 4 minutes, then turn over and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a plate lined with paper towels. Set aside. Stack the tortillas, separating each with a slightly dampened sheet of paper towel. Wrap in foil. Heat in the oven for 5 minutes. Top each tortilla with a pinch of shredded cabbage and some of the cooked fish, then (using a slotted spoon) top with each one with the cucumber avocado salsa. Garnish with Lime Chipotle Canna-Aioli, a lime wedge and cilantro. Dig in!
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1200 Oak St., Eugene (541) 343-1230 www.tararinthai.com
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Blue Water Taco Grill
515 Queen Anne Ave. N, Seattle (206) 352-2407 www.bluewatertacogrill.com
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Local eateries with similar dishes:
*Approximate dose per serving is based on infusing 5 grams of cured/dried/decarbed cannabis into 5 ounces of oil. iReadCULTURE.com september 2016
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culture
Hazy Thai Wings Ingredients 1/2 cup raw cane sugar
Number of servings: 4 (5 wings per serving) Preparation time: 30 minutes Cooking time: 30 minutes
Approximate THC per Serving* 10%: 7.6 milligrams 15%: 11.4 milligrams 20%: 15.2 milligrams
1/2 cup Asian fish sauce
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3 tablespoons ketchup 11/2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce (Sambal sauce) 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice 1 teaspoon rice vinegar 1 cup cornstarch 1 teaspoon garlic powder 2 pounds chicken wings, rinsed and patted dry
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Extra-virgin coconut oil for frying
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1 tablespoon canna–coconut oil plus 3 tablespoons extra-virgin coconut oil Toasted peanuts and garlic (see sidebar, below) 4 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
Directions Place sugar in a food processor and grind until very fine. In a medium bowl, add the fish sauce, ketchup, sugar, chili garlic sauce, lime juice and rice vinegar. Set aside. In a shallow dish, sift the cornstarch and garlic powder. Toss the wings in the cornstarch mixture to coat. Heat a large skillet on the stovetop for 1 minute on high. Add enough coconut oil to fry, about 2 inches from the bottom of the pan. Fry the wings until golden brown. Remove with slotted spoon and drain on brown paper. Preheat oven to 340ºF. Place the fried wings on a lightly greased baking sheet and drizzle each wing with 1 teaspoon of canna–coconut oil mixture. Bake for 7 to 8 minutes. In a clean skillet, add the sauce and heat on medium until syrupy, about 5 minutes. Remove the wings from the oven and toss with the sauce until evenly coated. Toss in the toasted peanuts and garlic. Garnish with cilantro and serve alongside a cup of carrot sticks and celery curls.
Toasted Peanuts and Garlic 1/4 cup raw peanuts, crushed 4 cloves garlic, chopped 1 teaspoon coconut oil Dash of salt In a small bowl, mix peanuts and garlic with coconut oil and a dash of salt. Spread evenly on a small pan and roast at 325ºF for 30 minutes, until toasted and browned. Remove, let cool and voilà!
Celery Curls Cut celery into 6-inch pieces, slice in half lengthwise, make lengthwise cuts almost to center and repeat to create slivers. Refrigerate in ice water until slivers curl. *Approximate dose per serving is based on infusing 5 grams of cured/dried/decarbed cannabis into 5 ounces of oil.
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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Chuck Shepherd's
News of the
Weird
LEAD STORY—THE POWER OF PRAYER u A 28-year-old woman, unnamed in news reports, veered off the road and into a house in the Florida panhandle town of Mary Esther on July 7. She apparently was free of drug or alcohol influence, but readily explained to police that she must have gone through a stop sign and left the road when she closed her eyes to pray as she drove. (The house was damaged, but no one was injured.)
A NEWS OF THE WEIRD CLASSIC (AUGUST 2012) u New Mexico is an “open carry” state, with otherwiselaw-abiding adults authorized
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to display loaded handguns in public. However, in the town of Vaughn (pop. 500, about 90 miles east of Albuquerque), perhaps the only people not legally able to carry are the town’s two police officers. A June (2012) KOB-TV report revealed that Chief Ernest Armijo had been convicted in 2011 of criminal non-support of a wife and two sons, and was barred from possessing a gun. Deputy Brian Bernal has his own domestic issue: a conviction for family violence that bans him, under federal law, from carrying. (A month after the News of the Weird story, both men resigned, leaving the town’s police dog the only active “officer.”) TROMPE L’OEIL JUNGLE u A conservation biologist at Australia’s University of New South Wales said in July that his team was headed to Botswana to paint eyeballs on cows’ rear ends. It’s a solution to the problem of farmers who are now forced to kill
endangered lions to keep them away from their cows. However, the researchers hypothesize, since lions hunt by stealth and tend to pass up kills if the prey spots them, painting on eyeballs might trick the lions to choose other prey. (For the same reason, woodcutters in India wear masks painted with faces— backward—for protection against tigers.) “BIG PORN” GIVES BACK u (1) In June, the online megawebsite Pornhub announced a program to help blind pornography consumers by adding 50 “described videos” to its catalog, with a narrator doing play-by-play of the setting, the actors, clothing (if any) and the action. Said a Pornhub vice president, “It’s our way of giving back.” (2) Later in June, another pornography website (with a frisky name— see bit.ly/29O4G9UURL) inaugurated a plan to donate a penny to women’s health or abuse prevention organizations
every time a user reached a successful “ending” while viewing its videos (maximum two per person per day). Its first day’s haul was $39, or $13 for each of three charities (including the Mariska Hargitaysupported Joyful Heart Foundation). CAN’T POSSIBLY BE TRUE u A Government Program That Actually Works: A motorist in Regina, Saskatchewan, was issued a $175 traffic ticket on June 8 after he pulled over to ask if he could assist a homeless beggar on the sidewalk. According to the police report cited by CTV News, the “beggar” was actually a cop on stakeout looking for drivers not wearing seat belts (who would thus pay the city $175). Driver Dane Rusk said he had unbuckled his belt to lean over in the seat to give the “beggar” $3—and moments later, the cop’s partner stopped Rusk (thus earning Regina a total of $178!).
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