This bud's for you by Elevate Nevada Magazine

JULY 2017

#NevadaGoesRec

THIS BUD'S FOR YOU

july | elevatenv.com 1

from the editor Publisher Guy Bertuzzi, guy@elevatenv.com

Editor-In-Chief Beth Schwartz, beth@elevatenv.com

Creative Director Brooke Bertuzzi, brooke@finetheagency.com

Contributing Writers: Justin Alexander, Amanda Connor, Riana Durrett, Richard S. Gubbe, Kendall Smith

Media Consultant: Mark Damkroeger, mark@elevatenv.com Amanda Reilly, amanda@elevatenv.com

ELEVATION PUBLISHING LLC Chief Financial Officer Cassandra Lupo

FINE THE AGENCY Partner Kelli Maruca, kelli@finetheagency.com Executive Director Paula Pettit, paula@finetheagency.com

Graphic Designer James Nigbur, james@finetheagency.com

Digital Services Austin Grantham, austin.grantham@finetheagency.com Peter Chen, peter.chen@finetheagency.com elevate nevada magazine makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors, false data or omissions. elevate nevada assumes no responsibility for any claims or representations contained in this publication or in any advertisement. elevate nevada magazine does not encourage the illegal use of any of the products or advertisements within. Reproduction in whole or in part strictly prohibited. All rights reserved. To subscribe to elevate nevada, visit elevatenv.com/subscribe/. 7120 Rafael Ridge Way, Las Vegas, NV 89119 Phone: 702.737.8464 | Email: info@elevatenv.com

ElevateNV

ElevateNevada

As we celebrate our nation’s birth and the many freedoms we enjoy this month, there will be one more Nevadans will be able to add to their list. On July 1, Nevada will be the first of the four states that passed recreational or retail marijuana last November to open a legalized marijuana market. Joining Colorado, Alaska, Oregon and Washington, Nevada will become the fifth state in the country to legalize the recreational sale of marijuana. Not only will Nevada’s residents be able to drop by a dispensary and buy a joint, or pre-roll as they are called these days, whenever the mood strikes so, too, will the city’s visitors. A record 42.9 million tourists visited Las Vegas in 2016, and so Nevada’s foray into recreational marijuana will mark the first time a major U.S. travel destination has entered the cannabis market. The timing of recreational marijuana becoming legal in Nevada is especially meaningful for the nation’s military veterans. This Fourth of July will have special significance for those who have pledged to keep our country safe. With a July 1st start, many military veterans can celebrate this Fourth of July by getting the medicine they need to treat PTSD and other injuries they may have suffered because of their military service while fighting for and protecting the freedoms we all enjoy. Although medical marijuana has been available to patients in the Silver State since 2000, many military veterans have not felt comfortable applying for a medical marijuana patient card for fear of jeopardizing their federal benefits. Now they will finally have the access

they need without having to officially register with the state’s patient portal. The freedom to enjoy legalized marijuana is not all sparklers and patriotic anthems, it does come with a lot of responsibility. There are a few tips to keep in mind as recreational marijuana rolls out. First, I implore you not to celebrate like this is the last stand at the Texas Alamo − especially if you are interested in trying infused items like brownies and cookies. We don’t want to see your July 4th holiday weekend become memorable for anything other than a fun time and a spectacular fireworks display. The most important thing to know about edibles is not to eat the whole thing and end up like somebody in an Alka-Seltzer commercial. In most cases, edibles are meant to be shared or ingested over several days. Always enjoy an edible on a full stomach and just have a bite to begin. The suggested amount to start with is 10 milligrams. Wait 30 to 45 minutes before having more to see how your body reacts. Everyone will have a different reaction so proceed cautiously. You should also drink lots of water when you are enjoying cannabis infused treats. Should you accidentally overdo it and have too much THC, you can combat psycho-activity by chewing on black peppercorns or putting a couple of nonpsychoactive CBD (cannabidiol) drops under your tongue. No matter how you plan to celebrate the holiday, enjoy your friends and family and make it a safe one.

With an open mind,

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from the publisher Socrates so sagely said: “The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old, but building the new.” Change is here and I honestly never thought I would see cannabis, marijuana, dope, weed, pot, grass or whatever you like to call it become legal in my lifetime. But here we are Nevada–breaking ground and building the new. For the people who are still on the fence or on the other side of the fence about the legalization of cannabis, this is your chance to understand, educate yourself, explore and learn the powers of the healing properties of this plant. Even though we use verbiage like recreational and adult-use, cannabis is still preventative medicine. Just in the last few weeks I have experienced its medicinal benefits. In my recent travels around the state getting to know people in the industry, I was lucky enough to meet Marina and Jackie from CBD for Life, which is a line of cannabidiol (CBD) infused pain management and beauty products. elevate editor Beth Schwartz swears by CBD for Life products, remember the line from our January 2016 cover? Beth was so delighted with the results of CBD her enthusiasm resulted in the headline: “Forget smoking cannabis, we should be smearing it all over our bodies.” It was my turn to try the wonders of CBD topicals and golly gee whiz Beth was onto something. (Editor’s note: Just shaking my head over here.) I decided to try it for an issue that has plagued me my whole life from when I was 13 years old

and chunks of my scalp were falling out. Kids were making fun of me and teasing me that I had lice. I didn’t have lice, it was the beginning of a lifelong battle with psoriasis, which is on several areas of my body including my elbows and hands. Until recently people would ask me why I had white paint on my elbows, that’s how severe psoriasis affects me. I was telling Jackie about my psoriasis and how it makes me feel a little insecure, and because I had tried everything I was doubtful anything, including CBD, would work. Jackie instructed me to loofah my problem areas and use CBD for Life’s face and body cleanser and lotion several times a day. She was right! My psoriasis looks better than it ever has–well, there’s really not much to see anymore just fresh pink skin. CBD doesn’t cure it, but you cannot see the flaky white skin, or traces of psoriasis on my hands or elbows right now. Because it was such a transformative experience for me, I just sent my dad some Pure CBD for Life Rub for his arthritis, and he reported back, after being doubtful, that it is indeed helping. So, whatever your feelings are on Nevada’s laws and the legalization of cannabis, keep an open mind. Stop fighting the old and focus on the new because, and I hope you don’t, someday you or someone you love may need the healing benefits of cannabis. Salute,

For a list of Nevada dispensaries selling recreational marijuana, please visit www.elevatenv.com/NevadaGoesRec

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CONTENTS

Cooking with Cannabis

The Party that Almost Wasn't

2017 Legislative Wrap Up

In the Pot Seat

Dispensary Spotlight

Cannavator

Moroccan BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich

Is Las Vegas set to take over as the newest Amsterdam?

14 Legalease: The Do’s and Don’ts

Everything you need to know now that recreational use of marijuana is legal in Nevada

Nevada alcohol wholesalers rain on pot’s coming out party

MMJ America

24 Find Your Signature Strain

Nevada’s cannabis marketplace is full of distinct products with unique features and flavors

Regulatory changes preserve state’s medical marijuana program

Entrepreneur promotes refreshing side of cannabis with Med·a·mints

44 Elevating the Conversation with Senator Richard “Tick” Segerblom

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Cooking Cannabis

MOROCCAN BBQ PULLED CHICKEN SANDWICH BY CHEF KENDALL SMITH, UNIFERN LLC

In addition to being the production manager at local cannabis cultivation and production company Unifern LLC, chef Kendall Smith is also working on a new project called The Cure Collectors. “Essentially, we utilize a proprietary refining process on cannabis extractions which allows us to produce a 98 percent pure THC fraction,” explains Smith of The Cure Collectors. “This 98 percent fraction is the foundation of all of our edibles, topical and vaping products and allows us to produce products that are superior in quality to everything currently available in the marketplace.” Smith sums up his latest venture in practical terms, “imagine biting into an edible and not being able to taste any trace of cannabis or enjoying a vape pen that has a delicious fruity taste, but is also above 93 percent THC.”

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

3 cups chicken stock 2 teaspoons turmeric 3 Tablespoons ras el hanout spice 2 teaspoons dried coriander 2 Tablespoons garlic powder 4 star anise pods 2 teaspoons sweet paprika 2 Tablespoons onion powder 1 teaspoon cayenne powder 1/4 cup canned diced pineapple, drained and reserved 1 cup dark brown sugar 1 teaspoon salt 3 Tablespoons honey 3 Tablespoons lemon juice 1 can (6 oz.) tomato paste 3 Tablespoons canna-infused butter or oil 2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken thighs Your bread of choice (I recommend thick-cut Hawaiian sweet bread)

In a medium pot, combine chicken stock with all of the dry spice ingredients and drained, diced pineapple. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat, then strain and return the strained liquid back to the pot over medium heat. Stir in dark brown sugar, salt, honey, lemon juice and tomato paste, blending completely. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for another 10 minutes. Then stir in 3 Tablespoons of canna-butter or infused oil till completely blended. Place the chicken thighs in a slow cooker and pour sauce over till completely covered. Cook on lowest setting for 3-5 hours or till fall-apart tender. With two forks or a pair of cooking tongs, shred the chicken completely right in the sauce. For some nice texture, toast two slices of Hawaiian sweet bread (or any bread of choice) and load it up with your delicious pulled chicken. You can add whatever else you like to this tasty sandwich -- coleslaw, cheese, or pickles are all great additions. Get creative and enjoy!

Please remember when cooking with medicinal cannabis you are cooking with a medicine and the medicine amount and portions of the food ingested should always be taken into consideration. Always start out with small portions or doses and wait 30 minutes to an hour before eating any additional portions of food that has been medicated.

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ELEVATE YOUR STATE

Medical cannabis updates from across the United States

COLORADO: In May, Governor John Hickenlooper signed a bill into law to help fight the opioid epidemic in Colorado. The law creates a center for prevention, research and treatment to tackle the opioid and prescription drug abuse problem. The center will be funded with $1 million from the marijuana tax cash fund and will be headquartered at the University of Colorado Anschutz medical campus. Also in Colorado cannabis news, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is now a qualifying condition for doctor-recommended medical marijuana. In June, Gov. John Hickenlooper signed Senate Bill 17 into law, which opens the doors for Colorado residents to receive a doctor’s approval to use medical marijuana in the treatment of PTSD symptoms. It’s the first new qualifying condition added under the state’s medical marijuana law since it was implemented in 2001.

NEVADA: Nevada dispensaries are scheduled to begin selling recreational legal marijuana on July 1 with the Nevada Tax Commission’s approval of an early-start program on May 8. The regulations lay out rules for issuing and revoking licenses to companies that are already up and running in the medical marijuana industry. While voters approved a ballot measure last year requiring the state to get sales going by Jan. 1, 2018, the “early start” program would allow businesses to launch six months early. State officials are also counting on tax revenue from early marijuana sales to help them balance the budget. Governor Brian Sandoval’s budget proposal calls for an additional tax on recreational marijuana sales that would yield an estimated $70 million to support public education.

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UTAH: Utah lawmakers have elected not to join more than half of all U.S. states by passing a broad medical marijuana law. Instead, lawmakers gave state colleges and other institutions a green light to study the medical impacts of the drug with the hope of having comprehensive data by next year. However, the studies would likely take years, requiring scientists to navigate layers of bureaucracy that can delay and even discourage research. The slowdown to study cannabis is due to marijuana being considered a Schedule I drug by the federal government, meaning it's listed along with heroin and peyote among the most dangerous drugs.

VERMONT: In early June, Vermont Governor Phil Scott signed S. 16, a bill that will significantly improve patients’ access to Vermont’s medical marijuana program. The bill adds post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Parkinson’s disease, and Crohn’s disease to the list of qualifying conditions. It also authorizes an additional dispensary (bringing the statewide total to five), and allows existing dispensaries to open one additional location each. When the patient registry reaches 7,000, an additional dispensary will be authorized.

Medical Cannabis is Legal Medical Cannabis is Illegal

FLORIDA: On June 9 in a special session of the Florida Legislature, the Florida House and Senate passed a long-awaited medical marijuana implementation bill. The bill now heads to Gov. Rick Scott’s desk, who said he “absolutely intends to sign it.” The legislation allows patients who suffer chronic pain related to 10 qualifying conditions to receive either low-THC cannabis or full-strength medical marijuana. Both chambers reached an agreement that there would be a statewide cap of 25 dispensaries per medical marijuana treatment center until the statewide registry reaches 100,000 patients. At that point, the bill calls for adding four more dispensaries. Legislators also agreed the medicine will not be taxed.

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IN THE POT SEAT

IS LAS VEGAS SET TO TAKE OVER AS THE NEWEST AMSTERDAM? By Richard S. Gubbe

Amsterdam is the party city that works within a tolerant government framework, kinda. Sound familiar? Those who think less government intervention is better need to look at this business/tourism model for the good it brings. But the lack of legal clarity makes it a perilous venture for business owners whose fate could alter course with the winds of political change. Ring a bell? In the new age of cannabis, routinely Nevada, or more accurately Las Vegas, is often compared to Amsterdam. The parallels between the two cities are as stark as the differences.

IT ISN’T LEGAL THERE EITHER? Individual jurisdictions in the Netherlands oversee the sale and consumption of “soft” drugs. No hard drags are allowed in the country and the airport screening, arrest and conviction statistics bear that out. But, to maintain its status

in the European Union (EU), the country takes the official stance that all drugs are illegal. But soft drugs are allowed, tolerated and tested. Where the marijuana actually comes from is everywhere and anywhere. Only five plants are allowed for any one individual by regulation, yet coffeeshops sell far more pot every day than five plants here and there. If everyone in the city had five plants and sold it to them, it still wouldn’t be enough. Advantage Nevada with its strict oversight of 88 licensed cultivation outlets that are required to lab test. Where the more than 200 coffeehouses in Amsterdam get marijuana and hashish to sell remains a question best left unasked. The hash is usually black and most comes hand-rolled from India and Nepal. The pot comes in through loose borders, or is sometimes grown in shipping containers.

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MOKUM SMOKUM Mokum, a popular nickname for Amsterdam derived from the Hebrew ‘makom,’ which means ‘place,’ is a city that consumes large amounts of cannabis as part of daily life. The climate is about tolerance in all Dutch cities that can opt in or out. EU countries must follow the script that all drugs are bad, soft or hardcore, but those of a powdery substance are especially evil. Soft drugs are not culturally in the same class as an opioid in America. Amsterdam does not adhere to the soft drug part of the treaty and no one seems to care. Why? Because it is regulated with treatment options and the populous generally deems it harmless. Regulation in Amsterdam also includes onsite testing of products. If the THC percentage is on the menu at 27.5 percent, it had better test at that or else the dispensary is closed and a full inventory test takes place. Whereas in Nevada, 11 independent laboratories are licensed to test the state’s homegrown cannabis. The Dutch policy of keeping anti-drug laws on the books while limiting enforcement of certain offenses is carefully designed to reduce harm while still complying with international drug control treaties. This is necessary in order to avoid criticism from the International Narcotics Board, which historically has called all illicit drugs poison. In their annual report, the board has criticized many governments, including Canada, for permitting the medicinal use of cannabis.

NO CRIME DERE? Plenty to do in Amsterdam if you’re high on vices. Legalized prostitution, gambling in small and large casinos, alcohol in Dutch bars and marijuana in clubs out in the open and tucked away in alleys. And yet crime is not a major problem; the country limits gun ownership and there are harsh penalties for breaking rules that involve powdery substances. The only danger of dying in Amsterdam is getting killed by a bike or drinking too much. Or drinking too much and then getting hit by a bike. No murders, robberies or violence in the street. Nary a cab stickup. The largest criminal activity in Amsterdam comes from pickpockets. A robber needs an exit strategy and in Amsterdam there is none (see any map). Government oversight includes a separation of all vices. Alcohol is served in bars and restaurants, prostitution is literally housed in the famed Red Light District, gambling is allowed only at casinos, and marijuana and hashish are served only in marijuana “coffee” houses. Throw in some sex shops and traditional and nontraditional massage parlors and the place is an adult playground accepted by the local populous. Some people walk down the street and smoke, but most of that is done discreetly in alleyways. The larger coffeehouses in Amsterdam have one or two guards at the door. The rest of the workers are waitresses,

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cooks and budtenders. Budtenders are often Americans escaping the bonds of regulation. Most budtenders speak a modicum of English. The coffeehouses are as safe as it gets. There may be cultural differences as to whom the house caters to, and segregation in large clubs often occurs with Arabic cultures.

THEY PUT WHAT IN THEIR WEED? When you enter many of the coffeehouses, there is a large individual to make sure you aren’t loaded or dangerous. No backpacks are allowed in most houses, no drunks, and no nefarious types as deemed by the bouncer. Bars are run by old Dutch families and are for rowdy tourists and coffeehouses are for pacifists. What is allowed and what should be banned is tobacco. Europeans still consider tobacco non-offensive. Although sequestered somewhat, dispensaries do the unspeakable and mix tobacco and premium flower to make it go further. Yuk. Ask for pure joints when ordering prerolls because the taste is unmistakable. Smoking tobacco should not be allowed in any coffeehouse, and some oblige. Why ruin or negate someone’s high with tobacco? Hash is so plentiful that most locals mix it instead of tobacco. Nevada will do better.

YOU CAN GET ANYTHING YOU WANT AT ALICE’S No impaired driving is found; the streets are too narrow in the center of town to navigate. Why bother? Amsterdam has the greatest linked transportation system in the world. With hookups from the airport to anywhere in the region, there is an excelled regional train system and local train/ trams that whisk people from place to place. The busses connect to everywhere. The downtown train station is not only a hub for getting place to place with buses, cabs and trams, it is located mere blocks from hotels, shopping, massage parlors, restaurants and countless small and brandname businesses. The only downside is the maddening and dangerous number of bicycles so those in altered states need to pay close attention.

WHAT IT MEANS FOR MEDICAL PATIENTS Dispensaries here don’t allow for samples as Amsterdam does. Most coffeehouses allow for trying something before buying a large amount. Also, it gives patients the option of smoking or vaping outside the home, away from the nieces and nephews. Coffeehouses often have bong rentals and hookahs sitting on tables. Bong rental fees are often given back when the bong is returned. What is lacking in coffeehouses are decent edibles. With all the medical marijuana establishments (MMEs) cooking up a storm in Nevada, there should be much better edibles on Vegas menus.

DO YOU KNOW WHERE YOUR PARENTS ARE? Daily clubgoers are typically young, as in 18 to 25. Entry into coffeeshops and the sale of cannabis in Amsterdam is permissible to anyone over the age of 18. Most locals found there are college educated and speak at least two to three languages. They are most often employed and many still live at home where two-parent households are the norm. When asked if their parents indulge, the answer is usually yes. When asked where mom and dad are now? “Sitting in front of the television getting high.” And what are they watching? American sitcoms and dramas that are two to three years old.

CONSUMPTION CONUNDRUM While Amsterdam’s menu boards are typical of what Nevada offers, consumption will be a conundrum for tourists coming here. Forty-two million visitors are expected to make their way to Las Vegas this year compared to five million tourists who visited Amsterdam’s Red Light District and its many cannabis coffeeshops in 2016. Amsterdam boasts a population of more than 851,000 and Las Vegas is estimated at 623,747. Nevada has no current plan in place for its visitors to recreate, while the Bulldog clubs, a chain of tourist traps, are popular and located in and around bars and even in Amsterdam’s Red Light District. Bulldog differs from a

general house with coffee as its commercial appeal. There is one example of an off-alley club, Prix d’Ami, Johnny Depp’s purported hangout, which features three floors that boast a comfy movie room on the top floor, a pool room, board games and a restaurant setting on the second floor and a dispensary and coffeeshop on the first floor.

WHAT VEGAS CLUBS SHOULD LOOK LIKE

Nevada has no international drug treaty pressure, only to survive the federal banking regulations. The road to a more complete program needs to include opioid addiction programs. No dispensaries within 200 meters of a school, no tobacco, and sample rooms for medical patients need to be included. No need to go crazy, 60 dispensary licenses currently cover a good test run throughout the state. Because of the autonomy of the state and further autonomy of the Clark County Commission, everything can be stamped temporary or experimental. The legal age to partake is 21, not 18 as in Amsterdam. Ride programs also should be strongly considered. What Amsterdam has shown is the ability to work around the law while maintaining a safe environment for tourists. Nevada can do even better by growing and selling its own cannabis, placing consumption clubs in safe areas, and making sure the medicine part of the law stays intact. The best of all worlds awaits in the Newest Amsterdam.

I S R A E L I

C A N N A B I S

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LEGALEASE

THE DO’S AND DON'TS EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW NOW THAT RECREATIONAL USE OF MARIJUANA IS LEGAL IN NEVADA

any Nevadans celebrated last November when Question 2 passed and retail (in Nevada law it is “retail marijuana” not “recreational marijuana”) use of marijuana became legal as of January 1, 2017. The Department of Taxation has been diligently working to get the facilities licensed and the goal is to have operational retail marijuana stores by July 1, 2017. Numerous questions have surfaced with this major change in state law and Nevadans are eager to bring a successful new industry to the Silver State. Here’s what you need to know about retail marijuana in Nevada. Adults over the age of 21 can: 1. Purchase up to 1 oz. of cannabis flower buds or 1/8 oz. of concentrated cannabis. 2. Use legally acquired cannabis in private locations. 3. Buy from licensed retail marijuana stores (once they become operational). • Initially only medical marijuana licensed facilities

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By Amanda Connor, Connor & Connor will be dual licensed as retail marijuana stores. • Until the retail marijuana licenses are issued by the Department of Taxation, there is no legal place to purchase retail marijuana in Nevada. 4. Possess retail marijuana related paraphernalia. 5. Still be held to workplace drug policy and other applicable drug policies. Adults over the age of 21 cannot: 1. Use cannabis flower or concentrated cannabis in public. 2. Transport marijuana across state lines. 3. Sell retail marijuana without a valid retail marijuana license from the Department of Taxation. 4. Drive under the influence. 5. Grow retail marijuana at home if located within 25 miles of a retail marijuana store. Additionally, pursuant to Senate Bill 487 which was passed and signed into law by Governor Sandoval in June, Nevada will assess a 10 percent excise tax at the point of

sale of retail marijuana. The 10 percent excise tax on retail marijuana is estimated to raise about $70 million which is earmarked for education. Medical marijuana patient cardholders who purchase medical marijuana will not be assessed this 10 percent tax. While Question 2 legalized the retail use of marijuana, Nevada will continue to maintain and work to improve its medical marijuana program. Due to numerous medical benefits and a greater understanding of the not so detrimental effects of marijuana, the majority of adults in Nevada feel that the retail use of marijuana should be permitted â&#x20AC;&#x201C; as evidenced by the voters when they passed Question 2 by 54 percent in November. It was high time for a change in policy and government officials and the industry have been diligently working to bring about an effective and safe retail marijuana program. The future for the marijuana industry in Nevada looks bright.

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Seventeen years after cannabis first became legal for medical use in Nevada, dispensaries were beginning celebratory preparations for the July 1st opening of the recreational marijuana market. Although not without a last-minute party foul in the form of a court case brought by the Independent Alcohol Distributors of Nevada (IADON) against the Nevada Department of Taxation. After filing a temporary restraining order against the Nevada Department of Taxation prohibiting it from enforcing an application deadline for marijuana distribution licenses, IADON made their case in front of Carson City Judge James Wilson on June 19. The crux of the case began with IADON filing a complaint on May 30th, arguing that the November voter-approved ballot measure, known as Question #2, which legalizes cannabis in Nevada, gives liquor wholesalers exclusive rights to marijuana distribution licenses for the first 18 months of sales in the state. Although alcohol wholesalers were to have exclusive distribution rights, in mid-March the Department of Taxation opened the licensing application process to the marijuana industry. “Opening that distributor license up to everyone gives them a monopoly, and I don’t believe the voters voted in a monopoly. It would allow them to become vertically integrated and handle everything from start to finish and none of us believe that’s what the people voted in when they said regulate marijuana like alcohol,” said Peggy Arquilla, IADON member and president of West Coast Wine & Spirits. The Department of Taxation opened licensing to the marijuana industry because of concerns that there wouldn’t be enough alcohol wholesalers to service the industry. Arquilla disputes that. “In reality one or two liquor distributors have more

NEVADA’S ALCOHOL WHOLESALERS RAIN ON POT’S COMING OUT PARTY by Beth Schwartz

capacity to service 100 or 200 customers and the fact that there were 30 who expressed interest, we can all just kinda do the math and I think that answers that question.” During the May 15-31 application process, 93 applications were turned in for marijuana distribution licenses -- five were from liquor wholesalers and 88 were from existing medical marijuana establishments, according to State of Nevada Tax Department spokesperson Stephanie Klapstein. As for how many distributors are necessary for the program, there is no way to forecast numbers because Nevada’s medical marijuana program does not require distributors. Most medical marijuana establishments are handling their own transportation needs shuttling marijuana between cultivations, production facilities, and dispensaries or they are using Blackbird Logistics Corporation, which is currently transporting medical marijuana on behalf of approximately 60 facilities in the state. It’s of no consequence now. Five will have to do because just 10 days before the start date of recreational marijuana sales, Judge Wilson handed down his ruling in favor of alcohol wholesalers, granting liquor license holders exclusive distribution rights for the initial 18 months of the state’s new marijuana industry. Although some thought pot’s coming out party was over before it even started, Blackbird will continue serving the medical market and will also be able to serve the recreational market. They have an alcohol wholesalers license and were one of the five companies who applied for a recreational distribution license. Liquor wholesalers say they are also ready. “We have everything in place, our operation is extremely simple,” said Bevi Beverages’ Massimo D’Arrigo of the July 1st start date. Everyone will know soon enough.

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NEVADA MARIJUANA By the Numbers BY 2024, THE INITIATIVE TO TAX AND REGULATE MARIJUANA PROJECTS APPROXIMATELY IN THE ADULT-USE MARIJUANA INDUSTRY AND

6,200

3,300

JOBS DIRECTLY

JOBS SUPPORTED OVERALL IN NEVADA PER YEAR.

$2,145per lb.

AS OF NOVEMBER 9, 2016, THE USE OF BOTH RECREATIONAL AND MEDICINAL MARIJUANA HAS BEEN LEGALIZED IN

(ALASKA, CALIFORNIA, COLORADO, MAINE, MASSACHUSETTS, NEVADA, OREGON, AND WASHINGTON).

is the fair market value of wholesale cannabis flower as of 7/1/17.

THERE ARE

MARIJUANA OPERATING LICENSURE FEES

$20,000

FOR RETAIL STORE

MARIJUANA PATIENT CARDHOLDERS AS OF APRIL 2017. MEDICAL MARIJUANA

ESTABLISHMENTS AS OF 5/15/17

88 11 57 18

MEDICAL MARIJUANA DISPENSARIES

CULTIVATIONS

TESTING

LABORATORIES

PRODUCTION FACILITIES

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Sales Tax

Rates

Medical = 15 PERCENT, REQUIRES MEDICAL MARIJUANA CARD AT A COST OF $50 OVER TWO YEARS

RECREATIONAL = 25 PERCENT, no card required

$30,000 FOR CULTIVATION

$10,000

FOR PRODUCTION

$15,000 FOR TESTING LAB

$15,000

FOR DISTRIBUTION

TIMELINE OF CANNABIS REGULATION IN THE SILVER STATE: NOVEMBER 7, 2000 OCTOBER 2001 JUNE 2013 NOVEMBER 3, 2014

65 percent of Nevada voters approve ballot question 9 to allow the use of medical marijuana making Nevada a home cultivation state with a patient registry, as outlined in NRS 453A. Question 9 becomes effective. Senate Bill 374 is signed by Governor Brian Sandoval to provide medical marijuana establishments including cultivation, production, dispensaries and laboratories. NRS 453A is modified to provide medical marijuana establishment regulation. Applicants for medical marijuana establishments were notified. A total of 372 provisional certificates were granted: 182 for cultivation; 118 for production; 55 for dispensaries; 17 for independent laboratories.

MARCH 2015

The first medical marijuana establishments receive final certification and open for business. They are a cultivator and a laboratory, both located in northern Nevada.

AUGUST 2015

First medical marijuana dispensary opens for business in Sparks, Nevada.

NOVEMBER 8, 2016 JANUARY 1, 2017 JULY 1, 2017 JANUARY 1, 2018

Voters approve Question 2 by 54 percent, which legalized possession of marijuana for adults 21 and older. Possession of marijuana becomes legal for adults 21 and older. Implementation of Nevada’s “early start” program allowing for recreational marijuana sales to begin before the deadline set in Question 2. Deadline for Department of Taxation to have a regulatory structure for adult-use sales in place.

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DISPENSARY SPOTLIGHT MMJ America mmjamerica.com 4660 S Decatur Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89103 702-565-WEED (9333) Photography by Hector Leyva, SugarMill Studios

MISSION STATEMENT | MMJ America believes in the healing power of cannabis as well as putting patients first by providing top quality Cannabis Cup winning products at unbeatable prices and by advocating for the progressive reform of marijuana laws. PHILOSOPHY | Self-described as: Your favorite dispensary’s favorite dispensary, MMJ America strives to be the leading marijuana dispensary group across America. As a multi-state brand providing award-winning strains, MMJ America firmly believes that everyone has a right to personal freedom, especially to make their own decisions when it comes time to medicate. TOP SELLING STRAIN(S) | Matrix’s Tangilope and Nature’s Chemistry Hell’s OG TOP SELLING CONCENTRATE | Vader Distillates TOP SELLING EDIBLE | Incredibles Mile High 500mg TOPICAL | Mary’s Medicinals transdermal patches MEDICINE SOURCE | MMJ America is bringing their 18 awardwinning strains to Las Vegas. Currently, the dispensary is sourcing from other facilities while their cultivation is being constructed. CUSTOMER SERVICE PHILOSOPHY | MMJ America holds their customers in the highest regard, offering unparalleled customer service at extremely competitive prices. They do this by ensuring that patients enter a welcoming environment so they feel like part of the family. MMJ America believes in educating the patient to find the best product to fit their needs. EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS | MMJ America will be scheduling doctor presentations to offer patients educational briefings. In the meantime, the dispensary is holding vendor days with local companies to inform patients how their products will aid with certain ailments. STAFF EDUCATION | Prior to opening, MMJ America spent four months offering stringent training to its staff. Moving forward, MMJ America will have monthly staff meetings to continue the cannabis education process.

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Melting Point Extracts is a team of dedicated professionals utilizing state of the art extraction techniques and equipment. Good manufacturing practices combined with sound chemistry truly sets us apart from the rest. We are honored to provide you with our highest standard - The Gold Standard.

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THE GOLD STANDARD “Ocean Grown Fruit Terp Sauce. @MPX_NV killing the game. Get it now at @apothecarium_lv” -@theyoungfashioned “Bruce Banner Live Resin raw THCa crystals. I opened the container and I could smell the terps from 5 feet away! Taste crazy too!” -@senor_fox “Golden Goat Cured Resin. I highly recommend MPX!” -@joseph_williams209 “Some of the highest quality shatter for the price in Nevada! Much love to you guys!” -@chrisblntsmknprice “Grease Monkey Cured Resin by @mpx_nv is a saucy cross of Cookies and Cream and Gorilla Glue No.4 that was gorgeously grown by @summacannabis and features a terpene profile consisting of 33 mg/g of caryophyllene, 26 mg/g of limonene, and 20 mg/g of humulene. This sapid sugar has thick and greasy undertones that are accompanied by pungent and floral notes, all ending in a slightly sweet and citrusy tail end. The feeling flows like warm water over a barren desert, starting in your chest and sloshing down into your arms and legs, calming your nerves and easing your pain with every wave. I picked this up from the awesome people over @euphoriawellness.lv. Cheers everyone! -@sap_r_us

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FIND YOUR SIGNATURE STRAIN NEVADA’S CANNABIS MARKETPLACE IS FULL OF DISTINCT PRODUCTS WITH UNIQUE FEATURES AND FLAVORS By Justin Alexander

As Nevada’s burgeoning cannabis marketplace continues to take shape and find its way, many cultivations and production houses are finding their niche -- excelling at producing and growing specific products. Some brands are even becoming well-known among cannasseurs for signature strains or products that set them apart from their cannabis brethren due to a distinct characteristic, unique feature or singular flavor. For this month’s review, elevate gathered signature strains and products from across the industry and ended up with a mix of flower, edibles, and vapes that will appeal to both patients and recreational users. The benefit of signature products is there is such a wide variety, you will undoubtedly find a gem. Or you may even come across a product you have been hoping someone would make as many of these products were created with a specific purpose or goal in mind. Whether carefully developed through a proprietary algorithm or discovered because of a happy accident, there is something for everyone in this review.

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REMEDY’S DEADHEAD OG

A signature strain because of its high yield and easy growth potential, Remedy’s Deadhead OG is the love child of SFV OG Kush and Ultimate 91 Chemdawg. “The medicine this flower provides is unmatched. The terpenes on this are crazy,” says Remedy’s Cultivation Manager Chris Welch. That outcome was unexpected, but one the team at Remedy was pleasantly surprised to find. “We did expect good test results, be we were very happy to see the wide variety of terps, and, of course, the high THC doesn’t hurt either. Also, there’s the shape and quality of the product, how well it grew, and to even see characteristics from each of the parent plants,” explains Welch of the strain which tests at 29.87 percent THC. One of the most distinguishing characteristics of Deadhead OG is the interesting dreams it produces along with euphoria in the conscious state. In addition to great sleep, it gives the overall body unparalleled relaxation and a tuned-in cerebral effect that comes with an indica-heavy hybrid. On both the nose and palate, this is a hearty, pungent strain.

NAKED CITY OG ROSIN ROCKET FROM OASIS

One of Oasis Medical’s best-selling products, the Naked City OG Rosin Rocket, is a solventless hash-infused pre-roll. “[Oasis created it to] appease indica lovers and people looking for a powerful OG kush hybrid,” says Oasis’ head of cultivation Don Decatur, who notes, “the function of these have been improved over previous Rosin Rocket designs.” Infused joints provide an extra strong kick with 24.9 THC for those looking for maximum pain relief and relaxation. While they do burn harsh, they burn slow. Expect a heavy head high and a nice smooth melting into the couch vibe.

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VIRTUE’S DIAMOND DUST

“The goal of this particular strain was to create a flower with OG Kush effects even though the lineage is not OG. Diamond Dust is a stop on the way to that goal,” explains

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David Holmes, owner of Clade9 and head cultivator at Virtue Las Vegas, of the indica-dominant hybrid that is a product of his proprietary algorithm called the “Holmes Matrix.” In creating this signature strain, he was pleasantly surprised with the yield and its structure, color and trichome density— rocky buds in bright, beautiful colors with deep green, purple and orange hairs, all under a blanket of white crystals that offer the appearance of a web of glistening diamonds, hence the name. When sampling the flower, the first thing to take notice of is the distinct pine aroma as well as the smooth sweet and sour taste of Diamond Dust that is finely laced with hints of citrus. Mouthwatering and strong, the high is long-lasting with THC that ranges from the mid- to high 20s and will carry you through many hours in the evening with deep relaxation and muscle release, leading to euphoria and self-reflection.

KYND CBD CHOCOLATE BAR

KYND Cannabis Company has made a name for itself with premium flower, edibles and concentrates that are approachable, yet effective for patients who are new to medicinal cannabis. One of KYND’s most popular products is their 300-mg CBD Chocolate Bar, offered in the same dark chocolate with sea salt and creamy milk chocolate versions as their THC bars. “These chocolate bars were our first foray into infused edibles, and they really are incredible,” says owner and CEO Mark Pitchford. “Our goal was a high-end infused edible that delivered on taste and consistency. We work with an amazing

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As the name suggests, Million Dollar Baby, also known as M$B, is Medizin’s signature heavy indica strain. Bred and selected by Calco Genetics, Million Dollar Baby is “possibly one of the most desired varieties in the city,” reveals Vice President and Lead Horticulturalist of Medizin Chris Wren. “Upon release, we experience a large rush, and it typically sells out very quickly. Case in point, we launched this new harvest last week and are down to the last pound today.” Elevated myrcene levels give this flower its powerful aroma and taste, which has notes of delicious and creamy cake frosting—a completely unique flavor in the world of cannabis strains. With just one hit, the effects of Million Dollar Baby at 22 to 26 percent THC are like icing on the cake overtaking even the most experienced smokers and creating blissfully sweet couch lock.

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according to Mitch Britten, owner of Green & Gold Supply Co. The primary goal was “a strong, resinous indica that packs a punch and is a very reliable yielder,” Britten says, noting that it is strong in both terpene levels and THC at 21.89 percent. Unique to this varietal, Britten says that the whole plant turns entirely black just before harvest. While flavor and potency are the first things that hit right after a deep draw, a sweet berry taste runs through the lungs and into the head, sending you into a dreamy euphoria that will push even the most stressed people into a good night’s sleep.

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W VAPES’ HOLY GRAIL CARTRIDGE

While Holy Grail is a fairly new strain for W Vapes, the company is wellestablished in the cartridge world. “We provide multiple strains by season with an artisanstyle process to give the highest-quality concentrates and vaping experience on the market,” says W Vapes co-founder Jeff Nagel. Testing in at 79 percent THC, Holy Grail boasts a full-spectrum native terpene profile with a true OG Kush gas flavor and effect. “Our first priority is to ensure the health and safety of our consumers by providing an oil that is free of pesticides, fungicides, plant growth regulators—or PGRs—and residual solvents,” explains Nagel, who continues, “second, we like our products to represent the strain the oil was extracted from.” Both novice and experienced smokers will fall in love with this super strain which produces an incredibly mellow and pleasurable high. Pain and nausea float away during a slow smoking session of this vape.

CANNABIOTIX CASINO KUSH

A cross between Whitewalker OG and Blue Flame, Cannabiotix Casino Kush is an indicaleaning hybrid that wipes

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away depression and pain. As a signature strain of Cannabiotix, it pumps creativity and happiness into your mental state with every draw. This is a very strong strain at 29 percent THC and .035 percent CBD. Best for moderate to advanced smokers, it will put you out of this world in no time at all and send you into a blissful state. Spicy and robust on the nose, the name is an especially cool recognition point for Las Vegans.

DABARATUS BY O.PEN VAPE

Making the dabbing process easier with potent, terpenerich distillate oil built into a convenient applicator, the Dabaratus is a cutting-edge device that is both clever and stylish. “The Star Killer distillate is a perfect pairing to the hardware seeing as it’s such a high potency with long-lasting effects, you wouldn’t want to consume too much at a time,” explains Jonathon Cline, a representative of Bakked, the manufacturer of Dabaratus. “This strain is unique in that it has a relatively high CBG content (2.638 percent), which is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that decreases inflammation, decreases ocular pressure, and acts as an antidepressant making it great for pain relief, IBS, glaucoma and inducing a general sense of well-being.” The Dabaratus filled with CO2 Bakked Distillate oil tests at 7.720 percent D9-THC and is for anyone from novice to cannasseur. A full gram will last a long time and this product is measurable so there is much less waste. “You can use it as an edible, sublingually, to dab with directly on a nail, refill your handheld vaporizer, or to liven up your joints, blunts, and bowls,” suggests Cline. Grab the Dabaratus when micro-dosing or mega-dosing after a long day for Star Killer’s intense high with a cerebral creep. This strain makes the day brighter and the stress melt away.

REDWOOD CULTIVATION’S SUGAR COOKIES

A name as intriguing as Sugar Cookies sets a high bar for a strain of weed, and word has gotten out that it lives up to its reputation. “All the hype out there is about

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the cookie strain, and this is our best yet,” offers lead cultivator Jon Annalora of Redwood Cultivation’s signature strain Sugar Cookies which tests at 25 percent THC. “We always continue pheno-hunting and looking for the next best one.” Along with dense, colorful flowers, Sugar Cookies is extra frosty in appearance just as you think it would be based on its name. This product is aimed at the “cannasseur” who is searching for the best medicine on the market. Tasty is its top attribute with a sweet cookie dough flavor and terps that match its calm, relaxing effects. Expect a soothing high with sleep benefits and an increased appetite that will probably make you reach for real sugar cookies.

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If you prefer to consume your medicine as a delicious, fun edible, then consider Evergreen Organix’s fruity cereal sativa treat. “While we generally consider our cookie and brownie line to be our signature products, our cereal bars have proved to be very popular,” says Jillian Nelson, operations manager, Evergreen Organix. Each treat is made by combining marshmallow and cereal into a puff of goodness. Full of true-totreat flavor, the sweet fruit taste is pleasing and not overpowering. Ideal for those who are smoke-free and want a snack that packs medicinal qualities.

THE+SOURCE’S PENNYWISE DISTILLATE

An indica-dominant hybrid, Pennywise distillate is 99 percent cannabinoids, which means it provides maximum medicinal relief for a variety of ailments. “The 99 percent total cannabinoids is a benchmark we have been driving for and it’s nice to achieve that potency level with a THC/CBD strain distillate,” says

Eric V. Vega, The+Source’s director of operations. “[We wanted to achieve] the highest potency possible so less product will produce the required effect.” The Pennywise strain itself is most commonly used to treat arthritis, PTSD, epilepsy, neurological disorders, and cancer related symptoms. It contains a 1:1 ratio of CBD and THC (43.5 percent THC; 49.3 percent CBD) and a luminous appearance, so the psychoactive effects are milder and more relaxing. Expect a euphoric and invigorating buzz with bursts of sharp mental clarity.

ROVE OG VAPE CARTRIDGE

They say you never forget your first one and in the case of Rove, their OG Vape cartridge is a true

original as it was their very first product. It was made with the goal of capturing those who love to smoke THC-potent flower at a ratio of 72.94 percent THC/0.16 percent CBD. “OG was the first strain Rove developed and is generally our most potent. OG flower has a very distinctive taste and aroma and our oil captures those flavors in such a precise way, it is always a big hit with cannabis traditionalist flower aficionados,” says Chris Ellenberger, director of operations for Rove Nevada. Priding themselves on potency, the consistency of the Rove oil is very thick. “Hitting a Rove cartridge is a bit like taking a mini

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wax dab,” Ellenberger says. “Many cannabis vape oils are diluted with fillers or thinners, but Rove’s thick oil is a sign of a commitment to potency.” This product is pure, its OG roots with a super stoney high will stop insomnia dead in its tracks. Feel your body lift away and be transported upon a cloud, taking away pain and increasing the need for one last snack before bed.

NEVADA MEDICAL MARIJUANA’S KABUNKY KLEAR VAPORIZER CARTRIDGE STRAWNANNA

Convenience is a key factor of Kabunky Klear’s vaporizer cartridge as you just screw it on and go when it’s time for a dose of medicine. Not only is the chamber extra-large with 500mg of concentrate and easily monitored, but expect maximum fruit flavor in the notes with a delicious mix of strawberry and banana. Nevada MMJ’s Chris DeGraff says this didn’t happen by accident. “What I was really trying to go with was a profile that didn't just taste like somebody threw a bunch of terps in a cartridge,” he says. “I was going with individual flavors that would taste good to the patient. Something that doesn't taste like every other cartridge on the market right now.” Strawnanna offers a nice smooth taste that lingers on the back of your tongue after the hit and is versatile for all types of smokers. “If you're a connoisseur in the industry and you're looking for a really, really, really nice top shelf concentrate in a

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very nice disposable cartridge, it's phenomenal for that,” DeGraff says of the 80 percent THC/10.8 CBD vape cartridge. “Or if you're a first-time user and you're looking for something that's not gonna completely knock you [out] after one hit in terms of the high, it is uplifting and bodycentric without putting you on the couch.”

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As the dust from the Nevada legislative session settles, it’s time to take a look at the changes expected to take place in Nevada’s marijuana industry. During this past legislative session, the Nevada Legislature focused primarily on issues related to medical marijuana as decisions about “retail,” or recreational marijuana, will be made by the Department of Taxation. One major focus of the legislative session was to improve and preserve the medical marijuana program. Ahead of the session, Nevada Dispensary Association (NDA) members expressed concern that the medical program could be vulnerable, given the difficulties patients experienced in obtaining patient cards in the past as well as other hurdles faced by the program. With this vulnerability in mind, the NDA sought to improve access for patients, in addition to making other changes meant to ensure the continued sustainability of the program. The NDA was fortunate to find a dedicated ally in Assemblyman Nelson Araujo, who sponsored Assembly Bill 422 and Assembly Bill 463 specifically to make changes to the medical marijuana program and ensure its continued viability. When I originally appealed to Assemblyman Araujo in hopes that he might sponsor bills supporting the medical marijuana program in Nevada, I was unaware of how much time and effort the request would demand of him. Fortunately, the Assemblyman was knowledgeable about the program and worked tirelessly to pass bills that would improve patient access and allow for streamlined business operations and regulatory functions. Assemblyman Araujo worked closely with the Godfather of Nevada’s marijuana industry, Senator Richard “Tick” Segerblom, to ensure that both the Assembly and Senate could pass a bill that would allow the program to continue to accommodate the needs

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2017 WRAP-UP

REGULATORY CHANGES PRESERVE STATE’S MEDICAL MARIJUANA PROGRAM by Riana Durrett, Esq., Executive Director of Nevada Dispensary Association

● Allows any person over 21 to enter a medical marijuana dispensary ● Caps fees and taxes imposed by local governments ● Transfers the medical marijuana program, except the portion relating to patient cards, to the Department of Taxation ● Clarifies and extends reciprocity to patients from qualifying states ● Allows individuals to apply to Taxation to work for, or provide services to, a medical marijuana establishment ● Changes requirements for renewing or transferring ownership Many other bills relating to marijuana were introduced with varying results. The highlights include:

of patients and the businesses that are essential to the continued success of the program. The highlights of these efforts, which become effective July 1, include: Patient Access: ● Allows patients to access medical marijuana the same day they see a doctor, similar to any prescription medication, by allowing patients to furnish their application for a patient card to a dispensary ● Expands who can issue recommendations for medical use of marijuana ● Allows patient cards to be valid for up to two years ● Reduces the cost of a patient card Changes to Regulatory Framework: ● Changes wholesale tax structure to allow for “single stream” of medical and retail products (*This was originally in Assemblyman Araujo’s AB463, but was moved to, and passed in, Senate Bill 487)

Passed: ● Additional 10 percent excise tax on retail sales ● Restrictions on packaging, labeling, and advertising of edible marijuana ● Allowing hemp growers to sell directly to medical marijuana establishments Failed: ● Consumption lounges (this may still be attainable at a local level) ● Adding opiate addiction as a qualifying condition for a marijuana patient card ● Addressing the concealed carry issue ● Allowing organized labor to enter into agreements with medical marijuana establishments to participate in apprenticeship programs ● Expansion of the ability to grow at home Of the 23 bills introduced relating to marijuana--ranging from concealed carry rights to registering to work in the industry--only approximately

one-third of those bills passed and, of that third, only a handful were signed into law by Governor Sandoval. While session was ongoing, NDA, along with other industry stakeholders, participated in the hearings, public workshops, and adoption of the temporary regulations (regulating retail marijuana) and in the Governorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Task Force, which will help shape permanent regulations. The NDA is grateful that Nevada lawmakers, regulators and industry stakeholders pulled together to support Nevadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s medical marijuana program this session, which has been widely commended as a national model in several areas, including inventory control and testing standards. In addition, the Department of Taxation has accomplished the seemingly impossible task of implementing a new government program (retail sales) in only approximately six months and we look forward to implementation of their well-developed, comprehensive regulations on July 1.

SPECIALIZING IN RETAIL DISPLAYS FOR THE CANNABIS INDUSTRY CUSTOM MILLWORK PREFABRICATED DISPLAYS READY FOR IMMEDIATE PICK-UP AND INSTALLATION DISPLAY ACCESSORIES

For a list of Nevada dispensaries selling recreational marijuana, please visit www.elevatenv.com/NevadaGoesRec

july | elevatenv.com 35

DISPENSARY MAP 1. Acres Cannabis acrescannabis.com 2320 Western Ave Las Vegas NV 89102 702.399.4200

8b. Essence Cannabis Dispensary essencevegas.com 4300 E Sunset Rd Ste #A3 Henderson, NV, 89014 702.978.7687

17. NuLeaf www.nuleafnv.com 430 E Twain Ave Las Vegas, NV 89169 702.297.5323

2. Apothecarium apothecariumlv.com 7885 W Sahara Ave Las Vegas, NV 89117 702.778.7987

8c. Essence Cannabis Dispensary essencevegas.com 5765 W Tropicana Ave Las Vegas, NV, 89103 702.500.1714

18. Oasis Medical Cannabis oasismedicalcannabis.com 1800 S Industrial Rd Ste #180 Las Vegas, NV 89102 702.420.2405

3. Blackjack Collective blackjackcollective.com 1860 Western Ave Las Vegas, NV 89102 702.545.0026

9. Inyo Fine Cannabis Dispensary inyolasvegas.com 2520 S Maryland Pkwy Ste #2 Las Vegas, NV 89109 702.707.8888

19. Panacea Quality Cannabis lvpanacea.com 4235 Arctic Spring Ave Las Vegas, NV 89115 702.405.8597

4a. Blüm LetsBlum.com 1921 Western Ave Las Vegas, NV 89102 702.718.Blum

10. Jardin jardincannabis.com 2900 E Desert Inn Rd Ste #102 Las Vegas, NV 89121 702.331.6511

20. Pisos Dispensary pisoslv.com 4110 S Maryland Pkwy Ste #1 Las Vegas, NV 89119 702.367.9333

4b. Blüm LetsBlum.com 3650 S Decatur Blvd Las Vegas, NV 89103 702.627.Blum

11a. Jenny’s Dispensary Jennysdispensary.com 5530 N Decatur Blvd North Las Vegas, NV 89030 702.718.0420

21a. Reef Dispensaries reefdispensaries.com 3400 Western Ave Las Vegas, NV 89109 702.475.6520

4c. Blüm LetsBlum.com 1130 E Desert Inn Rd Las Vegas, NV 89109 702.536.Blum

11b. Jenny’s Dispensary Jennysdispensary.com 10420 S Eastern Ave Henderson, NV 89052 702.718.0420

21b. Reef Dispensaries reefdispensaries.com 1366 W Cheyenne Ave North Las Vegas, NV 89030 702.410.8032

5a. CANOPI canopi.com 6540 Blue Diamond Rd Las Vegas, NV 89139 702.420.7338

12. Las Vegas ReLeaf lasvegasreleaf.com 2244 Paradise Rd North Las Vegas, NV 89104 702.209.2400

22. Sahara Wellness 420sahara.com 420 E Sahara Ave Las Vegas , NV 89104 702.478.5533

5b. CANOPI canopi.com 1324 S 3rd St Las Vegas, NV 89104 702.420.2902

13. Medizin medizinlv.com 4850 W Sunset Rd Ste #130 Las Vegas, NV 89118 702.206.1313

23. Shango Las Vegas goshango.com 4380 Boulder Highway Las Vegas, NV 89121 702.444.4824

5c. CANOPI canopi.com 2113 Las Vegas Blvd North North Las Vegas, NV 89030 702.420.2113

14. MMJ America mmjamerica.com 4660 S Decatur Blvd Las Vegas, NV 89109 702.565.9333

24. ShowGrow showgrowlv.com 4850 S Fort Apache Rd Ste #100 Las Vegas NV 89147 702.227.0511

6. Deep Roots Harvest deeprootsharvest.com 195 Willis Carrier Canyon Mesquite, NV 89034 702.345.2854

15a. Nevada Medical Marijuana nevadamedicalmarijuana.com 3195 St. Rose Pkwy Ste #212 Henderson, NV 89052 702.737.7777

25. Silver Sage Wellness sswlv.com 4626 W Charleston Blvd Las Vegas, NV 89102 702.802.3757

7. Euphoria Wellness euphoriawellnessnv.com 7780 S Jones Blvd Ste #105 Las Vegas, NV 89139 702.960.7200

15b. Nevada Medical Marijuana nevadamedicalmarijuana.com 1975 S Casino Dr Laughlin, NV 89029 702.737.7777

26. The Apothecary Shoppe theapothecaryshoppe.com 4240 W Flamingo Rd Ste #100 Las Vegas, NV 89103 702.740.4372

8a. Essence Cannabis Dispensary essencevegas.com 2307 S Las Vegas Blvd Las Vegas, NV, 89104 702.978.7591

16. Nevada Wellness Center nvwellnessctr.com 3200 S Valley View Blvd Las Vegas, NV 89102 702.470.2077

27. The Clinic theclinicnevada.com 4310 W Flamingo Rd Las Vegas, NV 89103 702.447.1250

28a. The Dispensary thedispensarynv.com 5347 S Decatur Blvd Ste #100 Las Vegas, NV 89118 702.476.0420 28b. The Dispensary thedispensarynv.com 50 N Gibson Rd Ste #170 Henderson, NV 89104 702.476.0420 29a. The Grove TheGroveNV.com 1541 E Basin Ave Pahrump, NV 89048 775.556.0100 29b. The Grove TheGroveNV.com 4647 Swenson St Las Vegas, NV 89119 702.463.5777 30a. The Source thesourcenv.com 2550 S Rainbow Blvd Ste #8 Las Vegas, NV 89146 702.708.2000 30b. The Source thesourcenv.com 9480 S Eastern Ave Ste #185 Henderson, NV 89123 702.708.2222 31a. Thrive Cannabis Markeplace thrivenevada.com 2755 W Cheyenne Ave Ste #103 North Las Vegas, NV 89032 702.776.4144 31b.Thrive Cannabis Marketplace Thrivenevada.com 1112 S Commerce St. Las Vegas, NV 89102 702.776.4144 32. Top Notch THC topnotchthc.com 5630 Stephanie St Las Vegas, NV 89122 702.418.0420 33. Zen Leaf zenleafvegas.com 9120 W Post Rd Ste #103 Las Vegas, NV 89148 702.462.6706

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DECATUR BLVD

HIG SO HL UTH AN ER DS N PK W

515

WINDMILL LN

PEBBLE RD

SILVERADO RANCH BLVD

LLY

AMO

E DI

BLU

KAREN AVE

D RD

E TWAIN

RUSSELL RD

SUNSET COUNTY PARK

SAHARA AVE

GREEN DISTRICT

FLAMINGO RD EASTERN AVE

AS B

MCCARRAN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

21a

OAKEY BLVD

8a 12 22 ST. LOUIS AVE

NELLIS BLVD

N 5TH

N ST

SUNSET RD

WINDMILL LN

PAHRUMP

29b

LAS VEGAS TROPICANA AVE

DESERT INN RD

215

WARM SPRINGS RD

29a

SUNSET RD

EE R D

LOS

RUSSELL RD

SAHARA AVE

GREEN VALLEY

21a

27 26

14 8c 28a

TROPICANA AVE

MARYLAND PKWY

JONES BLVD

RAINBOW BLVD

BUFFALO DR

FLAMINGO RD

STR

4b DESERT INN RD

CHARLESTON BLVD

3 18

SAHARA AVE 15

THE

SAHARA AVE

WASHINGTON AVE

MAI 31b 5b 3 18

LVD

30a

OAKEY BLVD

OWENS AVE

BERMUDA RD

DURANGO DR

FT APACHE RD

LAKE MEAD BLVD

31b

CHARLESTON BLVD

BONANZA RD

CHARLESTON BLVD TOWN CENTER DR

WASHINGTON AVE

EGA SV NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE

MARYLAND PKWY

ALTA DR

HUALAPAI WAY

SIMMONS ST

VEGAS DR

215

160

PECOS RD

DECATUR BLVD

CAREY AVE BLVD

NORTH LAS VEGAS AIRPORT

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21b

LV SB

CRAIG RD

31a

LAS

NORTH LAS VEGAS

LAS VEGAS BLVD SOUTH

MESQUITE

WASHBURN RD

DECATUR BLVD

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CAMINO AL NORTE / MLK

RAINBOW BLVD

BUFFALO DR

CHEYENNE AVE

ANN RD

DR HO NC RA

ALEXANDER RD

11a

JONES BLVD

DURANGO DR

GRAND CANYON DR

LONE MOUNTAIN RD

LAKE ME AD

215

HORIZON RIDGE PKWY

HORIZON DR

515

BOULDER CITY

ENTREPRENEUR PROMOTES REFRESHING SIDE OF CANNABIS WITH MED·A·MINTS By Beth Schwartz

“The light didn’t come on for me until about a year or a-year-in-a-half ago,” Med·a·mints cofounder Gary Garbel admits of discovering cannabis’ medicinal properties. Although the cannabis entrepreneur first brought Med·a·mints to the Colorado marketplace in 2011, it wasn’t that long ago when he realized the healing effects of his product. “In my mind it was about getting high and when I was high I knew that I felt good -- it freshened my mind, stimulated my imagination and creativity, and I really enjoyed skiing. I realized what it was doing for me but I didn’t think of that in medical terms. By keeping ourselves healthy and avoiding being sick we are maintaining our health, which is a medical benefit,” notes Gabrel of cannabis’ healing role. Gabrel initially entered the cannabis industry because “I have entrepreneurism in my blood and have created a lot of different businesses and, having been successful at a couple, it has given me the freedom to work for myself so I have followed my heart and passion and beliefs. My entry into the cannabis business is a reflection of what I believe in and what I think is very important. I am really proud to be a part of the change that’s going on.” A veteran of the restaurant business as well as having experience in product development, Gabrel was interested in getting in the cannabis space so he brainstormed with his wife and friends about the optimal delivery form that would equate to long-term success. “People were doing things like ice cream and baked goods and I didn’t want to have problems with

elevatenv.com | july

refrigeration and shelf-life. I forget how we came up with the idea of mints but once we did, it seemed like a terrific way to go and it was a very fortuitous choice because this category has developed to be really solid and one that makes sense. Given our experience with pharmaceuticals and small controlled dose forms, it just makes sense with a potent medicine and drug as opposed to confections and candy,” explains Gabrel of Med·a·mints, which is a sugar-free dose with 10 mg THC per mint that he describes as “the healthiest product in a dispensary.” “As edibles have become more popular, overdosing has been a problem because it’s a new form of uptake for most people so there is a learning curve we have to go through both individually and as a society to understand dosing of this particular medicine in different forms. I thought it would be good to dose in small increments and that’s perfect for mints and tablets,” Gabrel continues, “a mint, and ours specifically, is meant to be absorbed in the mouth and not chewed and swallowed. Absorption through the mucus membranes is faster, more consistent, and more potent than medicine that is swallowed. Those are great features of this particular edible product that are not true of other edibles. A problem that many people have with edibles is the slow onset of the medicine, people lose patience or they are not getting the relief they want fast enough.” Gabrel developed Med·a·mints “to be good for the core culture, but the emphasis is on people like ourselves, I am a senior citizen now, I just turned 65. I made the product for people like myself -- people who want to use cannabis and they want to do it conveniently, smart and responsibly. We think our target audience is smart consumers -- people who read labels and pay attention to ingredients and are interested in different ways of taking the medicine.”

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OPEN FOR BUSINESS MMJ America has opened at 4660 S. Decatur Blvd. with strains from Vault Genetics that include everything from high THC/low CBD to high CBD/low THC. mmjamerica.com Panacea Quality Cannabis has opened at 4235 Arctic Spring Avenue in North Las Vegas. lvpanacea.com Acres Craft Cannabis dispensary has opened at 2320 Western Avenue with an open-view production kitchen and live glassblowing featuring local and touring artists. Home to the newest campus of Oaksterdam University, Acres Craft Cannabis touts itself as the most unique dispensary in Las Vegas housing the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest museum dedicated to the history of the cannabis plant, dating back nearly 3,000 years. acrescannabis.com For a list of Nevada dispensaries selling recreational marijuana, please visit www.elevatenv.com/NevadaGoesRec

elevatenv.com | july

“Amanda Connor is extremely involved with, and committed to, Nevada’s cannabis industry. She’s been a trailblazer in the industry and started serving her clients from its beginning. In terms of cannabis regulation, there is no one more knowledgeable or competent in the state.” --John A. Ritter

Connor & Connor PLLC is a boutique law firm focusing on business formation, transactions, litigation, licensing, and permitting. The attorneys at Connor & Connor PLLC understand cannabis law and its intricacies.

www.connorpllc.com | 702.750.9139 /ConnorConnorPllc

@Connor_pllc

Connor & Connor Pllc

july | elevatenv.com 43

Elevating the Conversation

with Senator Richard “Tick” Segerblom

third generation Nevadan, State Senator Tick Segerblom was born and raised in Boulder City, Nevada. An employment attorney, Segerblom was first elected to the Nevada Assembly in 2006 and then to the Nevada State Senate in 2012, where he currently serves as Chair of the Senate Committee on Judiciary. A longtime marijuana advocate, Senator Segerblom has been instrumental in the legislative progress cannabis has made in the Silver State.

IT’S A HISTORIC MOMENT -- HOW DOES IT FEEL TO SEE CANNABIS BECOME RECREATIONALLY LEGAL IN NEVADA? I will feel better when today is over, once the court hearing in Carson City is over. Assuming it goes well and the judge doesn’t stop it, it will be one of the most exciting days of my life. It’s hard to believe that it’s finally going to happen. I think it opens a whole new era for Nevada. When you look at how Las Vegas has embraced the Electric Daisy Carnival, it just seems to me we are really looking at millennials as our future and I think marijuana is part of the millennial culture. WOULD YOU SAY THE LEGALIZATION OF MARIJUANA IN NEVADA HAS BEEN A LEGACY PIECE FOR YOU? I think it’s going to be on my tombstone. YOU WERE FIRST ELECTED TO THE ASSEMBLY IN 2006, AND ALTHOUGH MEDICAL CANNABIS WAS IN PLACE, THE REGULATIONS SURROUNDING IT WEREN’T A REALITY UNTIL 2013. WAS THAT ONE OF YOUR GOALS WHEN YOU RAN FOR ELECTED OFFICE? I knew that it was doable but it wasn’t one of my goals. It didn’t become a real fixture until the 2012 election when Washington state and Colorado voted for recreational marijuana, at that point it just seemed like the time for Nevada was ripe. Everybody still said we would never be able to do it, but truthfully there was no opposition so we moved forward and everyone agreed we should do it. NEVADA’S STRINGENT LAB TESTING HAS BEEN A HIGHLIGHT OF THE STATE’S MEDICAL MARIJUANA PROGRAM. DID YOU REALIZE FROM THE START THAT LAB TESTING IN NEVADA WOULD HAVE TO BE THE GOLD STANDARD? I think we did. We looked at Colorado and Arizona when we were writing the law, we looked for the best things out there, and said let’s go ahead and start with the best since we are starting from scratch. Testing seemed like the way to go. It really does set us apart, Oregon just found out they aren’t testing for pesticides and they have got a real problem there. Colorado is finally getting around to full scale testing and they

elevatenv.com | july

have got issues. We really do have the best quality control of any place. WHAT’S GOING ON WITH CONSUMPTION LOUNGES? If we can get local governments to realize they have the authority, without any kind of state authorization, than each local jurisdiction is on their own. I have been told that the Clark County Commission has an opinion that they can do it. I am working on a state opinion that says they can do it. At that point, it will just be every city council and county commission on their own with what they want to do. MARIJUANA SEEMS LIKE A NATURAL FIT FOR A STATE THAT HAS AN EXPERTISE IN REGULATING VICES. That’s why I love the marijuana thing because to me if you look back at the history of Nevada we have always been the outlaws, we have always done things other states didn’t want to do. During the Depression we had divorce, we had gambling. We have had all the vices, that’s what we are famous for and it seems like marijuana is probably the last vice we can get on top of and kind of set ourselves away from other places. WILL YOU SEEK HIGHER OFFICE BEYOND YOUR SENATE SEAT ONCE YOU TERM OUT IN 2024? I am actually looking at running for the Clark County Commission in 2018. WHAT IS THE PIECE OF LEGISLATION YOU ARE MOST PROUD TO HAVE PASSED DURING THE LAST 10 YEARS? I would have so say it was clearly the 2013 medical marijuana program, it’s the one that has really changed Nevada and I have to say if I hadn’t been involved, it wouldn’t have happened, at least, at that time. It was going to eventually happen but it was one of those things where I was at the right place at the right time. It really worked out beyond anyone’s dreams. To read our entire interview with Senator Segerblom, visit elevatenv.com/Elevating_the_Conversation.

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