Sensi Magazine - Southern Colorado (September 2017)

S OU T HER N COL OR ADO

BA NISH the

MUNCHIES

Healthy Snack Alternatives

L AUGH

factory

The Rise of the Local Comedy Scene

09.2017

money to

BURN Marketing Breaks Away from the Clichés

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SEPTEMBE R 2017

contents.

ISSUE 5 // VOLUME 1 // 09.2017

THE change +

culture ISSUE

FEATURES 32

Hack the Munchies

How to deal with the cravings—plus healthy snack alternatives.

38

S P EC I A L R E P O R T

Going Mainstream

To reach the coveted new demographic of cannabis users,

marketers are realizing they have to reach beyond the tired old stoner stereotypes.

44

The Local Stand-Up Scene is No Joke

The 719 area code is known for a lot of things, but can it be funny?

ISSUE

EVERY 7 Editor’s Note 8 SensiBuzz 12 NewsFeed

44

32 MUNCHIES NO MORE!

Smarter ways to get your snack on

Just the Facts

1 6 CrossRoads The New Neighborly

38

20 EdibleCritic

best of soco

24 AroundTown

fall arts preview

28 TravelWell

LE AF PEEPING

48 SensiScene

SENSI NIGHT SOCO

50 SoCO

ArtoCade

Sensi Southern Colorado is published monthly in Denver, CO, by Sensi Media Group LLC. © 2017 sensi media group llc. All rights reserved.

SEPTEMBE R 2017

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5

mast sensi magazine

EXECUTIVE

FOLLOW US

Ron Kolb

CEO, Sensi Media Group

ron.kolb @ sensimag.com

Tae Darnell

President, Sensi Media Group

TAE.DARNELL @ sensimag.com

Alex Martinez

GENERAL MANAGER

ALEX.MARTINEZ @ sensimag.com

sensimediagroup

EDITORIAL Stephanie Wilson

editor in chief

STEPHANIE.wilson @ sensimag.com

Randy Robinson

managing editor

RANDY.ROBINSON @ sensimag.com

Leland Rucker

SENIOR editor

LELAND.RUCKER @ sensimag.com

sensimagazine

ART & DESIGN Jennifer Tyson

DESIGN DIRECTOR

JENNIFER.TYSON @ sensimag.com

John “Ljfresh” Gray

Head of Production

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contributing PHOTOGRAPHER

sensimag

BU S I N E S S & A DM I N I S T R AT I V E Liana Cameris

publisher

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Associate Publisher

Liana.cameris @ sensimag.com tara.schwartz @ sensimag.com

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Chief Administrator

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MARKETING DIRECTOR

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Hector Irizarry

Distribution

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6

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SEPTEMBE R 2017

head.

CULTURE

editor’s

NOTE

shifts back

ISSUE 5 VOLUME 1 09.2017

A DV I SORY B OA R D 1906 New Highs // Chocol ate

When Sensi Magazine first started in the spring of 2016, our mission was ambitious yet simple: Shift the culture by documenting the New Normal. By

Craft // Recreational Concentrates

“shift the culture,” we meant present cannabis in a revolutionary way, by incor-

Compliant Packaging // Packaging

porating this plant into the publication as just a normal, everyday part of life.

Dabble Extracts // Medical Concentrates

Since then, cannabis has made its way into morning show segments, wedding bouquets, gourmet truffles, and even Martha Stewart’s holiday brownies.

Doctors of Natural Medicine // Medical center

Then, two months ago, the unthinkable happened. On July 1, Nevada finally

Faragosi Farms // Recreational Dispensary

opened its recreational pot shops. The first customer was Tick Segerblom, a

GreenHouse Payment Solutions //

state senator, who made this historic first purchase while encircled by local

PAYMENT PROCESSING

and national media. To think, just 25 years ago, Bill Clinton flippantly claimed he “didn’t inhale” when he admitted to smoking pot. Even Barack Obama’s

GRND Staffing Solutions // Recruitment

smoky Choom Gang photos from college stirred some controversy back in

Happy-Kitchens // Home Edible Maker

2008. Today, we have politicians like Segerblom openly buying legal cannabis

Herbal Healing // CompliancE

to a chorus of cheers and a parade of smiles.

Colorado remains ground zero for the Great Cannabis Experiment. Our

IHR // MMJ & Hemp Waste Management

state started this wave of normalization across the country and around the

King’s Cannabiz // Medical Dispensary

world. But our way of life continues to evolve while neighboring states play

Lux Leaf // education

catch-up. As the culture shifts toward a greater acceptance of cannabis, its medical properties, and its burgeoning recreational industries, we’re seeing

Maceau Law // Legal

something else happen: cannabis is shifting our culture, too.

Monte Fiore Farms //

These cultural and societal shifts have made our state a veritable goldmine

Recreational Cultivation

for researchers and academics. CSU-Pueblo, once a tiny three-room school

Show Me Kindness // Caregiver

hidden in the Pueblo County Courthouse, commands the Institute of Can-

Stained Glass // Medical Cultivation

nabis Research, a multidisciplinary project designed to understand the effects

Studio A64 // Cannabis Club

legal cannabis has not only on our health but also on our economy, our education, and our way-of-life in general.

Taste Budz // Confections

Southern Colorado is witnessing shifts outside of academia as well. The rising comedy scene in Colorado Springs and Pueblo may one day rival Den-

M E DI A PA RT N E RS

ver’s top-dog status, and in these pages, we speak to two of the men leading

National Cannabis Industry Association

that charge. The surge in our region’s commerce is stimulating artistic output, as our fall art preview offers a mere glimpse at what’s coming in the

Women Grow

approaching months. And this month’s Special Report looks into how namebrand corporations are finally embracing cannabis by catering to our sensimilla sensibilities.

Where do we go from here? It’s hard to tell, but we’re all in it now, and

© KIM SIDWELL

we’re cruising toward the future together.

Randy Robinson

managing editor

sensi southern colorado

SEPTEMBE R 2017

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7

sensi

buzz

the ne w n o r m al

DID YOU KNOW ?

Colorado Creative Districts are officially designated areas deemed by Colorado Creative Industries (a division of the state’s Office of Economic Development) as hubs of “vigorous arts and cultural activity.” These community hot spots host enriching events — art walks, craft festivals, performances, concerts, and other gatherings — that draw people together throughout the year. There are four such districts in Southern Colorado, each one distinct, vibrant, and worthy of exploration.

–STEPHANIE WILSON

Corazón de Trinidad Creative District corazondetrinidad.org

hot happening Join 100,000 other hotheads for mild, medium, hot, and XXX-hot Mosco, Mirasol, Big Jim, and dozens of other chile varieties at the 23rd Annual Chile & Frijoles Festival, a celebration of Pueblo’s harvest season presented

by Loaf ‘N Jug. The three-day affair brings together music, vendors hawking artistic wares, cooking competitions, and spicy food galore. The menu includes green chile hot dogs, jam, jerky, burgers, and the iconic roasted chile and cheese quesadillas. You can also nab locally grown green chiles—roasted or raw—by the bushel along Pueblo’s Union Avenue Historic District.

–JOHN LEHNDORFF

T he 23rd A nnual C h i l e & Frijol e s Fes t i va l

September 22-24 // Downtown Pueblo pueblochilefestivalinfo.com

Pueblo’s Creative Corridor

puebloarts.org/about/pueblo - creative - corridor

Downtown Colorado Springs Creative District

downtowncs.com/live/arts -and - entertainment

Manitou Springs Creative District manitouspringsartscouncil.org/ manitou - springs - creative - district

thunderbirds

are go!

8

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This year’s Pikes Peak Regional Airshow at the Colorado Springs Airport marks a momentous occasion. Taking place September 23 and 24, the airshow is just a week after the 70th anniversary of the founding of the United States Air Force, and a Platinum Jubilee of this magnitude calls for world-class headliners: the USAF Thunderbirds, the world’s third-oldest squadron of aircraft acrobats celebrated around the globe for their pinpoint synchronicity. The Thunderbirds join a lineup that includes the USAF Wings of Blue parachute team, aerobatics performances featuring a range of history-making aircraft, a bomber and fighter parade, displays of US Army vehicles, and more. Get there early for a chance to walk the flight line and check out the performance planes. Tickets start at $25. For more info: ppRairshow.org –randy robinson

SEPTEMBE R 2017

Leland’s

sensibilities

Sensi Senior Editor LEL AND RUCKER on the Elevation Blues The hoary anti-drug warrior and conservative pundit William Bennet t was in Denver recently to speak to the American Legislative Exchange Council ( ALEC) convention. He said Colorado would soon regret legalizing cannabis. “Why in God’s name would you make a drug available to children that destroys or inhibits focus or at tention?” he asked his audience.

Bennett, of course, would like to see ALEC—a nonprofit organization that mixes lawmakers with lobbyists to advance conservative agendas—write legislation that would return us to the glory days, back when he was director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy under George H. W. Bush and approving enormous amounts of tax money for preposterous policies like Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) and Just Say No in his unending quest to keep us from using cannabis.

Bennett still evokes the same tired tropes he used 30 years ago. Legalizing cannabis for medical and adult use hasn’t made cannabis more available to children—quite the contrary—but it does place more of the yoke of responsibility on parents, which is where it should be, especially since we are finding out that parents are a majority of cannabis users. I’m not in favor of children using it, but to try and stop at least one-sixth of the adult populace, probably more since most users can’t admit their illegality, from using a plant when a significant number of © KIM SIDWELL

that populace is raising kids is, well, preposterous.

Ever think of working with parents on education instead of this quixotic effort to stop cannabis use? Bring back DARE? Why would it be any less a failure today? People like Bennett won’t be happy until we’re buying plastic bags of weed from the cartels again.

And it begs another question we tend to ignore: Why is cannabis’s altered state of consciousness so bad? We modify our brains with substances and stimuli every day, but for some reason the cannabis “high” is so much more dangerous than any others.

Alcohol gets you high, with often stupid and sometimes disastrous and violent results, yet many who oppose pot celebrate alcohol use while watching a sports event.

People drink coffee daily for its buzz and stimulation. Pharmaceutical drugs make people high, and addictively so, just one of the reasons we’re awash in opioids.

I think of the many congresspeople willing to accept medical marijuana but who balk at recreational—even though both elevate you, and as we’re finding out (see last month’s story on the endocannabinoid system on sensimag.com), the elevation is part of the healing, too. Just as it is with oxycodone.

It’s madness. It makes no sense. Sometimes, frustratingly, #thenewnormal isn’t much different from the old one.

–LEL AND RUCKER

SEPTEMBE R 2017

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9

{newsfeed}

by Randy robinson

JUST THE FAC TS CSU-Pueblo’s Institute of Cannabis Research intends to answer some pressing questions for our state’s most famous industry. What are their researchers looking for, and how may their findings impact our way of life?

Over half a million Coloradans consume cannabis

MacColl recently took over the ICR after years of

at least once a month. The industry rakes in hundreds

working in management and education. She says she

of millions of dollars a year but many questions remain

has no prior experience with cannabis or the cannabis

unanswered: How is this new industry shaping the jobs

industry, but these traits are precisely what CSU-Pueb-

market? What long-term effects will all this widespread

lo was looking for to preserve the program’s objectivi-

smoking and vaping have on the population? And how

ty. Besides, ICR’s projects at CSU-Pueblo work with the

do we keep kids away from it, even as we tote legaliza-

kind of cannabis that lacks the party factor.

tion’s wholesale successes?

The Institute of Cannabis Research (ICR) at Colora-

hemp,” MacColl adds. “We’re not studying marijuana

do State University-Pueblo was founded last year to

on campus.” Although hemp and marijuana are both

examine the effects generated by Colorado’s cannabis

Cannabis sativa, hemp is legally defined as cannabis

industry. To date, ICR is the only university research

with less than 0.3 percent THC, the molecule respon-

program looking at the overall societal impact of legal

sible for the plant’s elevating effects.

cannabis, though its laboratories have undertaken several medical and biological projects, too.

12

“We know it’s controversial, but we’re studying

Cultivators in Colorado primarily grow hemp not for industrial purposes such as textiles or ropes but for CBD

ICR’s goal, however, is understanding, not endorse-

extraction. CBD, another molecule found in cannabis,

ment. “We’re for cannabis research,” says Wendy Mac-

doesn’t have psychoactivity like THC but it possesses

Coll, the director of ICR. “We’re not a cannabis advocacy

many promising medicinal properties. Marijuana can

center institute. We’re just interested in the research

contain CBD, but hemp produces much more. CBD prod-

regarding what goes into this plant and the many dif-

ucts such as oils and edibles are often touted as com-

ferent aspects of it that this research can confirm—

pletely legal and safe for pets, but there isn’t much

or eliminate.”

peer-reviewed research on CBD’s long-term effects.

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SEPTEMBE R 2017

SEPTEMBE R 2017

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13

No More Anecdotes : Real Science Jeff Smith, PhD, a molecular biologist at the university, leads a study into CBD and its consequences for memory formation. From a medical perspective, increased e n e r gy

Uplifting & Euphoric

e l e va t e d alertness

Heightened Creativity

such as post-traumatic stress disorder, a condition

SATIVA

where traumatic memories can lead to insomnia, eat-

We’ve got the whole spectrum covered

INDICA

z

z

certain memories can contribute to health problems,

ing disorders, mood swings, and even suicide. Since PTSD recently became a qualifying condition for medical marijuana in Colorado, Smith’s data could prove invaluable as more veterans and trauma survivors

z

turn to cannabis for relief.

Sleep Aid

deep relaxation

Pain Relief

appetite stimulant

“Any medicine can be used properly and can be misused, and we want to know the proper way to use cannabinoids as medicine,” says Smith. “If you want to know how to properly use a drug, or how it can harm people, you need to know how it works.”

According to Smith, a growing body of research shows CBD can reinforce certain types of memories, specifically those formed from “fear learning.” Fear learning occurs when individuals develop behaviors to avoid or adapt to a traumatizing or fear-inducing event.

Hypothetically, CBD’s ability to solidify the formation of memories could be detrimental—if it were given to a soldier in a war zone, for example. However, Smith believes CBD could alleviate PTSD by enhancing the practice of “exposure therapy,” a type of therapy where patients overcome their fears by being exposed to trauma triggers in a controlled manner.

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SEPTEMBE R 2017

Smith’s lab is one of 10 under the ICR. Dr. Barbara Brett in the school’s psychology department runs an investigation into cannabis therapies for seizures that do not respond to conventional medicines. Another study, led by Dr. Chad Kinney, seeks to find more efficient ways to extract CBD from hemp. Dr. Brian Vanden Heuvel’s lab wants to see how well hemp can remove sewage sludge from landfills.

But not every project at the ICR involves directly handling cannabis or its constituent cannabinoids.

Some studies do not even concern themselves with

the plant per se but rather are looking at how legaliza-

the brightest and most curious brains in cannabis

tion’s effects are rippling through society. One of these

can meet to share ideas.

studies, co-investigated by Drs. Sue Pettit and Margie

Earlier this year, CSU-Pueblo kicked off the program

Massey, explores data on cannabis use among minors,

with the first ICR conference. According to Jennifer

and intends to discover new methods to improve drug

Mullen, then the interim director of ICR, the confer-

education curricula to keep kids away from pot in a state

ence drew attendees from 21 US states and 10 coun-

where there are more dispensaries than there are Mc-

tries. Some of the most prominent visitors were re-

Donald’s, 7-Elevens, and Starbucks combined.

searchers from Israel—including the most influential

Brad Gilbreath, a professor of business, never needs

cannabis scientist in the world.

to touch cannabis for his research, either. He wants to

Dr. Raphael Mechoulam, who delivered the key-

know about the quality of jobs created by Colorado’s

note speech at ICR’s first conference, has been dubbed

legal cannabis. In 2015, estimates from the Marijuana

the “father of cannabis science.” In the 1960s, he was

Policy Group suggested Colorado’s cannabis industry

the first chemist to isolate and identify THC. His ground-

created over 18,000 full-time positions since legal-

breaking discovery was only possible because Israeli

ization, but whether these are good jobs, where em-

police allowed him to smuggle 11 pounds of Red Leb-

ployees feel fulfilled and secure, has yet to be an-

anese—considered the Middle East’s finest hash-

I n 2 0 1 5 , estim at es f rom t h e M a r i j ua na P ol i cy G r o up s u gg es ted o ur c an n ab i s i n d u st r y cre ated o v e r 1 8 , 0 0 0 f ull - time p o sitio n s si n ce l e g a li z a tio n , b ut w h et h er t h ese are good j ob s , w h ere em p l o y ees f e el f ul f illed and secur e , h as yet t o b e ans were d . swered. Gilbreath plans to share his findings with

ish—from an evidence locker to his lab at the Uni-

business owners in the cannabis industry so man-

versity of Tel Aviv.

agers can apply the research toward better business practices.

Mechoulam’s story illustrates the obstacles current-day researchers experience when trying to work

“Employees tend to be happiest at jobs where

with cannabis and its extracts. State agencies, in ac-

they’re doing something they really believe in,” says

cordance with federal and international laws, keep a

Gilbreath. “I’m still collecting the data, but I suspect

tight leash on cannabis research—so tight even the

we’ll see that a lot of people in the cannabis industry

most straight-laced scientists cannot get access to

are happy with their jobs because they see them-

it, which is one of the reasons CSU-Pueblo chose to

selves doing something that benefits society.”

work mainly with hemp over marijuana.

Mechoulam’s catalogue of research into CBD for

A Gathering of Insightful Minds

treating nausea in children on chemotherapy, osteo-

ICR conducts research, but understanding in ac-

porosis in women and the elderly, Alzheimer’s, and

ademia goes far beyond gathering information and

pain management went largely ignored for almost half

forming conclusions. Director MacColl says the ICR is

a century. Now, research initiatives such as those con-

currently putting together a peer-reviewed journal for

ducted by ICR can build on his findings and those of

cannabis research. In addition to an academic jour-

others to finally shift our culture toward a more en-

nal, the ICR also hosts an annual conference where

lightened future.

SEPTEMBE R 2017

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15

{crossroads}

by RICARDO BACA

coming out Opening up about your personal cannabis use to the people in your orbit can be a scary step—and it’s one worth taking.

At first I was slightly baffled when the overly fa-

malization: You actually forget about the larger-than-

miliar Uber Eats driver standing on my front porch

life cannabis leaf in your front yard—an eye-magnet

gave me a confident fist-bump and a knowing wink.

many passers-by see on a daily basis. And perhaps the

The older gentleman, rocking greased-back hair

greatest sign of this crazy-normalized world we live

and a Led Zeppelin T-shirt, had left his car running and

in: I impulse-purchased that doormat last year at the

double-parked on the street, the driver’s side door

Bed, Bath & Beyond down the street as I was refilling

flung wide open and blaring a classic rock jam into the

my SodaStream CO2 carbonators.

dark and otherwise quiet night.

“The delivery dude just winked at me,” I told my

by the legalization of cannabis. We can walk into shops

wife a few moments later as we excitedly unpacked

and purchase edibles as if they were a six-pack. We

our favorite Chinese take-out onto the kitchen count-

can attend luxe marijuana-infused dinner parties with

er. “It seemed friendly and all, but I still don’t know

open consumption. And we can be more open about

what that was all about.”

our own relationships with cannabis—with our friends,

And that’s when my lady solved the mystery: “Do you think he noticed the doormat?”

16

These are only some of the luxuries we’re afforded

our families, and our neighbors.

And this is a unique part of the normalization con-

Of course the delivery driver saw the doormat—a

versation, communicating with our neighbors about

durable coco mat emblazoned with the word WELCOME

our personal consumption patterns. In a way it can be

underneath a large, green cannabis leaf. But the mat

more daunting than opening up to your own family.

has been sitting outside our front door for more than a

Think about it: Your house represents the biggest

year now, so it was I who had forgotten it was there.

financial investment you’ll ever make. So you’re spend-

You know you live in a normalized state when you

ing hundreds of thousands of dollars (if not more) on

flaunt your affinity for a Schedule I substance at your

this property that shares boundaries with people you’ve

home’s very entryway. An even greater sign of nor-

never met before moving in. (Even if you’re renting in-

www.sensimag.com

SEPTEMBE R 2017

RICARDO baca is a veteran journalist and the founder and original editor in chief of The Cannabist.

His content agency Grasslands works primarily with cannabis and hemp businesses on messaging and branding via thoughtful and personalized content campaigns.

SEPTEMBE R 2017

www.sensimag.com

17

stead of buying, it’s not like you were able to pick your neighbors in the process.)

Our conversations since then—usually spurred

Some of us are lucky enough to have quality neigh-

by her hearing me interviewed on NPR or seeing my

bors—people with whom you can communicate on

writings in the Denver Post—usually follow the same

important and often complex issues. But others aren’t

path. I don’t preach to her, or anyone else for that

so lucky, and those strained relationships with the

matter. But I do step in to correct any of her outdated

folks living in the closest proximity to your home can

notions about cannabis as they occasionally surface.

complicate matters quickly.

Me, I’m a lucky one. My longstanding neighbor to the north is a kind-hearted older woman who loves

Still, these over-the-fence back-and-forths are significant. Here we are, neighbors of 15 years, talking about something so complicated as cannabis use.

gardening, maintains a beautiful yard, and is the block’s

I took that conversation a couple steps further one

de facto neighborhood watch. My neighbors to the

night with my other neighbors, the young couple. It

south are a young Latino couple who have lived next

was a Friday evening, and I was sweaty and covered in

door for more than a decade; I’ve watched their son

dirt while (appropriately) weeding our front yard. I was

grow up, and we have each other’s backs—even while

about 15 milligrams into some energizing edibles and

our chihuahuas noisily raise hell each time they’re in

finishing my second ice-cold water bottle when the

our abutting backyards at the same time.

couple pulled up and started chatting me up.

The first time my gardener neighbor and I talked cannabis was pretty straightforward.

“I don’t like it myself,” she quipped. “I prefer to get

18

high on my walks. I feel so great after a good walk.”

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SEPTEMBE R 2017

After a few pleasantries about their night (margarita happy hour at a favorite Mexican resto) and my night (yard work while the wife was out with friends),

they complimented my hard labor and apologized for

another hour, packing the disheveled weeds into trash

the way I was spending a beautiful Friday evening.

bags and cleaning up the mess I’d made. As I surveyed

“Oh, I’m actually having a blast right now,” I told

my handiwork, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of ac-

them, inspiring a confused stare back in my direction.

complishment. Sure, my yard looked so much better

“When I got home from work, I ate some edibles and

than before, but I also felt better and more transparent

put on some music, and three hours later here I am.”

about my newfound openness with my neighbors.

I must have looked like a crazy person—sweaty,

I found that night, and it’s something that remains

filthy, stinky, and smiling. And while I was immediately

true to this day, that opening up about my own relation-

nervous about my admission as soon as the words “I

ship with marijuana to the people closest to my person-

ate some edibles” escaped my mouth, when I told my

al orbit has been nothing but a good thing. It helps us

dear neighbors who I adore and respect, I felt a weight

understand one another on a deeper level, and it helps

lift off my shoulders.

us build a better and more honest community.

And I felt even better when my admission spurred

This newfound depth of openness is certainly a by-

an awesomely normal conversation with the neigh-

product of legalization, and something that isn’t as

bors about cannabis legalization, about its known

commonplace in prohibition states. And like the mari-

effects on our city and populace, and about my own

juana sales that have recently become so normal, this

personal consumption habits.

newfound ability to be more forthcoming with our

They laughed when I told them I didn’t smoke mar-

opinions on cannabis—with our neighbors, with those

ijuana, that I only eat it. And as they went inside their

delivering our favorite Chinese take-out, and with oth-

house for the evening, I lingered in my front yard for

ers—isn’t something we should ever take for granted.

SEPTEMBE R 2017

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19

{ediblecritic}

by JOHN LEHNDORF F

LE T US KNOW about SoCo FOOD

Send tips on your favorite eateries, bakeries, chocolatiers, and other food crafters and attractions in Southern Colorado to ediblecritic @ sensiMAG.com .

20

www.sensimag.com

SEPTEMBE R 2017

JOHN L EHNDORFF writes the Nibbles column for the Boulder Weekly and hosts Radio Nibbles on KGNU: NEWSKGnu.org/ category/radio-nibbles .

SOUTHERN COMFORT The lower Front Range is Colorado’s secret stash of great taste destinations.

After decades in the shade of states on the coasts,

Pizza, Poetry, Pastry & Whiskey

Colorado is finally getting its day in the culinary spot-

Some destinations have everything going for them.

light. Chefs and sommeliers here are winning national

Poor Richard’s packs a few of my favorites in a block-

honors. List after national list of the best foodie towns

long building with a toy store, bookstore, coffee shop, gift

or places to drink beer or eat farm-to-table cuisine now

shop, and an eatery that bakes great whole wheat pizza

spotlight destinations in the state. This summer the in-

topped with a sauce made from fresh tomatoes. The

augural Slow Food Nations brought the world’s foodies

Colorado Springs menu boasts lots of vegetarian, vegan,

to Denver and the big food event will return next July.

and diet-sensitive options, which are balanced out by a

The recognition is well-deserved but the kudos are

notably dense, sweet, and yummy coconut cream pie.

almost exclusively focused on Denver, Boulder, and a

324 1/2 N. Tejon St. // Colorado Springs

few mountain resort towns like Aspen, Vail, and Tel-

poorrichardsdowntown.com

luride. The rest of the state including the southern Front Range seems to be regarded as foodless places

Across town The Ivywild School is the kind of learning

to fly over on the way to dinner.

institution we can all support. Set in a rehabbed school,

We know better.

the edifice encompasses the Bristol Brewery, The Prin-

SoCo’s attractions go way beyond the famous spots

cipal’s Office (coffee and wine), the Meat Locker (butch-

and experiences such as The Broadmoor’s splendid

er), Old School Bakery (bread and pastries), and Axe and

Sunday brunch, the summer Saturday night wine din-

the Oak (distillery and tasting room).

ners in the Vista Dome car on the Royal Gorge Route

1604 S. Cascade Ave. // Colorado Springs

Railroad, and the Boeing KC-97 tanker that serves

ivywildschool.com

as a dining room at The Airplane Restaurant.

As a longtime Colorado food journalist, I’ve been

Pie & Doughnuts & Pignoli Cookies

lucky enough to make many memorable road trips

I like Amy’s Donuts because you can choose the filling

through the region looking for tastes that I couldn’t

you want injected into your Glazed, Almond Banana

forget. I’m sharing some of my favorite spots, but

Caramel, or Zesty Lemon confection.

keep them to yourself. You don’t want hordes of hip-

2704 E. Fountain Blvd. // Colorado Springs

ster foodies descending on Black Forest or Pueblo.

amysdonuts.com SEPTEMBE R 2017

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21

The otherwise ordinary, weekday-only Corner C afe is worth a visit because the owners believe in the great American pie tradition. They slice generous wedges of everything from Apple Raisin and Buttermilk Pecan to towering Lemon Meringue pies.

7 E. Vermijo Ave. // Colorado Springs cornercafecs.com

Pueblo’s East Coast Pizza and Bakery

does a good

job of living up to its name with reputable pizza, pasta, and eggplant parm grinders. What really floats my boat is the counter full of biscotti, ricotta pie, tricolor cake, cannoli, and pignoli cookies.

1638 W. US Hwy. 50 // Pueblo EastCoastPizzaPueblo.com

The Slopper & The Chile Cheeseburger At

Bingo Burger

Pueblo’s finest crop—the Mosco

(or Pueblo) chile pepper—is celebrated in a big way.

Chopped roasted chilies are added to the beef before burgers are griddled and topped with chile cheddar and red (ripe) green chilies.

101 Central Pl aza // Pueblo 132 N. Tejon St. // Colorado Springs bingoburger.com

It was at the down-home Gray’s Coors Tavern that Pueblo’s most iconic dish was invented. The Slopper is two open-face cheeseburgers in an oval bowl inundated with pork green chile sauce, chopped onions, grated cheese, and/or saltines.

© bingo burger

515 W. Fourth St. // Pueblo // 719-544-0455

22

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SEPTEMBE R 2017

Pizzelles & Peanut Brit tle As the grandson of an Italian-American grocer, I find Gagliano’s Italian Market

always makes me talk

with my hands. It’s natural when I come home to crisp pizzelle cookies and classic chile Italian pork sausage sandwiches with whole milk mozzarella. The historic store is jam-packed with Italian grocery items, Sicilian flags, and Torrone almond nougat.

1220 Elm St. // Pueblo // 719-544-6058

Endless free samples of caramels, brittles, salt water taffy, fudge, and dozens of other candies are the lure to visit Patsy’s Candies factory store, where the behind-the-scenes tours of the candy-making process stays with you. Immersed in a sugary perfume, the tour is a thrill for a machinery geek and concludes next to a cauldron filled with 2,500 pounds of liquid milk chocolate … and more sweet samples.

1540 S. 21st St. // Colorado Springs 930 Manitou Ave. // Manitou Springs patsyscandies.com

Rellenos & Fideo Not far from the lighted bocce ball court in downtown Trinidad, Mission at the Bell inconspicuously dishes rellenos worthy of the spotlight and a break from the highway. Large whole-roasted peppers filled with cheddar are lightly battered and served with fideo — a vermicelli side dish—and a choice of five heat-seeking chile sauces.

’s SoCO GLOBA L TASTES { Mofongo to Lumpia }

Southern Colorado has been a magnet for centuries for immigrants who brought along their cuisines from Italy, Eastern Europe, and Spain, and Mexico.

Now the region is drawing new residents from around the world, judging by the array of international dishes available at local ethnic eateries.

Jamaican Flavor

Jamaican curry goat with dumplings and fish fritters 3016 S. Academy Blvd. // Colorado Springs // 719-391-0142

L and of the Pyramids

Egyptian lamb stew, rice pudding, and koshari 905 W. Garden of the Gods Road // Colorado Springs 719-445- 0997

Mi Viejo San Juan Puerto Rican mofongo—a spicy plantain mash—with mojito or salsa verde 1861 S. Academy Blvd. // Colorado Springs // 719-632-6619

You -Ka Café

Filipino longanisa burger, salted egg salad, and lumpia egg rolls 3743 Bloomington St. // Colorado Springs // 719-309-6934

Mr. Tandoori Urban Bar and Grill Indian shrimp vindaloo with Pueblo chile naan 310 S. Victoria Ave. // Pueblo // pueblomrtandoori.com

134 W. Main St. // Trinidad // 719-845-1513

Hellish Pizza & Heavenly Spätzle Meanwhile, tiding of comfort and apple strudel mit schlag (whipped cream) bring me back time and again

Puukaow Thai Restaurant

Thai Red curry with pumpkin (5-star “Extremely hot! No refunds!”)

1021 Market Plaza North // Pueblo West puukaowthai.com

to the Edleweiss. Heavenly Wiener schnitzel, housebaked brötchen rolls, and spätzle dumpling-ettes

Don’t let the bright red and slightly satanic decor scare

with gravy call my name. Guests have been known to

you off from Ruffrano’s Hell’s Kitchen Pizza and its

hum “Climb Every Mountain” while sipping lager from

mountain variation on authentic New York pies.

a glass boot.

9 Ruxton Ave. // Manitou Springs

34 E. Ramona Ave. // Colorado Springs

1670 E. Cheyenne Mountain Blvd. // Colorado Springs

edelweissrest.com

ruffranoshellskitchenpizza.com

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23

{aroundtown}

by Randy robinson

artistically inclined Autumn signals a new season for the arts.

What’s coming to us this fall?

This fall, the lineup of arts and cultural experiences

this genre utilize as mere samples: the violin and the

in Southern Colorado includes a vast intersection of

viola. Influenced as much by Mozart as by Grandmas-

perspectives and approaches. While next month is

ter Flash, Black Violin’s songs fuse classical music with

officially Arts Month in the Pikes Peak region—a

hip-hop, bringing fresh vitality to both genres. Catch

period during which everyone is encouraged to have at

the group on September 26 in Colorado Springs at the

least one new cultural experience—September is rife

pikes peak Center and on September 27 at Duran-

with events, exhibits, and shows that can whet your

go’s COMMUNIT Y CONCERT HALL .

cultural whistle. You can listen to hip-hop driven by violin strings, witness romantic love expressed through a

visual

science lesson, and ponder Armageddon embodied as

The Sangre de Cristo Arts Center serves as

opalescent floating forms. The following is a preview of

an anchor site along Pueblo’s Creative Corridor, Colo-

a few of the most anticipated autumn arts events hap-

rado’s largest certified arts district. This museum has

pening in the southern Colorado region.

featured local and international talent alike over the years, and this fall will be no different.

MUSICAL

24

For starters, you can still catch Ramona Lapsley’s

The award-winning team at the DURANGO arts

My World until September 24. Lapsley, an elementary

center is presenting the head-banging Rock of Ages

school art teacher at Fort Carson, offers her collection

from September 7 to 10. If you missed the recent Tom

of linoleum block prints that capture the magnificence

Cruise movie version, here’s a plot primer: Rock of Ages

of the ordinary world. There are few opportunities to

tells the story of a rowdy rock star and a lowly bus-

see a bird feeder through the kaleidoscopic lens of

boy who join forces to stop money-hungry land devel-

seemingly living colors—this is one of them.

opers from demolishing Hollywood’s Sunset Strip.

Also running until September 24 is Sordid and Sa-

The musical incorporates songs from some of the

cred: The Beggars in Rembrandt’s Etchings. Yes, that

1980s’ most hair-ilicious glam metal bands, includ-

Rembrandt. This exhibit of the Dutch master’s orig-

ing tunes by Pat Benatar, Twisted Sister, Bon Jovi,

inal sketches features one of his favorite subjects—

and Poison. Trust us: you’ll want to sing along.

street beggars—conceptualized as biblical char-

Later in the month, a different kind of musical art

acters. The priceless Villarino collection showcases

takes center stage. Black Violin, a Florida-based hip-

Rembrandt’s genius in its earliest steps, cataloguing

hop duo, rely on two instruments that most artists in

the transition of his ideas from blueprint to canvas.

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{ LOCATIONS } DURANGO arts center 802 E. 2nd Ave. // Durango Durangoarts.org

pikes peak center

190 S. Cascade Ave. // Colorado Springs pikespeakcenter.com

COMMUNITY CONCERT HALL 1000 Rim Dr. // Durango Durangoconcerts.com

Sangre de Cristo Arts Center

Theatreworks at the Dusty Loo Bon Vivant Center 3955 Regent Cir. // Colorado Springs theatreworkscs.org

colorado springs fine arts center

ABOVE :

30 W. Dale St. // Colorado Springs csfineartscenter.org

Wendy Mike and De Lane Bredvik’s exhibit Ragnarök SEPTEMBE R 2017

www.sensimag.com

Courtesy of the FINE ARTS CENTER

210 N. Santa Fe Ave. // Pueblo sdc-arts.org

25

The colorado springs fine arts center em-

THEATRICAL

bodies the spirit of the city’s founder, Gen. William

The name “Heisenberg” may conjure recollections

Jackson Palmer. Palmer wanted the city to be Amer-

of Breaking Bad, and the hit play named after the

ica’s cultural utopia, and although that dream is still

man who inspired Walter White’s infamous alter ego

a work in progress, the local scene continues to en-

on the AMC series is as intriguing as its namesake.

gage and enrich its community. Known as the Broad-

Although the German physicist does not make an

moor Art Academy until the 1930s, it now houses

appearance in Heisenberg, the budding romance that

some of the region’s most important works.

drives the story—a twist on the old trope of two

From now until the first week of January 2018, you

people falling in love at a train station—draws heav-

can see Wendy Mike and De Lane Bredvik’s exhibit Ragnarök, which references the apocalypse from Norse mythology in a most postmodern manner. The Norse finality for the world but rather foretells a planetary rebirth after a series of cleansing deluges and conflagrations. Given the spate of wildfires and floods in the Pikes Peak region over the last few years, the cautionary tale hits close to home. This mixed media exhibit exploits the center’s space, challenging its wandering audience to consider the outcomes of our day-to-day actions.

On the other side of the globe from Scandinavia lies Brazil, a nation rocked in recent months by political upheavals that produce gripping headlines worldwide.

Martinis and art and go together like cocktails and canvases. On September 29, raise a glass of the former while toasting to the latter at ARTINI, the official kickoff party for Arts Month 2017, the fourth-annual celebration of the

Courtesy of SANGRE DE CRISTO ARTS CENTER

Pikes Peak region’s rich cultural offerings. In downtown Colorado Springs, at The Mansion and The Mezzanine nightclubs, musical acts, aerialists, acrobats, and a bunch of local performers will showcase their talents to partygoers sipping on tasty concoctions shaken-not-stirred to palate-pleasing perfection by the area’s top mixologists. Cheers to that.

peakradar.com/ArtsMonth

ily from his quantum concepts of a limitless yet unThe Sculpture Garden at the Sangre de Cristo Arts Center

26

{ art + martini = Artini }

predictable universe. Theatreworks at the Dusty Loo Bon Vivant Center is staging the play from

September 7 through 24.

Raízes/Roots: Transformations in Contemporary Brazil-

On a more playful note, Parallel Lives by Kathy Na-

ian Art brings together the works of Brazilian artists

jimy and Mo Gaffney explores the protocol of two god-

Annie Gonzala, Elisa Reimer, Henrique Oliveira, and

desses as they fashion the rules dictating how their

Ana Carolina Fernandes to pose the question: what

newest creation—humanity—must go about daily

does it mean to be Brazilian in today’s world? Their

existence. This performance, held from September 8

questions—and their answers—may be more rele-

to October 1 at the Pikes Peak Center, features just two

vant to America’s current identity crisis than we may

actors humorously swapping between a multitude of

care to admit.

quirky characters caught in banal but trying situations.

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SEPTEMBE R 2017

Courtesy of pe akradar.com

end-of-days, however, never leads to a permanent

{travelwell}

by DAV INA VAN BUREN

LEAF PEEPING Five places to witness fall foliage in all its golden glory this month.

We may not have the fiery array of color that Appa-

Road winds east to west across the park for 48 miles,

lachia and New England boast, but Colorado autumns

passing through elk-filled meadows and ancient forests

are stunning in their own right. Come fall, the Rockies

while climbing 4,000 feet to the alpine tundra. With 11

are awash with brilliant shades of gold, thanks to the

miles of the road above tree line, the scenic byway of-

aspen groves that call the Centennial State home.

fers a bunch of popular overlooks where you can snap

Like our growing season, the window for leaf peep-

scores of Instagram-worthy panoramic shots of as-

ing is short—a week or two in most places. If you have

pen-dotted forests. For a vantage point that’s more mi-

some flexibility, block out travel dates, then follow the

cro than macro, opt instead to take Old Fall River Road

color. For busier areas like Estes Park, Grand Lake, and

to the Alpine Visitor Center at 12,000 feet. The narrow,

Aspen, however, you’ll want to secure lodging for over-

one-way road climbs a series of switchbacks through

night trips. Whether viewed from the car, the treetops,

the wilderness up to the tundra, where it meets up with

or even your backyard, there’s nothing like this annual

Trail Ridge Road. You can head back to Estes Park or

show from Mother Nature.

continue to the charming town of Grand Lake on the park’s western border. Insider tip: you won’t see moose

Rocky Mountain National Park Looking for the quintessential Colorado mountain

on the eastern side of the park, but they are frequent visitors to the lower elevations on the western side.

drive? Estes Park, with its galleries, cafes, and sweet shops, makes an ideal base from which to explore the

28

aspen

beloved national park. (Plus, September is rutting sea-

As the name indicates, this region is prime leaf view-

son when elk practically take over the village.) To get

ing territory. Just 12 miles southwest of Aspen, the Ma-

a lay of the land, take the Estes Park Aerial Tramway,

roon Bells are striking all year round, with two 14,000-

which passes over shimmering aspen stands as the

foot peaks blanketed with aspens towering above the

car climbs Prospect Mountain just outside of town. At

placid Maroon Lake. But in the early fall, when the lake’s

the summit, you’ll have panoramic views of Longs

mirror-like surface only amplifies the golden glory of

Peak, the Continental Divide, Rocky Mountain Nation-

the season, it’s easy to see why this landmark is called

al Park, and miles of aspen groves. Relish the views

the most photographed spot in Colorado. There are many

from the observation platform or opt for a short hike

hiking trails in the area, but in the fall they can get quite

before you head back down to venture into the park.

crowded with hikers and photographers in cue to cap-

There are no commercial enterprises in the 415-­

ture the iconic shot of these majestic twin fourteeners.

square-mile park, so gas up before you go and bring

Rise above that. Aspen has a number of aerial outfitters

snacks and plenty of water. From Estes Park, Trail Ridge

who can get you a bird’s-eye view of nature’s artistic

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29

display. Soar above the aspen stands in a hot air balloon

to enter the mesa outside of Delta. Encompassing

for a serene early morning viewing. Aspen Paragliding

several hundred square miles, this is the world’s larg-

offers adrenaline junkies an opportunity to view not

est flat-topped mountain, rising 11,000 feet above sea

only the brilliant fall colors but deer, coyotes, and other wildlife from 11,000 feet, sharing the sky with hawks and golden eagles.

Grand Mesa National Forest

For the ultimate in posh leaf-peeping (and to cover maximum ground while rising above it), sit back and relax while Aspen Heli Charter takes you on a private, narrated tour. A favorite aerial route provides soaring views of Mount Sopris, McClure Pass, Snowmass Peak, the Maroon Bells, Pyramid Peak, Snowmass Lake, and Independence Pass.

GRAND MESA One of Colorado’s most underappreciated drives is

30

level. Dress warm: temperatures never rise above 80 degrees on the mesa, even in summer.

from Grand Junction to Grand Mesa. Adrenaline ad-

More than 300 alpine lakes dot the 63-mile drive

dicts with 4-wheel-drive vehicles can take Highway 50

across the mesa, and the postcard-worthy views are

to Lands End Road straight up the side of the moun-

particularly remarkable in fall. At some points, aspen

tain, via a gravel road full of switchbacks. For a more

groves stretch as far as the eye can see. While you’re

leisurely drive, head down US 50 to State Highway 65

marveling at the scenery, you might also spot elk, mule

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SEPTEMBE R 2017

deer, moose, and black bears in the meadows along

golden towers will be gone the next day.

the route.

Devil’s Head Kebler Pass

This adventure starts with a 10-mile drive down

Did you know that aspen stands are actually one

bumpy, gravel roads outside Sedalia—which weeds

living organism? What looks like individual trees are

out the masses. Once you’ve reached the parking

actually “root suckers” from a single seedling. Colorado

area, head for the steps and climb straight into a

is home to one of the largest aspen stands in the world,

shimmering stand of aspens. Take note of the mes-

on Kebler Pass. From the charming town of Crested

sages and symbols carved into the tree trunks by

Butte, County Road 12 starts off paved then turns to

young lovers and BFFs over the years.

smooth gravel before the pass. The 30-mile route takes

Follow the switchbacks past a massive outcrop-

about two hours to complete in normal conditions, and

ping of boulders, through serene groves that appear

peak leaf viewing time is the last week of September.

to glow from within. To the east, you’ll find expansive

The aspens here are massive: tall, mature, and

views of Pike National Forest and downtown Denver

healthy. You’ll want to pull over, get out of your car,

in the distance. Once you reach the clearing, take a

and stand in the presence of these giants. Look for

breather—you’ll need it—before climbing the 143

two marked paths, Dyke Trail and Lost Lake Trail,

steps up to the fire tower. This leg is not for the faint

both about half an hour outside Crested Butte. But

of heart, especially when it’s windy. Those who make

remember: this is high country, and weather is un-

it to the top are rewarded with 360-degree views of

predictable. Be prepared, and know that once the

mountain scenery where millions of golden leaves

first winter storm hits, the delicate leaves of these

tremble in the afternoon sun.

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31

How to DE AL with the CRAVING S — plus HE ALTHY SNACK alternatives.

32

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SEPTEMBE R 2017

hack

by Robyn Griggs L awrence

If you’ve ever smoked a strong

indica , you know the munchies. They’ve

been a thing since humans first began using cannabis. In fact, people in ancient China and India drank cannabis te a a s an appe tite stimulant, and this remedy

shows up MANY TIMES in medical and pharmaceutical texts throughout the ages.

We’ve known for thousands of years that ingesting

The only thing we can control is how we react to

cannabis can inspire hunger. Only recently, though,

this phenomenon, a welcome effect for people who

have we begun to understand why—and it comes

have lost their appetite to wasting disease or chemo-

down to THC, the cannabinoid (chemical compound)

therapy but a scourge of varying degrees for those

found in cannabis plants responsible for the psycho-

watching our waists and our wellness (most of us).

active properties. THC stimulates dopamine pro-

First, be informed. THCV, a close cousin to THC, is

duction, making eating more pleasurable. Scientists

an up-and-coming cannabinoid because scientists

have also found that THC acts on receptors in the

have discovered it has appetite-suppression capa-

hypothalamus to produce the hunger-stimulating

bilities. Real Housewives star Bethenny Frankel is

hormone ghrelin. In a 2014 study published in Neuro-

using that information to develop Skinnygirl diet-

science Nature, researchers found that THC fit into

conscious cannabis (announced in 2015 but still not

the olfactory bulb of mice’s brains, enhancing the

launched), and GW Pharmaceuticals has filed a pat-

smell—and therefore taste—of food, causing the

ent to use THCV to control insulin levels.

rodents to eat more.

To prevent the munchies, find cannabis with the

So, we can take heart. It’s not our fault when we

highest THCV content you can (strain suggestions on

devour an entire bag of Paqui Spicy Queso chips with

page 34). Appetite-suppressing THCV is most abun-

queso dip, a package of Milano double-milk chocolate

dant in landrace African sativas, but cannabinoid

cookies, a carton of Häagen-Dazs chocolate peanut

content varies from grower to grower and harvest

butter ice cream, two Diet Cokes, and a box of gluten-

to harvest. To ensure THCV-rich cannabis, seek out

free cheddar cheese crackers (because they were the

strains that have been lab tested.

only things left). We can’t control the THC that’s controlling our brains.

Second, be prepared. When the munchies hit, there is nothing more heavenly than a visit to 7-Eleven, SEPTEMBE R 2017

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33

with its gleaming cases of high-fructose corn syrup and pizza rolls, shelves stuffed with pork rinds and Hot Tamales. The snack-filled store would be paradise if it weren’t for the inconvenient truth that the food there makes you fat and sick. Keep yourself out of the aisles of temptation by cleansing and restocking your kitchen.

{ MUNCHIE - FREE } strains BL ACK BE AU T Y This sativa-dominant hybrid with a pineapple-like aroma has a 2 : 1 ratio of THCA :THCV and produces a fast-acting, euphoric high.

DOU G’S VA R I N The first strain bred to contain massive amounts of THCV, this rare sativa with a piney-citrus aroma has a THCA : THCV ratio of 5 : 4, with a whopping 15 percent THCV and a significant amount of myrcene, the terpene that rushes concentrated THC and THCV to the brain.

DURBA N POI S ON The THCV content in this pure African sativa with a spicy-sweet aroma ranges between 0.2 and 1.8 percent, fueling productivity and focus.

MOBY D IC K THCV is present in this strong sativa with a sweet-citrus aroma that delivers a powerfully uplifting high.

JACK THE RI PPER THCV is present in this lemon-scented sativa that makes you feel talkative and invigorated.

P INE A PPL E PURPS The THCA : THCV content in this sativa-dominant strain with a sweet pineapple aroma can be as high as 3:1, giving it a THCV content of more than 4 percent. Grab this euphoric strain when you can; it isn’t easy to find.

P OWER PL AN T THCV is present in this African sativa with a spicy aroma that inspires and uplifts.

RED C O NGOL ES E THCV is present in this African sativa with a sweet floral aroma that energizes and uplifts. (It’s been called “the cocaine of cannabis.”)

Anton Chekhov said if there’s a pistol in the first act, it will be fired in the second. It’s the same in your kitchen. If there are Hot Pockets in the freezer, you will eat them when you’re high. Stock up instead on healthy whole-food snacks that satisfy 7-Eleven-caliber cravings without the sweet-salty pistol whip of guilt (snack suggestions on page 36).

34

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SEPTEMBE R 2017

Healthy Snacks YOU WON’T H ATE A IR -PO PPED P OP CORN

Eating popcorn keeps your hand moving and your mouth chewing with a lot fewer calories than a bag of chips. Skip the butter and spritz with a little olive or sesame oil instead, then keep it interesting with creative seasonings: chili or curry powder, garam masala, dill weed and lemon zest, cinnamon, Sriracha and lime zest, truffle oil, malt vinegar, bullion powder, white vinegar and sea salt, Mexican hot chocolate mix, or matcha green tea powder.

C EL ERY

The vegetable is fun to crunch, great for cotton mouth, high in fiber and vitamins C, A, and K—and has six calories per stalk. Celery’s a great vessel for all sorts of delicious dips and toppings. Peanut butter is the classic, as long as you don’t mind its 16 grams of fat per serving. Try these alternatives instead: toasted

beat the { MUNCHIES } GET B US Y >> Practice yoga, climb a rock wall, knit, play a video game or the piano. With your head and hands busy, you’ll think less about food.

DRI NK WAT E R >> You need to do this in Colorado, anyway. Keep your water bottle with you at all times. Flavor it with chunks of fruit or sip on seltzer.

DRI NK C OF F EE OR GREEN TEA >> Caffeine dulls appetite, and you can keep yourself amused trying all the different varietals and varieties of coffee and tea now available. You can add a little honey to shore up your blood sugar—but a white chocolate mocha, even with skim milk and no whip, defeats the purpose.

C H E W G UM >> Sometimes your mouth just wants to be busy. Chew sugar-free gum sweetened with xylitol, a natural corn alcohol that won’t spike blood sugar.

Y E A H , N O F R I E S >> Researchers have found that one taste of fatty food signals the brain and gut to want more. You really can’t have just one.

sesame oil and sesame seeds, olive oil and capers,

SEPTEMBE R 2017

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35

Frozen Greek Yogurt with Nuts and Berries { Serves 4 – 6 } This is great when you really want a carton of Chubby Hubby. Greek yogurt is creamier, has a quarter of the carbs, and twice the protein of regular yogurt. You can use any variety and combination of yogurt, nut butter, fruits, and nuts. If you use plain yogurt, you might want to mix in a couple tablespoons of honey or maple syrup. You could even sprinkle in some mini dark chocolate chips, but that’s kind of cheating.

* 2 cups Greek yogurt, any flavor * 1/ 2 tablespoon sesame oil * 1/ 2 tablespoon nut butter ( almond, cashew, peanut ) * Pinch of sea salt Optional :

* 1/ 2 cup berries or fruit ( blueberries, strawberries, mango) * 1/4 cup toasted nuts ( HAZELNUTS, ALMONDS, PECANS ) · Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or waxed paper. Chop fruit and nuts into small pieces. · Spoon yogurt onto baking sheet. Spread evenly into a quarter-inch layer.

· In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil and nut butter. Drizzle over yogurt. · Sprinkle remaining optional ingredients over yogurt and finish with sea salt. · Freeze 5 to 6 hours or until firm.

To eat, break into pieces.

horseradish and lemon zest, feta and mint, hummus, baba ghanouj, miso paste, tapenade, bean dip, or salsa.

F ROZ EN GR A PES

The ultimate natural popsicle, frozen grapes are simple to make and fun to pop in your mouth. Remove the stems, place grapes on a baking sheet lined with waxed paper or aluminum foil, and freeze for four to five hours. One cup has 100 calories.

VEGGIE CHI PS

Get your veggies and a salt fix, too. You can pay a fortune for low-calorie, low-carb potato chip alternatives at Whole Foods, or you can make them yourself in minutes. Toss two handfuls of chopped kale, spinach,

Dip It Good { MAKES 3 CUPS }

cabbage, ultra-thin radish slices, or another slivered

Let’s be honest. Even when we call them crudités, vegetables are pretty boring. That’s why we serve them with buttermilk ranch dip at parties. That secret sauce is a fat trap, though— you might as well be eating ice cream. Try dipping carrots, celery, peppers, snap peas, broccoli, and cauliflower in this low-fat vegan version instead. (You need to soak the almonds overnight and let the dip thicken for two hours or more in the refrigerator, so plan ahead.)

pepper. Place on a baking sheet lined with aluminum

* 1 1/ 2 cup unsweetened almond milk * 1 1/ 2 cup cashews * 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar * 2 cloves garlic * 2 tablespoons fresh parsley * 2 teaspoons onion powder * 2 teaspoons salt * Ground black pepper to taste

· Place cashews in a small bowl and cover with almond milk. Cover bowl and refrigerate overnight.

· Combine cashews and almond milk with remaining ingredients in blender and blend until smooth.

· Transfer to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least two hours or overnight.

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vegetable (go wild!) with extra virgin olive oil, salt, and foil and bake at 300˚ F for 20 minutes.

GREEK YO GURT

Low-calorie, high-protein Greek yogurt has a thick, creamy texture and is a great source of calcium, potassium, protein, zinc, B vitamins, and probiotics. You can also use it in place of sour cream and mayonnaise.

NUTS

Nuts are way better for you than chips, and they provide heart-healthy fat, protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants—but you won’t lose weight if you down a bag every night. Eat nuts judiciously. Almonds, cashews, and pistachios are lowest in calories. Macadamias and pecans are high in fat and low in protein. Nuts roasted in oil may contain hydrogenated fats and fewer nutrients.

Robyn Griggs L awrence is the author of The Cannabis Kitchen Cookbook.

GOING

MAINS

by LEL AND RUCKER

38

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SEPTEMBE R 2017

TREAM To reach the coveted NEW DEMOGRAPHIC of cannabis users, MARKETERS are realizing they have to reach beyond the tired OLD STONER stereotypes.

If you caught

the official theatrical trailer for The Hero

this spring, you’d think the film was a classic redemption tale about an aging H olly w ood star played by Sam E lliot t, the smooth - voice d, thic k-mustached ac tor who made his silver screen debut in Butch C assidy and the Sundance Kid in 19 6 9. Nick Offerman, the burly guy best known for his portrayal of man’s

man R on S wanson in N B C ’ s Par k s a nd Re c re at ion , cos tars . B ut if you s aw a trailer for the same film at a dispensary in Southern California, you’d think

The Hero is a buddy comedy in which “Sam Elliot t and Nick Offerman Get Stoned.

Really, Really Stoned.”

And rightfully so: that’s the exact phrasing that

him in the spring about how to market The Hero to

appears amid clips of Elliott and Offerman rolling

cannabis consumers. “I suggested we re-cut the trail-

joints, talking strains, getting high, and laughing

er to play up the stoner buddy angle between Elliott

about how Elliot’s deep cowboy drawl could sell “a

and Offerman,” he says. “Add another level to the

shit-ton of pot” during a 60-second trailer targeting

story.” The directors agreed and collaborated with Wil-

cannabis consumers. The custom spot wasn’t some

fert to create the new version. Once that was complete,

bootleg ripoff cut together by pot-loving film aficio-

the challenge was getting it in front of its targeted

nados with time on their hands. It was an official trail-

audience of legal cannabis users—a group that runs

er, commissioned by The Orchard, which acquired the

the gamut from 21-year-old gamers to 76-year-old

film’s distribution rights at Sundance earlier this year,

grandmas. Traditional methods wouldn’t work be-

and created by the creative agency arm of The World’s

cause there is no typical cannabis user. What do a

Best Ever (TWBE), a Webby-nominated culture site.

majority of cannabis users have in common? When

David Wilfert, the advertising and marketing con-

they need to buy some pot, they go to a dispensary.

sultant behind TWBE, says The Orchard approached

So that’s where the trailer needed to go.

SEPTEMBE R 2017

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39

Wilfert connected with an LA-based media company that operates an in-store network of televisions streaming ads and limited cannabis programming. The Hero ’s pot-centric trailer was soon part of the lineup.

“Customers in a pot shop see a TV playing a trailer with these two guys smoking pot, and it’s very relatable,” Wilfert says. The spot was shown in 182 dispensaries in California leading up to The Hero ’s theatrical release. ( Today, you can find both trailers on YouTube, but the film’s official website only has the original pot-free version.)

This type of targeted marketing designed to reach cannabis consumers is the latest step in marijuana’s march into the mainstream, another aspect of the New Normal. And it won’t be long before more major brands

36 percent of consumers in

Colorado identify as very social people who enjoy the outdoors at a higher rate than those who merely accept cannabis use or reject it entirely.

AS CI TED BY BDS ANALYTICS

follow The Orchard’s lead. Cannabis users are an untapped demographic of consumers with money to burn. With marijuana now legal for adult or medical use in 29 states and counting, people are coming out of the socalled cannabis closet, admitting they use the elevating plant themselves or support the rights of others to do so. A landmark cannabis consumer research study by BDS Analytics, a business intelligence firm, is underway, compiling demographic and psychographic data to help marketers better understand who is using marijuana, who isn’t, and why. The initial results of the ongoing study are in—and the profile of a cannabis user that’s emerged is so far removed from the tired old stoner clichés.

The average annual household income of California “Consumers”— people who use cannabis—is $93,800, while “Rejectors”—people who do not use cannabis and wouldn’t consider it—average $75,900. Twenty percent of California Consumers hold master’s degrees, compared to 12 percent of Rejectors. In Colorado, 64 percent of Consumers have full-time employment, 10 percent more than Rejectors. In California, 64 percent of Consumers are parents, and 38 percent say they volunteer their time to help others. In Colorado, data shows Consumers identify as creative, social people who enjoy the fine arts and the outdoors.

Basically, the actual modern cannabis user doesn’t have much in common with the lazy pothead depicted in popular culture since Reefer Mad-

ness became a cult classic 80-some years ago.

But that doesn’t stop modern-day marketers from trotting out the same old stereotypes time and again—especially around the unofficial “high holiday” on April 20. This year, you may have seen a TV ad for Totino’s 40

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SEPTEMBE R 2017

Pizza Rolls, owned by General Mills, depicting a 420

may have felt edgy and fresh at some point now come

angle and pushing a #betterwhenbaked hashtag. If

across as stale. Taco Bell’s been making not-so-sub-

you were near the Colorado/New Mexico border, you

tle references to getting high for over a decade. It’s

may have spotted a McDonald’s billboard likening

time to move on.

breakfast burritos to joints with the slogan “Usual-

Slowly, signs of progress emerge. In 2011, General

ly, when you roll something this good, it’s illegal.”

Mills used Cheech and Chong to reach Baby Boom-

Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, never one to shy away from

ers with an ad for Fiber One brownies. The online-only

pot references as evidenced by flavors such as Half

campaign sought to reassure a middle-aged audi-

Baked and Dave Matthews Band Magic Brownies,

ence that regular is the new high. The narrator ex-

debuted the Chill-aco, a munchie-quashing waffle

plains it like this: “Because now that you’re getting

ice cream sandwich, on 4/20 itself.

older, you need a new kind of magic in your brownie.”

Whereas the legal cannabis marketplace is still

A few years later, in 2014, just days after Colorado

new, mainstream brands creating campaigns laden

became the first state with a legal recreational mar-

with old tropes is not—especially when it comes to

ket, Spirit Airlines released an ad with this state-

the movies and/or the munchies. The stoner comedy

ment: “The no-smoking sign is off in Colorado.” An-

genre debuted with the release of Cheech and Chong’s

other declared, “If you want to make a beeline for

Up in Smoke in 1978, and flicks like Half Baked, Dude,

Colorado right now, we don’t blame you—but we’re

Where’s My Car?, Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle,

up to take you to plenty of chill destinations.” The

Pineapple Express, and the upcoming Super Troop-

absence of stereotypical references at first glance

ers 2 , set to be released on 4/20/18, keep resurrecting

seemed promising. But, alas, one step forward was

the same old jokes while depicting pot users as stupid,

followed by one step back. The ad concluded: “Book

hapless, and addicted to junk food. Late-night ads

today…and be sure to pack some munchies.” ( Be-

riddled with must-eat-all-the-food-now references

cause there aren’t any snacks in Colorado, obviously,

SEPTEMBE R 2017

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41

the stoners ate them all.)

42

goal is just that: create brand campaigns that “de-

That part aside, these big-name brands were among

fine a new era of cannabis culture,” as the website

the first to dip a toe into what is on track to become

states. Redefining Cannabis grew out of Gabbay’s

a marketing mainstay as more states legalize can-

U2R1 Media agency, which worked mainly with life-

nabis use. In the interim, companies have to be care-

style and hospitality clients such as Hilton Los An-

ful not to alienate customers who still believe what

geles and Égard luxury watches. Today, Redefin-

they were taught in DARE—cannabis is a no good,

ing Cannabis lists Cannabis Retreats, Erbanna high

awful, very bad drug—while also appealing to peo-

fashion, and a selection of gourmet edible compa-

ple who know better.

nies among its array of clients. Gabbay launched

Wilfert explains that any company marketing to

the new firm a few years ago to deal with cannabis

cannabis consumers, young or old, needs to under-

branding and marketing for small businesses try-

stand that users have a special connection that sets

ing to distinguish themselves from other similar

them apart from the status quo. “Pot smokers relate

companies—all of which are new to the newly legal

to each other,” he says. “Because of how marijuana

consumer. It’s taken over most of her time. “I’m a

has been criminalized over the past century, we’ve

cannabis entrepreneur now,” she says.

been placed into a secret club where we have shared

She explains that cannabis brands aren’t that

the wonders of this plant. Now it is our duty to open

much different from companies in any other indus-

the club’s doors to everyone.”

try looking to market themselves without playing

Sari Gabbay, a marketing consultant and creative

into the stereotypes. “More companies are looking

director in Los Angeles, spends most of her ti me

to us for expertise in how to break into the market

these days trying to fulfill that duty. Her creative

without looking like stoners themselves,” she says

agency is called Redefining Cannabis, and the firm’s

in our interview. “People come to me and say, ‘I know

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SEPTEMBE R 2017

The average annual household income among California cannabis consumers is $ 93,000, with 20 percent of those consumers holding master’s degrees. 64 percent of California consumers are

PARENTS.

AS CI TED BY BDS ANALYTICS

what I do, but I don’t know how to market myself.’”

focused on cornering the ever-expanding market of

So she focuses her efforts on research, working with

cannabis growers. Hawthorne Garden Company is

the client to develop a plan to connect consumers

the umbrella over a portfolio that includes acquired

with the brand in a meaningful way. “We are their

companies such as General Hydroponics as well as

voice,” she says of her cannabis accounts. “How they

craft brands like Black Magic Performance Hydro-

communicate will help change people’s perspective

ponics sold at Home Depots in select markets where

about the plant.”

cannabis is legal. The hydroponics subsidiary is pro-

She tells her clients that consumer education is the key to getting rid of the stigma that continues to

ducing upwards of $250 million a year according to an October 2016 report by Bloomberg.

surround cannabis use—especially when it comes

This is big business, and it’s charting new terri-

to the medical benefits. (She does note that in Cali-

tory. The first television ad for Black Magic could be

fornia, where cannabis is already a fully established

used as an example of the right way to market to

part of the wellness community, the stigma isn’t as

cannabis users and growers. First step: just say no

strong as it is in other states.) “We’re developing prod-

to stereotypes. Black Magic’s ad didn’t portray pot

ucts that are science-based, that have real science

growers as tie-dye wearing slackers. It showed clips

behind them. Cannabis is real medicine, and we’re

of clean-cut guys in their 20s and 30s, dressed like

working with other brands to spread that message,

guys that age do, tending to plants in a variety of

to drive consumers to that space. Big companies are

Instagram-worthy urban settings. The look was so-

not going to sit back [while cannabis brands target

phisticated, the message modern and inspiring, the

their customers with new products].”

takeaway clear: Black Magic is leading the charge

Scotts Miracle-Gro is one of those big compa-

into a future where cannabis growers (and users)

nies—one of the biggest names in the lawn and

can come out of hiding, emerging from literal base-

garden realm in fact. Under chief executive Jim

ment grows and proverbial closets empowered to

Hagedorn, Scotts has invested more than a half bil-

garden with a “higher purpose.” To yield to no one.

lion dollars into the pot industry in recent years,

This is the future. And under the grow lights, the

launching a hydroponics subsidiary in 2014 that’s

future looks bright.

SEPTEMBE R 2017

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43

the LOCAL

STAND -UP SCENE is The 719 area code is known for a lot of things: MEGACHURCHES, obtuse rock formations, blue-collar neighborhoods, and POTHOLES. But can it be funny? A growing community of LOC AL COMEDIA NS think so, and if they keep it up, they may one day create a comedy scene rivaling denver’s.

44

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SEPTEMBE R 2017

by Randy robinson

NO JOKE If you

google him , you will

find headline after headline referring

to a serial killer with the same name. I assure you, the Wade Ridley we’re talking ab out only S L AYS WHEN HE ’S ON S TAGE .

Ridley and I first met at The Angry Pirate in Colo-

wild and at punk hangouts Flux Capacitor and Triple

rado Springs, a cozy sports bar the size of a large

Nickel. “When I started doing comedy, I knew there

apartment. Born and bred in Pueblo, he’s a lanky lo-

was no real scene here,” Ridley recalls. “I got all the

cal stand-up comic, a hole-in-the-wall hustler push-

comics together, and I knew we had something spe-

ing 40 while maintaining a spry, youthful composure.

cial. If we could give touring comics a place to stop

He doesn’t look a day past 30. He rocks a slight mus-

here, we can get to know them without driving all

tache that looks as if cartoon villain Dastardly Whip-

the way to Denver. And that plan could’ve worked, but

lash was groomed by auteur John Waters. He self-

instead we cannibalized each other.”

identifies as a “fucking prick,” but he’s nothing but

John Brown was one of Ridley’s comic colleagues

cordial during our talk. He even invites me to see a

who, like Ridley, was born in Pueblo. Brown, Ridley,

gay, Mexican comedian who supports Donald Trump

and another comic, Charlie McMullen, once ruled the

—a brain-twisting combo I couldn’t turn down.

proverbial roost together over Pueblo’s comedy scene.

On the weekends, Ridley hosts stand-up shows at

But disagreements inevitably crept up, and egos got in

Loonees, the oldest comedy venue in Colorado Springs.

the way of progress in 2015. The rift drove wedges be-

For the longest time, Loonees was the only spot for

tween comedian cliques in both Pueblo and Colorado

stand-up in southern Colorado. “Years ago, there real-

Springs, upending the momentum garnered be­tween

ly were no comedy shows going on outside of Loonees

the area’s three dozen active comics.

if I wasn’t putting them on,” he says. “If I didn’t do it, the comics weren’t going to do it.”

“Tension between comics is fairly common anyway,” recounts Brown. “But when we split up, a lot of

Between 2013 to 2015, Ridley kept busy. When he

the things we were doing just kind of went away.” That

wasn’t running his Pueblo-centric podcast 719 The

meant fewer stages for open mics, which meant fewer

Blocks, he threw events at school-turned-brewery Ivy-

opportunities for comedians to nab the spotlight.

SEPTEMBE R 2017

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45

“ w he n we split up, a lot of the t hings we w ere d oi ng just kind of w ent away,” re counts JOHN B R O W N. T h at m e a nt fe w er stages for open m ic s, w h ich me a nt few er opport unities for com e di ans to nab the s potl igh t.

As the comics vied in vain for what Riley calls

shot at stand-up 13 years ago. In 2015,

“the imaginary crown for Southern Colorado’s King

after moving to the Springs, he start-

of Comedy,” his initial enthusiasm for the local scene

ed open mic nights in the same building as today’s

waned. Dejected by the drama, Ridley packed up his

Dab Lounge. “There weren’t enough spaces in Colora-

life and skedaddled to Kentucky to continue honing

do Springs where comics could try new material,” he

his craft in front of a Midwestern audience. When he

says. “We went from a once-a-week open mic to a dai-

returned to Pueblo this year, the beefing comics let

ly open mic to three shows a week on top of the open

bygones go bye-bye, and the group is now coordinat-

mics. It’s hard work, but it keeps getting bigger.”

ing with one another to keep the scene going.

Verbeck’s persistence over the last two years has

“Even during the break, Wade was calling me to

paid off. The Dab Lounge brings in comics who’ve been

help with my shows, and I’d call him to help with his

featured on Late Night with Conan O’Brien and Com-

shows,” says Brown. “Everything’s fine now. It’s all

edy Central, such as Geoff Tate, Emma Arnold, and

water under the bridge.”

Allen Strickland Williams. Denver ComedyWorks

Although Ridley’s absence and Brown’s reloca-

headliner Sam Tallent makes regular visits to the

tion to Denver temporarily brought a halt to many

lounge, as does John Brown. But the Dab Lounge does

funny BUSINESS Beyond The Dab Lounge a nd Loonees, yo u ’ l l f i n d g u t - b u s t i n g c o m e d y a t t h e s e C o l o r a d o Sp r i n g s s p o t s.

ROFL Stand - Up Open Mic The Underground // 110 North Nevada Ave.

something much different than Loonees, since it gives amateur comedians a shot at recognition, something unheard of in southern Colorado just a decade ago.

That the Dab Lounge is the only comedy venue where the audience can, in fact, dab, is no coincidence, either.

“I do believe one of the reasons comedy is so big in Colorado is because of the legalization of recreational cannabis,” Verbeck says. “There was a time when most people had to stick to getting high at home.

Back then, I know my preference was to recommend watching comedy with my friends. It really goes

Thursdays, 9:30 p.m.

hand in hand.”

Open Mic & Karaoke Night

by Terrapin Comedy

lifted on cannabis can behave somewhat unexpected-

8th St. Lounge // 310 S. 8th St.

Saturdays, 8 p.m.

Ironically, both Verbeck and Ridley note an audience ly. “Something I’ve seen in crowds of people who’ve been drinking is they laugh audibly,” says Verbeck.

“Often, during a cannabis comedy show, I’ll see people

Happy Hour Stand - Up

making faces like they are laughing, but no sound is

Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center

coming out. It’s a strange phenomenon, but it happens

at Colorado College // 30 West Dale St.

quite a bit. A good comic, however, will get just as many

First Fridays, 6 p.m.

laughs in a room filled with stoners as they would in a

Gold Camp Brewing Company 1007 S. Tejon St.

Various Days and Times

room full of people who’ve been drinking.”

“Sometimes stoners take a few seconds to catch on to the joke. The crowd will start laughing a few beats after the punchline,” says Ridley. “Sometimes that messes with the pacing, but if it keeps going

of the area’s DIY shows, other comedians kept the

you get the ‘rolling laugh,’ where one person starts

laughs rolling. One of those comics is Ben Verbeck,

laughing, then the people next to them start laugh-

who manages the Dab Lounge in Colorado Springs.

Verbeck hails from New York, where he got his first 46

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SEPTEMBE R 2017

ing, and before you know it, the whole crowd is laughing and can’t stop.”

P R O MOT ION A L F E AT URE

MOTA POT

Must-Have Kitchen Gadget : The Mota Pot in 10 M I N U T E S , you c an be well on your way TO M A KING A NY DI S H A N E L E VAT E D E D I B L E .

Cooking with cannabis has never been more

pliance resembling a tea kettle. Just load a stick

popular than it is today. With the Mota Pot, cook-

of butter, some coconut oil, or any other cooking

ing with cannabis has never been easier, too.

oil into the Mota Pot, then add cannabis to the

How? The Mota Pot, designed by a food scien-

catch, and that’s it. Place the Mota Pot on a stove

tist at Johnson and Wales University in Denver,

for 10 minutes and voila! Out comes fully infused

simplifies the process of infusing cannabis into

cannabutter or oil ready to enhance any meal.

cooking oils or butters. It takes just a few minutes,

The short preparation time not only hastens

and all it requires are ingredients found in any

the cooking process, it also reduces the bitter fla-

home, a stove top, and some quality cannabis.

vors found in many elevating foods. Slowly infusing butter with cannabis in a crockpot, babysitting the blend as it turns green, doesn’t always pay off, King explains. “It ends up tasting herbaceous. I put a lot of love and time into my food.

I want it to taste like food, not grass.”

“The Mota Pot is smaller than my French mandolin that I use to cut vegetables,” she continues, noting that the device won’t clutter even the busiest kitchen. There are no electronic parts, either, so it can soak in a sink or run through a dishwasher cycle and still keep churning out great infusions.

The real kicker of the Mota Pot, however, lies in

Carolyn King, CEO of Happy-Kitchens, distrib-

the freedom it provides to any chef. When one

utes the Mota Pot. A self-taught chef, she discov-

can infuse the most basic ingredients, the possi-

ered the Mota Pot while studying different ways

bilities for adding cannabis to a dish become

to make cannabis extracts for cooking. “When I

limitless: salads, chicken, steaks, meatballs, coffee

was looking at recipes for making cannabis but-

creamers, candies — even flour for baking breads

ter, they all required between an hour and eight

or making cookies. “The Mota Pot gives you a

hours to make,” she says. “Baby, I ain’t got that

basic template to make whatever you want at

kind of time to spend with butter.”

home,” says King. “It’s perfect for the home cook

The Mota Pot is a straightforward kitchen ap-

who wants to control their dose.”

SEPTEMBE R 2017

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47

Sensi Night Premiere

sensi

SCENE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Evan Hurst

Since its inception in 2016, Sensi has thrown some of the most poshy-yet-banging Sensi Night parties in Denver. On August 18, the team brought the party down south to The Mansion in Colorado Springs for the first of many events honoring the cannabis community. Local industry leaders, advocates, artists, and activists from around the state came to celebrate the region’s newfound freedom through our favorite flower during a festive evening. The next Sensi Night SoCO is happening in November. Keep an eye on the Sensi Media Group Facebook page for details.

48

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SEPTEMBE R 2017

What: Sensi Night SoCO Where: The Mansion When: August 18, 2017

P R O MOT ION A L F E AT URE

LU X L E A F

Uplifting Care C A N N A B I S may be able to tre at scores of M E D I C A L M A L A D I E S but w hat kind is be s t for you ? L et L U X L E A F be your guide.

At Lux Leaf dispensary in Colorado Springs, the focus is always on the patients. Part medical canna-

ing how cannabis can help in all of those areas or in certain areas.”

bis dispensary, part education center, Lux Leaf of-

The concierge-style consultations are based on

fers consultations for all patients, regardless of the

both published scientific research and patient tes-

person’s past or current experiences with cannabis.

timonials regarding cannabinoid therapies. Along

“We’re 100 percent patient-oriented,” says Court-

with Lux Leaf ’s trained consultants, the company’s

ney Hays, the director of dispensary operations at

executive team includes a certified medical pro-

Now that PTSD has been added to the state’s list of qualifying medical conditions for cannabis, Lux Leaf is lending a hand to southern Colorado’s veterans and trauma survivors. fessional to verify the efficacy of patient responses.

“Many of our patients are curious about a particular product they have heard about. We carry a wide variety of products in select dosages to ensure we Lux Leaf. “Working with our patients and their med-

are able to find the right cannabis therapy for you,”

ical diagnosis to decide the best cannabis treat-

says Hays. “If it’s out there, there’s hope, and we’ll

ment for them is our main goal.”

work to find something right for you.”

The center’s consultants work with new patients,

Now that PTSD has been added to the state’s

discussing their health care needs and goals to first

list of qualifying medical conditions for cannabis,

determine if cannabis is a treatment option. If it is,

Lux Leaf is lending a hand to southern Colorado’s

the consultant then helps determine what kind of

veterans and trauma survivors. On September 28,

cannabis is best suited for the patient’s needs.

the dispensary is hosting a free event to educate

“The basis of our consultations is to really dive

patients and their loved ones about how cannabis

into your diagnosis, what your current treatment

can alleviate the symptoms of PTSD. It runs from

plan is for it, and what you are looking for,”

5 : 30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Visit Luxleaf.com for more in-

Hays says, “then taking all of that and determin-

formation.

SEPTEMBE R 2017

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49

{soCO}

by Randy robinson

As the slogan goes: “If you can’t drive it, it’s a float.” For one weekend this month, the Colorado border town of

TRINIDAD transforms into a round-the-clock parade where form meets function, where aesthetics meets engineering, where a giant fire-breathing dragon made of metal plates meets Main Street.

It’s the ArtoCade, the nation’s second-largest artcar spectacular, and it’s happening on September 8 and 9. The ArtoCade attracts vehicular artisans from all over the country who accessorize an assortment of automobiles with everything from jet turbines, imposing skeletons, and ornate jewels to a caricature of Albert Einstein’s head. The only limits at the ArtoCade are the ones posted on the traffic signs.

This year marks the ArtoCade’s fifth gathering in Trinidad, but the showcase continues all year long through the town’s newest museum, the Bizarre Car Garage. The garage, which currently has 25 art cars on display, gives everyone a chance to catch the ArtoCade’s marvels, whether you missed the event or just

© Joe Kusumoto

can’t get enough of it afterward.

50

Bohemian Rhapsody

by Rebecca Bass and Reagan High School, Trinidad’s ArtoC ade

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SEPTEMBE R 2017