DJ Eurok’s debut album, “Self Realization,” is a pleasing mix of hip-hop and electronica rhythms coupled with soulful melodies, influenced by world, traditional, and future musics. A hip-hop album with no vocals may seem out of character for an artist who loves to freestyle during his performances, but the result manages both to relax and energize the listener. Always seeking an outlet to express his political and personal feelings, DJ Eurok has written spoken word poetry and hip-hop rhymes touching on issues such as the corruption of the record industry, D.C.’s struggle for statehood, the loss of friends and loved ones, and his journey as an independent artist. This work led to his opening on the recent Beats for Peace tour, sponsored by the American Friends Service Committee. An active member of his community, DJ Eurok teaches hip-hop arts classes, DJs at youth rallies, parties, and other community events, and is always looking to aid projects that will “allow the youth to speak for themselves.” He is also an active member of a movement of D.C. hip-hop artists for D.C. statehood, democracy, justice, and peace.

In 1996, Cristina and Robbie Anderman ’70 started The Cool Hemp Company Inc., a family business which produces kosher, vegan, all natural and organic, fair trade Canadian hempseed treats. Cristina began by making hempseed cookies and then moved on to a more ambitious project, Cool Hemp frozen dessert, a tasty hemp alternative to ice cream. These foods are made from what is termed “industrial hemp,” which is not the same as marijuana. Both hemp and marijuana are strains of the Cannabis sativa plant, but the hemp variety contains less than 1 percent THC, as opposed to the 10 to 20 percent THC found in marijuana. In other words, the hemp used for making rope and cloth will not get you high. However, it is an excellent source of digestible protein with anti-oxidant properties which provides the body with essential fatty acids (Omega 3 and 6) in the correct proportion: 1 to 3.

“The Hemp SeeDee” is a compilation of songs and stories about hemp, full of fun facts which serve to educate the general public about potential uses of this plant. The songs range from blues and rock to Carribean and folk, so there is something for almost every listener’s taste. Following each song, Garnet Kranz talks about hemp’s everyday uses in Renfrew County and recounts stories of what happened to people during the Depression when they were told they could no longer grow hemp. Kranz also brings to light important issues about hemp, such as its use as a cure for tuberculosis. “The Hemp SeeDee" encourages people to create a brighter future for our plante. by means of hemp.

—Maya Severns '04