June 2011 - 1st Anniversary

NORTHWEST LEAF [Free]

June 2011 Issue #12

In Seattle’s U-District, meet two guys helping patients the best way possible: fairly. P. 10

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Northwest Leaf thanks our loyal readers & advertisers for their support in our 1st year! Because of you, we’ve helped serve 60,000+ MMJ patients across Washington!

PLUS: 3 PAGES OF THE AREA’S BEST MEDIBLES |P. 16| |P. 14| Bellingham’s First Dispensary |P. 9| Tacoma Hempfest Founder Interview

HOURS:

11-7 M-S 12-5 Sun.

-FREE HASH FOR ALL PATIENTS -3O top-shelf strains under $12/g + tinctures, edibles!

-10% of your donation as patients will go to charity!

11009 1st Ave. S. Seattle, 98168

Cannabisoasis206@gmail.com

NORTHWEST LEAF Table of Contents

June 2011 www.nwleaf.com

The Joint {pg. 10} In the college neighborhood of University District, the staff at The Joint (great name!) are working with patients in a friendly, comfortable location -- in an area where that isn’t always the case. Learn more about The Joint!

News......................P.6 Features.................P.9 Tacoma Hempfest...P.9 The Joint...............P.10 StrainoftheMonth...P.12 Northern Cross......P.14 MedibleSpecial......P.16 DeviceoftheMonth..P22 WhyVaporize?.......P.27 GrowTech..............P.29

Bham’s First {pg. 14}

Justin Prince {pg. 9}

It’s tough being the first of anything -- especially a dispensary in Bellingham. But Northern Cross Collective is doing the work no one else has managed to until now. For patients in the area, the wait was worth it.

What can’t this guy do? The political activist, former dispensary owner and creator and founder of Tacoma Hempfest talks with Northwest Leaf about his goals and the future of medical marijuana in Tacoma.

The Area’s Best Medibles {pg. 16} For patients who find themselves tired of the vaporizer, medibles offer potent, tasty value for the ever-shrinking wallet. Northwest Leaf found some of the best medibles this area has to offer, in every category out there!

Hmm..Hmm..Hmm!

Cover photo of Shy and Derek of The Joint // By Daniel Berman

Why Vaporize? {pg. 27} The vaporizer is truly the ultimate device for patients who value their health over anything else.

The vaporizer isn’t harmful like smoking is and new versions offer both convenience and portability!

Learn why you need to own one...

Strain of the Month {pg. 12} Blue Dream, from Left Coast Cannabis, is a bud that offers a great, clear mind and body buzz.

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NORTHWEST LEAF June 2011

www.nwleaf.com

As we celebrate 1 year of Northwest Leaf, let us consider this ever-changing industry...

TO THE LOYAL READERS OF NORTHWEST LEAF,

Above and beyond everything, we would like to thank you personally for supporting both the newspaper and the medical marijuana cause in Washington State. Over the last year, with almost 200,000 copies printed, we have brought information and professional news coverage into an industry that was previously in the dark.

It has been an honor to publish the Leaf, and over the last 12 issues it has grown from a small idea into a fully realized publication. Much like the Leaf, the medical marijuana industry in this state has also grown tremendously over the last year. What was only a handful of collectives, co-ops, and access points several years ago has developed into hundreds of storefront locations across the state.

With this industry growth, patients have come to enjoy and expect better quality medicine, and a more professional environment when acquiring it. In our eyes, this is a positive step forward. Patients in Washington State have better access to information, medicine, and doctors than any other state in the country.

As we look forward into the future, with some uncertainty and trepidation regarding the recent changes in legislature, it is important that both patients and dispensary owners draw together to form a strong voice. Distance and differences of opinion shouldn’t be an issue in this voice, for we’re all involved in the same cause. The future of medical marijuana depends on it.

This coming summer brings a chance for this action to take place. Our local access points need our help. On June 9th, a City of Shoreline meeting will decide the fate of dispensaries for patients in that area. In July, the City of Tacoma will once again consider shutting down their 40+ dispensaries. And in Spokane, our fellow patients have lost almost every single option for access to their medication, with no new hope in sight.

Not only is this unfortunate, but it also spells trouble for the rest of the state. We as a community, and industry, cannot allow another step backward. The patients depend on it.

“Where there is unity there is always victory.” Pubilius Syrus, a 1st century Roman author, wrote thousands of years ago. These are wise words, and should be taken to heart by everyone involved in this wonderful cause.

Let us draw together in unity, and bring a brighter and greener future.

Again, thank you for reading Northwest Leaf, and supporting safe access for patients.

-Here’s to the next 12 months-

Wes Abney // Northwest Leaf // nwleaf@gmail.com 4

Don’t be taken in

by ads for bargain basement clinics.

T

rust your care to a clinic that provides professional services and legal support for all patients. In addition, we provide Medical Marijuana Recommendations by Washington State licensed medical professionals as well as complete patient support in a friendly atmoshere by a great staff totally committed to your needs.

Medical cannabis helps relieve chronic pain resulting from severe injuries and conditions such as fibromyalgia, Multiple Sclerosis, cancer and neuropathy related to diabetes, HIV and many other conditions. Where pain is connected to inflammation, research has shown that site-specific anti-inflammatory relief results from medical cannabis as well.

Decades of anecdotal evidence from patients shows that medical cannabis provides effective relief and is not physically addictive. It also presents fewer side effects with less risk than commonly prescribed pharmaceuticals.

Most patients report that cannabis does not reduce their ability to function normally the way opiates do, and that they can dramatically reduce or even eliminate their need for them and similar risky pain medications. If you feel that medical cannabis may be right for you and have further questions, we’ll be happy to speak to you or your physician to answer them.

Please visit our website which features timely news as well as links to many of the leading medical research studies and articles on medical cannabis, as well as updates on the Washington State Medical Marijuana Act.

New Office Opening in Spokane!

To make an appointment at our new clinic in Spokane please call:

(509) 340-3551.

Medical Cannabis can Help You Call Us Today

Toll Free: 866.607.0035 www.SentryMedicalGroup.com

NORTHWEST LEAF

-News-

Weed’s All They Need

JUNE 2011

If cops smell weed, they can enter your home without a warrant if they suspect evidence is being destroyed, after an 8-1 ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court in May

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Story by Daniel Berman // Northwest Leaf

he next time you’re medicating in your own, private home, remember this: it’s not so private any more. A U.S. Supreme Court decision handed down mid-May took away some of those rights. The court upheld that if police smell weed they can burst into your home without a warrant if they suspect evidence is being destroyed.

This decision emerged out of the 2005 Kentucky case that saw police chase a suspected drug offender into an apartment complex – only to lose him in the frenzy. The police didn’t give up though and decided to bust into one of two apartment units they figured contained the suspect. Of course, they picked the one that smelled like weed. “Police, police, police,” they shouted at those inside, according to an article by The Associated Press at the time. Police contend they heard the sound of someone destroying evidence. Whatever that means.

But inside the apartment, police did not find their suspect. They did however find a man named Hollis King and a friend sitting around smoking a joint. Ultimately police did find their suspect in a nearby unit, but then they arrested both King and their suspect. Unfortunately for civil liberties everywhere, the police did not arrest King based on probable cause

6 Photo by Flickr.com/Jaxting

– rather it was thanks to them stumbling upon the scene. Not all details of the story have been released but King was charged with drug trafficking and sentenced to 11 years in prison.

The 4th Amendment right against search and seizure is supposed to protect against these types of unlawful search and seizures. Generally, a search warrant is necessary before busting in – but the U.S. Supreme Court upheld that some extenuating circumstances override that necessity. Reasons that police do not need a warrant to enter a private residence or business: when someones life is in danger, when cops think someone is trying to flee a scene, or when they believe evidence is being destroyed. The Lexington, KY police supported their actions with that last option.

But on Monday, May 16, this country’s highest court overturned the Kentucky Supreme Court decision that had ruled the evidence was inadmissable due to an illegal

search. By an 8-1 vote, these types of searches were now acceptable.

They also determined that an emergency search was justified to prevent destruction of evidence, even though police created the risk of such destruction by creating the exigent circumstance.

Yeah. The police can raid based on the fact that they are raiding, essentially.

Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito wrote “occupants who choose not to stand on their constitutional rights but instead elect to attempt to destroy evidence have only themselves to blame for the warrantless exigent-circumstances search that may ensue.” Justice Ruth Bader-Ginsberg was the sole dissenting voice. She wrote “The

Doesn’t someone jumping up to destroy evidence sound the same as someone jumping up to answer the door before police kick it down?

court today arms the police with a way routinely to dishonor the Fourth Amendment’s warrant requirement in drug cases.”

Ultimately, patients everywhere are at risk. How different does a toilet full of waste sound from one flushing drugs? Worse yet, “Doesn’t someone jumping up to destroy evidence sound the same as someone jumping up to answer the door before police kick it down” asked one online Kentucky newspaper commenter.

Really though, paranoia aside, what’s to say police won’t begin smelling weed and hearing evidence being destroyed a lot more often now? Namely, your knowledge of the law. It’s power.

Remember that you don’t need to open your door to talk to police, that police need a search warrant to enter your home without your permission and that you don’t have to let them in otherwise. And most importantly: if they do have a warrant, remember to keep your mouth shut. After all, you do still have the right to remain silent.

NORTHWEST LEAF

-News-

JUNE 2011

The Sky Is Falling...

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Understanding the SB5073 fallout

n the weeks since Governor Gregoire gutted SB5073, patients and dispensaries across the state have been left in fearful limbo regarding the future of Washington’s medical marijuana program.

The medical marijuana law that is currently in place dates back to 1998, when the voters of WA decided to recognize the medical benefits of cannabis. Since then, the industry has developed rapidly under the designated provider section that allows the collectives and co-ops to provide medicine to tens of thousands of patients around the state.

This last year marked a new chance for change at the Gov’t level, for more regulations and protections for patients and dispensaries alike. Unfortunately, the legislature failed in their attempt -- Senate Bill 5073 -- which was passed along to Gov. Gregoire.

Gov. Gregoire gutted the bill of the few things positive regarding medical marijuana, including the intent and definitions section of the law. This has left a bill set to become state law without its original intent, or definitions section for law enforcement and dispensers to refer to.

This lack of definition is especially troubling regarding patient recommendations. Currently, all recommendations are written for medical marijuana. SB5073 changed the laws reference term from marijuana to cannabis, but lacks a definition for either term. This leaves patients with potentially illegal documentation, and law enforcement clueless as to patient rights.

“Law enforcement will have just as big of a problem with SB5073 as patients,” said Steve Sarich, executive director of CannaCare. “Without definitions or an intent section, there is no clear enforcement protocol. There used to be a supposed grey area. Now

nwleaf.com

Story by Wes Abney // Northwest Leaf

HELP US SAVE MMJ IN WASHINGTON!

Sign Referendum #73 to keep WA MMJ law safe, and repeal SB5073.

Don’t let the state take away patient rights or access to medicine.

Email steve@cannacare.org for or sign @ an access point near you. it’s all black.”

The bill also violates the First Amendment rights of doctors by limiting their ability to advertise and have a specialized practice. This means that a doctor can’t specifically have a clinic that writes medical marijuana recommendations. This not only limits the constitutional rights of the doctors who currently operate clinics, but takes away access for the qualified people to get authorizations.

SB5073 also strips away the presumptive limit section of the previous law, which is a protected doctors right under the constitution. The state/federal gov’t does not have the right to control a doctor’s recommendation for prescription type or dosage, but the bill as written will control what doctors are allowed to authorize.

The lack of definitions is just one in a plethora of problems with SB5073.

The primary sponsor of the bill, Senator Jeanne Kohl-Welles, labeled the bill “the greatest disappointment of my legislative career.” She plans to take up the issue next year -- but that still leaves patients and dispensers in hanging. Don’t the patients of WA deserve better than a promise to “try again?"

In addition to the missing definition or intent sections, SB5073 also changes how patients can access medicine. This is where the situation gets uglier: Section 404. The section changes the existing law that allows dispensaries to operate under the designated provider section. In the current law, dispensaries are allowed to

serve one patient at a time, regardless of time. This has allowed dispensaries to see as many as hundreds of patients in one day. Just one at a time.

The new section 404 designated provider agreement switches the format to a minimum of 15 days per individual patient. This effectively eliminates the ability for dispensaries to distribute medicine; they’ll only be able to serve one patient in 15 days.

This section, and others that Gregoire stripped, had referred to a regulated system of dispensaries and producing growers. But with those sections gone, and no definitions section, 404 closes the “dispensary loophole” without providing new regulations, as the original intent of the law had attempted to provide.

SB 5073 also removes business protections for dispensers that currently have business licenses. The bill leaves it up to local municipalities and government to decide the fate of dispensaries; many are anti-MMJ. This has already come to pass in Shoreline, where three access points are being shut down. For one such location, A Green Cure Wellness Center, this came as a nasty surprise. They’d received a letter from the city with an appeal date to stay in operation. The appeal is still set for June 9th, and the owners assumed they would be able to operate until that time.

On May 27, A Green Cure had to close their doors after the city arbitrarily revoked their business license, and threatened a $5,000.day fine for continued operation. The potential

crime? Operating without a business license, a misdemeanor in WA State.

The same city that had previously issued a license took it back, regardless of the legality of the medical marijuana being dispensed.

Dan Satterburg, the Prosecuting Attorney for King County, was quoted saying this regarding the fate of other such access points.

"The commercial dispensaries jumped the gun, and are out aggressively marketing their services. Whatever gray area used to exist to allow that is gone now. They are clearly illegal as of July."

How to Survive SB5073 In just a few short months, there could be a complete end to safe access for patients anywhere in the state, including the previously untouchable city of Seattle. With collectives now fearing city sanctions and potential raids, and those like Green Cure or countless Spokane locations now closed, patients need to come together as a powerful force to protect their rights.

Steve Sarich of CannaCare has sponsored a referendum that aims to repeal SB 5073 and give patients that chance.

This would eliminate the remnants of the bill, and revert WA medical marijuana law to its original form. Anyone who signs the petition would be helping to ensure patient rights and keep safe access to medicine available.

Referendum #73 needs to collect 121,000 signatures by registered voters by July 27th; just days after SB5073 could potentially go into effect. It is essential that patients and advocates sign this petition and force the legislature and state to deal with the mess they have made.

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NORTHWEST LEAF

-Features-

JUNE 2011

Meet Justin Prince STORY BY WES ABNEY

A former dispensary owner, now a driven political activist, Justin Prince is the founder of Tacoma Hempfest and the force behind Tacoma’s Initiative #1

You could say he’s a busy man, but that would be an understatement. With the June 25th date for Tacoma Hempfest right around the corner, and over 4,000 signatures waiting to be gathered for the initiative, there’s a million and one things to be done, and only one Justin Prince.

When I saw Justin last, he was down at the Cannabis Freedom March collecting signatures and handing out information about the initiative. The goal of the signature gathering is to put a decriminalization measure for marijuana into effect in Tacoma, similar to the one in Seattle. It would limit pointless arrest and targeting for small possession cases, and allow the police to focus on more important crimes.

“Getting this passed would be a strong move to protect the citizens of Tacoma, regardless of how legislature decides to act,” Justin said, admiring a large pile of forms full of signatures. “This can also be encouraging to other cities across the state, to show that it can make a positive difference in a community.

The idea, which has worked well in Seattle, needs signatures to make it to the ballot in November.

Those who sign must be Tacoma registered voters, and the initiative signature forms can be found at collectives and access points throughout the city.

“Within Tacoma and other municipalities, it takes registered voters coming together to form a collective voice,” Justin said passionately. “Every day that goes by without decriminalization, people are subject to raids and arrests and

the potential loss of everything. We can’t allow that to continue.”

With less than a month to go, there is one major chance for the signatures to be gathered. Tacoma Hempfest. The second annual event (second reminder: happening June 25th) is set to have a huge impact — in addition to being a fun time for all.

The event last year drew almost 8,000 people to Tacoma’s Wright Park for fun in the sun and education about the benefits of cannabis and hemp. Dozens of vendors in brightly colored booths handed out information, sold hemp products and clothes, and a huge main stage featured local music acts. The event was a great opportunity to showcase the marijuana movement in the positive light it deserves.

“Last year was put together at the last minute, with only a couple months planning, and we still managed to have a hugely successful event,” Justin said. :This year, we’ve had a ton of time to plan and develop the event and we expect to have twice the turnout from last year.”

In addition to double the turnout, the entire event has been reworked this year to better accommodate the park. There are dozens of new vendors in addition to those returning, and the main stage is set to be bigger and louder than ever.

“We had over 500 bands apply to play the event,” said Justin. “We’re really excited to have a giant jam session, with members of different bands coming together in one place.”

This year’s vendors include Vote

Justin poses with one of his favorite strains: Jack Herer.

Hemp, Young Haven Hemp Clothing, Mr. Keef Box, and Volcano brand vaporizers. There will also be a Chronic Art display in the homegrown artist alley, where local vendors can sell their handmade products and art.

Even better, a major showcase featuring industrial products and uses for hemp will take center stage.

“We’re focusing a lot more on educating people to the mainstream applications and uses for hemp products. From fuel to food, we could be doing it all with hemp,” Justin explained. “With the event, I personally want to get away from the stoner image and let people focus on the realities of hemp, not

the stereotypes.”

For medical patients, this year also features the return of the Tacoma Green Cup, an event where local collectives and growers submit their top strains for judging. Tickets are available through local dispensaries, and guest passes are being donated by the event for low income patients. While there, you can also check out Justin’s homemade medicated applesauce and Simpson oil chocolate espresso beans and cashews.

So come down to Wright Park Jun. 25 to enjoy the jamming music, vendor displays, and the chance to learn something new about the plant we all love.

The deadline for signature gathering is July 5. Want to help gather? Find more information at cannabisreformact.org.

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THE JOINT ...is more than just a great name...

The Joint Co-operative is a Seattle dispensary featuring a safe, comfortable location. But the best part of the experience is in the high-quality medicine & innovative medibles like sodas and -yeseven gummy bears. This is one joint that deserves a second glance.

Story by Wes Abney // Photos by Daniel Berman

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n the heart of the University District, just minutes from countless college bars and hipster coffee shops, a new storefront is gracing the “Ave” with a very different type of service.

The Joint Co-operative, as it’s aptly named, is changing the way patients and the surrounding community view medical marijuana — and it all starts with the name.

The term “Joint” dates back almost 200 years, drawing its roots from the French term for joined.

Of course, its meaning has shifted in popular culture over the last 100 years. Now it’s synonymous with smoking cannabis.

Yet the underlying meaning is still there. It’s the joining of dried cannabis with paper, the presence of flame and the sweet relief and pleasure derived from a big toke. And when you ask The Joint co-founders

Shy Sadis and Derek Anderson, it’s about the joining of a professional & safe environment with highquality medical marijuana “I wanted to get into this industry to make a difference and give back to the community,” explained Derek. “Shy and I brought a clean, professional image to an industry that needs to step out of the dark age of shady drug dealers.”

Sitting in the lobby and watching TV while sipping a complimentary drink, the Joint feels more like a day spa or high-end medical office than dispensary.

The walls are tastefully decorated with artistic paintings of marijuana buds and friendly secretaries sit behind a granite counter, waiting to buzz new patients in through the secure door system.

“I always wanted a dispensary experience that felt like a doctor’s office, but what I’ve seen from a lot

It’s important to us to have a wide variety and selection of medicine at prices that help patients.

Shy Sadis, Co-Founder, The Joint 10

Co-founders Derek & Shy stand behind their array of medicine of this industry are places that aren’t at the quality level they should be,” said Derek. “I’ve been to dispensaries where I was nervous just to get meds. That’s not what we want for our patients.”

Stepping back into the medicine room of the Joint, it’s impossible to feel nervous with the impressive array of strains and products available. Two large display cases sit full of 20+ strains — each jar with an information card explaining genetics and medicinal effects. The information is both accurate and extremely helpful in deciding which medicine is right for a specific need.

“We always have at least 10-15 strains at $10 or less, with only three

$15 strains. It’s important to us to have a wide variety and selection of medicine at prices that help patients,” Shy explained, while pulling out jars to smell and explore.

One of the strains that immediately stood out was the Apollo 13, an extremely potent hybrid of the High Times medical cannabis cup winner Vortex. With an extremely sweet and pungent smell, the Apollo looks ready to take you into the clouds.

When smoked, it has a slow onset feeling of medicated energy, with a relaxing long high and a clean, wellflushed taste.

For the heavy Indica lovers, the local UW strain is a great choice. It’s not better because of the location ei-

www.nwleaf.com

“

ther, although many shops carry the same strain without the quality looks and smell of the Joint’s offering. The UW was extremely crystally, with dense Indica dominate nugs. When smoked, the effects are instantaneous, with an enveloping body high that eases pain & stress.

In the opposite display case, a large variety of medibles are offered, many of them prepared in-house. The pretzel sticks were delicious, along with the cookies, which are baked locally by a working professional chef in his spare time. But no matter who does it, they taste great.

“We take a lot of pride in the medibles we serve and have available to patients. If it isn’t quality, we don’t sell it,” Shy said.

Also nice were the medicated tea bags. Mixed with a little water and cream, the Peach flavor mingled well with the relaxing medicated taste. A great nightcap drink, the teas come in a variety of flavors.

For those thirsty in the daytime, the large selection of medicated soda is incredible. They’re extremely potent, and the Dr. Pepper flavored sample could easily be 2 servings for an experienced consumer who knows what they like.

In just a short couple of months, it’s impressive to see what hard work and energy has done for The Joint. With more than 400 patients helped in their first month alone, they’re providing a much-needed medicine in a positive way.

“It’s amazing to have helped so many patients in such a short period of time,” said Derek.

“We got in this business to help people and make a difference, and

www.nwleaf.com

”

Shy and I brought a clean, professional image to an industry that needs to step out of the dark age of shady drug dealers.

-Derek Anderson, Co-Founder

we’re actually getting to do it.”

With the recent changes in legislature and the uncertainty of the future for dispensaries, The Joint is in a less than ideal position -along with every other dispensary in the state.

“We built this place to a quality level that the state could come in and use us as a standard,” Derek said.

“I personally want to see new legislature that can get passed to actually protect patient and dispensary rights. The medicinal values of this are undisputed, so why should patient rights be?”

As the medical marijuana industry faces new changes, it’s important to look towards businesses that are making positive changes, and following solid business practices. Fully ADA accessible for handicapped patients, and with delivery for disabled patients, the Joint shows that safe and secure access is one of their main selling points.

With awesome promotions like “free joint Friday,” patients are re- 5265 University Way, Seattle 98105 ally flocking to this new and vibrant location found easily and quickly.

So the next time you’re out of admin@thejointcoop.com meds, look no further than this awesome new dispensary in Seattle’s U-District. You’ll dig this joint!

THE JOINT CO-OPERATIVE

Call: (206) 283-3333 WWW.THEJOINTCOOP.COM 11

STRAIN MONTH OF THE

Blue Dream

Type: Hybrid – Sativa Dominant Very dense w/ visible crystals.

Looks: Almost a light orange since the leaves are so coated and the hairs add even more color.

Smell: Quite pungent with blueberry tones The first flavor that hits my mouth and Taste: nose is a very stout hashy flavor, this is followed by slightly fruity undertones. The smoke is very thick and heavy, and it expands in your lungs.

Thought processes are a bit cloudEffects: ed. It’s a very comfortable mellow buzz with a nice body buzz. Strangely enough, I don’t feel a whole lot of couch-lock with this bud. This is one of the most euphoric strains I’ve ever smoked.

Potency: Effects lasted about 3 hours.

Notes:

Great pain relief from chronic stomach pain, not so great for headaches. My mind is also too active to sleep on this one until the comedown, so don’t take it to knock you out.

I have had some very long, very interesting trains of thought while staring at my bedroom wall.

Blue Dream is quickly becoming a favorite strain.

FIND IT AT LEFT COAST CANNABIS www.leftcoastcannabis.com (800) 887-5785 Photo by Daniel Berman 12

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THE RISK & THE REASON:

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n a sleepy city known best as a college town, with cheap drinks and a relaxed Northwest atmosphere, more than 500 patients in a single month have finally found a safe and professional place to get their medicine: Northern Cross Collective.

The city is Bellingham, located only 80 minutes north of Seattle.

A short walk through Downtown leads straight to Northern Cross.

The first access point of its kind North of Snohomish County, Northern Cross Collective is changing the way patients view small towns and medical marijuana.

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Northern Cross Collective, the first of its kind in Bellingham,

on why they ventured into new territory to help patients get the meds they need

Story by Wes Abney // Photos by Daniel Berman Across the state, many smaller counties or cities that have attempted to work with MMJ collectives have been met with strident opposition. Whether law enforcement steps in with their backwards and oppressive forces, or a misinformed city government blocks mainstream business attempts, cities outside of Seattle have rarely had good luck with MMJ. Until now.

This is mostly due to the personal efforts of Martin Nickerson, founder of the Northern Cross. Even so, he would tell you the credit is owed to the patients who have supported his collective from the beginning.

“The turnout of patients has shown just how necessary us being here is,” said Marty. “We have incredible patients from all walks of life and they have brought a ton of support.”

The Northern Cross sits in one of the oldest areas of Bellingham, with the building dating back more than a century. In a basement beneath the storefront, a massive, ancient boiler sits with its last inspection dating 1906. Rich in historical value, and heavy on a homespun atmosphere, Marty has transformed an old building into a new chance for patients. Forget about back alleys; this is a piece of Bellingham’s history.

“We call this our little Amsterdam. A place where patients can get a chance to access meds they’d otherwise be dreaming about,” Marty said with a smile. “Or they could be spending $4 a gallon to drive to Seattle and back, which makes zero sense,” he added.

Even the local rehab and opiate recovery center has recognized and offered support to the MMJ cause.

In a region that has seen its share of opiate and other drug abuse, medical marijuana can offer sick patients relief without the potential for abuse or addiction, Marty said.

For store manager Michael Briceno,

the experience has changed his life.

“Every day I feel like I’m doing something good. Most people go to work simply to make money, but here I get to help people and help change the world,” Michael said. “It’s amazing.”

Once buzzed into the main area of Northern Cross, where Michael and a full staff wait eagerly, a new world awaits patients who are used to dealing with the black market.

Behind the counter, shelves brimming with bud -some 20+ strains -- bring a whole new meaning to access.

Of special notice, the in-house strain called Northern Lights Cross is a sativa hybrid with great medicinal value.

With a skunky first smell, followed by a sweet aftertaste when a nug is cracked, the ‘Lights’ has a great energetic high that reaches into the core of the body.

“It’s my favorite strain we sell,” said budtender Jerry Stites, a patient of 3.5 years. “I have had intense nerve

pain for years and this strain works perfectly to alleviate it.”

Beyond a great strain selection, there’s another great reason to visit: The extracts. Northern Cross has 16 varieties of bubble hash, and five types of dehydrated honey oil. The honey oil, a higher quality extract than tradition BHO, is truly incredible. Of the types, the critical extraction oil is in a class entirely by itself.

The oil has a creamy amber color, with a pure smell unlike the cuts of BHO that have byproducts and chemicals left in the mix.

The taste of the oil is initially piney, which expands upon entering the lungs, leaving a sweet aftertaste and a devastating cerebral and body high.

One hit is from an oil vaporizer is all it takes, leaving hours of medicated pleasure to enjoy.

The collective also has a wide variety of medibles, ranging from tradi-

Northern Cross has 16 varieties of bubble hash, and five types of dehydrated honey oil. The honey oil, a higher quality extract than BHO, is truly incredible.

tional treats to infused olive oil and honey. The olive oil is exceptionally processed, and great when making pastas, salad dressings, or even marinades. The honey is delicious as a standalone, or great mixed with oatmeal in the morning.

“We have a ton of happy patients,” said Marty, gesturing to his displays. “And yes, we have your honey bear,” he said, referring to the product’s packaging.

The Northern Cross also features a wide selection of locally made lotions and rubs, glycerin products, and other topical items. Along the side of the spacious storefront, a silver grow tent sits fully stocked with healthy and happy looking clones.

Potent strains including Vortex, Velvet Purple and Quirkle -- a Purple

Urkel crossed with Space Queen.

You can find the friendly staff, always happy to help, waiting in Bellingham seven days a week. While in the city, don’t miss a chance to take a scenic hike, discover a hidden gem restaurant like Man Pies, or catch a local band playing a rowdy show.

But above all, try the Northern Lights, and pay a visit to the Northern Cross. The trip is worth it.

Northern Cross Collective

1311 Cornwall Avenue

Bellingham, WA 98225

Call: (360) 318-4992 Northerncrossnw.com

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BEYOND BROWNIES THE BEST MEDIBLES, DOLLAR FOR DOLLAR, BITE FOR BITE, THE AREA HAS TO OFFER IT WASN’T TOO LONG AGO that a patient’s medible options were limited to brownies — delicious as they are— but the variety of quality medibles available these days is unparalleled. Northwest Leaf trekked up and down the I-5 corridor in search of the best medibles we could find. Here are our favorites in every category from elixirs to layer bars to cookies and even sodas. Enjoy and remember to tell them Northwest Leaf sent you!

REVIEWS BY WES ABNEY // PHOTOS BY DANIEL BERMAN

MEDICATED ELIXIRS

THE HEALING CENTER ORGANIZATION SEATTLE, WASHINGTON 206-829-9435 THCGROUP@GMX.COM

It seems like every dispensary has some form of tincture available, but how often do you see a product known simply as Elixir.

Found at the THCO in the Greenwood neighborhood, the Elixir is an extremely potent way to enhance a normal drink. Each bottle has roughly 5 servings, which makes it a great buy for $12 or two for $20. It is alcohol-based but highly purified, leaving absolutely no aftertaste. I sampled the flavorless version, though there is also a cola flavored Elixir. I mixed a couple tablespoons into a carbonated lemonade drink, gave it a stir, and enjoyed a wonderfully relaxing and potent iced lemonade! Won’t you try it?

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SUPER SEVEN LAYER BARS These tasty bars from A Green Cure Wellness Center in Shoreline are frankly, the best in their class. Soft, without being crumbly, the bars have hidden treats within while showcasing the goods all across the outer coat. These bars are potent, and just half of one was enough to have me feeling a clear-headed and mellow body high. That’s exactly what I want in a medible. A great flavor and top notch ingredients. You have got to check out this bar!

A GREEN CURE WELLNESS CENTER 910 N 145TH ST SEATTLE, WA 98133 (206) 466-1264

MOM’S INDICA THC PILLS Meet Mom’s Medibles, an awesome new medible vendor sweeping through Seattle. A mother and son combo, they make a large variety of cannabis infused products, including their own custom cannapills. The capsules are filled with cannabis infused coconut oil, making them both healthy for the body and more refined. Unlike low quality pills that are simply filled with shake, these oil filled capsules are a great quality buy. There are two types, Sativa and Indica. You can also try their other products, including traditional treats, and the delicious medicated goldfish snacks. You can find Mom’s Medibles brand in Seattle and Tacoma dispensaries.

SEA+WEED 7136 MLK Jr. Way S, Suite. 201 Seattle WA 98118

VANILLA ROCKY ROAD CLUSTERS THE ALLURING SCENT OF VANILLA drifts from the package of three clusters the second you open it. This, decidedly, is a great way to begin any medible session. The Rocky Road clusters are delicately soft, light and not overly sweet – a perfect combination of dessert and medication.

The taste is a blend of vanilla icing, a custard-like filling and a few peanuts scattered about. It wasn’t until my second cluster though that I began to feel pronounced body high effects. For a regular medible consumer, two to three of these would be perfect – or one, followed by a quick vaporizer session. The best part of these clusters is that they taste great and don’t leave a strong weedy aftertaste on your breath later. That’s a deal killer for me and most people!

You can’t go wrong with some of these treats!

BY MARY JANE’S DESSERTED ISLAND LEFT COAST CANNABIS 7604 S TACOMA WAY TACOMA, WA 98409 (800) 887-8398

Continued on next pg.

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Continued from pg. 17

BEYOND BROWNIES THE BEST MEDIBLES, DOLLAR FOR DOLLAR, BITE FOR BITE, THE AREA HAS TO OFFER. POTENT POTABLES

BASED IN SEATTLE, WASH. Owner, creator, and head chef Mason of Potent Potables has brought medibles into the main course menu. A professional chef for over 25 years, he is a master of what he calls “food science.”

His products are all local and organic, and cooked in an industrial kitchen at restaurant standards. Of his spring/summer menu, I tried both his Butternut Squash soup and a Bean and Cheese burrito. The soup was delicious, with a ton of flavors and a medicated overtone that was noticed instead of tasted. The burrito was especially tasty, with Mason’s homemade beans mixed with a light green tint. Again, the medication was not overwhelming in taste, leaving the food to be enjoyed as a meal. His burritos come in two other flavors- Shredded Chicken w/ Tomatoes, and Machaca Shredded Beef w/ Green Chile; The soups are always rotating depending on seasonal selection. Potent Potables also has a full line of desert treats, and other entrees like lasagna are available.

You can find them locally at SMMA, Dockside, The Green Door, Apothecary, A Green Cure, and Greenside. Ask for them today!

OOEY-GOOEY CARAMEL BAR

BASED IN SEATTLE, WASH. CONTACT THEM AT: 206-531-6607

Meet Sugar Leaf medibles, a new local treat that dates back to 1929. Using a candy recipe professionally passed through his family, the head chef Layton has brought his homespun creations into a whole new world. The Peanut Butter Carmel Fudge bars are completely homemade, with each part of the name having a medicated role in the bars. That’s right, medicated peanut butter, canna butter and oil for the fudge, and medicated caramel for the middle.

They pack an extremely delicious taste in with the medicine, which is extremely potent and a great way to medicate without smoking, we definitely found.

You can find Sugar Leaf medibles locally, or contact Layton for info on wholesale opportunities at 206.931.6607.

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Continued from pg. 18 THE BEST MEDIBLES, DOLLAR FOR DOLLAR, BITE FOR BITE, THE AREA HAS TO OFFER. HCC SODA

THE JOINT CO-OPERATIVE 5265 UNIVERSITY WAY SEATTLE, WA 98105 (206) 283-3333

This medicated soda found at the Joint in Seattle is above and beyond the tastiest recreation of a mainstream drink around. The sample I tried was the Dr. Pepper flavor, and the taste was 100% delicious.

The best part is the potency, with only half a bottle being enough to deliver a wonderful medicated feeling. So next time it’s hot and you get a hankering for a medicated drink, grab a delicious soda! Enjoy the sun!

SATIVA PILLS

THE GREEN DOOR SEATTLE 1207 S.JACKSON ST SEATTLE WA, 98104 206-618-7133

With four different varities of cannabis infused pills, the Green Door selection is unlike any other.

There are two main varities, with a Sativa blend and an Indica blend.

All the pills are caffeinated, which offsets the medicated feeling during the day. The 2x strength pills are especially potent, providing energy and relief from pain at the same time. The Green Door is located on Jackson St. in Seattle, and can be reached at 206.618.7133.

MEDICATED CHOCOLATE ITEMS

CONTACT THEM AT TACOMAHEMP@GMAIL.COM

The Tacoma Hemp Company has been reborn with a new line of incredibly potent and delicious medibles. The company makes a variety of dipped items, including cashews, espresso beans, gummy worms, cranberries, and other varieties of nuts. The chocolate is of incredibly pure quality, made with processed Rick Simpson oil. These are the only products available that feature the oil based chocolate, and the medicinal quality is obvious upon first taste. The espresso beans are especially tasty, with extra energy and a medicated kick that can’t be beat. You can find these products at various Tacoma collectives, including Rainier Wellness 20

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There is nothing on the market like this All-In-One MMJ System we helped create. This makes owners and employees more business intelligent, help them maintain regulatory compliance, improves patient service and reduces employee theft. The MMJ software is simple, user friendly and very intuitive. Our current client merchants also have noticed an increase in donations since patients can use their credit and debit cards for convenience. You can also just use our merchant processing without the POS hardware and we can beat your current rate.

We offer our program to restaurants and retail as well since our program is easily adaptable and the best priced POS system around. If you are a restaurant or retail and just needed the basics you’re looking at less than $2000 for the system without the extra devices.”

Top of the line, Point of Sale (POS) hardware system featuring a powerful computer with an integrated USB scale, bar code scanner, label printer, cash drawer, thermal receipt printer and touchscreen monitor. Merchants will have the option to buy this $3500 computer system or get a monthly lease payment for as low as $150/month.

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DEVICE

*

OF THE

MONTH

Find this set & more by Seattle glass artist Chris Dragovich at Tacoma Hempfest on June 25th.

Look for the Northwest Leaf booth for more info & pricing!

Double-percolating bubbler.

Second perk doubles as spot to store a glob of oil before smoking.

Set includes dry sherlock pipe w/ glass-on-glass oil rig assembly.

All pieces colored a beautiful mix of blues and greens in a cool swirl.

Patients will admire the piece for not just the design, but also the quality and functionality as well.

Photo by Daniel Berman

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Grand Opening Jun. 1st

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206.533.4142 206.533.4216

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The Friendliest Dispensary in Seattle

We offer a complete selection of:

• Yummy freshly baked edibles, candies and other munchies

• Tinctures & Ointments • Medication

(starting at only $8 per gram)

• An incredible selection of glass and vaporizers

For the patient gardener, we offer over forty strains of the best genetics available anywhere, along with discount growing supplies for patients.

W

e are centrally located in SODO, less

Now open 7 days a week, 10-6 No appointment necessary

than a mile from Safeco Field. We have a very knowledgeable staff waiting to compassionately serve you and have the most handicap accessible facility in Seattle.

Our facility is safe, secure, and most of all, patient friendly.

2735 1st Ave. South • Seattle, WA 98134 Email: info@access4washington.com Phone: 206-388-3462 www.access4washington.com

NORTHWEST LEAF

WHY USING VAPORIZERS IS THE HEALTHIER WAY TO GO!

JUNE 2011

By Dr. Scott D. Rose // Northwest Leaf Contributor

S

moking is the oldest and most common method of inhalation drug delivery.

It provides rapid onset of drug action This results in the ability of the drug user to carefully titrate their drug intake and regulate the desired effects. However, smoking is unsuitable for delivery of pharmaceutical products because it results in the delivery of the drug compound(s) contaminated with combustion products. Cannabis smoke has irritating, noxious effects on the lungs and respiratory system, very similar to tobacco.

The vaporization of medicinal plants has been going on for centuries, but only in recent years has this method been applied to the use of Cannabis. Vaporization is the transition of matter from a solid or liquid phase into a gaseous (or vapor) phase. Water boiling into steam is an example of vaporization.

awareness of their need for medication and can therefore control the timing and amount of their drug intake safely and reliably.

The quick delivery of medication through the lungs has much utility and has been fairly well studied.

Smoking is known to lower resistance to lung infections due to impaired immune responses.

These negative effects are not due to the cannabinoids or terpene compounds, rather the toxins in smoke attack immune cells, the hair-like cilia, and other natural defense mechanisms of the lungs.

An interesting finding from the research on vaporization as compared to smoke from water pipes: water pipes were shown to be ineffective at removing tars and gases that are toxic in the smoke from the combustion of plant material.

The main benefit of smoking of Cannabis as a primary delivery through a water pipe seems to be route. A lung cancer patient treatrestricted to the physical cooling ing their nausea associated with of the smoke before entry into the chemotherapy would be one prime lung thereby reducing example for the use of a vaporizer. resultant inflammation.

VAPORIZATION REDUCES THE HARM ASSOCIATED WITH SMOKING WHILE We need the immediate effects A large survey conof inhalation therapy along with ducted of chronic users EFFECTIVELY DELIVERING THE ACTIVE COMPONENTS OF THE MEDICINE. reducing the short and long term demonstrated that those detrimental effects on the lungs of The medically active cannabino vaporizer is 100% efficient. who primarily use a vaporizer the toxins in the smoke. Vaporizanoid and terpene compounds of There are many incarnations of the were less likely to report upper reCannabis are found in the resin vaporizer on the market today and spiratory complaints of phlegm ac- tion reduces the harm associated glands on the external surface of one can expect to pay anywhere cumulation, coughing, and wheez- with combustion, or smoking of the plant material, while effectively the plant matter, and it is these from 20 to 500 bucks. There are ing. There has been no conclusive compounds that “boil” at a lower even portable versions that are evidence of an increased incidence delivering the active components of the medicine. temperature than the burning of marketed to be inconspicuous for of lung cancer in Cannabis smokVaporization is preferred in the plant matter. discretionary use out in public as ers, evidence has shown that it is at shifting the paradigm away from The vaporization range is 356there is essentially no offensive least less than previously expect“the smoking of pot” to the use of 392 degrees F (180-200 degrees odors associated with the vapor. ed.

Cannabis as the medicine that it is.

C), which is just below the comThe ability to vaporize a large It stands to reason however if bustion point, or burning point number of medically important Cannabis is a medicine that where smoke is produced. Bendrug substances for systemic is to be used for any durazene is liberated or released at 392 delivery through inhalation opens tion, especially over the life- Dr. Scott D. Rose Naturopathic Physician/ Acupuncturist degrees F and combustion of the the possibility of treating a variety span, seeking delivery routes plant material occurs at 446 deof acute and episodic conditions. that reduce harm makes 425-822-8356 grees F. Benzene is one the many Conditions such as breakthrough sense.

MarketStreetIntegrativeHealth.com aromatic hydrocarbons found in pain, migraine headache, erecDue to the strong medical Evaluations, Authorizations, smoke. These aromatic hydrocar- tile dysfunction, insomnia, and opposition to the smoking of Long-term Management for MMJ use bons are carcinogenic or cancer seizures. Such treatments will be Cannabis as medication, vaDefensible authorizations through causing toxic compounds. Smoke particularly valuable in cases, such porization offers a superior continuity of care also contains other toxins such as as pain, where patients have an alternative to the smoking

nwleaf.com

tar and irritating particulate matter. These toxins make smoke more thick and harsh.

Vaporization is said to allow the connoisseur access to the flavor compounds in the medicine more so than smoking, offering a fine mist of the active essence of the medicine.

Many people are familiar with the use of a machine called a nebulizer for delivery of medication in the treatment of asthma. This form of treatment is preferred in an acute attack due to its effectiveness of rapid onset delivery of the medication. Medication inhaled into the lungs is much quicker in its effects versus an orally ingested form of the medication that must be absorbed through the intestines.

Modern day convection style vaporizers started coming on the scene in the early to mid 1990s.

The efficiency of vaporizers has been greatly improved, however

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NORTHWEST LEAF

Harvest Time:

JUNE 2011

When is the best time to harvest my medical cannabis?

T

here are many factors that guide growers toward the harvest of their medical cannabis, but there is one that will never fail to demonstrate peak ripeness and potent medicinal quality. Some stay to a strict calendar schedule, others go by the phases of the moon, many go by the color change of stigmas/ pistils and those in the know go by trichome development.

Trichome development is the the most effective way to determine the ripeness of your medical cannabis. A trichome is defined as a fine hair or outgrowth, they are known as the frost or the sugar that makes a flower shine. To the the touch they feel very sticky and provide a wonderful smell.

Most importantly trichomes are what contain the medicinal properties of cannabis, cannabinoids.

As buds begin to grown in the flowing phase, so do trichomes.

They become visibly present at about week two to four depending on strain, developing and maturing as the plant goes through its reproductive cycle of flowering.

The cannabis plant has trichomes to protect it during the reproductive cycle and ensure that it can propagate thus furthering its species. Trichomes are found on the stem near bud sites, small close leaves and calyxes; they are most concentrated on the calyxes of the plant due to the fact that calyxes are where seeds are formed.

Now that we know where to find the trichomes we need to know how to see them. Though you can see trichomes with the naked eye as a frosty collection, ocular magnification is required to see the details of trichomes.

The details of the trichomes are what tells us the maturity of the cannabis and the potency of the

nwleaf.com

medicinal properties. There are many methods used for magnification to see the trichome details, some use a old school detective style magnifying glass and others go as high tech as using a microscope that provides a video feed to a computer or display.

The most efficient method is to use one of many hand held horticulture microscopes available; they typically range from 20x to 60x magnification and can come with or without a light. The higher the magnification number, the larger the trichome will be when you look though the microscope. At Green Power Consulting we us an adjustable microscope that can be adjusted from 25x to 50x magnification with out a light.

Now that we have our microscope and know where to look, we need to know what we are looking for. During the maturation of the cannabis flower the trichomes of the cannabis flower follow suit and mature. Trichomes will progress from clear and straight to amber and bent while be milky in the interim. In the beginning of flower development trichomes look like little pointy pedestals with a small ball placed atop of them that are clear in color. As the flowering cycle progresses to around sixty to seventy percent complete the trichome goes from absolutely clear to slightly translucent or milky, this is when a grower should be feed-

ing their peak nutrient formula.

Trichome development will also dictate when the flush phase of flowering should begin.

Depending on your method of cultivation how long you need to flush for will vary and trichome development will tell you when you begin your flush. If you are using a slow flushing system such as a custom soil mix with secondary nutrients you will want to begin flushing your cannabis plant when you see 65% of your trichomes milky with their top balls being swollen and the stalks curvy. If you are using a faster flushing cultivation method such as soilless or a standard hydroponic system running a full nutrient program you will want to begin flushing when you see about 75% of your trichomes milky and spot your first amber trichome and the stalks bent and curvy. If you are using an advanced hydroponic system such as aeroponics of fogaponics you can flush up to the day before harvest.

Once the flush has been initiated, you should be check your trichome development daily or every other day to watch the progression and harvest on the day where potency is at its peak. The purest expression of plants medicinal cannabinoids is when the trichomes are 70% swollen and milky, 25% are amber and swollen, 3% are still clear, and 2% are amber with exploded caps; all trichomes will be

Photo by Flickr.com/Ilmungo

either bent or wavy. If the cannabis is harvested before this, the medical effect will be more cerebral and mentally focused due to a more THC heavy expression of cannabinoids. Where as if the cannabis is harvested after this point, the medical effect will be more narcotic and body focused due to a more CBD heavy expression of cannabinoids.

How and where on the cannabis plant to look for you trichomes is very important and cannot be overlooked. Depending on the magnification of your microscope will determine how far away you will have to be from the calyxes.

Study trichome development on many groupings of calyxes on all area of the cannabis, high, low and in between. Make sure to do this for every plant no mater if they are the same strain and induced into flowering at the same time, their trichomes can mature at different rates. When checking the development of you trichomes make sure to be gentle and remember that you are handling a lady. If you are to rough you can break off or damage trichomes, thus lowering the medicinal potency.

Article By: Green Power Consulting [Indoor cultivation experts] What they provide:

-Installation -Computer Aided Design Systems -Onsite Troubleshooting -Equipment and nutrient sales -Premier horticulture products Contact them today at: 425-780-6313 greenpowerconsulting.net care@greenpowerconsulting.net 29

Our collective offers several different strains & a variety of effective & delectable medibles for your medicinal needs!!

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