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inside
contents 9.2018
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Playing Koy
From humble beginnings to his current star-studded status, comedian Jo Koy talks about his road to success, as well as his inspiration and support for cannabis. O n t h e C O V ER :
P hoto b y J oh n G i l hoo l e y
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features 32
Hemp Adventures Hemp has its place in many industries, so it’s no surprise that it is also used to make skateboards and specialty wheels.
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International Attention Native-born Slovakian artist Veronika Vajdová expresses her thoughts on her most recent cannabis-inspired artwork.
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Inspired Transformation From law to cannabis, Nicole Skibola is an author, cancer survivor and cannabis business owner whose personal journey has brought her to new heights.
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Destroy the Sun Let The Purrs’ latest album serve as your end-ofsummer soundtrack.
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departments 12 Letter from the Editor news 14 By the Numbers 16 Local News 17 News Nuggets 18 Legal Corner reviews 20 Strain, Edible & Concentrate Reviews 21 Store Highlight 22 Cool Stuff 23 Entertainment Reviews in every issue 40 Shooting Gallery 42 À La Carte 43 Growing Culture 44 News of the Weird
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Online Exclusive! d Smoking Cannabis May Lead to Brain Aging d New Brunswick Universities Prepare for Legalization
Vol 10 IssUE 3
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Editor-In-Chief Jamie Solis associate Editor Ashley Bennett Editorial coordinator Benjamin Adams Editorial Contributors Matthew Abel, Hilary Bricken, Devon Alexander Brown, Jasen T. Davis, Alex Distefano, Caroline Hayes, Addison Herron-Wheeler, Pamela Jayne, Heather Johnson, Carl Kozlowski, Emily Manke, Madison Ortiz, Denise Pollicella, R. Scott Rappold, Paul Rogers, Ed Rosenthal, Kimberly R. Simms, Lanny Swerdlow, Simon Weedn, Laurie Wolf Photographers Steve Baker, Kristopher Christensen, John Gilhooley, Joel Meaders, Mike Rosati, Eric Stoner, Bruce Wolf Art Director Steven Myrdahl production manager Michelle Aguirre Graphic Designer John Venegas Associate Publisher & Bob Waters Advertising Director Account Executives Alex Brizicky, Angie Callahan, Eric Bulls, Kim Cook, Rocki Davidson, Casey Roel, Annie Weber, Vic Zaragoza office manager Mikayla Aguilar Distribution Manager Cruz Bobadilla Publisher David Comden
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.CultureMagazine.com
CULTURE® Magazine is printed using post-recycled paper.
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L ETTER
FROM
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EDITOR
Laughter is the Best Medicine
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eanut butter and jelly, peas and carrots, Abbott and Costello—these are famous pairings that will receive the limelight for all time. Another pair that needs little introduction is cannabis and comedy. Comedy has always been a staple source of entertainment alongside cannabis. Joints and movies, edibles and comedy shows— few will miss the chance to light up before watching movies like Friday or Pineapple Express. Consuming cannabis calms the everyday anxieties of life and replaces them with an elevation of classic entertainment. Together, cannabis and comedy work in tandem to ultimately create one hell of a good time. In the past, CULTURE has celebrated the intersection of cannabis and comedy through interviews with many famous and talented comedians such as Reggie Watts, Tenacious D, Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias, Adam Corolla and comedy duo Cheech & Chong, among many others. Now, we’re welcoming Jo Koy into the mix. Like cannabis, laughter is the best medicine. And like all good pairings, this duo only grows stronger with time. CULTURE’s interview with Koy is an example of how mainstream cannabis continues to grow strong in the comedy scene, as Koy states in response to whether or not he consumes cannabis, “Who doesn’t!” We’re also witnessing the ways in which comedy-centric cannabis events hold a bright future in legal cannabis states. For instance, one is the Lemonhaze Cannabis and Comedy Convention in Washington coming up in October—a magical place where the likes of comedian Doug Benson delights audiences of up to 5,000 industry professionals. After all, all work and no play would make our unique industry a dull one. In the past, comedy shows where cannabis consumption was allowed were done on a “bring your own product” basis. In some legal states, comedians are trying to comply with state laws, while still incorporating cannabis into their acts. A recent example of this was when comedian
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Adam Hartle gave out free joints to his audience at a comedy show in San Francisco, California in August. Although he did share that in order to comply with state law, the giveaway was happening outside the venue, before the show, to adults ages 21 and older—and the kicker? Consumers were not allowed to partake during the show. Unfortunately, this is not the type of comedy and cannabis development that voters in legal states are looking forward to after passing legalization. But not all hope for the future is lost, as the partnership between legal cannabis and comedy is off to a strong start in Canada. Cannabis lounges are increasingly hosting comedy shows. For example, Toronto-based Vapor Central hosts “Stoner Sundays,” while Hotbox Lounge + Shop in Ontario hosts comedy nights every Thursday. Overall, we tend to hold the belief that cannabis has the ability to make just about everything better. When it comes to our entertainment, we’re delighted to bear witness to any trend that is good for the funny bone. Bring on the laughs, and pass the vape! c Cheers!
Jamie Solis Editor-in-Chief
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The projected amount of money, in billions of dollars, that Washington State will collect in annual recreational cannabis sales by 2020: (Source: Puget Sound Business Journal)
The estimated number of cannabis-related crimes that resulted in a felony sentence during the first year-and-a-half of recreational cannabis sales in Washington: (Source: KUOW)
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The amount of money, in millions of dollars, that Washington State collected in recreational cannabis sales taxes during the fiscal year 2017: (Source: The Washington Post)
315
The percentage of success observed in children with autism who were treated with CBD oil in an Israeli study: (Source: Israel National News)
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The number of cannabisrelated categorical rule changes that are being considered by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board: (Source: Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board)
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The amount of money, in millions of dollars, that the state of Florida approved in additional funding for a new medical cannabis office: (Source: Tampa Bay Times)
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The amount of money, in thousands of dollars, that the Missourians for Patient Care campaign committee raised to support a medical cannabis initiative in Missouri: (Source: San Francisco Gate)
530
The amount of money, in millions of dollars, that Alaskan officials collected in cannabis tax revenue in the 2018 fiscal year: (Source: New York Post)
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Cannabis Trivia Night WHEN: Mon, Sept. 10 WHERE: Brass Tacks, 6031 Airport Wy. S, Seattle WEBSITE: www.thecannabisalliance.us/trivia Think you know everything about cannabis? Want to put some money on it? Gather some friends and put your knowledge to the test at Cannabis Trivia Night, hosted by The Cannabis Alliance, “a non-profit, membership-based association of individuals, businesses, government officials and non-profit organizations.” Form a group of three to five know-it-alls, and compete against others in a trivia 14
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battle on topics such as cannabis science, history and law, terpenes, pop culture and folklore. The Cannabis Alliance’s goal is to promote the cannabis industry by educating communities, policy makers and industry professionals about the advancements of the industry. Test your own knowledge of all things cannabis and see if you have what it takes to win!
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NEWS
LOCAL
Lawful Cannabis
N e w d ata s h o w s t h at l e g a l cannabis has positive effects on criminal justice in Washington By Emily Manke
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egalization in Washington has been a facet of life for several years now. As such, the data on cannabis legalization’s effect on the criminal justice landscape in the state is finally becoming available. The numbers appear to indicate that as of now, cannabis legalization has had a positive effect on criminal justice in Washington State with a decline in cannabis-related arrests and felony convictions. A recent study has shed light on this topic. The study, titled “Marijuana Legalization and Crime Clearance Rates: Testing Proponent Assertions in Colorado and Washington State,” was headed by lead author David A. Makin, assistant professor at the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology and Research Faculty at The Washington State Institute for Criminal Justice. The study aggregated police data from Washington and Colorado to determine how the end of cannabis prohibition has affected policing in these states. “The aim of this research was rather straightforward. The research team wanted to determine if legalization of marijuana in Washington and Colorado had an influence on police practice,” Makin told CULTURE. “Based on our existing research, we knew that if legalization were to have an influence, we would likely detect it in clearance rates. When you have a pivotal policy change like legalization, we would expect resources to shift.” This data points to the fact that resources did indeed shift and they are being used for more useful matters, suggesting a correlation between cannabis laws and criminal conviction rates. “Based on our empirical study, we show that clearance rates were influenced positively for a range of crimes. What our research shows is there is a relationship between legalization of marijuana and improvements in certain clearance
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rates,” Makin explained. “However, this is not a cause and effect relationship. The next step of the research is to understand specifically how these rates were improved. The data shows, unsurprisingly, a steep decline in cannabis arrests in Washington State following cannabis legalization. What’s surprising and encouraging however, is the data regarding the clearance rate (or rate of charges for crimes reported) of violent crimes in Washington State following cannabis legalization. Clearance rates for violent crimes in Washington State improved notably in the years following legalization, which appears to have positive implications for the theory that police now have time to focus on more important crimes, now that they’re not spending time and resources arresting and convicting adults for cannabis-related offenses. All these findings are encouraging for legal cannabis advocates. “One of I-502’s primary goals was to free up law enforcement resources to focus on serious crimes, so the WSU findings are welcomed news. Marijuana prohibition was a failed policy, which disproportionately impacted people of color, so it’s good to see that Washington’s new approach to marijuana is showing some promising signs of success,” Mark Cooke, policy director of ACLU of Washington’s Campaign for Smart Justice told CULTURE. Another set of data recently put together by Washington State Caseload Forecast Council compared the rates of felony convictions for cannabis-related charges before and after cannabis regulation. Two sets of data on felony cannabis convictions in Washington State, one from June 2008 through December 2009, which makes up the pre-legalization data, and the other from December 2015 to June 2016, which make up post-legalization data, were contrasted, assembled and analyzed by Oregon Public Broadcasting. The data indicates a dramatic reduction in felony convictions related to cannabis. The pre-legalization data showed 1,312 felony cannabis convictions, whereas the post-legalization showed only 147. This data suggests that legal cannabis in Washington is accomplishing what it originally set out to do. A reduction in both cannabisrelated arrests and felony convictions is an indicator that the black market sale and production of cannabis is on the decline. As time goes on, and more data becomes available, it will be interesting to see if these trends continue. c
Hops & Crops Come out to the historical Mary Olson Farm, where local bands and breweries are uniting for some end-ofsummer fun. The Cottonwood Cutups, Will West & the Friendly Strangers, Tiffany Wilson and Eldridge Gravy & the Court Supreme will be performing throughout the day. You can also sample some of the area’s best food from professional food trucks like Bread & Circuses, Tacos La Flaca and Hot Revolution Donuts. Wash it all down with some local craft brew from Bad Jimmy’s Brewing, Flying Lion Brewing, Fremont Brewing, Hop Valley Brewing, Iron Horse Brewing and many more. The revenue from the event goes to educational programs at the Mary Olson Farm and White River Valley Museum. WHEN: Sat, Sept. 15 WHERE: Mary Olson Farm, 28728 Green River Rd., Kent WEBSITE: wrvmuseum.org/ hopsandcrops. html
NEWS
nuggetS
Washington May Rewrite Packaging and Testing Rules The Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB) announced its intention to potentially revise rules regarding the packaging and testing of cannabis in Washington. Some of the topics that will be examined and potentially changed include lot and batch sizes, pesticide testing, heavy metal testing, THC serving limits and packaging requirements. The first step was writing an Issue Paper requesting approval from the LCB to file the first stage of rulemaking. The Issue Paper was published on Aug. 8 and laid out the reasons for these changes.
“These changes will seek to increase efficiencies in testing adult-use and compliant products, as well as increase the availability of compliant products or products of a similar nature and quality of testing,” the paper reads. The paper also explained that the LCB considered input from medical cannabis patients, as well as requests from the industry when creating these changes. These rules will be open for comment during this process.
Bellevue’s GRN Funds Provide Florida Cannabis Businesses with Banking With cannabis becoming legal in states all over the country, but still prohibited at the federal level, one issue that is still plaguing cannabis business owners is banking. Luckily, in states like Washington, businesses have had time to assess these issues and come up with some solutions. One of these solutions is Bellevuebased GRN Funds. The company provides audits, valuations, license acquisition and raises capital for cannabis businesses in the U.S. Recently, GRN Funds announced that it will be assisting cannabis-related businesses in Florida with some of their financial
Northern Mariana Islands House Votes to Legalize Cannabis The Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, a U.S. territory located near the Philippines, may soon legalize cannabis. On Aug. 8, the territory’s House of Representatives voted 18-1 in approval of a bill that would legalize cannabis for adults ages 21 and older. The Senate approved an earlier version of the bill last May, but the House’s Committee on Judiciary and Governmental
needs. “We look forward to serving Florida’s cannabis banking needs. We plan on rolling out Florida banking services this month, and we are excited about the opportunity,” GRN Funds CEO Justin Costello told CULTURE in late August. It’s no mystery why GRN Funds is branching out into Florida’s medicinal cannabis market. BDS Analytics Arcview Market Research predicts a rise to $456 million in cannabis sales in Florida in 2018.
Operations made a few revisions to the bill before filing this updated version. “Therefore, the Legislature finds that it is in our best interest to move marijuana into a regulated and controlled market for responsible adult personal use,” the House of Representatives stated. Now, the revised version heads back to the Senate for approval. Should the bill pass, the Northern Mariana Islands will go straight from having no acceptable use of cannabis to recreational cannabis without first legalizing medical cannabis.
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NEWS
LEGAL CORNER
Hands-On Approach
W a s h i n g t o n ’ s r e g u l at i o n s r e s t r i c t access to hemp-derived CBD By Alison Malsbury
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annabidiol (CBD) may be one of the fastestgrowing health and wellness products on the market, but numerous states are currently grappling with how to regulate it, particularly when it is derived from industrial hemp and therefore falls outside of the regulatory ambit of those states’ adult-use and medicinal cannabis programs. As a little bit of background, the source of the CBD for purposes of this article matters. We’re talking only about CBD derived from industrial hemp, not CBD derived from cannabis, manufactured by licensed producers and sold in licensed retail stores. Apart from Washington’s I-502 cannabis regime, which is overseen by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board, the state has an industrial hemp pilot program, pursuant to the 2014 Federal Farm Bill, which is overseen by the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA). The state’s definition of “industrial hemp” is “all parts and varieties of the genera cannabis, cultivated or possessed by a grower, whether growing or not, that contain a THC concentration of 0.3 percent or less by dry weight.” Industrial hemp does not include plants of the genera cannabis that meet the state’s statutory definition of “marijuana.” All processing of industrial hemp in Washington must be done in accordance with the state’s regulations, which means that industrial hemp
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processors must obtain a license to process or market industrial hemp in its unprocessed forms. However, Washington law prohibits the processing of “any part of industrial hemp, except seed, as food, extract, oil, cake, concentrate, resin, or other preparation for topical use, oral consumption, or inhalation by humans.” This prohibition on processing industrial hemp into CBD products for human consumption acts as an effective ban on CBD products intended for human consumption manufactured within the state. But what about CBD products coming from other states? Colorado and Kentucky both have industrial hemp pilot programs pursuant to the 2014 Agricultural Act of 2014, referred to as the Farm Bill, and many licensed hemp growers are selling hemp to be processed into CBD products. And we’ve all seen CBD products available in a variety of places, including online. However, the WSDA prohibits the use of industrial hemp (except for the seeds) in topical and edible products containing industrial hemp, regardless of whether the industrial hemp was cultivated in Washington or pursuant to another state’s hemp program. It’s important to understand some key definitions here. The State defines an “End Use Product” as a product that “contains publicly marketable hemp product and requires no further processing to be sold to a consumer. End use products include […] beverages, […] cosmetics, food, […] seed oil, [and] other products containing publicly marketable hemp products.” Pursuant to WAS 16-305-015, the “[p]ossessing, further processing, transporting, marketing and exchanging” of legally obtained, publicly marketable hemp products and End Use Products is outside the WSDA’s scope of enforcement except “for the limitation of THC content,” and as provided under WAC 16-305-180 (which reiterates that processing of any part of the industrial hemp plant, other than the seeds, for human consumption is not allowed). The WSDA released an interpretive statement of these rules that expands the definition of “processing” to mean “use” as well, which likely means that the sale of hemp-derived CBD products intended for human consumption, regardless of the source of the industrial hemp, is not allowed in Washington. Of course, the Food and Drug Administration prohibits the addition of CBD, which it considers an active ingredient in an approved drug, to food products in interstate commerce, so any state-level prohibition seems redundant. But given the lack of legal clarity surrounding CBD, it’s no surprise to see more states taking regulation into their own hands. c
“This prohibition on processing industrial hemp into CBD products for human consumption acts as an effective ban on CBD products intended for human consumption manufactured within the s tat e . ”
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REVIEWs
strain, edible & concentrate
Peppermint Cups by GaGa Edibles Chocolate and mint lovers rejoice! GaGa Edibles has once again knocked it out of the park with its Peppermint Cups. Attractively and conveniently packaged, this product travels discreetly. The chocolate itself is made with highquality ingredients, including coconut oil and coconut butter in place of dairy products. The chocolate is a happy medium, not too bitter and dark, but not too sweet either. The center is a nice and gooey peppermint cream, refreshing and delighting the palate as you bite into it. In addition to being attractively packaged and delicious, this treat is a reliable and effective THC delivery system. At a perfect 10mg of THC, it’s a great single serving for an experienced cannabis consumer and ideal to share for those with a lower tolerance. It is perfect for traveling on-the-go or for a satisfying dessert at home.
Available wherever: Liberty Reach Products Are Carried.
Available wherever: GaGa Edibles products are carried.
Tropicanna Cookies by Liberty Reach When you unscrew the metal lid from the glass jar (no plastic, always a nice touch) on this flower, you’ll soon realize it is top-notch. The color is phenomenal. It is dark green at the base, leading into a deep purple, which covers the vast majority of the flower. This regal color scheme is complemented by the abundant bright orange hairs and smattering of abundant crystals. The fragrance is so strong and pleasant, smelling citrusy, fruity and sweet, and it’s absolutely intoxicating. The CULTURE team used a water pipe to sample this flower and found the flavor was just as delightful as the scent, with an added depth of an earthy, pungent finish. The effects were perfect for a sativa, with a nice jolt of energy followed by a blissful, joyous buzz. It’s the perfect flower for creative or outdoor endeavors, adding to the experience without hampering it with overly intense intoxication.
Exodus Cheese by Mammoth Labs Mammoth Labs has once again made an extraordinary product with this Exodus Cheese wax. The amber color and thick, malleable texture of this wax are lovely to look at and indicative of its high-quality nature. The high levels of limonene and caryophyllene are evident in the strong fragrance, with notes of spicy clove, licorice and lime. Once the team sampled the wax using a water vaporizer, the notes of lime and a strong sweetness were much more pronounced in the flavor than in the scent. Hints of a blue cheese flavor were also evident. The effect from this concentrate was fast-acting, long-lasting and intense. At 70 percent total THC, this is a solid extract, but won’t completely knock you off your feet. Exodus Cheese is a sativa-dominant hybrid, with many traits from both. It made reviewers silly and happy while helping with deep relaxation as well. It is perfect for social occasions, with enough of an uplifting buzz to keep you from getting couch-lock.
Available wherever: Mammoth Labs products are carried.
Orange Widow Live Resin by DNA Gardens Available exclusively at: Local Roots
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This Orange Widow Live Resin is a truly unique product. The texture is more crystalline than your typical live resin. Additionally, the terpene content is remarkable. You can actually smell the orange citrus notes jumping out at you. After using a water vaporizer to sample this live resin, the CULTURE team noticed that ample terpene profile made for some absolutely delightful flavors. There was a strong sweet orange flavor reminiscent of drinking an orange soda, with a powerful long-lasting flavor that sticks with you long after imbibing. But of course, the flavor and fragrance are just the orange slice on top of what makes this concentrate special. What really satisfies about this concentrate is the effects. Powerful and steady, this indica-dominant hybrid provides the kind of powerful medicine indica lovers have come to expect from such a strong concentrate. This product could be helpful in providing pain relief, combating insomnia and just some hardcore chilling at home.
REVIEWs
store highlight
Top-Sellin g Str ain Cookie and Wedding Cake crosses Top-Sellin g Co ncentr ate Affordable sugar resin
LUCID Puyallup How and when did your store start up? We started as a medical collective (Green Solution Collective) in 2012. Shout out to all our medical patients that made today possible! In 2013, our first medical and recreational sister store opened in Lacey. Since then we’ve added five more locations—Olympia, North Spokane, Cheney, Auburn and our latest store opened in Puyallup on December 2017. What’s the story behind the name of your store? For the few of us that were able to make the transition from the medical into the recreational market, the LUCID name represents the dream that turned into reality. What does your store offer customers that they can’t find anywhere else? We strive to offer amazing medical and recreational customer service. We believe that there are multiple ways to shop and we want to provide the best experience that suits your style.
Top-Sellin g Edible Anything Chocolate and Pebbles 7924 River Road E., Puyallup (253) 604-7156 LUCIDmj.com
How has the cannabis industry changed since you have been in the business? Life has changed dramatically in the cannabis industry. We went to working one [on] one with farmers in an extremely tight-knit community to a dramatic influx of new farms and faces. It was great growth for the industry as a whole, and new [friendships] were forged. The biggest change we have seen that directly affects our customer is the line that used to define midshelf and top-shelf products has blurred due to a steady slide to quality products at more affordable costs. Where would you like to see it go? We would like to see stabilization within our industry. What are the biggest challenges you face in the industry as a store? Due to constant changes in cannabis law, our biggest challenge is interpreting the rules
and regulations to keep our customers, team members and farmers safe and compliant. Biggest Joys? Our biggest joy is being a part of positive change in our community. We are able to watch our team grow and build friendships with other retailers, producers and processors. What is the one thing you want patient/customers to know about your store? Whether you’re a medical or recreational customer, a longtime user or a newbie to the doobie, we honestly care about you. If someone wanted to open a store and get their feet wet in the industry, what advice or counsel would you give them? It’s a long play, be prepared to sacrifice for what you want, and follow your dreams. What do you hope to accomplish in the cannabis industry? Our hope is to change our community, city and country, one person at a time and extinguishing the negative stigma that has plagued our industry for decades. c CultureMagazine.com
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For More Products Go To CultureMagazine.com
REVIEWs
1. Gift a Green Send someone the birthday card that keeps on giving! An herb grows out of the card once you rip off the top and water it. You get to personalize each card with your own picture, your own message and you can add anything you’d like. Choices include arugula, grey dwarf sugar peas, kale, radishes, sunflower, kohlrabi or a mixture of arugula and kale. Then you can mail the card to your destination, or give it to the recipient in person. Personally, we’d choose to plant a different type of seed, but this card is definitely one-of-a-kind. Price: $10-18 More Information: giftagreen.com 2. HUDWAY Glass What is this futuristic sorcery? You’ll feel like one of the Avengers with this high-tech transparent glass screen that looks like a hologram and appears on the windshield of your car. Navigate Google Maps or your favorite navigation system using the HUDWAY Glass system and look through the screen onto the road in front of you. This impressive display unit is practically guaranteed to wow your friends. HUDWAY’s patented design also makes the image from your phone screen appear 20 percent larger. Price: $49.99 More Information: hudwayglass.com
3. Summerland Fruit Fantasy Apple Pipe This finely-crafted ceramic piece is almost too beautiful to use. Its high-shine polished glaze, chic modern appeal and striking titanium white color make it scream, “I was made by a modern designer!” Each apple piece is painstakingly handmade, bearing the inscription “Summerland, California” on the bottom. It’s equipped with a functioning carb and extra-large smoking hole. The bowl is formed perfectly to fit a generous portion of cannabis at the top of the apple. Any seasoned cannabis consumer will instantly know about the D.I.Y. apple pipes that it represents. Price: $95 More Information: kindredblack.com
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4. Sweet Leaf Denim Shirt If Kylie Jenner or Naomi Campbell were to purchase a cannabisthemed denim shirt—this would be it. Beverly Hills-based fashion designer and icon Jacquie Aiche has really outdone herself this time with the Sweet Leaf Denim Shirt. Each shirt is adorned with a large white, black, light pink, whiskey, red or turquoise cannabis leaf made out of pure snakeskin. Aiche’s Middle Eastern background occasionally influences her finished products. Each shirt is available with or without a python collar, and the tops are all handmade in the U.S.A. Price: $1,330 More Information: jacquieaiche.com
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REVIEWs
entertainment
Release Date: SEPT. 7
BOOK
Cannabis: A Beginner’s Guide to Growing Marijuana Danny Danko Octopus Publishing Group Ltd. No two words are more synonymous with cannabis expertise than High Times—so when High Times Senior Cultivation Editor Danny Danko pens an introductory book on growing cannabis, it’s best to pay close attention. Hot and fresh of the press, Cannabis: A Beginner’s Guide to Growing Marijuana is the simple, straightforward handbook that beginning green thumbs desperately need. From setting up your grow room, to determining the best genetics through every step of harvest, cultivation and more, Danko’s first-hand experience shines through in every chapter of this 144page book. (Jacob Cannon)
Available on: PlayStation 4
MOVIE GAME
Marvel’s Spider-Man Dev. Insomniac Games Pub. Sony Interactive Entertainment On paper, Spider-Man games have always been an exciting idea but in the past, the technology was not quite up to snuff in allowing game developers to create a successful experience—until now. Marvel’s Spider-Man, which won Best PS4 Game at Gamescom in Cologne, Germany last month, is poised to be the best SpiderMan game ever, offering beautiful rendered landscapes that legitimately make players feel like they are the web-slinging hero. The game presents a brand new story and enjoyable combat that evolves seamlessly between varying weather conditions and unique enemy battles. (Nicole Potter)
Avengers: Infinity War
MUSIC
Dir. Anthony Russo; Joe Russo Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures Just when you thought a Marvel superhero movie couldn’t get any bigger or more character-packed, Avengers: Infinity War is here to show just how huge a superhero movie can be. Incorporating cast members from the Avengers, Black Panther and Guardians of the Galaxy, the film follows the heroes of each franchise as they take on one of the Marvel universe’s most powerful and dangerous villains, Thanos. Directed by brothers Anthony and Joe Russo, Avengers: Infinity War may be gargantuan, but it never feels excessive or indulgent. Instead, the film brings one the most compelling stories in comic history to life. (Simon Weedn)
Thank You for Today Death Cab for Cutie Atlantic Records Three years since its last release, Death Cab for Cutie has returned with 10 more songs to add to a nearly flawless body of work with its ninth album, Thank You for Today. Though this is the first record for the band to not include lead guitarist and founding member Chris Walla, the album still feels whole and complete. The new songs may not find the band overtly pushing its music into new territory, however the lyrics and spirit of the album seem brighter and more positive than 2015’s Kintsugi. All in all, the album is yet another solid release for the veteran emo/indie rockers. (Simon Weedn)
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“We’ve been kind of blessed w i t h t h e s e p e n s r i g h t n o w, s o I don’t have to worry about rolling joints anymore or g e tt i n g r i d o f s e e d s . ”
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Photos by John Gilhooley
Comedian Jo Koy continues to charm a n d e n t e r ta i n h i s ever-growing fan b a s e w i t h c o n s ta n t t o u r i n g , a w e e k ly p o dc a s t a n d n e w comedy specials By David Edmundson Comedian Jo Koy may be the nicest person CULTURE has ever met. The veteran comic greets everyone with an enormous hug, a smile and infectious positivity. Koy attributes a lot of his humor, hustle and success to his mother, who showed him by example that it is possible to go from struggling to make ends meet, to headlining comedy clubs around the world. After spending even a brief amount of time with him you also learn that his other two loves are his son and stand-up. And if you’ve seen his recent Netflix special, Jo Koy: Live from Seattle, you’ll be regaled with countless funny anecdotes about his son and his quest to conquer puberty. Koy was raised in the Seattle, Washington area, and from the moment he saw Eddie Murphy’s Raw in person, he knew what he was going to do with the rest of his life. Sure, there were lean years; he sold shoes at Nordstrom Rack the day after he appeared on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. This was 15 years into his journey in stand-up. His story is a tale of perseverance and a testament to what you can accomplish if you dedicate yourself to something and give it 110 percent all the time. Now, Koy only continues to reach new audiences and make lifelong fans, selling record-breaking shows across the world and recently receiving the “Stand-Up Comedian of the Year” award at Montreal Canada’s Just For Laughs Comedy Festival. Koy chatted with CULTURE about being a comedian, the new Netflix special he has in the works, as well as his relationship with cannabis. CultureMagazine.com CultureMagazine.com september september2018 2018
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“I’m shooting my new Netflix special. This time Netflix i s b e h i n d i t, s o I d o n ’ t h a v e t o w o r r y a b o u t t h e b u d g e t, b u y i n g s ta g e c o v e r s , s e t d e s i g n a n d d i r e ct o r s . I d o n ’ t have to wear any of those hats. I get to walk out o n s ta g e a n d j u s t b e f u n n y. ”
When did you know that comedy was what you were going to do in life? I knew comedy was what I wanted to do when I heard Eddie Murphy do Delirious, so 1981-1982. When it came out I was in the sixth grade, that’s when I said I wanted to be a stand-up comedian for the rest of my life. In sixth grade, at 11 or 12 years old, you’re watching Delirious? I recorded it on a VHS tape. I recorded Delirious on there with Whoopi Goldberg’s Direct from Broadway, Robin Williams’ Live from the Met and Bill Cosby’s Himself. I had everything on that tape, and all I did was watch stand-up. I was in love with Eddie Murphy though, so when he went on tour with Raw, he came to Seattle, and I bought tickets for me and my friend William. My mom drove me to downtown Seattle, two 15-year-old kids, she was saying, “Why are you going to see a movie in Seattle, why didn’t you get tickets to see Eddie Murphy in Tacoma?” She had no idea there was a [live show], but she dropped us off at the Coliseum; that was the best day of my life. 28
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Which do you like more? Raw or Delirious? Well of course my heart is going to be with Raw, because I got to see it before anyone else did. This was back when kids didn’t really watch stand-up. It was like an adult thing to do. It was a special moment for me, and that comedy routine will always be in my body for the rest of my being. I remember that whole moment. I remember walking into the Coliseum, I remember buying a sweatshirt, I still remember the name of the production company. I remember that I was so mad that I didn’t buy the T-shirt, and I bought the sweatshirt. The sweatshirt said “Panda Panda,” which was the promotion company that brought the tour there. And then it said Eddie Murphy, it didn’t say Raw and had some Argyle on it. It had nothing to do with the tour. Then
they had T-shirts, that I didn’t buy, and it was just a red T-shirt with a silhouette of Eddie that said Raw. Should have bought that, I think about that every fucking day man. How did your family react when you decided to pursue stand-up? Were they supportive? Well my mom, no of course. She’s an immigrant mom from the Philippines, and now her kid wants to be a standup comedian. For her generation it’s all about having kids, sending them to college, she retires, and the kids take over. I get it when you come from a country where everyone is suffering from poverty, and you arrive in the land of opportunity, the last thing you want is for your kids to struggle. She didn’t think it was really going to happen, and she was right for about 15 years. From 1989 until 2004/2005, so you’re talking about 15 to 16 years of my mom being right. Reminding me every holiday, “Thirtytwo and you work at a fucking shoe store, trying to be a comedian. You’re not a kid anymore.” Then it starts to wear on you, like, “Fuck, maybe my mom is right, maybe I should quit, maybe I should get a full-time job being a mailman.”
You’ve been doing stand-up for over 20 years. How long were you in the game before you felt like you made it? I did the Apollo in 1998 or 1999, and I felt like I made it. I was nine years in, and I’m on national television. I’m on a show that I’ve dreamed of being on ever since I watched it when I was a kid. I remember standing in the shower and pretending I was doing stand-up on the Apollo, and it came to life. So, to me I made it. Financially I’m not making it, I’m broke. For my mom, it was when I did The Tonight Show [with Jay Leno]. She was able to see something on NBC, and this is Jay Leno, the world knows Jay Leno, and here he is introducing her son. So, to me that’s when I made it, 15 years in, and literally that was when I was able to quit all my jobs because I was still working part time jobs when I did The Tonight Show. You use your family experiences for comedy gold. Has there been any pushback? I get nervous sometimes. On my last
special, Jo Koy: Live from Seattle, I talked about my sister getting kicked out at 17. In the special I say she was kicked out of 18, when in reality she was kicked out at 16, but I didn’t want to say that. I remember practicing that joke at Treasure Island before I taped the special, and my mom, who finally made up with my sister a couple years before, and my sister are in the crowd. I remember doing that joke in front of them and being so fucking nervous. I remember getting offstage and my mom hugged me, and my sister hugged me. My sister said, “It really didn’t happen that way.” But I don’t want to say all the shit that happened, but let the audience know that this is generally what happened. I don’t want to make it too serious, so I got their approval, but I was really nervous. What does your mom think of your impression of her? Of course, her natural instinct is to say, “I don’t really say that,” or “I don’t sound like that,” and then I’m
like, “You sound like it right fucking now.” She’s where I got my comedy from, that’s where the natural ability comes from. She used humor when she came to this country to make friends and that’s pretty fucking awesome. Imagine coming here when the country was pretty much white and black. In 1968, immigrant with a military husband and a kid that nobody’s ever seen before. They’ve never seen a mixed kid. What the fuck is that? He’s got Asian eyes, but they’re hazel. What the fuck! My mom had to figure it out, there was no Facebook, she had to meet people on her own and figure out the language. I got my hustle from my mom. My mom used to put together these events with other Filipinos. They would rent out the Knights of Columbus Hall for $200 and invite all these people she met at the mall. There would be a long table of food, and the kids would perform. I saw my mom’s hustle, and I think that indirectly that motivated me, because I saw her do it. CultureMagazine.com
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Has your teenage son, or one of his friends, seen your act? All of his friends have seen it. It’s what they do when they go out on the weekends. If they meet up at a friend’s house, my son will come over and he’ll tell me how Aiden put on my special and they all watched it. Do you consume cannabis? Who doesn’t! We’ve been kind of blessed with these pens right now, so I don’t have to worry about rolling joints anymore or getting rid of seeds. The pens are right there, and they’re all over the place, so I’ve been blessed to go to certain places where you can pick up some cool pens. How do you think cannabis affects the creative process? For me, not at all. Creatively I don’t need that. I do it purely for entertainment value. It’s fun to do it and laugh. I don’t use it for creative reasons, more just recreation. To relax and have a good time.
“For me, not at all. C r e a t i v e ly I d o n ’ t n e e d [ c a n n a b i s ] . I d o i t p u r e ly f o r e n t e r ta i n m e n t v a l u e . It ’ s f u n t o d o i t a n d l a u g h . I don’t use it for creative reasons, more just recreation. To relax and have a good time.”
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You released your last special Jo Koy: Live from Seattle on Netflix; what makes the streaming service such a great fit for stand-up? That’s the blueprint right there. I don’t understand why networks haven’t copied this blueprint. Netflix changed my life, changed my career. I knew that I needed to get on Netflix, and they said “no” to me so many times. So I just invested all my money, and financially paid for my special. I knew that
if we didn’t sell this I’d be broke, so thank God I had a good manager and agent that believed in the project and were willing to invest as well. I had enough confidence to think that I was going to be able to sell it, even though Netflix said they didn’t need it. So, I shot that shit myself, with no potential buyer. Just praying that someone would buy it. We shopped that thing around for a few months, and we finally put it on Netflix’s table, and they bought it. Changed my life. Aside from touring, you also host a weekly podcast called, “The Koy Pond.” Do you find this to be an extension of your comedy, or a way to do something new? I love “The Koy Pond,” because I get to show off my ad lib skills, my improv. I do it onstage, but I love to do it in conversation. So that’s what that is all about, I go in there unscripted without a topic, without anything. I literally walk on and let it roll, and wherever that conversation takes us, that’s what we’re posting that night. So what’s next? I’m shooting my new Netflix special. This time Netflix is behind it, so I don’t have to worry about the budget, buying stage covers, set design and directors. I don’t have to wear any of those hats. I get to walk out onstage and just be funny. I don’t have to worry about getting offstage and having to eat a butter sandwich because I’m broke. c jokoy.com
LIGHTNING ROUND Richard Pryor or George Carlin? Carlin, only because I got to see him live when I was 15 at Bally’s. Soccer or football? Both suck. Pineapple on Pizza; gross or yum? Disgusting. It’s cold, why is it on there? Name a movie that makes you cry. My Life with Michael Keaton. Die Hard; Christmas movie or straight action movie? It is the greatest Christmas action movie ever. Batman or Superman? Batman. Cats or dogs? Dogs. Are you kidding me? Cats suck. Billy Madison or Happy Gilmore? Happy Gilmore all day. People who back into parking spaces— monsters or geniuses? Geniuses. Favorite cannabis strain or product? Chocolate chip cookie edible. CultureMagazine.com
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Hemp on the Halfpipe Skateboard manufacturers offer skaters sustainable boards and gear made from hemp By Kiara Manns
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he integration of hemp into mainstream production appears to be right around the corner as more and more companies take it upon themselves to abandon traditional practices of production that are more harmful to the Earth. The cultivation of industrial hemp, once a common practice, has been hindered throughout modern history by federal laws that placed the plant in the Schedule I drug category despite containing nonpsychoactive components. Before its prohibition, hemp 32
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was often used for paper and textile products dating back to the 18th century and beyond. Progression in legislation and an evolving perspective on the benefits of hemp now allow companies to have the chance to supply sustainable products. Consumers of every market will soon be able to opt for eco-friendly options in their lives. Whether they are clothing, housing or goods, choosing industrial hemp products helps to break preexisting stigmas while showing kindness to the planet. The active sports industry proves to be no stranger to industrial hemp as some skateboard companies have decided to incorporate the crop into the production of skate gear such as wheels, decks and whole boards. Check out some of the brilliant franchises embarking on the exciting journey toward a sustainable future through hemp.
Granny Smith Sports Granny Smith Sports grew from the minds of Nick Griffith, David Blanchard and Greg Osusky in San Diego, California. Together, the three partners agreed on developing skatewear in such a way that would integrate sustainability and durability. “We don’t have to sacrifice the environment to enjoy the best performance” they share on the Granny Smith Sports website. “Just because the standard is there doesn’t mean there’s not a more eco-friendly and sustainable way.” Designing boards made with hemp has several advantages. Not only is the plant easy to replenish, taking only six months to grow and mature, cultivating hemp involves no deforestation. With an anti-plastic mindset, Granny Smith Sports provides skateboards and aids in the preservation of our oceans. The composition of the Sprout Cruiser for instance is 80 percent hemp and 20 percent plant resin. Consumers can rest assured that they are investing in a board that is 100 percent plant-based. “We at Granny Smith take pride in our hands-on process of crafting quality with sustainability” they explain. “It IS possible to have real durability with a plant-based product.” The company proudly crafts its skatewear to follow a plant-based lifestyle and to make a more positive impact on the environment.
“ I f o r m e d HEMP Z OO t o g i v e s u s ta i n a b l e options to people t h at c a r e a b o u t o u r planet and children’s future.”
Vibronic Hemp Wheels How does one make a 100 percent plant-based skateboard more eco-friendly? Roll in a set of plantbased wheels for a completely sustainable ride! Vibronic Hemp Wheels proves that hemp can be incorporated into practically any product. What began as a family business in 1953 evolved into the current Rubber-Tech Inc., a company in the rubber industry. With roots from this family company, Vibronic Hemp Wheels blossomed into an innovative brand that sought to create a new way of going down the halfpipe. As a division of Rubber-Tech Inc., the founders of Vibronic Hemp Wheels set forth to bring a “unique product” to the sports market. Vibronic Hemp Wheels often makes custom wheel designs and aims to be a leader in advanced and sustainable development. Manufactured in the United States, the wheels give back to both the Earth and the economy.
HEMPZOO Although HEMPZOO is only a little over a year old, having officially launched on April 20, 2017, the
company has made great strides by partnering with like-minded businesses to bring consumers planet-friendly products. HEMP ZOO Founder Jasen Russell has been involved in the cannabis industry for more than a decade. After the loss of his brother in 2006, Russell took it upon himself to fully commit to the budding industry, later leading him to begin HEMPZOO. Like many other eco-friendly entrepreneurs, Russell hoped to create an alternative option that would be more conscious of the environment. “I formed HEMPZOO to give sustainable options to people that care about our planet and children’s future,” he explained. Looking to collaborate with like-minded companies, Russell partnered with other franchises including Granny Smith Sports. “We collaborate making custom eco hemp skateboards for big and small businesses or individuals looking for a unique Earth-friendly product. I work with many companies and supply hemp materials to make my custom products.” On the official HEMPZOO website shoppers will find Granny Smith Sports boards, Vibronic Hemp Wheels and hemp-made protective gear. Among the variety of hemp merchandise are knee and elbow pads featuring canvas that is composed entirely of hemp. The pads are custom made in the United States and have proven durability. c CultureMagazine.com
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Frame of Freedom Artist Veronika Vajdova finds inspiration in the need for political change By Simon Weedn
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wenty-sevenyear-old Glasgow Caledonian University student Veronika Vajdová has been painting and creating art her entire life. However, it wasn’t until she began submitting pieces to the Natural Cannabis Company’s annual High Art competition, a cannabis-themed visual art contest, that her work began attracting international attention. Her contribution to the 2018 installment of the competition, Metamorphosis, was among the most interesting and beautiful pieces submitted, and the piece garnered a great deal of praise from her peers. Recently, CULTURE had the opportunity to catch up with Vajdová and hear about her art, her inspirations and the message she is trying to get across with Metamorphosis.
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Self Portrait
To start off, can you give us a little background on yourself and how you became interested in painting and graphic art? Well, I’m originally from Slovakia, and I’ve always been interested in art, but in my family it wasn’t always something I was encouraged to pursue. So I always kept trying to find something else I was interested in, because everyone was telling me that art was just something you do as a hobby, and I ended up studying medicine. However, after studying for a few years I realized I was spending more and more time on art and that it was something that interested me a lot. So, I decided to quit medicine, found a 3D Animation and Visualization course in the United Kingdom, and so that’s where I am and that’s what I’m studying currently. Recently, your piece Metamorphosis was picked as a finalist for the High Art competition. Can you tell me a bit about the painting and what inspired it? The topic this year was “freedom,” and I come from a country where marijuana is illegal, and in the U.K. it’s the same situation. So, with Metamorphosis I wanted to say with it was that there are way too many things that I feel should change and that nobody seems to be dealing with the situation. Instead, everybody is connecting the idea of change to something bad. In my country, you can hear people talking about how legalization, even
for medical marijuana, would just lead to more people taking other drugs, and no one realizes that we already have other legal drugs. If you just think about alcohol and how much trouble it causes in families, and it is something legal. So, what I was trying to say with that piece, is that change doesn’t have to be something negative; change can be beautiful, and it can lead to something positive. What has been your experience submitting to High Art so far? Well, it’s been a few years since the contest started, and I think I submitted my art to the first or second year of the competition. Back then, it was actually the first time I had the courage to submit my art to a competition, and I think I became a finalist that year. I was shocked that I made it that far, and it’s one of the things that pushed me to make the change from medicine to art full-time. You mentioned that in Slovakia and the U.K. cannabis laws are still pretty restrictive. Do you see attitudes starting to change over there especially with successful legalization efforts in Canada and the U.S.? Well, people do talk about it, especially if something happens in bigger countries like the U.S., Canada or Mexico. You can see that some people who just a few years ago wouldn’t have thought about it or have an opinion that would be completely negative are no longer thinking in negative terms
Metamorphosis
“ Y o u k n o w, w h e n p e o p l e ta l k a b o u t their experiences with marijuana and c r e at i v i t y, t h at ’ s i n s p i r i n g t o m e . ” about it. I think what’s helping is people going on YouTube or the news and talking about their own experiences with medical marijuana. Especially when people talk about their experiences with chronic pain or illness, it makes people think about it more. Is cannabis something that inspires some of your work? You know, when people talk about their experiences with
marijuana and creativity, that’s inspiring to me. Every year I check to find out when the High Art competition is happening, because I always love their topics and find them to be very inspiring. It’s usually just one month that people can submit their work, and I just love browsing through other people’s art and checking it all out. There’s just something about the High Art community that’s so nice and relaxed that it inspires me too. c www.deviantart.com/weroni
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Cosmic C uNicole r at i v e Skibola of Cosmic View found healing and entrepreneurship in cannabis
By Devon Alexander Brown
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fter graduating during the financial crisis of 2008, it became clear to Nicole Skibola that she no longer wanted to practice law. Instead she began working as a business consultant in New York City before deviating into sustainability and corporate social responsibility work. But before long, she discovered that this was just as unfulfilling as the prospect of spending hours in a dismal law firm. Soon she found herself, like thousands of fellow New Yorkers, selfmedicating with cannabis to cope with the stresses of Midtown Manhattan. By 2012 her world was upended—she was diagnosed with cancer in the form of a rare uterine sarcoma. But that illness only transformed her into the person she is today. Almost six years after recovering, Skibola has found greater peace. Her creative side, dormant for the better half of her adulthood, sprung to life shortly after her diagnosis, and she is now the author of the upcoming book, Wakeful Night, an illustrated exploration of cancer-related loss
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Photos by Drew Stevens
she developed to lead readers through their own stages of identity, fear and metaphorical thinking. Through art—the book also features a series of Skibola’s abstract linocut prints and India ink paintings—and narrative storytelling, Wakeful Night aims to support readers through their cancer experiences and inspire creativity. In addition to her newfound creative practice, Nicole is the co-founder of Cosmic View, a craft cannabis company specializing in handmade organic salves and tinctures that reflects her new perspective on life. Skibola described her company to CULTURE. “[Cosmic View] really promotes this idea of body intuition,” Skibola said. “I think cannabis is an amazing way to develop that skill . . . getting to know your own body, taking control of your own health and figuring out what works for you. There’s a trend right now in the cannabis industry, which is making cannabis feel like a pharmaceutical drug, which is great for some people, but for us it’s really about helping consumers know themselves and listen to their bodies.”
“I don’t know where I would be without cannabis. I think t h at c a n n a b i s i s a n a m a z i n g tool to be able to come back into the present moment and s i t w i t h w h at e v e r y o u ’ r e d e a l i n g w i t h . . . t h at ’ s a n a m a z i n g g i f t t h at c a n n a b i s has offered us.”
Skibola doesn’t credit cannabis for curing her cancer, but she does acknowledge the science showing cannabinoids—like CBD—are effective in treating certain cancer cells, notably endometrial varieties. After undergoing surgical treatment, Skibola adopted an Ayurveda diet and began placing more focus on mindfulness and being present. Although cannabis wasn’t directly consumed during her cancer treatment, it has since allowed her to develop the skills necessary for deeper introspection and subsequent emotional healing. Her illness was also the primary inspiration behind the launch of Cosmic View. “Cannabis was never really presented as an option to me while I was sick . . . it really became a big part of my life after I was sick because I needed to change my lifestyle,” Skibola said. “Living in New York is a stressful life, and I was drinking a lot of alcohol and sort of relying on that, and cannabis became a way for me to just relax and have a good time without having to worry about poisoning my body with alcohol.” Her mother and co-founder, Dr. Christine Skibola, is a former
University of California, Berkeley professor and cancer researcher. She was also a professor of epidemiology and an endowed chair of oncology in the Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Alabama, Birmingham. At the cancer center Christine was inspired to craft herbal salves after witnessing their use on the burns of radiation patients. Her daughter’s diagnosis led her to delve into the literature of plant medicine more aggressively, where cannabis continually appeared as a promising tool. As her mother began preparing to retire from academia, she became increasingly interested in crafting her own medicinal products and decided to add cannabis to her recipes. That decision led Nicole to relocate from Brooklyn, New York to California to join her mother in a cannabis collective. By January of this year, Cosmic View truly came into its own as a company. “I don’t know where I would be without cannabis,” Skibola said. “I think that cannabis is an amazing tool to be able to come back into the present moment and sit with whatever you’re dealing with . . . that’s an amazing gift that cannabis has offered us.” Skibola’s book, Wakeful Night, goes on sale Sept. 25 and can be pre-ordered from Barnes & Noble and Amazon. Because Cosmic View products contain both CBD and THC, they are only available for purchase and delivery from select dispensaries around the greater San Francisco Bay Area. c
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Psychedelic Purr Rock band The Purrs’ new album helps usher in the summer’s end By Emily Manke
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eptember is here, and Seattleites know that means it’s time to soak up every last bit of sun that comes our way. The latest release from psychedelic rock band, The Purrs, entitled Destroy the Sun, banks on this knowledge and helps prepare, or even excite us for the inevitable gloomy Washington winter that looms ahead. The Purrs’ hard rocking psychedelic riffs make being stuck indoors far more bearable and interesting. Additionally, this local band’s unique brand of surf rock is just as at home on a hot day at Golden Gardens Park as it is bundled up with rain pouring down. This album is perfect to listen to with a thick sweater on and a pot of soup on the stove. Perhaps the band members do such a great job of capturing the angst, weather and vibe of the region because of their long-term history here. Lead vocalist and 38
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bassist James “Jima” Antonio and guitarist Jason Milne have been playing music in Seattle as The Purrs for nearly 20 years. This fact is evident in the band’s tight, regionally appropriate sound. The Purrs’ psychedelic sound may also very well be a result of the years they’ve put in on Seattle’s trippy streets. There are few Seattle rock bands who produce tracks better suited to getting stoned in the rain than The Purrs. Destroy the Sun, the band’s fifth and most ambitious full-length album, has a distinct cannabis-oriented sound that is especially evident on the title track, “Destroy the Sun,” and the somber but kicking track, “Late Night Disturbance.” The track “In an Unknown Field” conjures up images of an end-of-summer adventure, complete with getting caught in a warm, humid rainstorm in a meadow on the edge of an industrial area. The band members consist of Jima on bass and vocals, Jason Milne on guitar and backing vocals, Liz Herrin on guitar and backing vocals and Dusty Hayes on drums and backing vocals. After releasing Destroy the Sun in early August, the band has had a pretty full schedule. But Jima made time to chat with CULTURE about the band’s origin and relationship with cannabis, with input from the band, of course.
We know The Purrs is from Seattle, but is that true for all of the band members as well? The group’s core members are from the Pacific Northwest. But of the band’s near20-year existence, certain past members have been from elsewhere. For instance, former rhythm guitarist Jason “Dose” Clarke was born in Jamaica. How did The Purrs form; what’s your origin story? Funny story—After the usual “Musicians Wanted” ad completely failed (the first bass player and drummer were seriously not up to snuff) I ended up connecting with some musicians at Seattle Hookah Lounge in the university district. We started jamming at open mics, eventually building a loyal fan base by playing local clubs, eventually Smithsonian Folklife Festival and Seattle HEMPFEST. Meeting other like-minded bands on the way to book shows at better clubs, including a residency as a house band at the legendary Monkey Pub and landing our first appearance at Bumbershoot Festival. Who are some of your musical influences? Oh man, that’s always a tough one. I mean we are all inspired by different music and also the same. Where do you start? For me it was Rush. We are influenced by everyone from Sonic Youth to The Grateful Dead to Yngwie Malmsteen. Has Seattle’s cannabis culture influenced The Purrs’ sound, creative process or anything else? In short, yes. Our creative process and sound have benefited indubitably by our experiments with cannabis in our rehearsals and in the studio. It offers new perspectives and allows for new ideas to seep into the arrangements. Experimentation is required to find new sounds, to find the correct “wrong way” for perspective, for musical ideas and keeping focused and coherent as well as other things. What’s your favorite album to listen to when you’re super baked? Oh man, Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon. Although I can’t deny chilling out to some Jack Johnson or [Red Hot] Chili Peppers sometimes! c www.thepurrs.com
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SHOOTING GALLERY
SEATTLE HEMPFEST
myrtle edwards park, seattle
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Instructions:
An Apple a Day By Laurie Wolf
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owadays, there seems to be very few apple varieties available in most markets. However, a quick drive to the countryside for apple picking will offer up various other varieties of apples, many of which are still growing on centuries-old trees. As September marks the beginning of apple season, make a trip to apple country to get your hands on some of the freshest fruit available—apples are good for you, particularly when they are in season and handpicked by you. Our favorite baking apples are Jonagold, Granny Smith, Honeycrisp and Braeburn. Embrace the season, and delight your taste buds with this recipe for Granola Baked Apples. Since we are infusing these apples with cannabutter, you have increased your chances for keeping the doctor away!
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Makes
6
Servings
Granola Baked Apples Ingredients: 3 apples (Braeburn apples are suggested) 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1 1/2 cups granola, any variety
2 tablespoons cannabutter, cold 1 tablespoon butter, cold 1 teaspoon cinnamon Pinch of salt
1/4 cup brown sugar
Photos by Bruce Wolf
Maple syrup
1. Heat oven to 340° F. Cut the apples in half, core them creating a cavity, and rub the cut surfaces with the lemon juice. 2. In a small bowl combine the granola, brown sugar, cannabutter, butter, cinnamon and salt. With clean fingers, work the topping until the butter is evenly incorporated into the granola. 3. Place the apples on a baking sheet. Fill each cavity with equal amounts of infused granola mixture. Bake until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown, about 30 minutes. If desired, drizzle each apple with maple syrup before devouring.
GROWING CULTURE
Urban Herbs A v i s it t o o n e o f t h e lar g e s t u rban c u lti vati o n s it e s in t h e U . S . By Ed Rosenthal
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t wasn’t long ago that the idea of growing an acre of cannabis in California was just a fantasy. But in 2016, citizens in California voted affirmatively on a partial legalization initiative. Now we can see the short-term results. Commercial cultivation sites have since expanded from Mendocino-type gardens typified by large plants, and each had a yield of 10 to 15 pounds. Back in the day, cultivators were able to harvest relatively large crops, while staying within the plant limit, which usually ranged from six to 49 plants. Indoors, a 100 light facility with a canopy of 1,500 to 2,000 square feet was considered large. Those are antiquated numbers now. In California, the law allows outdoor farms to contain at least one acre or more. There are a number of outdoor farms in legal counties, but most of the large ones are in rural areas, where there is ample space to spread out. However, in an urban area of California there was an acre-plus lot that had just been cleared of derelict buildings. The soil was suspect. Before it was cleared, abandoned cars and old machinery had been dumped there. However, the land was level enough to cover it with 20-gallon bags irrigated using a drip system. The new owners were planning to construct a greenhouse on the land, but that was only in the planning stages. The space was not scheduled for improvement after the growing season was over. However it needed some modifications before it could be used. City water
Once the plants were set outside they suffered from sunburn (bleaching), and nutrient imbalance including magnesium and potassium.
The stakes were tied together and then the netting was attached. Finally the branches were tied to the netting. No branches stuck out from the rows, much like the way wine grapes are trained.
would have to be hooked up, which wasn’t much of a problem. However before plants could be planted, a chain link fence marking the perimeter was needed in order to make the lot visually impenetrable. Rather than buying pre-filled bags of soil, the cultivator decided to buy bulk soil and have laborers fill the bags from a soil pile dumped in the middle of the space using shovels. As the bags were filled, they were set in place and then planted. Once the containers were in place, the stakes and netting were installed. The stakes crossed each other and were tied. Then the netting was attached to the stakes. Finally, the branches were spread apart and attached to the netting using twist ties. Unfortunately, the final garden design was not followed and the netting was set at an oblique angle to the sun. As a result, portions of the plant that would have been in sunlight were partially shaded. The correct angle would have been for the plants to face north and south,
A plant tied to the netting. Photo taken about a week after the plants were set.
perpendicular to the sun. This becomes especially important in the fall, when the sun drops in relationship to the horizon, casting longer shadows. The cannabis plants had been growing under lights for several months before being planted outdoors, but the intensity was low so the stems were somewhat stretched and the leaves were small. The six-inch containers were slightly root-bound. The situation wasn’t critical and the roots would be able to grow into the new planting mix. It turned out that the planting mix was not ripe, so the plants were held back a little for the first two weeks by pH instability, causing unavailability for some of the micro-nutrients. Another problem that the plants faced was sunburn. The plants had been growing indoors under HPS lights, which emit no UV light. The old leaves were easily sunburned as a result. In spite of all these problems, the plants adjusted to their new environment and the newest growth showed that the soil problems had been resolved. c
Ten days after the first photo, plants have recovered somewhat, and new growth is healthy.
Looking down a row. 3,000 containers were planted. They are irrigated using drip emitters.
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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News of the
Weird
By the Editors at Andrews McMeel
LEAD STORY—RECENT ALARMING HEADLINE Infamous South Beach street artist Jonathan Crenshaw, 46, attracts a lot of attention in Miami among tourists, who watch him paint on a canvas—using his feet. Crenshaw does not have arms and is homeless. Profiled in a local newspaper in 2011, Crenshaw told of a difficult childhood (he also claimed Gloria Estefan had given birth to 200 of his children). He landed in the headlines again after stabbing a Chicago man with a pair of scissors on July 10. According to
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The Miami Herald, Cesar Coronado, 22, told police he had approached Crenshaw to ask for directions, when Crenshaw jumped up and, using his feet, stabbed Coronado. Crenshaw’s story is that as he lay on the pavement, Coronado punched him in the head—so he stabbed him, tucked the scissors into his waistband and walked away. Police found Crenshaw, who has a lengthy arrest record, nearby and arrested him. REVENGE, TEXAS-STYLE The Austin AmericanStatesman reported that on June 17, RV park neighbors and longtime adversaries Ryan Felton Sauter, 39, and Keith Monroe got into a heated dispute about an undisclosed subject. Later that day, Monroe saw Sauter leaving Monroe’s RV and asked him why he had gone
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in without permission, to which Sauter replied, “You’ll see why.” Going inside, Monroe soon spotted a 3-foot-long rattlesnake. “I freaked out,” he said. He used a machete to kill the snake, which strangely was missing its rattles. Turns out Sauter had bitten off the snake’s tail, with its signature warning sound. Sauter has been charged with deadly conduct and criminal trespass. PEOPLE AND THEIR PETS Tina Ballard, 56, of Okeechobee County, Florida, was arrested in North Carolina by Linville Land Harbor police on July 16 after fleeing there to “hide (her pet) monkey so that state officials could not take that monkey from her,” assistant state attorney Ashley Albright told WPBF News. Ballard’s
troubles began in May, when the spider monkey, Spanky, jumped out of a shopping cart in an Okeechobee Home Depot and grabbed a cashier’s shirt, “leaving red marks on the cashier’s shoulder and back.” In June, Fox News reported, another Home Depot employee spotted Spanky in the parking lot, having escaped Ballard’s truck and dragging a leash. Spanky was spooked by the store’s sliding doors and bit the employee on the arm, grabbing her hair and running away. The employee gave chase and eventually caught Spanky, but not before suffering more bites and scratches. Spanky was in the car when Ballard was arrested and extradited back to Florida; the monkey will be placed in a primate sanctuary.
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