Feb. 2020 — Northwest Leaf

#116 | FEB. 2020

THE ENLIGHTENED VOICE

THE INDOOR ISSUE

PLATINUM VALLEY KUSH GROWN BY ARTIZEN

Roaring ‘20s with the Leaf REHASHED } 14

FREE / NWLEAF.COM

High Society Anacortes SHOP REVIEW } 32

Amsterdam makes history FEATURE } 52

Valentine's Day Edibles RECIPES } 54

Reflecting on the journey ON THE ROAD } 66

INDEPENDENT CANNABIS JOURNALISM SINCE 2010

To My One True Love

XOXO

OPEN

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the indoor issue

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FEATURES 11 editor note 12 national news 14 roaring ‘20s 16 PURE WHITE ASH 18 bring it to bonnie 20 how to eat hemp 22 highly likely 24 alice moon q&a 26 amber e. senter 28 larry b. turner iii 32 high society anacortes 36 strain of the month 40 pioneer nuggets 44 artizen cannabis 48 indoor gear guide 52 cannabis museum 54 infused v-day recipes 56 edible of the month 58 tannins & terpenes 60 concentrate otm 62 cannabis & coffee 66 on the road 70 stoney baloney ISSUU.COM/NWLEAF

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40 LEMON DANISH growing at the garden of Pioneer Nuggets in Arlington, Washington.

FEB. 2020

PHOTO by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS

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There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of the reach of children.

Leaf Life Podcast is an entertaining exploration of All Things Cannabis For All People. @beardedlorax

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Join Ricker and The Bearded Lorax for insightful discussions with Cannabis industry influencers.

THIS MONTH:

Show #50: Things To Do In Seattle When You’re Stoned Show #51: Cannabis and Hip Hop Show #52: Cannabis Prisoners

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E S TA B L I S H E D 2 0 1 0

T H E E N L I G H T E N E D VO I C E

ABOUT THE COVER

This month’s cover shot takes us up-close and personal with some lovely Platinum Valley Kush growing at Artizen in Lacey, WA. The folks there are growing with true passion, read all about it pg. 44 — along with this month’s other amazing stories, interviews, profiles, recipes, reviews, and more from around the country.

Cover Photography by Daniel Berman @bermanphotos

CONTRIBUTORS Tom Bowers Features Jesse Codling Photos

PUBLISHER WES ABNEY | founder & editor-in-chief Wes@nwleaf.com 206-235-6721

Steve Elliott National News Bonnie Fong Legal TJ Gagnier Reviews Danielle Halle Writing Mike Ricker Features

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Daniel bermaN | photography & design daniel@bermanphotos.com

Meghan Ridley Editing Jonah Tacoma Features Jerry Whiting Hemp Laurie & Bruce Wolf Recipes

ADVERTISING Shane vancamp | ADVERTISING SALES shane@nwleaf.com 253-561-6837

We do not sell stories or coverage. We are happy to offer design services and guidance on promoting your company’s recreational, commercial or industrial Cannabis product or upcoming event. We are targeted and independent Cannabis journalism. Email or call to discuss advertising.

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ABNEY

Editor’s Note Thanks for picking up The Indoor Issue of Northwest Leaf!

INDOOR CANNABIS CULTIVATION began in the dark ages of Cannabis prohibition as a tool to avoid detection, effectively hiding a plant inside garages, closets and warehouses from prying eyes. As far as plants go, Cannabis is a happy girl with the right indoor environment, and over the last 30 years the technology and techniques for growing inside have expanded and caught up to the 21st century. Today’s indoor gardens are as much a work of science as they are agriculture, creating controlled environments perfectly suited to the plants cultivated within.

For years I’ve heard Cannabis activists argue that one day all weed would be grown outdoors, or at least in greenhouses.

Admittedly, that argument is built on logic. If weed isn’t illegal, why grow it indoors at all?

As the Leaf has expanded, we’ve dedicated an issue each year to the outdoor harvest and the efforts of full sun-grown farmers, while leaving indoor gardens as something we featured occasionally as unique gardens popped up. So when we sat down to plan the 2020 editorial calendar, the idea for an Indoor Issue was again renewed. What makes it special? Is indoor Cannabis something we want to support?

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VISIT ISSUU. COM/NWLEAF TO SEE OUR TOURS OF INDOOR CANNABIS GARDENS IN ALASKA, OREGON AND MARYLAND!

Through exploring the modern realities of indoor growing - from Fairbanks, Alaska where temperatures can swing from negative 30 to 30 degrees fahrenheit in a single day, to the controlled environments of Oregon’s organic gardens - it is clear that indoor Cannabis is evolving and defining the craft Cannabis movement. I believe that we will always have indoor Cannabis on a business scale, and while it won’t touch the miles of greenhouses sure to dominate the future of our beloved agricultural commodity, we will always see incredible craft Cannabis being produced indoors.

Our issues this month look through gardens in Washington, Oregon and Alaska, so check out the other Leaf’s online content for coverage outside of your state! We explore how farms are adapting to the unique challenges of growing indoors, creating a high-end product in markets that are flooded with mid-grade flower, and how they are using the controlled environments and inputs to grow some of the best examples of strains in the world.

As an art, a science, a craft and a passion, indoor Cannabis is something that can be done sustainably and with truly spectacular results. Craft comes in all forms, big and small, and I encourage you to ask your favorite budtender for a craft indoor Cannabis recommendation, and to try the farms we feature this month! You won’t be disappointed.

-Wes Abney

feb. 2020

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N O RT H W E S T L E A F / O R EG O N L E A F / AL AS KA L E A F / M A RY L AN D L E A F

WES

NATIONAL NEWS

2 nd

Newly recreational Cannabis state Illinois has the second highest Cannabis taxes (Washington is #1).

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WA State lawmakers introduced HB2546 to limit Cannabis concentrates to max 10% THC potency, all but killing the recreational concentrates market.

40 1,800 $145k $3.2m

More than 40 U.S. states may have legal Cannabis in some form by 2020’s end, including Mississippi and South Dakota.

The raid of an illegal grow in San Jacinto, California last month yielded 1,800 plants and 50 pounds of dried Cannabis, after the power utility reported suspicious power readings.

A Southern California marijuana money courier was robbed of $145,000 in cash when thieves broke into his work truck parked at an area gas station and took two satchels full of money.

health

THE WA STATE SENATORS WHO WANT A STUDY OF STINKY CANNABIS

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W

ashington State senators Judy Warnick of Moses Lake, Lynda Wilson of the southeastern area of the state, and Tim Sheldon of the sprawling 35th District, are seeking to create a task force on pot odor.

Under Senate Bill 6089, the task force would bring together decisionmakers from the Liquor and Cannabis Board, Department of Ecology, Department of Health, the State Department of Agriculture, the state association of counties, the state association of cities, and those in the “recreational marijuana community.”

The proposed task force would be charged with studying ways to “mitigate, mask, conceal, or otherwise address marijuana odors and emissions, and the potentially harmful impact of marijuana odors and emissions on people who live, work or are located in close proximity to a marijuana production or processing facility.”

The task force would report its findings

by December 31, 2020.

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WASHINGTON STATE REMOVES ONLINE MAP OF CANNABIS GROWERS & PROCESSORS AFTER RASH OF BURGLARIES

T

he map provided detailed

information on exactly where Cannabis growers and processors were located. Some business owners felt that those addresses publicly posted on the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB) website made it just too easy to find and target them, according to LCB spokeswoman Julie Graham. The agency said it removed the map as a precautionary measure. The information is still available via public record requests.

FEB. 2020

east coast

MEDICAL MARIJUANA BROUGHT MORE THAN $10 MILLION IN TAXES TO MARYLAND IN 2019

NORTHWEST

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The first day of legal recreational Cannabis sales in Illinois resulted in 77,000 transactions and $3.2 million in sales for the state’s 37 pot shops, which were legalized by legislative measure in 2019.

HOW CANNABIS LEGALIZATION IS REDUCING BINGE DRINKING FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS

A

recent study by Oregon State University researchers found that at colleges and universities in states with legal recreational weed, students are reporting fewer instances of binge drinking (five or more drinks in one sitting in the past two weeks).

ore than $10 million in tax revenue for Maryland was produced by medical Cannabis sales in fiscal year 2019, exceeding the amount of money the industry brought to state coffers in the previous two fiscal years combined, according to data from the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission.

Medical Cannabis brought about $3.5 million to Maryland in fiscal year 2018, and about $4.2 million in fiscal year 2017.

The study, published in the journal Addiction, analyzed data from seven states and 135 colleges where Cannabis was legal by 2018.

The latest numbers, covering the period ending on June 30, 2019, show total estimated revenue for medical marijuana for that fiscal year as $10,371,437, according to the Maryland Reporter.

Data from 41 states and 454 colleges where recreational weed was not legal was also analyzed. “After legalization, students ages 21 and older showed a greater drop in binge drinking than their peers in states where marijuana was not legal,” according to the study.

Maryland has licensed 87 medical Cannabis shops, mostly in population centers such as the city and county of Baltimore, along with Howard County and Montgomery County.

border crossings

I

IDAHOANS BUY A LOT OF OREGON WEED daho residents love Oregon Cannabis, according to a new analysis.

In the report, released in January by the Oregon Office of Economic Analysis, Oregon Cannabis sales per adult along the Idaho border are 420 percent (no joke) higher than the statewide average.

Baker County was Oregon’s leader on a per capita basis. With a population of 16,820, sales totaled more than $30.1 million in 2019, working out to $1,794 per resident.

But those sales were overwhelmingly to Idahoans, primarily Boise residents flocking to the tiny town of Huntington, 30 miles from the state line.

Just across the state line, small town Huntington, OR, has become a destination for Cannabis-consuming Idaho residents.

A new pot shop opened in Malheur County, right on the state line, and with $20.1 million in 2019 sales, Malheur appears poised to surpass Baker County in 2020.

The “border effect,” which happens when two neighboring jurisdictions set different rules for the same product, often results in residents traveling to take advantage of relaxed restrictions. That’s particularly true of so-called “vice” products like marijuana, according to the analysis.

The same analysis also shows stronger sales for Washington state Cannabis stores along its border with Idaho, than along its borders with either Oregon or Canada, reports the Idaho Statesman.

By STEVE ELLIOTT, AUTHOR OF THE LITTLE BLACK BOOK OF MARIJUANA

rehashed

JAN. 25, 2020 | MOB STUDIOS | SEATTLE

ROARING ‘20S In the dawning of a new decade comes reflection and optimism.

And with a fond glance back to 100 years ago to an important time in the development of contemporary American culture, we now know that the prohibition era proved to be a vital chapter in our country’s narrative.

So, by shining a spotlight on today’s burgeoning legal Cannabis movement, we here at The Leaf are determined to see that the negative aspect of this important history does not repeat itself.

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ut that doesn’t mean we can’t emulate the finer qualities of that exceptional era, and boy were the fashions something to be revered! MOB Studios in the SODO district became the world’s most glamorous speakeasy for one exceptional evening of unbridled delight.

There was nostalgia in the air blended with beautiful light and color, creating an exuberant scene of interior design and outfits extraordinaire - something that this fabulous gala’s attendees shared with a deep sense of enthusiasm!

With the photo booth provided by Weedmaps, the feathered headbands and bright red lipstick stole the show.

Meanwhile, scattered about the venue were some of Washington’s finest companies sharing the luxuries that the last century of progress has afforded us. With Dank Czar dabs, Doghouse flower and Sitka’s hash bar all positioned as friendly neighbors, there was little left for the senses to desire. Beverages were offered by way of terpene infused mocktails, with the flavors of House of Cultivar accentuating the taste buds. There were gorgeous strains from Artizen and a treasure trove of booty was served up by Freddy’s Fuego. Ornate flower bouquets with cameos by real Cannabis flowers, styled by Malina Lopez, highlighted the beauty of the evening.

The fantastic POS company Klicktrack showed their amazing support, not to mention the wonderful family of Cascade Kropz in Arlington. Our great friends at Emerald Haze in Renton brought a classic vibe, with the likes of WAM Oil, Leaf Chews and Budtender’s Ball rounding out the mix.

All this decadence, indeed, made for one amazing night to remember. In fact, by the time the lights faded, there was no one in the venue who didn’t believe that together we could raise the Titanic!

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Scattered about the venue were some of Washington’s finest companies sharing the luxuries that the last century of progress has afforded us.

Feb. 2020

! # % # $ ! # #& # # "

EMCEES @RICKERDJ @BEARDEDLORAX

NORTHWEST LEAF AND FRIENDS CELEBRATED THE START OF A NEW DECADE WITH JOY AND MERRIMENT AND MORE THAN A FEW SAMPLES! More information at MOBstudios.com | NWLeaf.com

STORY by MIKE RICKER @RICKERDJ | PHOTOS by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS

FEATURE

WHITE

plicated than simply observing moisture content and ash color. With each plant providing a unique set of characteristics, everything from bud structure to terpene profile can influence your smoking experience.

In recent research, the RX Green Technologies R&D department - headed by “expert plant scientist” Dr. Stephanie Wedryk - analyzed “the effects of different flushing times on chemical profile, flavor, and smoking characteristics in Cannabis flower.”

Flushing periods were applied to groups of Cherry Diesel (Cherry OG x Turbo Diesel) in zero, seven, 10 and 14-day increments.

The cured flower was evaluated by “a group of industry experts” in a blind taste test that rated the consumption characteristics and flavor.

Overall, the duration of the flushing period had no impact on flavor, smoothness of smoke, or color of ash... The seven-day flush period had the highest “bad” rating (21.1%) and the zero-day flush had the highest “great” rating (16.7%).

The quality of hit was not rated significantly different among samples, but researchers did note that contrary to previous beliefs, “smoothness of the smoke increased with decreasing flushing time.”

When it comes to methods, it’s important to note that RX Green used its own products for the study and that the company makes a portion of its profits off of nutrients, supplements and additives. It’s safe to assume some bias in the analysis, but with few academically-funded (Cannabis) terpene studies, there’s still valuable information to be considered.

Take, for example, their statistical findings on yield, It’s not uncommon to run into smokers that associate white ash THC and terpenes. While data didn’t point to any significant losses in the “flushed” test groups, terpenes with cleanliness and quality. But when it comes to the burning of exhibited the only consistent decrease over longer flush buds, where did this old toker’s tale come from? And what does periods (losing 0.18% between zero and 14-day flushes). Factors like grow conditions, care, and plant varithe color of ash tell us about cured Cannabis? ety also play a part in the cycle of terpene preservation and loss, but additional studies present the possibility of In theory, less hot organic material entering ost folks offering up the deteriorating a plant’s profile when flushing. the lungs should make for a smoother hit.

In aforementioned white ash A 2017 piece in the Journal of Molecular Liquids on this light at least, the white ash ideology may adage will tell you that bud “Terpenes solubility in water and their environmental just hold up. Many other factors influence burning white signifies a proper flush distribution,” looked at the solubility of seven monocombustion temperature, however, and a crop of the plant - a process where water terpene structures. Researchers found that (with one grown for human consumption presents a set of is used to remove nutrients and exception) “the solubility of terpenes in water shows a different variables than the ash from wildfires. trace elements. There are conflicting (monotonical) increase with temperature.”

In the Cannabis community, the curing opinions among growers and gurus While most terpenes may remain in the plant during process of flower is commonly associated with alike about methods, benefits, and a flushing process, there is data to support the resulting ash color.

This process even the efficacy of flushing as a some loss. Specifically, when using water directly correlates to moisture practice. upwards of 75 degrees Fahrenheit - a method content and most certainly affects Amanda Day is an combustion temperature. Data on Oregon Leaf contributing that, according to horticulture author and edDr. Allison Justice and Dr. Markus Roggen Cannabis combustion and moisture writer and photographer, ucator Ed Rosenthal, is commonly practiced to bring backgrounds in horticulture, organic based in Eugene and increase nutrient movement out of the plant. content is limited, but the studies chemistry, and more to multiple branches of the providing Cannabis The practice of flushing is highly personalon wildfires and vegetative burning industry. photos & video services. ized among grows and while it shouldn’t be points still provide insight. Most In an article for Cannabis Business Times, the viewed as inherently bad, maybe it’s time to reevaluate results lean toward a plateau effect when it duo explored the science behind ash, starting our standards from a consumer standpoint. comes to moisture. Too little, and most plant with what contributes to its color: Research into With all of the products, growing methods and matter will burn at a rate too fast to reach the ash from wildfires points to burn temperature as plant varieties out there, it’s difficult to generalize what high temperatures needed to create white ash. the main factor in determining ash’s properties. makes ‘good’ or ‘clean’ flower.

Too much moisture, and similar outcomes are With increasing combustion temperature, the Most seasoned smokers would probably agree exhibited. charred organic material and organic nitrogen that buds should be healthy, potent, high in terpene Determining the quality of bud (and tracking concentrations decrease, and the ash color content, and free from any harmful additives. It’s 2020 combustion rates) is, of course, more comlightens from black to gray to white. and the white ash method probably isn’t the best indicator for any of these characteristics.

Most Oregonians now have access to enough con“ The practice of flushing is highly personalized among grows sumer information to make informed decisions about the quality of flower before lighting up and inhaling. and while it shouldn’t be viewed as inherently bad, maybe it’s Maybe it’s time we finally put this old stoner stereotime to reevaluate our standards from a consumer standpoint.” type to rest.

ASH FLUSHING OUT OLD STEREOTYPES

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FEB. 2020

STORY by AMANDA DAY @TERPODACTYL_MEDIA

expert OPINION

CANNABIS LAW

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BRING IT TO

BONNIE

Be Careful with Bundling Valentine’s Day inspires many sales and special offers with retail Cannabis stores. You’ll often find Cannabis personal lubricant sold together with joints for a special Valentine’s Day price. This is a blessing - who doesn’t LOVE a good deal?

Valentine’s bundles are a delight for us all, just be sure to sell within the guidelines of the Cannabis rules and regulations.

Under WAC 314-55-017, “Marijuana retailers are prohibited from requiring a customer to purchase other products and/or services as a condition to purchasing a marijuana product. Products and services include, but are not limited to, paraphernalia, lighters, promotional items, memberships, and bags, boxes, or containers.”

Most enforcement agents interpret this to mean that you cannot condition the sale of one item on another. In other words, so long as you can get both items without buying the other, then you do not run afoul of the rules. So if you’re making any parings this Valentine’s Day, just be sure to offer both items independently, even if they’re at a higher price.

Also be sure to properly price your bundles. Under WAC 31455-079, “Marijuana retailers may not sell marijuana products below the current acquisition cost.” So if you’re bundling, make sure you’re not discounting a product too low to be compliant.

SEND YOUR QUESTIONS TO BONNIE@C3.LEGAL The information contained in this column is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls, letters and electronic mail. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.

NOLOVEFORCANNABIS

DEAR BONNIE,

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I OW N A 1 0 % I N T E R E S T I N A C A N N A B I S R E TA I L S T O R E . I R E C E N T LY M E T M Y S OU L M AT E A B OU T A Y E A R AG O , W H O OW N S A P R O D UC E R / P R O C E S S O R L I C E N S E N E A R BY . I T WA S LOV E AT F I R S T S M E L L T H E M I N U T E I S M E L L E D H I S C A N N A B I S A N D S AW H I S S M I L E , I K N E W H E WAS T H E O N E . I A M N OW P R E G N A N T W I T H H I S C H I L D A N D W E P L A N T O G E T M A R R I E D . H OW E V E R , A F R I E N D T O L D M E T H AT S I N C E I OW N A R E TA I L L I C E N S E A N D H E OW N S A P R O D UC E R / P R O C E S S O R L I C E N S E , W E C A N N O T G E T M A R R I E D . T H I S C A N N O T B E T R U E ?

CONGRATULATIONS on your pregnancy and newfound love with your fiancé. Love and parenthood are two of the most beautiful things in this world and I especially love hearing romance stories within the industry.

Unfortunately, your friend is correct. Since you are an owner of a retail store and your fiancé is the owner of a producer/processor, if you were to marry, you would have to choose which license to keep.

If you were to marry, you would be considered a “true party of interest” under WAC 314-55-035, a violation of the prohibition against cross-tier relationships under RCW 69.50.328 which states, “Neither a licensed marijuana producer nor a licensed marijuana processor shall have a direct or indirect financial interest in a licensed marijuana retailer.”

This means that no individual, or marital community, can own both a retail and a producer/processor license.

You would likely need to choose which license to keep, and divest the interest in the other license to avoid going afoul of RCW 69.50.328.

I am so sorry that this law would make you choose between your business and your marriage. This is one of the Cannabis laws I hate the most because it keeps many Cannabis business owners from their constitutional right to marriage. It precludes you from enjoying rights associated with marriage, including health insurance benefits, tax deductions, parental rights, adoptive rights, and legal decision making benefits such as medical decisions, just to name a few.

If you do not want to give up either one of your licenses, we can turn our focus to securing your rights as a couple in lieu of a marriage. This means contracting your rights with each other that a marriage would give you, without technically being married. Again, congrats on your new family!

-Bonnie

feb. 2020

STORY by BONNIE FONG, PARTNER, C3 LAW GROUP | PHOTO by DANIEL BERMAN

WWW.

21+ / MEDICAL

WCWCANNABIS.COM

th

(360) 392-8309

3708 Mt Baker Hwy, Everson, WA 98247 Open 7 days a week!

Marijuana products may be purchased or possessed only by persons 21 years of age or older.

This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination and judgement. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery while under the influence. There may be health risks associated with the use of this product. For adult use only. Keep out of reach of children.

EXPERT OPINION

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BY JERRY WHITING L e B l a n c C N E . c o m / N WL e a f

THE HEMP INDUSTRY

Eat Hemp!

T HE VAST M AJ O R I T Y O F US AG R E E T HAT H E M P I S AN E X C E L LE N T F O OD , B UT LE T ’ S B E HO N E ST - HOW M UC H HE M P D O YOU EAT O N A R EGULAR BAS I S ? SU R E YOU O R DE R YOU R C HAI WI T H HE M P M I L K WH E N EV E R YOU CAN , O R B UY S O M E H E M P G RAN O LA EV E RY N OW AN D AGAI N . B U T I S HE M P I N YOU R S HO P P I NG CART EV E RY W E E K ?

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Today, American hemp farmers grow hemp for CBD extraction and not hemp to be eaten. That’s a problem. If no one eats hemp, farmers won’t grow it. But if farmers don’t grow hemp as a food crop, hemp foods won’t be on your grocery store shelves. It’s a classic catch-22. So the best way to get more hemp food in the market is to buy it and demand more.

All of this starts in your very own kitchen. Dehulled hemp seeds and hemp seed oil are easy to find in many grocery stores. Hemp seed oil is pressed from hemp seeds and doesn’t contain CBD, or any cannabinoid for that matter. It does, however, have the perfect balance of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids.

Hemp seeds are full of protein and fiber, as well as being rich in antioxidants.

Both are healthy ingredients no matter what you’re cooking.

If you’re going to eat, you sometimes have to cook. Working hemp seed oil and dehulled hemp seeds into your daily diet is like any other new habit - you have to do it on a regular basis until you don’t think about it anymore, because it’s your new norm.

How to Have a Hemp-Rich Diet

Ease your way into eating hemp by adding hemp seeds on top of that takeout or leftover Thai food. Pad Thai already has crushed peanuts. Pasta? Drizzle hemp seed oil, especially if it’s pesto we’re talking about. Start slowly by adding just a little hemp oil or seeds to dishes. Think of them as seasonings or accents.

HEMP SEED OIL SALAD DRESSING S A L A D D R E S S I N G - YOU C A N B U Y I T O R M A K E I T. A B A BY S T E P I S AD DI N G H E M P S E E D OI L TO A L L T H E SA L AD D R E S S I N G B O T T L E S L U R K I N G I N YOU R R E F R I G E R ATO R . YOU ’ L L E N J OY YOU R S A L A D S E V E N M O R E K N OW I N G W H AT ’ S O N T H E M .

It’s worth mentioning that making your own salad dressing is easier than it sounds. Start with a simple vinaigrette using three parts oil to one part vinegar. Ease your way into it by using half hemp seed oil and half olive, grape seed, walnut, avocado, or other interesting oil. The vinegar you use doesn’t have to be boring. Try rice wine, sherry, balsamic, or apple cider vinegar. Add sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and fresh herbs to taste. Shake, pour, enjoy!

HEMP PESTO I F YOU L I K E P E S TO A N D H E M P YOU ’ R E I N L UC K . P E S TO I S U N I Q U E B E C AU S E YOU C A N M A K E I T W I T H B O T H H E M P S E E D O I L A N D H E M P S E E D S . A L L YOU N E E D TO D O I S M I X A N D B L E N D T H E I N G R E D I E N T S TO G E T H E R .

2 cups fresh basil leaves (no stems) Try using all hemp oil, ½ 1/4 cup hemp seed oil spinach ½ basil, adding 1/4 cup olive oil pistachios as well as hemp seeds, and a dash of grated 2 tablespoons hemp seeds 2 large garlic cloves lime peel. Skip the basil 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese and use parsley instead, sea salt and fresh ground pepper to taste swapping romano or aged asiago for the parmesan cheese, throwing in a few fresh mint leaves or whatever strikes your fancy. Make a lot and freeze half.

If you’re reading this, it’s because you support hemp. And if you do, consider this your formal invitation to eat your words. Hemp activists around the world need to eat hemp. Cook it for yourself, serve it to your family and friends, share recipes with your neighbors. Hemp food will only become mainstream when we eat it. The hemp revolution begins in our kitchens.

feb. 2020

PORTRAIT by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS

highly likely

H i g h l y L i ke l y h i g h l i g h t s Ca n n a b i s p i o n e e rs w h o p a ve d t h e wa y t o g re a t e r h e r b a l a c c e p ta n ce .

NORMANMAILER THE PULITZER P RIZEWINNING W RITER WAS OUTSPOKEN ON A LOT OF THINGS...

INCLUDING CANNABIS.

22 Jan. 31, 1923 – Nov.10, 2007

on his appreciation of music. “I’d been listening to jazz for years, but it had never meant all that much to me. Now, with the powers pot offered, simple things became complex; complex things clarified themselves,” he said.

It seemed that this started Mailer’s course of being an outspoken Cannabis consumer in mid-century America - a place where it certainly was less accepted than it is today. Here, Mailer would sometimes utilize his sharp writing to describe the benefits of Cannabis to the masses: “One’s condition on marijuana is always existential. One can feel the importance of each moment and how it is changing. One feels one’s being, one becomes aware of the enormous apparatus of nothingness - the hum of a hi-fi set, the emptiness of a pointless interruption, one becomes aware of the war between each of us, how the nothingness in each of us seeks to attack the being of others, how our being in turn is attacked by the nothingness in others.”

He also spoke of the effect that Cannabis had on his writing, saying “I began to write for the sound of what I was writing, but also noted that I’d have brilliant insights on pot, but could hardly remember any of them later.” He also noted that he preferred to edit, rather than write, while consuming.

Later in life, he offered a critique of modern-day Cannabis consumers, comparing them to religious fundamentalists.

“There’s too much dead-ass in the thinking of pot smokers now,” he said.

Whatever one may think in terms of these opinions, one thing is for sure – Norman Mailer opened up our world to the idea of Cannabis as a benefit to artistic invention at a time when that opinion wasn’t very popular. For this and many other reasons, we can regard him as a true pioneer for greater Cannabis acceptance in our world.

“ONE’S CONDITION ON MARIJUANA IS ALWAYS EXISTENTIAL.” A FAMED JOURNALIST, NOVELIST AND ESSAYIST, Norman Mailer was perhaps one of the first ‘celebrity writers’ of the 20th century.

nwlEAF.COM

F

irst published in 1948, Mailer’s novel, “The Naked and the Dead,” based on his experiences as a soldier serving in World War II, quickly started him on the course of fame. But from there, he went on to publish several other novels – eventually becoming renowned as an essayist for many a publication. The accolades he acquired were many throughout his life.

Some of these accolades included winning major awards, most notably the Pulitzer Prize in 1968 and 1980. In 1955, he helped to cofound the famed Village Voice weekly newspaper. There, he helped to invent a new form in journalism called creative nonfiction, which applies the narrative style of the novel to real events. This style would

feb. 2020

be adopted by many writers – most notably

by Hunter S. Thompson..

Mailer’s life was lived large.

He spent his time with celebrities in the worlds of art and politics, even running for Mayor of New York City in 1969, but the campaign was unsuccessful.

As one can imagine, an author of this esteem who covered this subject matter had a distinct connection to what was called the ‘counter culture’ of the 1960s and 70s.

This was certainly true in Mailer’s case, as he was an ardent fan of art and music - especially jazz. In the mid 1950s Mailer discovered Cannabis, and noted its effect

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24

Can you imagine living in a world where your chosen method of medicating for nausea becomes the reason why you can’t stop throwing up? For Alice Moon, this is essentially her reality.

She had been budtending and reviewing edibles in the Cannabis industry since 2011, but as of 2018, Alice can no longer consume Cannabis due to having CHS. Since her diagnosis, she has shifted her focus to safe Cannabis consumption, as well as research and awareness for the syndrome.

Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome has appeared in recent years as a condition where patients experience nausea, abdominal pain and uncontrollable vomiting, which can lead to dehydration, trips to the emergency room, and even death in a handful of cases.

It is believed to be linked to not only long-term use of Cannabis, but also extremely high doses of THC. Although it’s rare, and research on the syndrome is still in preliminary stages, we do know for sure that patients are being admitted to the hospital with these symptoms and receiving the diagnosis of CHS. What we don’t know is how this condition is brought on.

Among the many anecdotes being passed around, vomiting can be brought on by a range of triggers. These can include eating edibles, taking large doses of THC or CBD in a single sitting, or even smoking Cannabis daily for years.

My theory tends to agree with that of Dr. Ethan Russo’s: CHS is the “biphasic pro-emetic response to too much Cannabis.” Once you’ve passed the “therapeutic threshold,” the Cannabis begins to overload your receptors.

But a theory is only that, and we have much more to learn about the causes of this mystery syndrome.

feb. 2020

CANNABINOID HYPEREMESIS SYNDROME

>>

What we know, what we don’t, and what to do if you think you have it.

INTERVIEW | ALICE MOON

“It’s hard to say what is ‘too much’ Cannabis since every person is different.”

Do you have a hypothesis for what causes this condition? Based off the studies

that I have read, it seems that CHS is an overload to the endocannabinoid system. This overload of cannabinoids shuts off the TRPV1 receptor, which is a capsaicin receptor. High amounts of heat applied to the stomach - like capsaicin cream and hot baths - turn that receptor back on for most people living with CHS. CHS could also be due to Cannabis affecting our dopamine and serotonin levels. But more research is needed.

Are there any chemovars or terpene profiles in particular that trigger a CHS episode more often than others?

Not that we know of.

So far, we know that stopping Cannabis use, hot baths, and capsaicin cream have all been effective in the mitigation/cessation of symptoms, but have you learned of any additional methods?

Some people have found relief by running. There’s one documented case of a patient running for 15 hours straight and thus developing rhabdomyolysis. A few CHS patients have confided in me that masturbation has also helped them. As far as medications, some patients have found temporary relief by taking benzodiazepines like lorazepam, or antipsychotics like haloperidol (also known as haldol). The antipsychotics have given some patients very frightening side effects.

Based on what you know personally and the information you’ve gathered from doctors, is CHS caused by overexposure to certain cannabinoids, such as THC? Yes and no. Yes it’s caused by cannabinoids, but ‘overexposure’ is hard to say. Most people who have CHS were using Cannabis for years before they developed CHS, but there are some people who developed it after only a few months of Cannabis use. It’s hard to say what is ‘too much’ since every person is different. Medical journals all say that CHS occurs in people who use heavily over an extended period of time, but the data I’ve collected proves it’s not just heavy users.

What is the most encouraging piece of research you’ve encountered so far regarding CHS? Sadly, nothing yet.

It has been reported that Canada has allocated $200,000 to research CHS in 2020. Are you involved in the study?

Nope. I have been reaching out to the university since the announcement, but have yet to hear back. But I am consulting emergency room doctors in Canada on a CHS informational training guide for their staff. I am only working with one hospital so far, but hopefully this will lead to more hospitals training their staffs on CHS. Dr. Ethan Russo is in the preliminary stages of a CHS study. He will be looking at the DNA of CHS patients to see if we have a genetic commonality. I am assisting him with garnering participants for the study and will be providing assistance whenever needed.

The link between high cortisol levels in the morning and CHS patients who also have depression and anxiety is fascinating to me. Whether it’s coincidence or not, based on your data and research, can you comment on this correlation?

High cortisol levels in the morning is something I haven’t done much research on. I just know that it is common for CHS patients to have their worst symptoms right when they wake up. Women tend to have their worst symptoms right before or during their menstrual cycle. As far as many CHS patients having depression and anxiety, I think that could be due to the fact that Cannabis is commonly used to treat anxiety and depression. Something else I wanted to mention is that people have had their gallbladders removed because doctors couldn’t figure out why they were throwing up. Out of the 330 participants, 28 people had it removed - and 21 said their doctor suggested it, but they didn’t do it.

25

Moon on an episode of Viceland explaining her CHS.

Courtesy American College of Gastroenterology

STORY by DANIELLE HALLE @SWEET.DEEZY | PORTRAIT by GINGER MICHELE @GINGERMICHELE

profile

Women in Weed

Founder/CEO

Leisure Life Co-Founder/ Exec. Director

SuperNova Women AMBER SENTER is an unstoppable force in the Cannabis industry and beyond. Here we find this Coast Guard veteran turned marketing maven pushing pause on providing services to Fortune 500 companies to tackle a monumental challenge: Cannabis entrepreneurship.

It’s safe to say that Amber is handling the journey with exceptional grace. She has launched and worked on multiple successful projects since moving to Oakland in 2014, including Compassion Edibles, Breeze Distro, Leisure Life, California Rolls, The Congo Club and more.

More recently, Amber co-founded the nonprofit SuperNova Women, shortly before taking on the role of COO at Magnolia Wellness Center.

SuperNova Women is an organization that works to empower women of color in the Cannabis economy through education, training and networking opportunities.

26

“It’s imperative for this industry to provide an nwlEAF.COM

opportunity for those folks who

Amber E. Senter apR. 2020 feb.

2019

were profited off of and who went to jail for so long.”

“We need the community to show up and tell these legislators what they want.”

How did you get involved in the Cannabis industry? What was it about Cannabis that interested you? I’m an avid user of

Cannabis, so that definitely piqued my interest in wanting to explore more. I’m a medical patient and I suffer from Lupus. I’ve been using Cannabis since I was 18. I started growing when I was 27 because I needed higher quality Cannabis. So, I became really intrigued with the plant and I started to blog about it. I met a lot of folks as I was writing about Cannabis, and then when I was diagnosed with Lupus at the age of 33, I was offered a job in California working for a Cannabis company and took it. I was hired as the Sales and Marketing Director for Compassion Edibles and I moved to California in February 2014 - that’s pretty much how I got started here in California.

Can you explain how Cannabis helps to relieve your symptoms from Lupus? Lupus

is an autoimmune disease of inflammation, where essentially the body attacks itself and causes different organs to become inflamed. This attacks any organ - eyes, brain, skin, heart, lungs, kidneys - whatever. Cannabis has anti-inflammatory properties and it helps with pain as well.

What has been the most personally rewarding moment in your journey with launching SuperNova Women? Definitely

helping to establish the country’s first equity program. We worked very closely with the City of Oakland to not only create and build the equity program, but also to implement it. To give feedback and help the city perfect it and make it better. As well as recently getting the taxes lowered - that was something we were told was going to be able to get done. Oakland has the highest Cannabis taxes in the state, which makes it really hard for equity operators to survive.

It’s a priority for us, and we were able to get the taxes lowered just before the end of the year in 2019. We worked with Lanese Martin from The Hood Incubator, as well as Chaney Turner on that whole initiative. The tax rate is tiered, but in 2022 the tax rate will be as low as 5%. We’re currently at 10% for the Oakland City Tax.

Oakland leads the way for the equity movement and other cities are taking note.

What advice would you give to the cities that are struggling to get their equity programs up and running? What advice would you give to the applicants who are waiting for the pieces to start coming together? Keep it simple. Use the KISS method.

Remember that the communities were affected by the war on drugs. How are we going to use these social equity programs to benefit the communities as a whole that were affected?

The way Oakland’s social equity program is set up, it’ll only help a few. Not everybody who was disproportionately affected by the war on drugs wants to open a Cannabis business. I can’t say that I blame them, because it’s a very hard business. It’s not an easy business to get into. So what, that’s the only benefit that they get? ‘We’re sorry we destroyed your community, you don’t wanna take these Cannabis business license opportunities we have for you? Well, that’s all we’ve got.’ That’s BS. Cannabis equity and social equity needs to expand beyond licensing. It needs to create opportunities within the communities. I encourage cities to look outside of this Cannabis box. Maybe folks want to open a barber shop, restaurant, or some other small business. Folks’ homes were taken during this drug war. That was a tool the government used. They’d come in and seize everything - they took the house, they took the car.

How do we give peoples’ homes back? How can we issue low interest homes and affordable housing for people? I would ask the municipalities to look at how the war on drugs really affected those communities and how we could fix those things.

And then for the folks who are waiting for their municipalities to come up with some sort of social equity program, you’ve got to be an advocate these folks definitely are not going to do it willingly.

We need the community to show up and tell these legislators what they want.

You’re the chair of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee for the National Cannabis Industry Association. Can you tell me more about this role and why it’s crucial for the Cannabis industry to implement these ideologies into our business culture? It’s important because this is a

new industry, at least a new legal industry. It’s being formed now, and we just don’t want to repeat the mistakes that were made in all the current industries now. Black and brown people are being left out especially in Cannabis because this was an industry built on the backs of black and brown people going to jail, risking their lives to provide for their families by selling Cannabis.

It’s imperative for this industry to provide an opportunity for those folks who were profited off of for so long, and who went to jail for so long.

The committee that I’m the chair of is working with NCIA to ensure diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout the entire Cannabis industry. We do that by working on social equity models, so that businesses can have their own social equity program if there isn’t one that’s available within the state or municipality they’re working in. We’re also working on a national effort to have diversity and inclusion throughout the industry by creating programs that allow, for example, retailers to have a certain percentage of social equity products on their shelves, or are partnered with a certain amount of social equity distributors. Different ways in which we can ensure not only access for social equity businesses, but also participation.

The third piece that we’re working on in the committee is ensuring that NCIA is aligning with the diversity and inclusion, which includes making sure that NCIA’s programming and speakers are inclusive, as well as all of the committees within NCIA also working with diversity and inclusion values in mind.

What projects and engagements are you planning for the future?

I’m actually speaking at SXSW in March.

I do plan on doing more writing this year and I’ve got a few Op-Ed pieces that I’ll be writing over the next couple of months.

SuperNova Women has some events coming up within this first quarter as well.

Learn more at SuperNovaWomen.com Follow on IG/FB @SuperNovaWomen

INTERVIEW by DANIELLE HALLE @SWEET.DEEZY | PHOTOS by MARK CLENNON @MARK.C

interview

W H O ’ S Y O U R F AV O R I T E B U D T E N D E R ? T E L L U S W H Y ! E M A I L N O M I N A T I O N S T O N W L E A F @ G M A I L . C O M

northwest leaf budtender of the month

Larry B.TurnerIII YOU STARTED WITH THE COMPANY AS A BLUNT ROLLER IN THE MEDICAL MARKET, BEFORE TRANSITIONING WITH THEM INTO THE RECREATIONAL MARKET. WHAT IS YOUR OPINION ABOUT CANNABIS AS MEDICINE? We were actually the

first medical dispensary to open in the city of Olympia back in 2011.

I personally think that all Cannabis is medicinal. There are a lot of people who are skeptical, but nine out of ten times you can convert someone into a believer. It all just depends on the person, their body chemistry, what they’re looking for, and if I have the cannabinoid profile and the terpene profile to cater to them specifically.

TELL ME ABOUT YOUR DOG. That’s my boy, Chief. I got him as a Valentine’s Day gift in 2013. I take him everywhere with me. In fact, he was our shop dog for a long time.

WHAT’S YOUR OPINION REGARDING USING CANNABIS ON ANIMALS? I’m an advocate for it. I use it mostly as a preventative

measure. I feel like a lot of people turn to CBD for animals when it’s already too late, unfortunately, and they do it as more of a way to help their dog cope with being in pain. I prefer to use it in my dog’s everyday routine, as like a vitamin or supplement.

28

HAVE YOU EVER DOSED CHIEF FOR A MEDICAL CONDITION?

Yes. There was a time when he had a hematoma in his ear which required surgery. He was in a cone for eight weeks and they had him on a couple prescriptions that ran out, so I ended up giving him some hemp derived CBD treats we carry in the store - about eight milligrams. And then, in the matter of like ten minutes I noticed him not trying to pry off his cone and acting less frustrated. He almost instantly became more comfortable. I’ve also seen it work with my girlfriend’s mom’s dog who has epilepsy. Whenever he’s having an episode, she will administer some full spectrum drops that we sell, and within five to ten minutes he’s back to normal and enjoying himself. So yes, I’m definitely pro-CBD for people and pets alike.

nwlEAF.COM

I’VE KNOWN A FEW PEOPLE WHO COULD USE A CONE, TOO. Indeed.

OLYMPIA IS HOME TO THE STATE CAPITAL AND THE LIQUOR & CANNABIS BOARD. DO YOU FEEL THAT THERE IS MORE ATTENTION PAID TO THE LOCAL CANNABIS INDUSTRY BECAUSE OF THAT? Yes, they are constantly checking in - doing

“I PREFER TO USE CANNABIS IN MY DOG’S EVERYDAY ROUTINE, AS LIKE A VITAMIN OR SUPPLEMENT.”

Larry & Chief are here to help

THC OF OLYMPIA 3203 Martin Way E. Olympia, WA (360) 539-7291 THCofOly.com @THCofOlympia420

feb. 2020

stings and such. We just caught a minor last week. A guy comes in who looks a little young, we card him and send him out the door, and there’s typically an older gentleman outside waiting who is the LCB officer. We have to be on our toes. I do also feel that they are rougher on marijuana than liquor, because we have so many restrictions on signage, verbiage and promotions. I feel like it’s kind of odd that you can drive down the street and see advertisements for a 12-pack of beer for $8.99, but I can’t put a sign in our window to let people know we have a $15 gram of BHO. We have to stay in tune with the law as it is constantly changing, in order to stay compliant and fine free.

IF YOU COULD SHARE A PEACE PIPE WITH ANYONE IN HISTORY, WHO WOULD IT BE? Bruce Lee. But if you’re talking about someone

living, then I would love to smoke weed with Dave Chappelle.

INTERVIEW by MIKE RICKER @RICKERDJ | PHOTO by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS

SHOP review

Gateway to the Islands

32

HIGH SOCIETY

nwlEAF.COM

One-of-a-kind standup bass guitar and paintings.

feb. 2020

Anacortes REVIEW by MIKE RICKER @RICKERDJ | PHOTOS by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS

“ WI T H A N OD TO T HE S P EAK EAS Y E RA O F T HE 1920s, H IG H S OC I E T Y G O E S B E YO N D T HE O R DI NARY TO AC H I EV E S O M E T H I NG S P EC I AL I N T HE CO M P E T I T IV E CAN NAB I S S P H E R E .”

ENVIRONMENT With a nod to the speakeasy era of the 1920s, High Society goes beyond the ordinary to achieve something special in the competitive Cannabis sphere. And owners Maria and Jason Kitzman have graced their walls with an impressive art collection from the likes of Romero Burrito and Peter Max that equates to a quarter million dollars in value. Also blended into the atmosphere, you’ll be delighted to see a stand-up bass guitar with vinyl albums signed by Cheech and Chong - including Big Bambu which still has the original rolling paper inside! In fact, many of the artifacts adorning the living room vibe have been donated by locals who consider this place a home away from home.

PRODUCT SELECTION The ferry ride to the San Juans and Victoria B.C. can be a long and bumpy one, so a quick slide through these doors beforehand will surely ease your battle with gravity. Tasty treats are the specialty here with WAVE Edibles’ Poppers as a delectable favorite, as well as Honu products and Verdelux Bon Bombs and gummies. They’re also crazy about the Pioneer Squares by Jamie Hoffman’s Craft Elixirs Company. For flower, you’ll find local Anacortes grower Herbal Tech, as well as Freya Farms and Gorge Gold (featured in our November Harvest Issue). Also look for beautiful concentrates from Refine, your joints, flower and RSO from Pur, and beverages from Major. If you’re looking for CBD products, you’ll find Green Revolution and Ceres Dragon Balms and salves at a great price. Also on the shelf are Fairwinds and Wildflower - for the higher end consumer.

Local glass artists on display throughout the ornately decorated, unique Cannabis retail dispensary.

33

HISTORY & VALUES The belief system of a business can be expressed in a number of ways.

And in this case, it is purely evident through the care they take for their 55+ demographic. With medical certification and two consultants available, 40% of High Society’s clientele gravitate to this shop because they know reputation diminishes mystery. They’re very proud of their extensive options for topicals and tinctures, which represent a small, but growing sect of the industry. And hey, Jason is a professional chiropractor by trade with 20 years of experience, so he takes the responsibility of keeping people aligned seriously. In fact, he’s soon opening a shop in Burlington right next to his practice!

BUDTENDERS & SPECIALS

Owner Jason Kitzman, left, with some of the fantastic and caring High Society Anacortes staff & budtenders.

In an area largely driven by tourism, they understand here that you may need to be quickly on your way. So, the model is designed so folks don’t have to wait in line - which means being fully staffed so your favorite budtender is promptly available. However, that doesn’t mean there’s not a cozy couch to dwell on while reading the latest issue of Northwest Leaf. In fact, one woman lost her husband to cancer and has been hanging out for around three hours a day, and the staff just loves it! Just ask budtenders Phil and Kris who have been there forever. You’ll also meet the triple threat of Kayla, Kayla (yes, there are two) and Perri, who are determined to have you leaving feeling better than when you arrived. Enjoy happy hour with 25% off the first and last two hours of the day, and get 20% off vendor day products - generally Wednesday through Friday.

Anacortes is one of three High Society locations

QUICK HIT If you’re aimed for the stunning views of Deception Pass and beyond, don’t get distracted by the name while looking for the perfect place to pick up your supplies. In the proud city of Anacortes, you’ll find one shop that revels in its location while magnifying the communal contributions of Cannabis lovers locally, and globally alike. All these elements culminate both visually and comfortably through the purposeful open-door policy of this one amazing, humble shop.

Pipes by Bryant Peterson of Old Guys Pipes (425) 750-4692

High quality Cannabis options abound here.

8630 S MARCH POINT RD, ANACORTES | (360) 299-2211 |420HIGHSOCIETY.COM @420HIGHSOCIETYWA | 9AM-10 PM M-THURS, 9AM-11PM FRI/SAT, 10AM-8PM SUN

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STRAIN OF THE MONTH

36

25.01% THC HIGH END FARMS

nwlEAF.COM

N

othing says Valentine’s Day like a special feeling that begins from within, so we filled our lungs with High End Farm’s Cherrygasm for a sweet treat that is perfect for sharing, or going solo.

Grown in Bellingham in a boutique Tier 1 indoor garden, High End Farms is focused on craft Cannabis and unique genetics.

The Cherrygasm is a new cut from TGA Genetics that blends the infamous indica Cherry Pie with the classic sativa cerebral high of the Space Queen, for a blend that delivers the best of both strains.

Opening a jar of these beautiful, light green and frosty buds unveils a wafting aroma of sweet candied cherries drenched in a vanilla bourbon glaze, with a tangy hint of lemon rind in the finish. Breaking open a sticky and soft medium density bud reveals more of the Space Queen hazy aroma, with darker Cherry Pie hints filling in the background. This is a beautiful combination of two seemingly different strains coming together for spectacular results.

Ripping into a bowl of the flower delivers a bright and sharp inhale of cherries and citrus that lingers on the palate with lip puckering sweetness. The exhale is more earthy and hazy, bringing immediate euphoria and heightened senses that slam you into the moment. For me, Cherry Pie has always been a time slowing strain, and the combination with the Space Queen makes for a balanced, sativa dominant high that is just right - imparting a sense of contentment and chilled out euphoria.

With spectacular taste and flavor - plus unique effects that capture the body and mind - the Cherrygasm is a true treat worthy of a Valentine’s gift, or to simply brighten up a dreary February day. After all, what better way to put a smile on the day than with a delicious toke of Cherrygasm?

Available from The Kusherys, Bloom Locations and Remedy

FEB. 2020

CHER

RIPPING INTO A BOWL OF THE FLOWER DELIVERS A BRIGHT AND SHARP INHALE OF CHERRIES AND CITRUS THAT LINGERS ON THE PALATE WITH LIP PUCKERING SWEETNESS

ERRYGASM REVIEW by WES ABNEY @BEARDEDLORAX | PHOTO by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS

Available from The Kusherys, Bloom Locations and Remedy

THE INDOOR ISSUE

SNOOP’S DREAM

40

nwlEAF.COM

PIONEER NUGGETS PLANT ART

apR. 2020 FEB. 2019

I

nside the walls of an Arlington warehouse sits a group of 10 indoor hoop house gardens that are redefining the concept of structure-in-structure Cannabis growing. Indoor gardens are created inside buildings of many different sizes and dimensions, with the space always being modified to fit the needs of Cannabis cultivation.

Pioneer Nuggets is the first garden the Leaf team has seen in over a decade of Cannabis publishing to take a traditional hoop house and build it inside a warehouse for growing Cannabis.

The benefits to this model are many, starting with the building process.

Instead of creating a new building inside the warehouse - which can take hundreds

of thousands of dollars in building materials, labor and permitting, Founder Fitz Couhig chose to take a simple and proven design that didn’t require modification of the overall building.

Almost like setting up a kids tent in the living room for a camping simulation, the hoop houses were easily permitted and had lower initial costs to complete and begin growing products.

Each hoop house is its own sealed environment with double walls that contain positive air pressure and sliding glass door entrances.

Maintaining a clean environment is crucial to growing Cannabis indoors and Pioneer Nuggets takes cleanliness to heart.

The greater warehouse is also sealed from outside air intakes, and all internal air is scrubbed and UV treated for prevention. With his focus on the vapor pressure deficit, clean air and clean water, Couhig has dialed in the Pioneer Nuggets facility.

THE BENEFITS TO THIS MODEL ARE MANY, STARTING WITH THE BUILDING PROCESS.

>>

STORY by WES ABNEY @BEARDEDLORAX | PHOTOS by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS

THE INDOOR ISSUE

P I O N E E R N U G G E T S Continued from pg. 41

“I REALLY LOVE INDOOR CHRONIC. I LIKE THE PRODUCT THAT COMES OUT OF INDOOR, AND LEARNING HOW TO RUN THESE ENVIRONMENTS AND EQUIPMENT IS VITAL. IT’S FOOD, ENVIRONMENT AND GENETICS THAT DETERMINE THE QUALITY OF CANNABIS BEING GROWN.”

CEO FITZ COUHIG

he explained passionately. “I never wanted to get a medical card because I didn’t have a true qualifying condition. So I said when it moves forward legally I’ll get involved and put myself out there - that’s just who I am.”

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ACAPULCO GOLD

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liding open a door into the hoop house releases a burst of pressurized air and a thick, humid waft of delicious Cannabis terpenes. Employees are only allowed inside the grow rooms for specific tasks with plants or harvest, always in garden-only Crocs and wearing freshly cleaned clothes. Keeping the garden extremely clean is a big part of the success for the garden.

“What I’ve learned over the years is that pests you can keep out, and pathogens exist everywhere.

We only use cease (a biological fungicide) and soil drenching along with beneficial bugs inside the flowering rooms, those are the only forms of pesticides that ever come near our plants,” Couhig explained, noting that a small team keeps the facility running smoothly.

“We have three guys managing the entire garden on four, 10-hour shifts. Cutting down from the peak of 31 employees to 18 amazing team members has been integral to sustainability. The biggest part of survival has been finding the right people with the right work ethic and attitude that they want to be a part of the team.”

The rows of plants from the vegetative and mother room to the finished flower rooms are all clean and happy, with bright colors and frosty nuggets that are begging to be smoked. The flowering plants are grown hydroponically with a soilless peat and perlite base, in eight flowering rooms and a nursery and veg room. The facility has a harvest each week, keeping the team busy with a constant flow of flower to trim and package, guaranteeing the bud being sold is at the peak of freshness.

“We held a higher price point in the beginning while we worked on getting our costs down, but once

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art of honoring the pioneers of Cannabis includes growing classic strains like Acapulco Gold - NW Leaf’s Strain of the Month in October - which was one of the we got there I transitioned to my priorities. I first strains to gain national notoriety in want all the weed to be smoked by people. So the 70s. Sweet and earthy with creamy citrus we got our costs low enough, to get our prices notes, the flower smokes with a light inhale and low enough that all of the weed goes into flowa stoney, euphoric buzz. The Pink Lemonade er and joints and a little trim for processors, tastes exactly like the name, with bright, sugary, and it took us 24 months to find that groove. citrus and grapefruit notes, and a creative enIt’s allowed us to move this year from survive ergy that hits the mind and body quickly. Other to thrive.” strains include the Lodi Dodi, Chem Brulee and Phishing for Roots Dolato - all chosen by Couhig with a passion The Pioneer Nuggets story began with a for the end result.

Phish concert at the Gorge in 2013, although “The reason I grow indoors is that I don’t Couhig’s roots go back much deepbelieve indoor vs. greenhouse vs. er with the band. He’s seen over 240 outdoor is better or worse, but I really “THE NAME PIONEER shows at the time of print, and met NUGGETS WAS MEANT TO love indoor chronic. I like the product his wife at his 50th show. Today their that comes out of indoor, and learning son is being raised to love the music. HONOR ALL THE PIONEERS how to run these environments and Couhig flew to Washington in equipment is vital. It’s food, environWHO GREW CANNABIS 2013 for a concert and met a friend ment and genetics that determine the BEFORE ME WHEN IT who inspired him to work in the quality of Cannabis being grown.”

WASN’T LEGAL.” Cannabis market. Just four weeks With a positive approach to growing later he sold his house and moved to Cannabis and managing a team, Washington to begin the process of building a including a dream wall for employees that legal Cannabis business. began with his favorite quote - “dream your life It’s rare to find someone as well-traveled for and live your dreams” - Couhig is leading the psychedelic concerts as Couhig who doesn’t way as an indoor producer and business owner like Cannabis, but he waited until the plant growing for the right reason. was legalized before getting involved in the “Slowly the kind people are finding the kind business of pot. It’s the respect for the early people in this industry. I believe that the artistry founders and the legal aspect that led to the of cultivation should be open sourced, and if name Pioneer Nuggets. you want to get taught what to do it should be “The name Pioneer Nuggets was meant available. This is an art that everyone should to honor all the pioneers who grew Cannabe open about because there is no wrong way bis before me when it wasn’t legal. I always to do it.” respected the people who started this industry,“ PioneerNuggets.com @Pioneer_Nuggets STORY by WES ABNEY @BEARDEDLORAX | PHOTOS by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS

THE INDOOR ISSUE

ARTIZEN

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20,000 PLANTS GROWING AT THE LACEY, WA FACILITY

GOOBERRY

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SUPER LEMON SMAC

CHIEF DESIGNER MARK HUTCHISON CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER JESSICA JAMES CEO TIMOTHY FOIA

The Art of Zen Blossoming from medical roots into the third largest Cannabis cultivator in Washington, Artizen has mastered the balance between craft and scale to deliver consistent boutique Cannabis.

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rtizen’s journey to becoming a major producer began before Cannabis was legal, with a group of friends that loved growing and working together as a team.

With humble roots in garage grows and the hills of Humboldt, the ownership team entered 502 as experienced practitioners in a brand new market. Putting their own sweat equity and funding into the company while reinvesting profits, the company has come to scale and is selling through every gram grown under hundreds of high intensity lights.

While being one of the largest companies in the market comes with a lot of attention and pressure, the team behind the brand have stayed true to their ideals and mission - to survive and then thrive in the emerging pot marketplace.

“There is a lot more to us than meets the eye,” Founder and Co-Owner Timothy Foia said passionately. “We’re working on some big things this year that are going to continue to expand on what we have built over the last five years.”

Craft at Scale Walking into the several football fields long building that houses Artizen is an awe inspiring experience that began as a 3-D rendering.

Building a garden to scale properly takes experience, and for Chief Designer Mark Hutchison, the opportunity to design from scratch was priceless.

“Growing indoors is an enjoyable canvas for me to work with. It’s like an art, my painting.

When I design a grow, it’s all the way down to the ergonomics of the space. I can tell you how many inches are between every single aisle, or what the clearance is or whether a 3x6 cart can make the corner into the next room. So there’s a lot of forethought that goes into the design.”

The company began with a single grow room and 160 lights, and within the first year profits from initial sales had two additional rooms up and running.

Artizen was built in phases through the reinvestment process that will continue into the new decade, which allowed the company to stay wholly owned and focused on the original mission.

As the company began to develop, it added departments like logistics, which began as a desk in a closet and became an office space with several employees and a fleet of drivers.

In a Cannabis environment where the consumer only sees finished packaged goods, there are a lot of jobs and elements that come into bringing products to market.

“We put our money into human capital. When you walk around our facility you will see over 100 employees, many of whom have been here from the beginning,” Foia explained.

“We’re owned by my best friends.

Jessica James (Chief Operating Officer) I met in 2002 - I introduced her to her life partner Mark Hutchison, and another partner, Paul, unfortunately passed away.

Our CFO George Jordan is an amazing tactician and lawyer. This is a new decade, this is our third decade as friends and family. And from Mark building my first grow room and Jessica running it, this whole project is the most crazy story of an underdog becoming a big company.”

With nearly 20,000 plants in every stage of production housed under a 75,000 square foot building, it takes a family of employees all working together to thrive.

IN A CANNABIS ENVIRONMENT WHERE THE CONSUMER ONLY SEES FINISHED PACKAGED GOODS, THERE ARE A LOT OF JOBS AND ELEMENTS THAT COME INTO BRINGING PRODUCTS TO MARKET.

>>

STORY by WES ABNEY @BEARDEDLORAX | PHOTOS by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS

THE INDOOR ISSUE

A R T I Z E N Continued from pg. 45

IN A MARKET WHERE GARDENS ARE CONSTANTLY SWAPPING GENETICS AND DISCONTINUING STRAINS, ARTIZEN HAS BEEN A STEADFAST EXAMPLE OF WHAT WORKS. THEIR CORE GROUP OF STRAINS HAS BEEN SELLING SINCE THE COMPANY BEGAN, AND ECONOMIC DATA FROM HEADSET ON 502 SALES SHOW THAT FIVE OF THE TOP 10 MOST SOLD INDIVIDUAL PRODUCT ITEMS IN WASHINGTON’S LEGAL CANNABIS HISTORY COME FROM ARTIZEN.

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Growing Consistent Cannabis The key to success in Washington’s developed Cannabis market is carving out a niche, and Artizen has successfully done that from the beginning of the 502 marketplace. That niche begins with consistency, which is difficult for grows small and large. Artizen set out to conquer that from the start, delivering strains early in 502 history like Allen Wrench or Grape Ape that are still selling today.

Inside the grow room are dozens of custom steel frames housing plants grown sea of green style, with each plant in a foot and a half of space. On average, a room has about 3,000 plants in flower representing 15-20 strains. The rooms are designed with 14 irrigation zones under 12 lights each, allowing zones to be fed uniquely based on specific demands for the genetics being grown.

“One thing we heard consistently through the first couple years was that we are so consistent.

Our flowers are the same whether bought in Seattle or Spokane. The trim job is the same, and so consistency and customer service are the two things we tried to go above and beyond on,” Hutchison explained, alluding to his love of indoor Cannabis in Washington.

“We’re startups right now, every Cannabis company. So to build a business around two or three crops a year outdoors or with light dep, or even to have enough infrastructure in a greenhouse to run year round - which is practically indoors - didn’t make sense. Having a garden where we can replicate the same results year in and out gives us an advantage over other growing methods in terms of establishing ourselves and our strains.”

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is creating a product that is a lifestyle enhancer.

And it’s the connotation of artisan, bringing artisan products to market.”

In addition to growing and selling a lot of premium flower, Artizen also produces regular and infused joints, as well as cartridges and concentrates that are all strain specific. The company doesn’t have an in-house lab yet, so they partner with processors to create their concentrate products. Artizen never sources outside material in flower or concentrate, and only processes their own material in strain specific batches. While many of the largest companies source indiscriminately to fulfill orders, this goes against the craft mantra that In a market where gardens are constantly James holds close to heart. swapping genetics and discontinuing strains, “Take our Dazed & Confused joints, which Artizen has been a steadfast example of are a cultivar trifecta. They are the same flower, what works. Their core group of strains has kief and distillate - all from the same harvest been selling since the company began, - packed into a hand painted joint rolled into and economic data from Headset on 502 the keif. Which I am proud of! We’ve been sales show that five of the top 10 most sold asked why we don’t homogenize or buy outside individual product items in Washington’s legal product to be more profitable or efficient, but Cannabis history come from Artizen. The I love that our products are craft and strain number one item sold by dollars sold is the specific.”

Dutchberry in eighth form, a product which has From the garden to the jar, the flower at been sold since the company first started.

Artizen stands out with hand trimmed nuggets “Of those top ten SKUs, nine of that burst with terpenes and heady them are eighths. One of them is effects. Strains like the Purple Tangie WITH NEARLY a one gram, and that’s also the 20,000 PLANTS IN EVERY ooze with notes of bright orange Dutchberry. So it means that strain peels and sour lemon rind, with sticky STAGE OF PRODUCTION has been sold more than any other in buds breaking open to reveal a slight the state, and we never would have HOUSED UNDER A 75,000 hint of earthy fuel in the background. been able to do that if we jumped SQUARE FOOT BUILDING, The Dazed & Confused joints live up from strain to strain,” Hutchison to their name, with full strain specific IT TAKES A FAMILY OF explained passionately. flavor and a heavy high that easily EMPLOYEES ALL WORKING satisfies several smokers in a sesh.

Creating Artizen Even the heritage and humble TOGETHER TO THRIVE. Grape Ape - which was one of the rtizen is rapidly becoming a first two strains ever harvested by the household name for Cannabis company - still delights with bright Kool Aid in Washington, available at over 200 grape notes, a rich citrus sugar finish and a retailers with products covering all aspects heavy indica buzz. Whether looking for a new of consumer demand. When asked how the brand to try or a classic to enjoy time and time branding and future goals align, James was again, Artizen has the ability to offer both, focused and excited. and you will find their products in every corner “Our goal is to create consistent and well of the state - putting smiles on faces with rounded products and strains, what we call our the strain specific consistent chronic they’ve lineup,” James explained. “Artizen is several worked so hard to become known for. things, but at the heart it’s the art of growing ArtizenCannabis.com @ArtizenCannabis Cannabis. It’s the art of zen, which we believe

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STORY by WES ABNEY @BEARDEDLORAX | PHOTOS by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS

THE INDOOR ISSUE

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2020 GearGuide I N DI S P E NSAB LE I N D O O R CULT IVAT IO N G EAR

SOME SAY there’s nothing new in Cannabis cultivation. Plenty of farms claim to have unlocked the secret - and while many will even go so far as to protect their methodologies as proprietary intellectual property - in an agricultural segment that predates the dawn of Christianity by at least a millennium, there are very few new tricks. That is, unless we’re talking about indoor. Emerging from the high-pressure, sodium-lit recesses of forced guerilla growing, formerly illicit indoor Cannabis cultivators now get to benefit from advancements in controlled, closed-loop agribusiness that other commercial crops have been enjoying for years. We saw it at MJ Bizcon in Las Vegas in December - dozens if not hundreds of companies promoting bespoke cultivation equipment and products designed or retrofitted to suit the indoor Cannabis grower. For this year’s indoor issue, we spoke with some indoor cultivators and asked them what companies and products get them excited. Here’s a roundup of some of the groups and products garnering the loudest buzz from the indoor hivemind.

RHYTHM CULTIVATION RhythmCSS.com

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The first time I saw a Rhythm system was in 2017, and it looked like something out of the future. The company’s custom fertigation and cultivation management systems designed and built specifically for the Cannabis industry - not only dial and automate some of the most important processes in a grow-op, but they look cool as hell while doing it. We’ve been watching this company for a while. And yes, we think they’re going to continue to do big things as the indoor industry continues to grow.

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GRASSROOTS FABRIC POTS GrassrootsFabricPots.com

Picking the right home for your mothers and daughters plays an important role in any garden, especially when growing in soil.

Many of the soil growers we talk to swear by their Grassroots fabric pots and beds. The company’s fabric pots and beds allow for aeration and are built to last, leading to healthy root growth and minimized waste.

TRYM SOFTWARE Trym.io Finding the right blend of software is kind of like finding the right blend of NOT ONLY CAN nutrient inputs - it’s difficult, and when things don’t work together, it can be YOU DELEGATE disastrous. Fairly new on the scene, Trym has created harvest management TO EMPLOYEES software that integrates with Metrc compliance software, as well as various THROUGH THE cultivation management applications.

PLATFORM, Jon Hudnall, Director of Operations for Doghouse Cannabis, was an early BUT YOU CAN adopter of the software for his facilities in Oregon, Washington and soon to MONITOR HOW be Michigan. Needless to say, he swears by them.

LONG IT’S “I really like the Trym software - they’re doing something a little bit different than most of the technology companies that are trying to get into the Cannabis TAKING FOR EACH TASK. space,” Hudnall said. “They’re doing task management and batch management stuff. Not only can you delegate to employees through the platform, but you can monitor how long it’s taking for each task. When they started, they were trying to do more environmental monitoring and controls, but by listening to growers, they discovered that we’re really concerned about labor.”

“We were an early adopter of the software, and it’s been awesome to watch them grow and keep improving their software. They’ve been listening to their customers and implementing those changes.”

LUXX LIGHTING LuxxLighting.com When it comes to lighting, the California-based Luxx Lighting comes up a lot in conversation with cultivators. That’s because the company was founded for and by growers. “(That) puts them in a unique position to develop the most innovative fixtures on the market,” says Nick Ciufo, owner of Tao Gardens in Eugene, Ore., who also uses Grassroots Fabric Pots.

Luxx produces classically reliable, high-output grow lights, and is known for their high-pressure sodium and ceramic metal halide lights.

Ciufo’s Tao Gardens will be a testing ground for Luxx’s new 1000-watt double-ended ceramic metal halide light, which will be coming to market this year.

FLUENCE BIOENGINEERING F luence.Science For growers who’ve moved on from the traditional high pressure sodium and ceramic metal halide lighting to the world of LED, Fluence Bioengineering continues to be one of the most talked about suppliers. The company promises increased terpene and cannabinoid production, along with decreased energy expenditures - plus it introduces the potential for efficient vertical cultivation.

Vertical cultivation plays a huge role in the future of indoor agriculture, as it allows for the ability to stack rows of plants atop one another, maximizing the efficient use of a grow’s footprint.

Once regulations aren’t governed by plant count and canopy size, companies like Fluence will allow cultivators to stack ‘em high.

THE COMPANY PROMISES INCREASED TERPENE AND CANNABINOID PRODUCTION, ALONG WITH DECREASED ENERGY EXPENDITURES - PLUS IT INTRODUCES THE POTENTIAL FOR EFFICIENT VERTICAL CULTIVATION.

BUILDASOIL BuildaSoil.com

When it comes to creating custom soils and amendments, few companies come up in conversation as often as Colorado’s BuildASoil.

By using organic inputs to create living soil blends - as well as soil amendments to fit a number of cultivation scenarios - this company provides sustenance and a significant part of the ecosystem for a number of the soil-grown flowers you’ll find on the shelf.

STORY by TOM BOWERS @PROPAGATECONSULTANTS

CONSTELLATION SOLVENTLESS HASH OIL VAPE CARTS

DO YOU KNOW WHAT’S IN YOUR

www.ConstellationCannabis.com @constellationTHC @constcannabis @ConstellationCannabis

0 PPM 0 PPM 0 PPM 0 PPM 0 PPM 0 PPM 0 PPM 0 PPM 0 PPM 0 PPM 0 PPM 0 PPM 0 PPM 0 PPM 0 PPM 0 PPM 0 PPM 0 PPM

VS

STANDARD DISTILLATE VAPE CARTS

(WASHINGTON STATE LIQUOR AND CANNABIS BOARD LIMIT)

Acetone Benzene Butanes Chloroform Cyclohexane Dichloromethane Ethanol Ethyl Acetate Heptanes Isopropanol Hexanes Methanol Pentanes Propane Toluene Total Xylene Cutting agents Wetting agents

5,000 PPM 2 PPM 5,000 PPM 2 PPM 3,880 PPM 600 PPM n/a PPM 5,000 PPM 5,000 PPM 5,000 PPM 290 PPM 3,000 PPM 5,000 PPM 5,000 PPM 890 PPM 2,170 PPM ?,??? PPM ?,??? PPM

Feature

HISTORY IN THE MAKING

A NEW CANNABIS CULTURE MUSEUM

WHEN I FIRST BEGAN MY CAREER IN CANNABIS AT HIGH TIMES IN 1994, THERE WAS NO SUCH THING AS MEDICAL MARIJUANA, A SO-CALLED LEGAL STATE, AND CERTAINLY NO CANNABIS INDUSTRY—ONLY A BLACK MARKET AND AN UNDERGROUND MARIJUANA MOVEMENT. BACK THEN, IF YOU SMOKED POT YOU WERE A CRIMINAL. AND IF YOU GREW, SOLD OR EVEN ADVOCATED FOR IT, YOU WERE AN ACTIVIST AND AN OUTLAW.

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The only place in the world to buy and smoke weed legally was in Amsterdam. During my two decades at the magazine, I got to travel to Amsterdam nearly every November for the Cannabis Cup, where I was fortunate enough to meet, learn about, and even hang out with many of the great pot pioneers and counterculture heroes. I didn’t realize at the time I was living through Cannabis history in the making.

So, it’s ironically fitting that now, four years after leaving High Times, I find myself back in Amsterdam in November, photographing and cataloguing classic issues of my old magazine and memorabilia of those pioneers for a new Cannabis museum that I’m helping to build.

Talk about coming full circle.

It all started this past July when I began seeing these interesting little Facebook posts by ganjapreneur Jair Velleman, showing off various reefer-related antiques he’d been acquiring, and claiming that he planned to use this growing collection to start a Cannabis museum.

“I’ve been a collector all my life,” he admits. “And after selling my company, I had a little bit of time and money on my hands, so I started finding and purchasing a lot of beautiful Cannabis artifacts. Then I started looking at the different Cannabis museums out there and thought that I could do it better.”

Marijuana museums had been suddenly popping onto my radar in a big way. I’d just visited Sensi Seeds’ Hash, Marihuana and Hemp Museum in Barcelona a few months earlier, and there was a building buzz around the upcoming opening of Weedmaps’ Museum of Weed in Los Angeles. At that time, I happened to be looking for a new professional project to tackle and was intrigued by the prospect of Jair’s idea. I realized that if he planned to display his artifacts in a museum, he’d need someone to write about them and their significance to visitors, by

FEB. 2020

putting them into historical context. I sent him a message, and he expressed interest in possibly hiring me as a freelance writer or consultant when the time came. I thanked him and went about my week - that is, until a few days later, when he called back with an exciting and unexpected offer.

“I’ve been thinking about it, and actually I need help with more than just writing about the items,” he confessed. “I can’t build a museum all by myself - I need someone to help me with the whole project. And when I thought about it, I realized that you’re actually the perfect person for that job.” A few weeks later, I was on a plane to Amsterdam for a five-day job interview, at the end of which I’d found a kindred spirit in Jair and been officially named the new Executive Director of the World of Cannabis museum project.

In the two months that followed, I set to work researching museums, test driving software and ordering equipment. Then at the end of October, I returned here to Amsterdam to begin the first phase of our epic endeavor: the lovingly laborious process of cataloguing the nearly 500 rare and obscure posters, books, collectibles, and antiques in Jair’s vault. Each and every item must be dated, classified, coded, tagged, measured, photographed, and input into our museum database.

Once the collection has been fully archived, we can begin phase two of the project: sorting through it all to decide which items we want to include in the final exhibits. As for the location, we’re still unsure where the museum may end up opening. Jair’s original vision was for the museum to be mobile and pop-up in select cities across the U.S. and Europe, but that could easily change if we find a perfect permanent home for it. Regardless of where the museum ends up, however, its mission will remain the

same: to celebrate the history of modern Cannabis culture by collecting and preserving some of its most significant artwork and artifacts, and displaying them to the public in as engaging and educational way possible.

Now you may be thinking: If there are already several Cannabis museums out there, why start another one? Well, because ours will be different than the existing museums in several ways. Our vision is to focus on modern Cannabis culture, primarily in the Western world, from the early days of prohibition and reefer madness, to its modern day mainstream influence and everything in between.

From the legendary growers and breeders who propagated all of the popular strains we smoke today, to the brave smugglers who helped distribute them across the globe. From the earliest activists who first fought for legalization, to the smoking celebrities who have come to embrace it.

From the birth of the counterculture in the 1960s and the excesses of the 70s, to the Drug War hysteria of the 80s, the advent of medical marijuana in the 90s, and the march toward mainstream acceptance in the new millennium.

Ultimately, the driving concept behind World of Cannabis is an all-encompassing educational endeavor that will eventually span all media. As we embark upon this unprecedented journey, we’ll be documenting the entire process as we go through a video series, a podcast, and a syndicated column by yours truly that highlights various objects in the collection, explaining their origins and significance

within the greater context of Cannabis history. Since anthropology is defined as the study of human history and culture, I’ve coined a new term to describe this pursuit that Jair and I are now engaged in CannthropologyTM - the study of Cannabis history and culture (and the name of my upcoming column and podcast).

In today’s new legalized landscape, when marijuana media is shifting its focus from OGs to CEOs, it’s more important than ever for us to memorialize the counterculture icons and outlaws whose audacity and activism created the thriving Cannabis community we’ve all grown to love. For aspiring “cannthropologists” such as Jair and myself, World of Cannabis is a true passion project - one that we hope will provide a valuable resource and lasting legacy of education and enjoyment for generations to come. By preserving and honoring our history, we become a part of it. We invite you to join us on this fascinating exploration into the origins and evolution of our culture.

Bobby Black is the executive director of the World of Cannabis Museum project. He’s also a former senior editor, columnist, and 21-year veteran of High Times magazine, host of Blazin’ With Bobby Black on Cannabis Radio, and cofounder of Higher Way Travel.

If you have an item or story of historical significance that you think is worthy of inclusion in the museum, let us know at worldofcannabismuseum@gmail.com.

Look for Bobby’s new column Cannthropology coming soon!

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STORY & PHOTOS by BOBBY BLACK for LEAF NATION

RECIPES

IN LOVE WITH MARY JANE

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THIS MONTH we infuse and celebrate with dark chocolate, tater tots and chili.

And there’s a red rose for Valentine’s Day. February is a good food month.

Make it a good love month too.

We need it. #Dontfeartheedible

DANK DRINKING CHOCOLATE for two 1 ½ CUPS HALF AND HALF 2 TEASPOONS CANNA-BUTTER 7 OUNCES DARK CHOCOLATE 1 TABLESPOON SUGAR 2 TEASPOONS CORNSTARCH PINCH OF SALT ½ CUP GRAHAM CRACKER CRUMBS ½ CUP MINI MARSHMALLOWS

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INSTRUCTIONS 1. Heat the half and half on low in a small saucepan.

2. Add the canna-butter and the sugar, stir well, heat but don’t boil.

3. Add the chocolate and stir well.

4. Add the cornstarch and salt, whisk for 3-4 minutes.

5. Divide between two cups and top with crumbs and marshmallows.

CANNABIS-INFUSED CHILI SERVES 6

2 TABLESPOONS CANNA-BUTTER OR OIL 1 LB GROUND BEEF OR CHICKEN/TURKEY 1 SMALL WHITE ONION, CHOPPED 2 15OZ CANS DICED TOMATOES 1 CAN BEANS, DRAINED, KIDNEY OR BLACK 3 TABLESPOONS CHILI POWDER 1 TEASPOON GROUND CUMIN 1 TEASPOON GROUND SMOKED PAPRIKA CHIPS, AVOCADO, RED ONION

feb. 2020

INSTRUCTIONS 1. In a large saucepot heat the butter or oil.

Add the meat or chicken and sauté until just cooked, 10-12 minutes. If there is a lot of liquid, carefully pour it out.

2. Add the onion and cook for 7-9 minutes. Add the tomatoes and the beans, along with all the spices.

3. Simmer gently, stirring every 10 min. for 35-40 minutes.

4. Divide between the bowls and top with crushed chips, avocado and red onion.

TATER TOTS TO LEAVE YOUR LOVER

INSTRUCTIONS

SERVES 3

1. Heat oven according to directions on the package. In a small bowl, combine the sour cream and the butter. Chill briefly.

½ CUP SOUR CREAM 1 TBS MELTED CANNA-BUTTER, COOLED 2 CUPS TOTS, HOT AND CRISP 3 SCALLIONS, TRIMMED AND CHOPPED 3 STRIPS BACON, COOKED & CHOPPED

2. Place 3 bowls on your work surface. As soon as the tots are ready, place them in the bowls and top with scallion, bacon and the infused sour cream. Dig in.

RECIPES by LAURIE WOLF | PHOTOS by BRUCE WOLF

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MILK CHOCOLATES

BY WILLIE’S RESERVE There is no more iconic a stoner than Willie Nelson, so to celebrate Valentine’s Day we decided to enjoy his timeless combination of chocolate and Cannabis to blend the best of traditions together.

Forget the wine and non-smokable flowers this year and head to your favorite pot shop to grab a selection of infused and fun items to celebrate the occasion. In this modern world of Cannabis there are infused choices from sensual topicals and lubricants, to euphoric strains sure to get your special person in the right mood. But even with all these options there is one item you cannot forget this February 14th.

Chocolate!

Having tried many different forms of edibles, we’ve found that the classics are classic for a reason - they taste good! Much like the chocolates that Willie’s wife Annie made over the years, these milk chocolate bites are made with love and quality ingredients. The chocolate is non-GMO, gluten free and fair trade, while being infused with full spectrum CO2 oil for a well-rounded and fun high.

The milk chocolate comes in three different versions - 10mg THC, 10mg THC + CBD, and 10:1 CBD to THC. Each version has unique benefits, starting with the 10:1 high CBD version. Although the 1mg of THC might seem inconsequential, it’s just what the endocannabinoid system needs to activate alongside the CBD. These bites are perfect for anxiety or relaxation, or introducing a new user to edibles. The 1:1 version is equally solid, with equal amounts of CBD and THC for a balanced buzz that puts the body and mind into chill mode. And of course you can’t go wrong with one or several of the THC-only versions, depending on how high you want to get.

While we chose the classic milk chocolate to celebrate with, there are other great tasting options in the Willie’s lineup including dark chocolate, almond chocolate, roasted cacao nibs and Maui espresso bean.

No matter what your chocolate preference is, Willie has got you covered this Valentine’s Day. And if you are like this writer and likely spending the day with sugared up kids instead of a date night, the candy is an equally good personal gift to celebrate Single Awareness Day.

FEB. 2020

AVAILABLE IN 10M G T HC 1:1 10M G C BD/T HC 10:1 H IG H C BD VERSIONS

“MUCH LIKE THE CHOCOLATES THAT WILLIE’S WIFE ANNIE MADE OVER THE YEARS, THESE MILK CHOCOLATE BITES ARE MADE WITH LOVE AND QUALITY INGREDIENTS.” WILLIESR ESERVE.COM | @WILLIESR ESERVEOF F ICIAL

REVIEW by WES ABNEY @BEARDEDLORAX | PHOTO by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS

TANNINS & TERPENES

GRÖN RUBY CACAO

A TO Z WINEWORKS 2016 OREGON PINOT NOIR

I WANTED to find a special pairing for the first Valentine’s Day of the decade. So, instead of automatically resorting to dark chocolate, I found myself intrigued by Grön’s ruby cacao bar. The unique color comes from ethicallysourced ruby cacao beans, which give the chocolate its signature blushy hue. And for its date, we paired the fancy ruby cacao with a

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luscious 2016 pinot noir from A to Z Wineworks, a B-Corps and local Oregon vineyard.

UNLIKE the expected bitterness found in dark chocolate, the ruby cacao has slight tangy or tartness in every bite. It’s incredibly smooth and mild, but the sour cherry notes provide the cacao with a greater depth of flavor. The ruby cacao is significantly sweeter than a dark chocolate, but not too rich. It reminds me of a white chocolate mixed with cherries, but not as sugary. Each bar holds 50mg of THC, and each divided piece is 5mg. I must admit, I could eat a lot of this stuff - so make sure you have a significant other(s) to share with.

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I chose to pair the A to Z 2016 Oregon pinot noir with the ruby cacao because I wanted to shine light on the abundance of exquisite pinot noir we have in Oregon. Pinot noir is made for the Pacific Northwest climate and Oregon is producing world-class pinots right in our own backyard. For some reason, pinots tend to get a bad reputation - but don’t listen to the haters. The A to Z pinot is dry without becoming dirty, and pairs immaculately with the sweet ruby cacao, heightening the robust and juicy notes of the pinot.

The pinot consumed with Grön’s ruby cacao provides you with a decadent experience of both Oregon Cannabis and wine. It’s romantic, posh, and certainly sets the tone of the evening. Cancel the reservations and save your money. Cook a satisfying dinner at home, crack the wine and plate the fancy THCchocolate.

*Leaf Disclaimer* Anytime you are mixing two substances of any kind, you need to be extra vigilant of the effects and plan accordingly. We strongly recommend conducting pairings with others in a safe and private space in small quantities.

Always make sure you can get home safely without jeopardizing yourself or others.

PRO-TIP: MELT THE CHOCOLATE AND USE YOUR IMAGINATION.

GRONCHOCOLATE.COM | ATOZWINEWORKS.COM

FEB. 2020

GRÖN RUBY CACAO A TO Z WINEWORKS ‘16 OREGON PINOT NOIR $20, 50mg THC

$18.50, 13.5% ABV

REVIEW by SIMONE FISCHER @SIMONEFISCHERR | PHOTO by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS

CANNABIS

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This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgement. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of the reach of children.

CBG

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concentratE OF THE MONTH

THE LEMON CHEM CAVIAR CARTRIDGE HAS A SUGARY INHALE OF BRIGHT LEMON PEELS, WITH A SOUR FUNKY CHEM FINISH OF EARTHY FUEL NOTES.

BY DANK CZAR

Dank Czar continues to push the envelope of deliciousness with their new lineup of cartridges featuring strain specific fire blends of rosin and high terpene extract.

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CARTRIDGES

DAN K CZAR.CO M | @DANK CZAR_WAS HINGTON

FEB. 2020

W ED DING CAK E 75.66% T H C LEM ON C HEM 72.12% T H C 0.33% CB D

Normally when we review a concentrate we pick just one product, but these two cartridges are so unique and tasty that we had to share our experiences with both. Let’s start with the rosin pen - this writer’s favorite cartridge on the 502 market right now.

Solventless Cannabis is gaining momentum around the country as consumers discover the amazing flavors that come from the simple combination of heat, pressure and dank Cannabis.

The rosin cartridges taste exactly like a fresh squish of flower in vapor form, especially when hit on a lower temperature setting.

Ripping into the Wedding Cake delivers a sour funky inhale from the potent cross of Cherry Pie and Girl Scout Cookies. Exhales smell like a toke of flower, with sour cookies and earthy fuel, plus a tease of piney kush.

This is definitely a sedative strain, with mind melting and body numbing effects that lean heavily on the indica side.

The Lemon Chem caviar cartridge has a sugary inhale of bright lemon peels, with a sour funky chem finish of earthy fuel notes.

The caviar cartridges are made using high terpene extract or terp sauce, which delivers massive flavor and strain specific effects not usually found when vaping cartridges.

The terps deliver euphoric and energetic effects that start quickly in the mind, before settling into the body for a glowing sativa high that is perfect for any time of day.

Another unique part of the Dank Czar offerings is their new battery. Compact and chargeable with a normal mini-USB plug, they are convenient and don’t look like a vapor product.

They are also variable temperature with a simple high-low switch on the bottom. The low setting is perfect for tasting terps, while the high setting delivers satisfying hits without cooking off any flavor. This is a battery that was designed by people who love tasting concentrates, and it shows in the vaping experience.

Like everything on the menu at Dank Czar from flower to concentrates, the quality of flavor and high comes first, which is why they are leaders in top shelf Cannabis products.

Dank Czar available from Cascade Kropz, Always Greener stores & around Spokane.

REVIEW by WES ABNEY @BEARDEDLORAX | PHOTO by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS

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29393 STATE RT. 410 E, BUCKLEY, WA This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgement. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. For use only by adults 21 and older. Keep out of the reach of children.

Marijuana products may be purchased or possessed only by persons 21 years of age or older.

coffee & cannabis #3

Brewed by The Reef

COLD BREW & 9 POUND HAMMER

When it comes to both coffee and Cannabis, most people are only mindful of the end results.

They want their coffee to get them energized, their weed to get them stoned. Here, the average coffee consumer might think they only have quintuple or octuple espresso shot drinks to get them where they want to be. Likewise, stoners end up looking for the strains they know to work, or that they’ve had a great time with in the past. But as we proceed further down the paths of legal pot and baristas looking to reenergize their craft, a plethora of new options emerge. And just because something is newer to the scene shouldn’t minimize the legitimacy of its effect or potency.

SINCE ITS EMERGENCE a few years ago, 9 Pound Hammer has been a quintessential Pacific Northwest strain. One of the beauties of this Cannabis strain is just how hybridized it is, though it does lean more on the heavy indica side of things. As a combination of Gooberry, Jack the Ripper and Hell’s OG, 9 Pound doesn’t really exemplify any aspects of its parents’ strains - instead becoming its own beast and its own experience. Named after the 9 Pound Hammer that John Henry wielded while taking on the steam engine, this strain gets the job done just like he did. After four or five tokes you’ll feel like you’ve been kicked in the head, and shortly after, your body will melt into a euphoric, stoney haze.

Like wildfire, cold brew has spread through the coffee scene and has shown no signs of slowing down.

Once only offered by third-wave coffee shops, cold brew can now be found in corner stores, bodegas, or branded with a certain local siren at your nearest supermarket.

People gulp it down with vigor and there are plenty of reasons why. Brewed at room temperature for at least 12 hours (though usually longer), cold brew has a higher caffeine content than almost any of its other coffee counterparts.

Additionally, the long, low temperature extraction makes for a smoother beverage - generally well-known for having sweet, bright or caramel notes.

As a combination, this pair may not be for the faint of heart. Even the daily consumer can be put through the wringer, riding the waves of both a stimulating and relaxing rollercoaster ride. You’ll assuredly be lifted up by your iced coffee deliciousness and pounded right back down by the 9 Pound Hammer.

Don’t let that deter you though - this is for people looking to actually experience something significant out of their coffee and Cannabis. There are no subtleties here and no doubt that these two are doing exactly what they should be.

Meanwhile, the Even the daily consumer can be flavor pairing of these two hits the nail on the put through the wringer, riding head (pun intended). the waves of both a stimulating While the myrcene and pinene rich 9 Pound and relaxing rollercoaster ride.

Hammer provides hints of sour grapes, berries and herbaceous pine, the cold brew complements with those tart and syrupy flavors. While consuming these, one might consider creative but stationery pursuits like compulsively editing something on photoshop for way too long, or working on that ‘tight five’ for the neighborhood comedy open-mic.

Should you find those options still too high energy for you, try distractedly daydreaming out the window. You’ll stay entertained for hours. Conclusively, 9 Pound Hammer and cold brew, though perhaps not for novices, makes for quite the fun combo. Give it a try on your next day off.

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feb. 2020

STORY by TJ GAGNIER | PHOTO by JESSE CODLING | MARKETING

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THIS PRODUCT HAS INTOXICATING EFFECTS AND MAY BE HABIT FORMING. MARIJUANA CAN IMPAIR CONCENTRATION, COORDINATION, AND JUDGMENT. DO NOT OPERATE A VEHICLE OR MACHINERY UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF THIS DRUG. THERE MAY BE HEALTH RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH CONSUMPTION OF THIS PRODUCT. FOR USE ONLY BY ADULTS TWENTY-ONE YEARS OF AGE AND OLDER. KEEP OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN.

on the road

66

Reflecting on the Journey THE INDOOR ISSUE

STORY by JONAH TACOMA @DABSTARS2.0 for LEAF NATION | PHOTOS by JESS LARUE @JESSICALARUE_420

T

he scenery blurred by as we made our way down Hwy 16 towards the Canna Organix farm in Sequim, Washington.

My story for The Leaf was overdue and I’d convinced Jessica to drive so I could write on the two hour journey north.

As long as I could remember I had wanted to be a writer. As a kid we would take long road trips from Colorado to California to see my dad’s

FEB. 2020

extended family, and I would consume my time creating elaborate works of fiction in the back of his fiberglass topped Chevy traveler van.

I grinned at the similarities decades later as I pecked away at my Note 9 from the passenger seat. I had written a tech column for the local college when I was younger and had even made the cover with a piece titled “Marijuana. Crime or American Pastime?” in 2007.

Perhaps it was fitting that I now found myself chronicling tales from the inner workings of the Cannabis scene. From California to Iceland we followed the trail, exploring the cathedrals of Rome, getting lost on the canals of Amsterdam which we now knew like the backs of our hands.

Or at least liked to think we did.

The last few years on the Cannabis circuit had been one beautiful blur. Jamaica, Spain, Holland

THE LAST FEW YEARS ON THE CANNABIS CIRCUIT HAD BEEN ONE BEAUTIFUL BLUR. JAMAICA, SPAIN, HOLLAND AND A HALF DOZEN STATES IN THE U.S. ALL VYING FOR THE CANNABIS SPOTLIGHT WITH NEW EVENTS POPPING UP EVERY MONTH. and a half dozen states in the U.S. - all vying for the Cannabis spotlight with new events popping up every month.

I looked up as we passed over a large floating bridge, the grey winter water capping slightly in the brisk breeze. We were headed as far north as you could go and still remain in the States. A thin strip of water a few miles wide was all that separated the United States from Canada.

You didn’t need a microscope to see I was getting older, the miles showing in the gray hairs that dotted my groomed beard. At heart I was still the fresh-faced kid who had stood on trash cans, rallying troops to the cause at a time when the cause still mattered.

From my view in the trenches, legalization had seemed to lead to pacification for the many who saw the battle as over, and were now ready to quietly hand the reins over to corporate Cannabis.

These times would inevitably be harkened back to as the glory days of Cannabis. Not unlike the glory days of alcohol prohibition, big change was in the wind and not all of it was good.

Cannabis was a commodity. But for many, Cannabis was a community and both were in flux. I paused to roll up, depositing the ground up tobacco into an old coffee cup.

The robotic voice of the GPS chimed in announcing our arrival, but I knew we still had a long road ahead of us...

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SEPT. 2019

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by Mike Ricker One Night Stand With A Carnie The whole thing was a Whirlwind. Literally. That was the name of the fabulous traveling amusement ride she so deftly operated.

Sometimes the energies of the heavens are in complete synchronicity and a bolt of lightning can change your trajectory. There was an actual graphic of a bolt of lightning on the side of the structure, you see, and it was the bad-assedness of this bolt that I commented on before she picked the ticket from my fingers, spit into her cup and flashed that crooked smile.

“Wanna party?” she said slyly.

“Don’t ask twice,” I responded.

And into the gorgeous August night we went - first dashing to the shooting gallery to claim the stuffed minion that was my marksman’s prize to behold and gift to the new apple of my eye. Aboard the Ferris Wheel we shared a blunt, hovering over the shrieks and bells that further beckoned the unbridled impulses. The fun kept coming at the Giant Zipper, where the twists and spins made us drunk with the lust of maniacal whimsy.

In the wee hours of the crisp morning, the shocks of Third Wheel squeaked back and forth like a rocking chair on a creaky front porch.

Feb.2020

And then off she went into the sunrise, down that lonesome dusty road to the next Walmart parking lot several miles from some random Main Street. She would impress a new crowd in a forgotten town, where the tumbleweeds saunter in the footsteps of Tom Joad.

The lonely romantic life isn’t for everyone, I thought. And I may never forget her precious companion, Muffy, wearing her torn, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles t-shirt, bravely battling that pesky case of mange.

I think of Travolta in the movie Grease as the summer sun fades south, my curious eyes gleaning for some explanation on the peaks and valleys of life’s roller coaster.

“Wonder what…she’s doin’ now…”

Get the audio version and every episode at Stoney-Baloney.com

@RickerDJ

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Warning: This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Smoking is hazardous to your health. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. Should not be used by woman that are breast feeding. For use by adults twenty one or older. Keep out of reach of children. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination and judgement. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug. This product may be unlawful outside of Washington State.