Sensi Magazine - Emerald Triangle (November 2019)

EMERALD TRIANGLE

THE NEW NORMAL

11.2019

NORTH OF FASHION Creative independence on display

A Match Made in Humboldt

Swiping behind the Redwood Curtain

Helping our Hives

How to save the bees

{plus}

NOW STREAMING: GANJA YOGA

sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 3

4 NOVEMBER 2019 Emerald Triangle

ISSUE 10 //VOLUME 1 //11.2019

FEATURES 24 North of Fashion

Born from a subsistence ethos and an entrepreneurial spirit, a decidedly rural chic style has emerged.

SP EC IAL R EP OR T

34 Further Down the Line

As congress dithers over national legalization bills, more states prepare for sales to adults.

40 Single, Not Sorry

More and more people are choosing uncoupled adulthood.

12

WHAT THE BUZZ? How to help the bees

every issue 7 Editor’s Note 8 The Buzz 12 NewsFeed

STATE OF THE BEES

16 TasteBuds

HEALTHIER HARVEST

20 AroundTown

RURAL #MOMLIFE

30 HighProfile

SWIPING BEHIND THE REDWOOD CURTAIN

48 The Scene

SENSI NIGHT EMERALD TRIANGLE

50 HereWeGo

NOW STREAMING: GANJA YOGA

Sensi magazine is published monthly by Sensi Media Group LLC. © 2019 SENSI MEDIA GROUP LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 5

sensi magazine ISSUE 10 / VOLUME 1 / 11.2019

EXECUTIVE FOLLOW US

Ron Kolb ron@sensimag.com CEO, SENSI MEDIA GROUP

Tae Darnell tae@sensimag.com PRESIDENT, SENSI MEDIA GROUP

Alex Martinez alex@sensimag.com CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER

EDITORIAL sensimediagroup

Stephanie Wilson stephanie@sensimag.com EDITOR IN CHIEF

Doug Schnitzspahn doug.schnitzspahn@sensimag.com EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Nora Mounce nora.mounce@sensimag.com MANAGING EDITOR, SENSI EMERALD TRIANGLE

Leland Rucker leland.rucker@sensimag.com SENIOR EDITOR

Robyn Griggs Lawrence robyn.lawrence@sensimag.com sensimagazine

EDITOR AT LARGE

A RT & D E S I G N Jamie Ezra Mark jamie@emagency.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Rheya Tanner, Wendy Mak, Jason Jones, Josh Clark em@sensimag.com DESIGN & LAYOUT

sensimag

BUSINESS & A D M I N I S T R AT I V E Kristan Toth kristan.toth@sensimag.com HEAD OF PEOPLE

Lelehnia DuBois lelehnia.dubois@sensimag.com PUBLISHER

Daniel Bridge daniel.bridge@sensimag.com Shannon Golightly shannon.golightly@sensimag.com Tad Sarvinski tad.sarvinski@sensimag.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Amber Orvik amber.orvik@sensimag.com DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION

Andre Velez andre.velez@sensimag.com MARKETING DIRECTOR

Neil Willis neil.willis@sensimag.com PRODUCTION MANAGER

Hector Irizarry distribution@sensimag.com DISTRIBUTION

M E D I A PA RT N E R S Marijuana Business Daily Minority Cannabis Business Association National Cannabis Industry Association Students for Sensible Drug Policy 6 NOVEMBER 2019 Emerald Triangle

LIFE AND

editor’s

Coldwell Banker Sellers, Sandi DeLuca //

STYLE

Canna-Envy //

the Emerald Triangle so damn special by sharing voices and fac-

ADVISORY BOARD REAL ESTATE

DIY CANNABIS

NOTE

In every issue, we print a mere slice of what makes

es from the community. This November, we got downright mi-

Genius Products T, Inc. //

RECREATIONAL CANNABIS PRODUCTS

croscopic by examining the “Life & Style” behind our unique cul-

Heartwood Mountain Sanctuary //

ture. Whether that means the boots we wear to dinner or how

ECO-RETREAT CENTER

we raise our children, a distinctive style and way of life is un-

Hendrx Farms // CANNABIS NURSERY

doubtedly on display this far north.

HK Innovations Inc //

HASH BAGS

Humboldt Patient Resource Center // DISPENSARY

“We tend to think more freely and create idealistic lives,” says Lelehnia DuBois, Trinity County native and publisher of Sensi Emerald Triangle. “Many of us spend more time with nature than we do with people.”

Humboldt Redwood Healing // Humboldt SWAG //

COMMUNITY

BRAND MANAGEMENT

Humboldt Vape Tech //

VAPE ACCESSORIES

Kathleen Bryson, Attorney //

LAW OFFICE

KC Financial Services //

ACCOUNTING

Mountainwise Farms //

TOPICALS

Redwood Roots //

DISTRIBUTION

The sentiment that nature reigns is baked into our history. For centuries, the Wiyot, Karuk, Hupa, and Yurok tribes existed peacefully throughout the Six Rivers watershed, living richly off the region’s abundant resources. Since the mid nineteenth century, thousands have been drawn north to harvest the mighty redwoods, fish the rivers and oceans, and cultivate cannabis in the countryside. Like all post-colonial communities struggling to find a balance in a globalized world, environmentalists, activists, and tribal leaders are actively collaborating to heal the land, sea,

SoHum Royal // MIXED LIGHT FARMING

and trees that make the Emerald Triangle such a beautiful—and

Southern Humboldt Business & Visitors Bureau // TOURISM

online dating, legalization, independence, mushrooms, and

Sunnabis //

REGENERATIVE CANNABIS FARMING

ULEVA //

HEMP PRODUCTS

Wildseed, LLC. //

CO2 EXTRACTION

challenging—place to live. As you read about fashion, parenting, honeybees this November, you will find that the common tie is resilience and a connection to nature.

After landing here behind the redwood curtain, we discover the ethos of living with nature and independence is quickly apparent. Loyalty to local brands, farmers, and independent makers are on display at the farmer’s market, dispensary, and most of all, in the fashions seen throughout the community. With comfort and utility taking top priority, creativity and a commitment to sustainability are rarely forgotten.

I hope you enjoy flipping through these pages. It was our pleasure to pour life and style into every story.

With love + luck,

Nora Mounce

M ANAG I NG E D I TO R

SENSI EMERALD TRIANGLE

sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 7

The Second Happiest Place On Earth

theheartofhumboldttcom 707782229330 A12-18-0000040 8 NOVEMBER 2019 Emerald Triangle

Feast Mendocino Take a walk on the tasty side of fungi.

Every autumn, mycologists, foragers, chefs, and wine and beer lovers travel to remote Mendocino County to take part in its annual mushroom festival.

Feast Mendocino will convene over the first two weekends of November (Nov. 1-10), cleverly timed to allow the season’s first rains to evoke Mother Nature’s bounty. The deeply forested hills and valleys of Mendocino are home to more than 3,000 species of mushrooms, of which approximately 500 are fit for human consumption. It’s no wonder that some of the world’s leading mycologists and foragers call this vast county home.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF VISIT MENDOCINO

Providing a quality medicinal, recreational, informative and passionate experience to our patients, staff and customers alike for over 15 years!

Feast Mendocino is unique in that the venue is literally the entire county: From restaurants housed in Victorian coastal mansions in Mendocino Village to the inland empire of Ukiah and Willits, to countless wineries, breweries, and far-flung B&B’s that dot the never-ending forests in between. From coast to forest, tall redwood trees suck up the North Coast’s perennially wet climate, allowing a world of mushrooms to come alive on the forest floor each fall and winter.

The official events of the festival are as varied as the mycological wonders. At The Stanford Inn’s Ravens’ Restaurant, stop by for their winemaker/mushroom tasting dinner or medicinal mushroom breakfasts. In addition to the sumptuousness of mushrooms baked in delicate puff pastry, the renowned vegan restaurant often hosts local winemakers to guide guests on the ultimate food and wine pairings.

Want to get see mushrooms in their native environs? On Sunday, November 10, take a ride on the world-famous Skunk Train into the forest for the “Mushroom Hunt & Bubble Brunch,” complete with a sparkling wine picnic under the redwoods, $75. Later, nerd out with a “Walk On The Wild Side” with mushroom expert Eric Schramm at the Jug Handle Creek Farm & Nature Center from 1:305:30pm, $30.

Wherever you are on your fungi journey, you’re never far from a winery or brewery to stop for a restorative libation before heading back out onto the fungi trail. Now all we need is the rain.

–Drew Stofflet mendocino.com/mendocino-wine-mushroom-festival.html visitmendocino.com/event/mushroom-feast-mendocino

sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 9

flordevida artisanal california cannabis Handcrafted in Humboldt County

Pure Mountain Water Brilliant Sunshine Organically Crafted Soil & most importantly—Love

IG @flordevidagardens I info@flordevida.com #PAL19-0000683 10 NOVEMBER 2019 Emerald Triangle

sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 11

{newsfeed }

by E L I Z A B E T H A R C H E R

STATE OF THE BEES

A local beekeeper shares a few surprising ways to help our honeybees survive.

12 NOVEMBER 2019 Emerald Triangle

AVERAGE HONEYBEE COLONY LOSSES NOW RANGE FROM 40 TO 60 PERCENT EACH YEAR, WHICH MEANS THAT FOR EVERY 100 HIVES, 40 TO 60 ARE EXPECTED TO DIE.

“How are the bees?” It’s a common refrain we hear as

BUY LOCAL HONEY. The absolute best way to

beekeepers. People are genuinely concerned, not just be-

support your local beekeeper is to buy their honey. Will

cause they love honey, but because they understand the lo-

it be more expensive than what you find at Safeway or

cal and global impact of a decimated pollinator population.

Costco? Undoubtedly. But the extra expense is worth it,

The answer is...not great.

not only to support a local business, but for your own

Average honeybee colony losses now range from 40

health. Local honey is typically raw and unfiltered, which

to 60 percent each year, which means that for every 100

means you’ll get all the antibacterial, antimicrobial, and

hives, 40 to 60 are expected to die. This is a far cry from

allergy-fighting benefits honey has to offer. Grocery store

the 10 to 20 percent hive loss beekeepers used to expect.

honey is almost never raw and is often adulterated with

Many people don’t realize that honeybees are livestock: commercial beekeepers breed new bees every year to re-

syrup—it’s cheap for a reason.

place the lost populations. It’s expensive, so beekeepers

DON’T USE PESTICIDES. Many seeds and flowers

have to find ways to finance replacing half the hives an-

are treated with neonicotinoid pesticides, which you’d

nually. But for non-beekeepers, the good news is that the

never know because it’s not disclosed on the label. This

honeybee will never go extinct.

class of pesticide is incredibly harmful to pollinators. A

The same can’t be said for other pollinators like the

foolproof way to ensure your flowers are helping the pol-

mighty bumblebee, tiny sweat bee, and all the bees in be-

linator population is to buy organic seeds and starts. It’s

tween, plus moths, butterflies, and bats. These pollinators

also ideal to go to a local nursery where they are likely to

aren’t commercially valuable, so they don’t get the same at-

know if and how suppliers use pesticides and can help

tention in the media. But research shows that all pollinators

you pick plants that pollinators will love.

are suffering the same population losses as honeybees.

You may be wondering how to help...

sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 13

COMMERCIAL BEEKEEPERS BREED NEW BEES EVERY YEAR TO REPLACE THE LOST POPULATIONS.

LET PART OF YOUR YARD GROW WILD. Most non-honeybee pollinators are solitary, and lots of them make their homes in or near the ground.

By leaving part of your yard untended, you’re creating habitat. Another option is to mow less frequently, giving bees time to enjoy all the clover that pops up. If you have a larger, unirrigated area like a field, you are probably familiar with the much-maligned star thistle. But for all the haters out there, know this—bees love star thistle. It offers critical late-season forage and makes delicious honey.

Other bee-friendly flowers that grow in untended places include blackberry, mustard, and vetch.

CREATE A BEE-FRIENDLY WATERING HOLE. Pollinators need water and will drink it wherever they can find it, including from sources that aren’t good for them, like chlorinated pools (where they often drown).

Help them out by providing clean water with safe places to land. Bird fountains with rocks protruding above the surface work well, but anything that holds water will do.

DON’T START A BACKYARD BEEHIVE. This might seem like counterintuitive advice, but it’s as much for your benefit as it is for the bees. Starting and maintaining a hive is expensive ($400+ for all the supplies, equipment, and a starter colony), and since most hives fail, the chance that a hobby hive will last more than two years is very slim. Backyard beekeepers are also unlikely to check for diseases or treat for Varroa destructor, a mean mite that 14 NOVEMBER 2019 Emerald Triangle

SUNNABIS FARMER’S RESERVE PREMIUM EIGHTHS AND PRE-ROLLS Collaborating with Seed2Soul distribution to bring only the best craft cannabis from our farm to you.

plagues honeybees all over the world. Bees from healthy hives rob weak hives, not only packing out their honey but also mites and other diseases, impacting the health of their own hive. Backyard beekeeping might sound fun, but on the whole, it tends to be an expensive and frustrating hobby that can cause real harm to other colonies.

The good news? Many ways exist to improve the plight of pollinators. Organizations like Pollinator Pathway, Pollinator Partnership, and others are working to create habitat and reduce the threats pollinators face. In California’s Central Valley, almond growers are partnering with government and private agencies to plant hedgerows with early-blooming varietals to give the bees a boost before the almond bloom every February.

And a lot is happening right here in the Emerald Triangle as well: In Mendocino

We believe that only cannabis grown with conscious choices results in superior product. Our multi-generational small family farm cultivates energetically dynamic plants utilizing regenerative agriculture practices so the flower that comes from fl our farm is of exceptional quality as well as maintaining minimal environmental impact. (Basically we care about our planet and our product so you can feel good about loving our flower!)

County, Fort Bragg has been a certified Bee City since 2016, and Bee Bold Mendocino County—a nonprofit started and supported by Thanksgiving Coffee in partnership with Friends of the Earth—is working to get the entire county Bee City USA certified. Up north, the Humboldt County Beekeepers Association is a certified nonprofit organization founded in 1995, which has monthly meetings, special events, and an active membership, including beekeepers and enthusiasts from Northern Mendocino, Humboldt, and Trinity counties.

The impact of climate change on bees is dire, but you can do your part by being a little lazy with the lawn mower and eating as much local honey as your heart desires.

www.sunnabis.com Instagram: @HumboldtsFullSunFarms LCA19-0001234, LCA19-0001243, LCA19-0001250

sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 15

{tastebuds }

by N O R A M O U N C E

HEALTHIER HARVEST Come harvest time and the nippy nights of November,

Luckily, coconut milk has a long history of being used

many of us spend more time at home cooking, answering

for vitality and contains immune-boosting medium-chain

the healing call of the season. It’s an especially rewarding

fatty acids that are easy to digest. It’s now widely avail-

time for foodies and cooks, as autumn menus are chockfull

able and a cinch to swap out for regular milk in both sweet

of nutritious comfort foods and nostalgic aromas. I’m guilty of

and savory recipes. By infusing our coconut milk with kief,*

particularly loving pumpkin-y treats, but I struggle to find rec-

this pumpkin smoothie gets a medicinal boost of cannabis

ipes that don’t depend on heavy cream for richness and fla-

to supercharge your morning.

vor. More and more Americans are discovering that they are

Note: This smoothie is quite luscious. If nighttime is

healthier and happier with dairy consumption kept at a min-

your preferred hour to medicate, remove half the ice from

imum—if only skipping the milk and cheese was that easy.

the recipe and eat with a spoon for dessert.

16 NOVEMBER 2019 Emerald Triangle

PHOTO BY NORA MOUNCE

Embrace the mood of November’s cooler days and longer nights with a dairy-free infused smoothie.

Healing Harvest Smoothie Serves 2

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup pumpkin puree • ½ cup coconut, almond, or hemp milk • ¼ cup canna-coco milk (optional) • ¼ cup coconut cream** • 2 tbsp honey • 2 tbsp almond butter • 2 tbsp cinnamon • ¼ tsp nutmeg, freshly grated if possible • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, peeled and finely chopped • 2 cups ice **Trader Joe’s sells a great organic coconut cream. Otherwise, check the liquor aisle where mixers are stocked. Third option: refrigerate a full-fat can of coconut milk for at least an hour. Open and scrape off the solids that have risen to the top—voilà!

Coconut cream.

INSTRUCTIONS

Combine pumpkin and all other ingredients in blender.

Process on high for 1-2 minutes.

Canna-Coco Milk INGREDIENTS

• 64 oz full-fat coconut milk (please, no low-fat or light.)

• ½ g kief INSTRUCTIONS STEP 1: Set a large double boiler on the lowest setting pos-

sible. Add coconut milk and kief. Gently stir with a whisk to incorporate.

STEP 2: Let mixture heat for one hour, keeping a close eye

out for scalding (if this happens, remove periodically from heat). Don’t worry about the skin that will form across the top; it will be strained out. *Kief refers to the resinous trichomes of a cannabis flower. Essentially pollen, kief is highly concentrated with cannabinoids. It can be easily extracted by using a grinder and fine mesh screen; grind flower over screen and collect the fine particles of kief. Potency depends on flower. Alternatively, ask for kief at your local dispensary.

STEP 3: Place a fine mesh strainer over a large glass bowl

(or 64 oz. mason jar). Strain milk mixture into it, then label and store in the fridge. Use within a week. sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 17

Business Law (Contracts & Compliance) ■ Intellectual Property ■ Cannabis Defense ■ DUIs/DMV Hearings ■ All Felonies & Misdemeanors ■

FREE CONSULTATION FOR DEFENSE WORK ONLY

Kathleen Bryson Attorney

Former Humboldt County Deputy District Attorney Member of National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) Member California DUI Lawyers Association Voted North Coast Journal’s Best of Humboldt - Attorney & Law Office (2015-2018) 18 NOVEMBER 2019 Emerald Triangle

732 5th Street, Suite C Eureka, CA 95501 info@humboldtjustice.com www.humboldtjustice.com

707.268.8600 Working in Association with

Shay Aaron Gilmore Business Law

www.shaygilmorelaw.com Phone/Text: 415.846.6397

sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 19

{aroundtown }

by J E S S I C A R E I N U S

RURAL #MOMLIFE From front porch chats and homeschooling to Facebook groups and blogs, rural moms are tapping into deep-rooted values while embracing social media.

20 NOVEMBER 2019 Emerald Triangle

As a mom of two, I intimately know the day-to-day

I gave birth to both of my daughters at Mad River Hos-

challenges of raising kids: we want to ground our children

pital in Arcata, California. I was pleasantly surprised by the

in good morals while also giving them tools to succeed.

approach of my providers, whose laissez-faire style made

Sometimes this can be hard in a rural setting, yet other

me to feel safe from surrendering to pressures of the

times quite refreshing. With a small-town atmosphere

Western approach to obstetrics. This allowed me to fully

that focuses on local old-timey traditions and commu-

embrace an alternative birthing experience while being a

nity, children who grow up rural tend to stay kids for a

part of the hospital. The Mad River birth center allows wa-

longer time, not forced to yield to the pressures of the

ter births, has a low C-section rate, and even serves organic

outside world. Isn’t that nice?

produce that is grown on-site to patients. This level of ho-

In the age of technology and globalization, living in ru-

listic support is one of the many benefits of being a part of a

ral communities isn’t as isolating as it once was. Mom-

community that values the health of mothers and children.

my blogs and Facebook groups have morphed into virtual

Chiah Rodrigues is a second-generation cannabis

communities with other rural mothers to exchange advice

farmer and medical marijuana advocate who was raised

and give support. In Humboldt County, where I chose to

on a 5,600-acre ranch commune deep in the hills of

raise my children, I have embraced the special experiences

Mendocino County. Growing up in an off-the-grid home-

that are only available in a small community. For example,

steading community, the kids ran around barefoot with-

belonging to a CSA (community supported agriculture) has

out the influence of technology. “I grew up in the “don’t

allowed my children to grow up seeing exactly how our

ask, don’t tell” world of Reagan-era DARE culture,” says

food is grown. My kids are able to eat seasonally and or-

Rodrigues. “I didn’t want my dad to go to jail, and for us

ganically, reducing our carbon footprint, and allowing our

kids that was a real concern.”

dollars to go directly into the pockets of the local econo-

Since growing up and marrying another second-genera-

my. When we pick up our farm share each week, we visit

tion commune resident, Rodrigues and her husband decid-

with friends, pick flowers together, share a few laughs,

ed to stay, raise a family, and continue to grow the family

and cement our community bond.

business. She learned cultivation methods from her father

HUMBOLDT MOMS IS A FACEBOOK GROUP WITH MORE THAN 6,300 MEMBERS THAT STARTED OUT AS A WAY TO CONNECT MOMS ON TOPICS VARYING FROM VACCINATIONS TO BOUNCY HOUSE RENTALS. sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 21

and has now established her own farm, raising her two sons with a balanced sense of awareness around cannabis. “Using the correct verbiage is important,” says Rodrigues. “I use words like ‘medicine’ and ‘healing’ when describing cannabis to give knowledgeable options to my boys instead of the fear-invoking rhetoric of the past.”

Rodrigues adds that raising her boys as third-generation Mendocino kids has allowed them to grow up in a natural setting while allowing her to be a handson mom.

While the natural surroundings are a big reason for raising kiddos in the Emerald Triangle, it’s not without its pitfalls. One issue for many is the limited healthcare options, little to no affordable childcare, and a lack of cultural diversity. Many families whose children have health problems are forced to seek out-of-area providers regularly or in crisis; some specialists just don’t exist in rural areas.

Combined with a sharp decline in the local economy since the passage of Propo-

“WE SHOW THEM HOW TO LIVE A HOLISTIC LIFESTYLE WHILE EMBRACING A SLOWER PACE OF LIFE.” —Violet O’Connor

22 NOVEMBER 2019 Emerald Triangle

sition 64, many families are feeling helpless and unsure of what to do next.

Another cultural shift has been the popularity of social media, which has skyrocketed over the last decade. But with Facebook came a new outlet for local moms to bond.

Humboldt Moms is a Facebook group with more than 6,300 members that started out as a way to connect moms on topics from vaccinations to bouncy house rentals. Groups like these allow rural mothers to feel empowered instead of isolated. When I asked the group about their favorite things about raising kids in Humboldt, the general consensus was access to nature, progressive education options, support of the community, and a slower pace of life.

Trinity County mom Violet O’Connor considers her choice to raise her three children on her farm a positive experience for all. She birthed her kids in their 20-foot yurt while the family was homesteading and cultivating cannabis outside of Willow Creek. O’Connor is proud of her ability to live off the land while home-schooling and teaching her children practical life skills. “We show them how to live holistically while embracing a slower pace of life,” says O’Connor. “It perpetuates our bond of family togetherness.”

As mothers, as parents, we hope that our children will grow into wonderful, highly functioning members of society who leave the world a better place. And as rural mothers, we hope that like-minded families continue to flourish while holding their values close to their hearts. We are a tribe, a circle of rural mothers representing a tiny snippet of American culture. We look positively toward the future, always ready to blaze a new trail, and help a new mama along the way. sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 23

Model Hannah Cantrell wears Juniper Sparrow’s striped Judo Wrap and the Brunch Pant in Cayenne 24 NOVEMBER 2019 Emerald Triangle

NORTH OF FASHION

Born from a subsistence ethos and entrepreneurial spirit, a decidedly rural chic style has emerged in the Emerald Triangle

by N O R A M O U N C E

O

nly a hundred or so miles south of the Oregon border, the Emerald Triangle often has more in common with its Pacific Northwest neighbors than the 40 million sun-loving residents

of California. We wear plaid non-ironically, drink IPA like water, and suspiciously eyeball anyone dressed in a suit. But don’t let the chillax vibes fool you—it’s not all sarongs and Birkenstocks around here.

For ladies, Romeo boots, thick wool scarves, vintage Levi’s, high-heeled clogs, and shoulder-length earrings are staples. It’s about looking fresh but ready for anything—from

PHOTO BY BRITTANY VILLIADOS

yoga to business over cocktails to working in the garden.

For dudes, the stereotype of flat brims and flannels holds true, but many guys flesh out their style by repping unique and artistic Humboldt and Mendo brands. Overall, an interesting mix of rural sophistication, independent makers, and local pride is keeping the Emerald Triangle classy.

To explore the inspiration behind the iconic local

Angelica Atelier & Juniper Sparrow 1101 H ST. #2, ARCATA // ANGELICAATELIER.COM // JUNIPERSPARROW.COM

Jennifer Harris is a custom bridal gown designer along with owning Angelica Atelier, an upscale boutique just off the Arcata Plaza. Her own casual styles are now designed under her Juniper Sparrow label, available wholesale by summer 2020.

What got you started as a designer?

I started sewing in 1995. I had just moved to San Francisco from Oahu and met a group of people who I ended up traveling with. We spent our days creating things to sell to make enough money to keep traveling. I had no idea that I’d have such a knack for sewing, but it was easy from the start. Complicated garment ideas just poured out of me.

How long have you lived in Humboldt?

style that represents our community, we spoke with two

I moved to Humboldt in 1997. I grew up in Santa Barbara

prominent designers about their passion and process.

and definitely have to give it credit for my style aesthetic. sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 25

humboldtredwoodhealing.com Humboldt Redwood Healing

@humboldtredwoodhealing

Lic. CML18-0000803 | CML18-0002208 | CML 18-0002213 26 NOVEMBER 2019 Emerald Triangle

need to possibly open a gate, deal with weather, or carry kiddos and groceries in the same load. We want to be comfortable and put together with a hint of whimsy— and we want our bums to look fabulous!

What else should we know about you?

I love supporting local artists, especially women, and giving back to my community. One percent of Juniper Sparrow profits are donated to local women’s shelters. My love for this dang town is enormous, and I’m so grateful to be able to continue to grow with our beautiful community.

The Bodega & Nothing-obvious 426 3RD ST. EUREKA // NOTHING-OBVIOUS.COM

H.A. Pearson is the owner of The Bodega in Eureka, where she sells her own label, Nothing-obvious, in adGraphic designer Jacqui Langeland models The Juniper Brunch Pant in Mustard Gold.

When did you open Angelica Atelier? Why “Angelica?”

I have rented this adorable shop space for 16 years. At first, I was just coming for the festival vendor scene and wanted a key to turn. But retail is entirely different than a craft fair booth. When I opened my shop, it was called Hempsown, my brand name on the road. Soon, I couldn’t keep up with demand, so I brought in other organic or hemp brands to feature alongside my stuff. Customers started asking for

TOP: PHOTO BY BRITTANY VILLIADOS, BOTTOM: PHOTO BY KATIE ANNE PHOTOGRAPHY

hemp wedding dresses. I quickly fell in love with bridalwear because the designs were classic—not following a season or trend. Eventually, I started exploring lace and silks

dition to threads, lids, jewelry, body care, and décor by a curated selection of indie designers. Nothing-obvious designs are available at a selection of boutiques in major cities across the country.

How did you get into design and screen-printing?

When I moved here from Brooklyn, I spent my first year up in Klamath with the intent of spending 365 days without TV, internet, or society. I was curious how it would push me to create. Daily, I went out into nature and saw the most amazing things. I had taken a screen-printing class at university and learned it was a great way for me to express these experiences. Since options for T-shirts in Humboldt were super limited—I was used to Brooklyn where I could get a unique shirt at a pop-up market—I decided to print T-shirts. I love the uniqueness and the

and moved into more refined fabrics for wedding gowns.

Along with the community, we went through an obligatory bohemian wedding gown stage, but now I’ve landed on my true aesthetic—minimalist, elegant gowns. “Atelier” is the French word for design space, where the garments are made. One day, I was sewing while listening to the Cure song about Angelica—it stuck. Angelica Atelier was born.

How do you describe the women who wear your styles?

Juniper Sparrow is 25 years in the making by listening to women in the dressing room—what they want or wish clothes could give them. Fit, feel, fabrication…all of it.

Juniper Sparrow is for women by women. Not boasting a “look at me” for validation from others, but a self-loving look for ourselves. Confidence is an emotion and my clothes are built for that. You get dressed, do a quick look in the mirror, and then don’t have to mess with it for the rest of the day. This brand is for a woman who might

Bandit Sweet & Savory owner Erica Davie models Juniper Sparrow jumpsuit and earrings by Essence of Humboldt. sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 27

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Shopping the styles at House of Humboldt (520 2nd St., Eureka) in Juniper Sparrow designs.

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complexity of working with water-based inks (they don’t sit on a garment, but blend in with the weave of the fabric, entwining to the fibers). I’ve continued to draw inspiration from nature and channel it into screen-printing ever since.

Did you have an interest in fashion as a kid or a teenager?

I grew up with seven siblings, and we definitely didn’t have money to outfit everyone in trendy fashions. But my rebellious nature combined with a fascination of the mainstream led to an interest in fashion… though I’d love to say I didn’t. Luckily, my mother had sewing skills, which gave me the opportunity to design my own clothes, including my prom dress. After attend-

HPRC Arcata 980 6th St. Arcata, CA

ing the Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC, my disdain for the fashion industry intensified, but I also found people who were actually trendsetting and creating in rebellious ways. My favorite was the excruciatingly talented and lost-far-too-soon, Alexander McQueen. He never let the criticism from the mainstream hinder his vision. Studying at the Fashion Institute required me to take basic classes about the fashion industry, which I hated then, but gave me such a leg up when I started growing the Nothing-obvious brand.

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How long have you lived in Humboldt?

Eight years. I moved here a month after visiting a friend. She took me swimming at Broken Bridge in Willow Creek. I’ll never forget standing in the middle of the river, looking both ways to watch the mountains rise and fall in the distance.

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www.HPRCHumboldt.com C-10-0000409-LIC | C-12-0000231-LIC 28 NOVEMBER 2019 Emerald Triangle

What about Nothing-obvious represents the Emerald Triangle?

Living on the North Coast was the first time I really started to acknowledge the collective conscience. There is so much awareness and attention placed on the environment here. I have always chosen to print with eco-friendly,

PHOTOS BY KATIE ANNE PHOTOGRAPHY.

(NorthCoast Journal &Times Standard)

water-based inks and print on garments whose manufacturers use ethically sourced materials. I’m always looking for ways to consciously produce garments and utilize fewer resources in processes like dying.

How would you describe people who rock your style?

Nature loving weirdos who have an extreme love of comfortable, soft, and wearable garments. I want my shirts to be fashion-forward enough to be worn in any environment, from a day on the river to the office. Nothing-obvious is really just a long story about my adventures and super nerdy love for the West Coast. I’m stoked that people have responded to it.

Anything else you want to add?

I want to give thanks to the cannabis industry for supporting locally made goods. Humboldt is home to a crazy number of artists, which comes in part from the freedom cannabis has given artists. Income from working in the industry (in addition to working my butt off to build Nothing-obvious.) has allowed me to reinvest my company’s profits instead of scraping by. Additionally, living here gives me incredible access to cannabis medicine: I often have joint pain in my hands from hand-printing, and I wouldn’t sleep if it wasn’t for an amazing local salve.

Local artists Lucas Davis Thornton and Anna Sofia Amezcua rock Nothing-obvious tops paired with Juniper Sparrow's 'Brunch Pant' and earrings by Essence of Humboldt (right).

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sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 29

{highprofile }

by J A DA C A LY P S O B R O T M A N

SWIPING BEHIND THE REDWOOD CURTAIN How to swipe right in a small pond: A few style tips may boost your chances of finding “the one”.

30 NOVEMBER 2019 Emerald Triangle

No matter where you live, dating isn’t easy. I’ve dated with the best of them, in Scotland, in New York City, in the wilds of Transylvania—you name it, I dated it. But here in my hometown of Humboldt, dating is, well, special. Tinder has been both a blessing and a curse. While I love that I can read all the giveaways to know whether someone is not my type, I do not need to know my eighth grade math teacher “likes to drink Spanish reds and make out!”

The best part about online dating is also the worst part.

You can tell immediately if someone is attractive. What a time saver! No need to actually interact with other hu-

cal economy,” “workin’ on the hill,” and “scissors” means cannabis, of course. “Gardener” is a great title, but I would love to meet a gardener who is just as enthusiastic about

I LOVE HEARING HAPPY-ENDING STORIES AND LUCKILY, MY FRIENDS HAVE QUITE A FEW.

flowers and tomatoes as he is about his cannabis. I think Humboldt must be the only county in which “start-up” means a white-market marijuana vendor, not an e-commerce site. But it is cool that since legalization, people who are passionate about cannabis can find ways to market it.

I’ve gone on dates with guys with a sincere entrepreneurial spirit and that’s a fun vibe to be around.

Another online pitfall? The HSU student. No offense, fellas, I’m glad you left the OC and you like big trees, but I’ve heard your exact story, like,100 times. Just ‘cause you got a The North Face jacket for Christmas does not make

mans! Of course, that is also the terrible part. Superficial

you Bear Grylls.

snap judgements mean you might be swiping left on a

Now that I’m a little older, it’s a whole new scene. A lot

person who actually could be your Other Half. But, hell,

of guys in their 40s think it’s acceptable to wear a base-

being superficial feels good once in a while.

ball hat indoors—another one of my not-once-you’re-a-

For me, a number of immediate “tells” tip me off that

grown up swipes. Then there’s the guy who works out and

a man isn’t going to be my Señor Right. When I see a guy

really wants to show you. Topless sweaty muscle shot?

posed with his gun, that’s a swipe left. Flavor-saver fa-

Swipe left. Without a doubt, the most helpful thing about

cial hair? Left. I don’t mind a dude who smokes weed, but when you lead with that in your profile, you’re probably too much of a wake-and-baker for this active gal. Ditto to posing with your empties from last night. C’mon guys, I like to party, but I am not impressed by the fact you drank so much last night. And posing with your bong? Not if you’re over 16, fellas.

There are a number of giveaways for someone who is in “The Industry.” Any language about “gigging,” “the losensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 31

JUST ‘CAUSE YOU GOT A NORTH FACE JACKET FOR CHRISTMAS DOES NOT MAKE YOU BEAR GRYLLS.

Tinder and online dating in general is being able to immediately tell who can spell. I know that’s not on everyone’s list of priorities, but for me, a guy who “likes to take waks” is not the right match.

I had a funny first date with a guy who claimed to be an originator of the concept of “Second Life.” Our date consisted of setting up a Second Life personality.

We went on a “date” in virtual reality, right there in his apartment, sitting 10 inches apart. It was cool, but I decided I like going to the beach and hiking in the actual physical real-life world. For me, an ideal date includes getting in some cardio, maybe on the dance floor or on a forest trail. If the date goes south, at least I got some exercise.

Despite the perks, at my age (40), I sometimes feel slightly embarrassed about online dating. Even though I didn’t live here in my 20s, I still know a good 30 percent of the fellas I see online, which means…they see me too. I’m mildly humiliated to know that my fifth grade crush can see me dating online, but a) CAL18-0000764

He’s in the same boat, and b) Online dating doesn’t hold the same geeky stigma

32 NOVEMBER 2019 Emerald Triangle

it did in 2000.

Still though, it can feel a little incestuous, which isn’t the case in bigger cities.

Terrible date? You never have to see that person again. That guy you got drunk

with and made a fool of yourself in front of? Never happened. But in Humboldt, unless you change your dating parameters (or your name?), you’re gonna see the same faces many, many times. Going on a first date with someone you were in third grade band with is strange, though starting the conversation is remarkably easy (So…you still playing the recorder?).

I love hearing happy-ending stories, and luckily my friends have quite a few.

My boss met his wife about eight years ago on Yahoo! Dating of all places. I didn’t even know that was a thing. I mean, does anyone still even use Yahoo?

I know two other couples who met on OKCupid who so far seem to be happy and in love. Every time I swear off online dating, giving it up as artificial and pointless, I remember that it truly works, sometimes, and I end up trying again.

You never know who might have moved to town in the few months you were off the market. And what is life for, anyway, if not trying and failing and trying again? Best of luck, daters, and maybe I’ll see you online.

sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 33

SPEC IAL REPORT

Further Down the Line As congress dithers over national cannabis legalization bills, more states prepare for sales to adults.

by L E L A N D R U C K E R

IT’S BEEN ALMOST SIX YEARS SINCE RETAIL CANNABIS STORES OPENED IN COL-

ORADO AND WASHINGTON. IN THAT TIME, NINE MORE STATES AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HAVE

OPTED TO LEGALIZE, AND NOW ONE IN FOUR AMERICANS—ALMOST 80 MILLION ADULTS—HAVE ACCESS TO SOME FORM OF LAWFUL MARIJUANA. BUT IT’S STILL FEDERALLY ILLEGAL, WHICH MEANS AN ABSENCE OF NATIONAL REGULATION IS LEAVING STATES TO CREATE THEIR OWN LAWS. The US House of Representatives passed the SAFE

problem currently for many small companies and insti-

Banking Act September 25, the first individual cannabis

tutions that want to provide legal cannabis businesses

bill to ever receive a full congressional floor vote (321-

financial services. If it passes the Senate, which has its

103). It would prohibit federal regulators from punish-

own version of the bill with more than 30 cosponsors, it

ing banks that provide services to legal businesses, a

would be a big boost to federal legalization efforts.

34 NOVEMBER 2019 Emerald Triangle

But other bills—the Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol

uity issues. Millions of Americans still have cannabis

Act, the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Ex-

charges on their record, and now that it’s legal, what

pungement Act, and the Veterans Medical Marijuana

should happen to them? The problem is out in the open,

Safe Harbor Act, among them—remain in committee,

and many states are moving to expunge, or remove, the

with little progress beyond a few hearings.

records of those convicted of nonviolent sales or posses-

Unless the Democrats retain the House and overturn

sion charges. This is a significant transformation that

the Senate next year, it still appears more likely that legal-

will allow millions of people to live without a criminal

ization will unfold state by state rather than by federal fiat.

record. Nonetheless, three-fourths of Americans can

Bright Spots: Social Equity in Previous Cannabis Charges

There has been some progress in regard to social-eq-

still be arrested and charged with possession in states where cannabis remains illegal.

One of the major arguments against legalization was that it would lead to increased teenage use. But every sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 35

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Flamingo Resort SONOMA COUNTY 36 NOVEMBER 2019 Emerald Triangle

research paper or study continues to indicate that teen

regulatory process by allowing licensed medical shops

use is steady or down in states that have legalized. One

to be able to add adult-use sales. Some lessons learned

report released this year by four Western universities

from other states include allowing several types of con-

found that teenage use remained steady in states with

sumption licenses and lowering the asset requirements

medical marijuana and actually has decreased in states

to let more people start businesses.

with adult-use. It’s probably too early to tell for sure, but no significant research indicates any uptick in teen usage since 2013.

Another issue arose this year over law enforcement and cannabis’ unique odor. There is an exception that allows police to search a motor vehicle without a search warrant by claiming they smell marijuana. Several cases are now challenging this smoking gun.

A recent court of appeals ruling in Maryland found that police searches of vehicles that smelled like cannabis were no longer appropriate and that odor does not grant officers probable cause to conduct a search. In Pennsylvania, where medical marijuana is legal, a court said the same thing. A Bronx judge went even further and said that police reports on marijuana smell happen too often to be credible. “The time has come to reject the canard of marijuana emanating from nearly every vehi-

While the passing of a few upcoming bills, such as the SAFE Banking Act, would be a big boost to federal legalization efforts, it still appears more likely that legalization will unfold state by state.

cle subject to a traffic stop,” the judge wrote. Expect more cases like this around the country.

Gearing Up for Sales

The law also leaves it up to individual governments

Several states are preparing for adult-use sales to be-

to decide if they want retail shops. About 40 percent of

gin in 2020. In Pennsylvania, medical sales began in Feb-

counties so far, mostly in rural areas, even some that

ruary. Lt. Gov. John Fetterman spent a couple months

voted for adult-use in the election, have rejected retail

talking to constituents and reported about 65 percent of

shops in their jurisdictions. “Smaller municipalities

citizens are in favor of legalization. But it remains a par-

tend to want the big cities to go first and offer them re-

tisan issue. No Republican lawmakers are in favor of le-

assurance that the sky won’t fall, that crime rates won’t

galization or even to reduce possession charges to a civil

skyrocket, that teen access won’t go up,” Deputy Leafly

fine, so it probably doesn’t stand much of a chance since

Editor Bruce Barcott told Michigan Live in August. Sales

Republicans have controlled both houses since 2010.

are expected to begin in the first quarter of 2020.

On May 31, the Illinois General Assembly passed the Illinois Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act. Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed the bill on June 25, and the state set an am-

Some States Still Struggling

Vermont has allowed medical use since 2004, and in

bitious schedule to open stores, setting a target date of

2013 decriminalized possession of an ounce or less. It

January 1 for medical dispensaries to add adult-use.

became the first state to legislate cannabis reform when

Only medical patients will be allowed to grow their own

Gov. Phil Scott signed a bill passed by both houses in

plants, and it includes a provision to expunge all misde-

January 2018. However, the legislation contained no au-

meanor marijuana convictions.

thorization for the sale of cannabis to adults, and law-

Michigan voters, where medical sales began a decade

makers and the governor haven’t reached agreement on

ago, legalized adult use by a 55.9 percent majority with

how things will work. The latest plan is for licensing to

Proposal 1, a state ballot initiative, in November 2018. Gov.

begin in February 2021, with retail shops opening that

Gretchen Whitmer established the Marijuana Regulato-

summer. Don’t hold your breath.

ry Agency, and the state is crafting regulations, finally

Maine approved adult-use cannabis three years ago,

passing emergency rules to bring medical and adult-use

and shops still have not opened. Former governor Paul

under the same regulatory blanket and speeding up the

LePage did everything in his power to thwart voters’ sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 37

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wishes, but current governor Janet Mills has approved a framework for getting shops open, and hopes are high

Looking Ahead

Look for Arizona, which lost an initiative effort to

that will finally happen in spring of next year. As in

legalize by two percentage points in 2016, to try again.

Michigan, however, few municipalities so far are allow-

New York and New Jersey were also on track to legalize

ing shops, which means many Mainers might still have

but got hung up on legislative details. There’s plenty of

to continue to use the black market.

voter support in both states, so expect action there.

A 65 percent majority of voters in the District of Colum-

Petitions are circulating in Mississippi, Nebraska,

bia approved adult-use in 2014, but five years later stores

South Dakota and Florida to reach the 2020 ballot. Mis-

have not opened. congressional Republicans, led by Mary-

sissippi would be the first deep-South state to legalize.

land legislator Andy Harris, attached a rider that disallows

Nebraska once sued Colorado to try and stop its legaliza-

the district from using its own funds to set up regulations

tion. Oklahoma joined that effort, which failed, and last

and retail stores. That led to a semi-underground “gifting”

year medical cannabis was legalized there, with Repub-

economy where a consumer “buys” something else and is

licans joining Democratic voters to pass the initiative.

gifted cannabis in return. Mayor Muriel Bowser has pro-

Advocates in Oklahoma are now pushing for full legal-

posed the Safe Cannabis Sales Act of 2019, which if passed

ization. The emergence of adult-use markets in Illinois

would allow for retail stores and provide equity require-

and Michigan, and medical sales in Missouri, means the

ments for those hit hardest by the Drug War.

Midwest is no longer immune to legalization.

sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 39

ing 40 NOVEMBER 2019 Emerald Triangle

le,

NOT SORRY More and more people are choosing uncoupled adulthood.

by R O BY N G R I G G S L AW R E N C E

My first newspaper job was on the night desk OF A DAILY. WEEKENDS

OFF WERE THE ONLY TIME TO HAVE ANY SORT OF NORMAL LIFE WITH NINE-TO-FIVERS (MOST OF THE WORLD), AND THEY WERE AWARDED BASED STRICTLY ON SENIORITY. When my time finally came to trade in Wednesday and

boomers are driving the numbers with divorce rates that

Thursday for Saturday and Sunday, my boss said not so

have nearly doubled (and involve unprecedented num-

fast. Steve, who had started several months after me,

bers of second and third marriages) from 1990 to 2015,

had a wife. Steve needed weekends off more than I did.

the Pew Research Center reports.

“You understand,” my boss said.

Determined not to make their parents’ mistakes, more

I was furious, but it was the ’80s. I gave Steve the week-

and more millennials are skipping the whole wedding

ends because that’s what you did (and my boss hadn’t re-

thing. The number of unmarried 18-to-29-year-olds has

ally given me a choice). Over the next couple years, I would

grown from 40 percent in 1960 to 80 percent today, and

leave the newspaper business and marry the first of two

the Pew Research Center predicts a quarter of today’s

wrong-for-me husbands, beginning decades of couple-

young adults will be single when they turn 50. More than

dom that ended recently. I’m single in the age of Tinder,

half—51 percent—of 18-to-34-year-olds reported not hav-

and this is a whole new world. Singledom today is noth-

ing a steady romantic partner last year, a record high for

ing like it was when I was a twentysomething copy editor

the annual University of Chicago survey.

looking for love (in all the wrong places, as it turns out).

Getting married isn’t the great big life goal it was 25 years

It’s no longer weird to be single. Lots of people have

ago, when I was among the last of my high school friends

made it their choice. And if you give weekends off to

to walk down the aisle at 27. More than half—55 percent—

the married guy, you’ll likely be called out as a singlist,

of participants in a 2017 Census Bureau report said getting

which some people consider just as bad as being a sexist

married wasn’t an important criterion for becoming an

or a racist. Singles are demanding respect—and getting

adult. Instead, 95 percent said formal schooling and full-

it—because they’ve (oh, sorry, we’ve) become a powerful

time employment were key. Half of young millennials told

force, in numbers as well as influence.

Tinder they were worried about being in a long-term re-

As Americans live longer, marry later (or not at all), and

lationship because they didn’t want to lose their indepen-

divorce more, singles have increased from 29 percent of

dence. A Bustle survey found that 60 percent of people who

the adult population in 1970 to 48 percent today. Baby

were single and not dating were prioritizing self-care. sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 41

42 NOVEMBER 2019 Emerald Triangle

In an opinion piece for Inter Press Service, demographer Joseph Chamie, former director of the United Nations Population Division, calls this trend “a significant global demographic change having far-reaching consequences yet receiving scant attention.” He predicts single-person households will continue to grow exponentially throughout the world, increasing global demand for housing, transportation, natural resources, and energy.

“People across the world are bucking the stigma of living alone and embracing independent lifestyles,” Euromonitor International’s “Top 10 Global Consumer Trends 2019” reports. Sociologist Eric Klinenberg told the Christian Sci-

ence Monitor the shift is “the greatest social change of the last 60 years that we haven’t already named and identified.”

In “Make Way for the Single Age,” J Walter Thompson calls it “a paradigm shift in adulthood uncoupled … a natural evolution alongside job hopping, coliving, sexual openness, digital connection, and a nomadic workforce.”

“I MADE THESE CHOICES” Singledom is a choice that 44-year-old Brian Gross, who has owned BSG PR since 2001, made deliberately. A serial monogamist for many years, he nearly got married once

Alone AROUND THE WORLD

In Canada, where 28 percent of people live alone, one-person households are now the most common. Living alone has grown fastest among 35- to 64-year-olds.

In South Korea, unmarried women between 30 and 34 have jumped from 1.4 percent of the population in 1970 to 30 percent today. Young Koreans are called the “sampo” (“giving up on three”) generation because they’re not interested in dating, marriage, and children.

In Japan, 70 percent of single people in their 40s and older say they’ll never marry and are prepared to grow old alone. Single women proudly call themselves “wagamama,” which means “self-determining.”

and thought better of it. Now he relishes singlehood. He can make his clients his priority, answering to them 24/7.

He travels to wherever he wants, whenever he wants, and meets new people along the way. He feeds himself when

his book, Happy Singlehood: The Rising Acceptance and

he’s hungry and works out at his whim. “I think what

Celebration of Solo Living, “yet we still live in a society

comes in time,” he says, “is your own strength and ability

where singles, especially in advanced adulthood, are

to say with confidence, ‘Hey, I made this life decision. I’m

urged to couple up or otherwise face prejudice.”

the one who lives with it. I made these choices.’”

The US Federal Code states the president can prohibit

Singledom has its advantages, as a viral Reddit thread

discrimination based on marital status, but there are more

asking what people loved most about it recently laid

than 1,000 laws giving married couples legal and financial

out, everything from not getting dragged to lame fam-

incentives and benefits. Singles make an average of $8,000

ily events to not having to laugh at unfunny Facebook

less per year and pay more for everything from housing,

memes. And with social media, no one ever feels lonely.

healthcare, and mortgages to cell phone plans, insurance,

Gross sets his Tinder radar to wherever he’s traveling to

and taxes. Unmarried women get hit on more in the work-

before he goes and has friends waiting in new places.

place, according to a Suffolk University study, and single

Sociologist Ekyakim Kislev says marriage isn’t for him because he likes his freedom and seeks other ways

workers are still being asked to stay late and cover weekends and holidays more often than married ones.

of interacting with significant others. “There are many

The stigma is real, Kislev says. “My research showed

ways to do things,” Kislev says, “and we need to accept,

me that it is critical for singles to replace falsely internal-

even celebrate, the whole spectrum.”

ized negative images of singlehood with positive ones.”

But Kislev has found most people to be pretty closed-minded about marital status. Singles have heavier workloads and earn less money, he says, and have a harder time renting apartments because they’re con-

“THE MOST EXCITING, CHALLENGING, AND SIGNIFICANT RELATIONSHIP OF ALL”

sidered less reliable and stable. “We are open to various

Single people exercise more, sleep better, are more

sexual identities, we celebrate different ethnicities, and

open-minded and deeply engaged in social and civil

we tolerate a wide array of political views,” he writes in

life, and have a much broader definition of “family” than sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 43

44 NOVEMBER 2019 Emerald Triangle

married people. They’re more generous with their time,

Paul Dolan, who wrote Happily Ever After: Escaping

money, and caregiving, according to numerous studies,

the Myths of the Perfect Life, told The Guardian that

and are happy and satisfied with their lives. They take

married people only present as happier than singles

music and art classes, dine out more often, and keep Lu-

when interviews are conducted with spouses in the

lulemon in business.

room. “When the spouse is not present: fucking misera-

In a three-year study of 79,000 US women aged 50 to 79, women who stayed single or got divorced ate healthier,

ble,” he says. Women who never married or had children are the healthiest and happiest, Dolan found.

exercised more, and drank less than married women. Sev-

We ladies are getting it. The number of married Ameri-

eral studies have found that single people pay more atten-

can women dropped below 50 percent for the first time in

tion to relationships with friends, neighbors, siblings, and

2009, and it has continued to drop as a new feminist wave

parents, while married couples are more insular.

challenges traditional roles and sexuality. We don’t need

“There is a huge misconception that being alone and

marriage for money, social status, sex, or babies anymore.

lonely are the same,” Kislev says. “Married people can

Over the life of Sex and the City, the early twenty-first

sometimes still feel lonely even if they are not ‘alone.’ It

century series that Harper’s Bazaar said changed our

was proven time and again in many studies that married

view of single life forever, Carrie Bradshaw goes from

people can be very lonely and emotionally deprived with-

thinking that being alone was the modern-day equiva-

in their wedlock.” In Happy Singlehood, Kislev explains:

lent of being a leper to thinking it meant “you’re pretty

“Instead of facing loneliness at its roots, many people

sexy and you’re taking your time deciding how you want

chase partnership only to discover that loneliness is a

your life to be and who you want to spend it with.”

standalone problem, the cure for which lies mainly within oneself, as researchers have repeatedly argued.”

With its focus on Carrie and her friends’ romantic exploits and weddings for all in the end, Sex and the City

In a popular TED Talk, women’s rights activist and

was hardly a poster child for modern singledom. But

What a Time to Be Alone author Chidera Eggerue agrees,

Carrie did figure out something about relationships to-

saying people often use relationships as a distraction

ward the series’ end that bears repeating. “There are

from themselves. “We use other people as a tool to run

those that open you up to something new and exotic,

away from the responsibility of getting to know who we

those that are old and familiar, those that bring up lots of

really are,” she says.

questions, those that bring you back,” she says. “But the most exciting, challenging, and significant relationship of all is the one you have with yourself.”

ROBYN GRIGGS LAWRENCE is the author of the bestselling Cannabis Kitchen Cookbook and Pot in Pans: A History of Eating Cannabis.

1oftopeople 3%

are asexual, meaning they do not experience sexual attraction. Like every sexual orientation, asexuality is not a choice.

sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 45

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HUMBOLDT REDWOOD HEALING

Healing Vibrations A SOUTHERN HUMBOLDT LEGACY FARM.

Humboldt Redwood Healing is committed to pro-

back to the community is a high priority. Mulder pre-

ducing high-quality cannabis while giving back to

fers hiring local residents and seeks out partnerships

the local community it calls home. Born and raised in

with other like-minded individuals and companies.

Garberville, founder and CEO Thomas Mulder grew up

“We try to do as much business as possible with com-

under the shadow of helicopters, seeing the negative

panies who believe in giving back to the community,”

effects of prohibition first-hand. Today, he is commit-

says Mulder.

ted to operating his farm with honesty, transparency, and sustainability that will make his family proud.

Growing up in Humboldt County, Mulder started gardening as a young child and developed an under-

Humboldt Redwood Healing stands out from other farms by crafting premium products and the company’s commitment to integrity, honesty, and giving back to the Humboldt community.

standing of cannabis from an early age, though only considering it a hobby. After a few tedious years of

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commuting to the Bay Area for work, he decided to

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turn his hobby into a viable career. In 2015, Mulder established Humboldt Redwood Healing on a piece of farmland just a mile from where he grew up.

Mulder founded Humboldt Redwood Healing on the ideals that make Humboldt County so special. Integrity and honesty are the core values of the farm, and this philosophy shines through in the quality of their products. Mulder and his team grow high-quality cannabis to provide California consumers with premium flower, pre-rolls, and raw plant material for extraction.

Mulder leads his team at Humboldt Redwood Healing by always trying to do the right thing for the environment, the consumer, and his employees. Giving

sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 47

PHOTOS BY JESSIE BELL PHOTOGRAPHY AND KATIE ANNE PHOTOGRAPHY

SENSI NIGHT

In a historic gathering of community and the cannabis industry, Sensi Night headed outdoors to the Eureka Friday Night Market this September. In partnership with Humboldt Made and the City of Eureka, Sensi Emerald Triangle hosted a block party to educate the community about the legal cannabis industry while enjoying food, music, family, and friends.

48 NOVEMBER 2019 Emerald Triangle

Where: Old Town Eureka, Humboldt County When: September 23, 2019

sensimag.com NOVEMBER 2019 49

{HereWeGo }

by N O R A M O U N C E

NOW STREAMING: GANJA YOGA The patron saint of Ganja Yoga shares her recipe for wellness with the masses.

Know your audience. For years, Dee Dussault worked

pose to pose, Dussault’s classes also offer seasoned yogis

the timeless mantra to build a loyal following for her be-

a chance to slow roll their practice with sticky-sweet se-

loved Ganja Yoga classes in San Francisco. Though a prac-

quencing creates a retreat for mind and body.

to develop a positive relationship with cannabis.

“The mental chatter slows down to more easily connect with the profound space and silence inside,” Dussault ex-

“I could quiet my mind in ways I had never before

plains. “Pot helped me tune into my body and connect to

been able to do, despite my many years on the mat,”

the stretching muscles. It wasn’t all shamanic voyaging into

writes Dussault in Ganja Yoga: A Practical Guide to Con-

darkness,” she writes in her book.

scious Relaxation, Soothing Pain Relief, and Enlightened

During Dussault’s live ganja yoga classes, no one is re-

Self-Discovery, published in 2017 by Harper Collins.

quired to consume cannabis, nor does Dussault prescribe

Now, Dussault is taking Ganja Yoga into homes across

any certain delivery method (edibles, vape pen, smoking

the country with the release of online Ganja Yoga classes

flower) or THC:CBD ratio. Instead, she starts with an in-

this December.

formal “Stoner’s Social” before meditation and then of-

“If you’re not sure you can do it, know that I’ve taught

fers the option to imbibe in a cannabis product of choice

ganja yoga to an 80-year-old MS patient in a wheelchair, a

throughout class. Online, the ganja component is simply

man recovering from a 10-year coma, veterans, and many

a brief mention of toking up before class followed by a

inflexible people who claimed they couldn’t ‘do yoga,’”

few vape/smoke breaks throughout the video; this leaves

writes Dussault. While an outsider might assume “elevat-

Dussault ample time to focus on her first love, yoga. A se-

ed” or “infused” yoga is only for seriously bendy students,

rious teacher committed to healthy alignment and ther-

Dussault’s disarming manner and soothing voice make

apeutic movement, Dussault’s online ganja classes offer

the experience feel more cozy, unpretentious, and inclu-

perceptive suggestions for at-home yogis to modify their

sive than your typical yoga studio. Truly appropriate for

practice for every unique body.

beginners, with careful instruction on transitioning from

To try online ganja yoga at home, visit GANJAYOGA.COM

50 NOVEMBER 2019 Emerald Triangle

PHOTO CREDITS (FROM LEFT): JENNIFER SKOG // MONICA LO

titioner of yoga since age 15, it took Dussault many years

PERMISSION TO RELAX AND ENJOY At Garden Society, we are constantly looking for ways to make the ordinary, extraordinary. We strive for exceedingly great products, made with uncompromising quality, that turn down the daily chaos and turn up the joy. It’s cannabis with a fresh perspective.

Cannabis with a fresh perspective.

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