Nov. 2013 — Issue #41 by Northwest Leaf / Oregon Leaf / Alaska Leaf / Maryland Leaf / California Leaf / Northeast Leaf

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nOVEMBER 2013 Issue #41

Medical marijuana doesn’t have to die.

Tell ‘em: You don’t support proposed changes to our safe, effective MMJ law in Washington. Email: Medicalmarijuana@liq.wa.gov

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contents

NOVEMBER 2013

COVER STORY p. 22-34 PROFILE

mEDICAL MARIJUANA PATIENTS were shocked Oct. 21 when the Washington state Liquor Control Board released a long list of

proposed changes that supercede the current law, RCW 69.51a. If adopted, the rules would take away your right to grow any plants at home, how much you can possess, and destroy safe access by shuttering medical marijuana storefront collectives.

8 Questions for the Vet

Photos: Boro Derby

November Recipes

Meet David Thesenvitz

Vitamin D + You

The Delivery Man

Climate Controlling

National News

Steve Elliott tackles current events

Racing glass derby cars for charity Cannabis painter, devout sports fan

Fast and fresh and to your door

Tyler Markwart interviews Pho King Tran

Four kinds of medicated stuffing

Dr. Scott D. Rose on why it matters Dr. Scanderson goes into your air

NATIONAL NEWS....................12 RACING4CHARITY..............18 IN THE CROSSHAIRS .............22 COLLATERAL DAMAGE...........28 MISLED BY THE FEDS............30 CALIFORNIA INSIGHTS...........33 STRAIN OF THE MONTH...........44 MEDIBLE REVIEWS.....................58 TASTY RECIPES........................60 CONCENTRATES..................72 DOCTOR ROSE...........................76 BEHIND THE STRAIN..................86

CONTENTS PHOTOS by Daniel Berman/Northwest Leaf

contents

On the roof at I-502 campaign headquarters overlooking Fremont and Lake Union, in 2012.

c ov e r story I-502 leader Alison Holcomb said that medical patients and MMJ would not be touched by the recreational marijuana initiative but as has been proven by the Liquor Boards Recommendations this past month, patients are the first ones thrown under the bus. Photo by Daniel Berman

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editor’s note

NOVEMBER 2013

Thank you for checking out the 41 st issue of northwest leaf!

his month our cover story delves into the direct threat to every medical Cannabis patient in Washington and our country. Right now the world has their eyes on Washington’s legalization experiment, and we are sending a horrible example. A recent editorial written by Steph Sherer, Executive Director of the ASA was published through Huffington Post with the title “When it comes to marijuana policy, Washington needs to put health before happy hour.” She is so very right. What the state is trying to do to patients is disgusting, greedy and plain wrong. The same organizations that point a dirty finger at MMJ for nebulous profits and practices are trying to run the biggest for-profit marijuana scam ever created. And who will lose? People who actually need it most, who were used to growing the medicine that worked for them — who likely can’t afford the new, exorbitant rates of the recreational stores. This month we dig deep into the lies told to patients by the Liquor Control Board, Alison Holcomb and the rest of the 502 lobbying

teams. We also analyze their abhorrent recommendations for medical Cannabis law RCW 69.51a. They want our heads, and our rights, served on a recreational plate stacked high with tax revenue. They want our authorizations to expire at a TBD date coinciding with the release of the stores; all patients will have to go to a new “legitimate” doctor under stringent requirements that will be tough to meet for anyone. Most doctors won’t put their neck out for patients. We also dig into the section-line veto by Governor Gregoire of Senate Bill 5073, which would have established a licensed system for MMJ. Our coverage shows the truth the underhanded pressuring of both Federal US Attorneys and the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs to veto the bill. Open your mind to the forces threatening medical Cannabis, and stand up for your rights! This is America. We are still considered the land of the free. Don’t let a greedy state system take away your right to grow your own medicine.

Contact Northwest Leaf editor Wes Abney to discuss advertising or displaying our magazine in a new location. We want to hear from you! Feel free to send submissions, share news tips, your take on a story or one we should hear.

Phone 206-235-6721 Email nwleaf@gmail.com

founder & editor-in-chief

Wes Abney

the truth about the plant you thought you knew, IN every issue.

photographer & designer

Daniel Berman contributors STEVE ELLIOTT KIRK ERICSON TYLER MARKWART BOB MONTOYA WILL RODENBOUGH DR. SCANDERSON DR. SCOTT D. ROSE PHO KING TRAN

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national

STEVE ELLIOTT is the editor behind tokesignals.com, an independent blog of Cannabis news and opinion

MEDICAL MARIJUANA NEWS

The moral majority N e w G a l l u p P o l l // more than half of all Americans Support Making Marijuana Legal

GALLUP

Gallup poll released on October 22 shows 58 percent of voters nationwide “think the use of marijuana should be made legal.” Only 39 percent of respondents said they do not in the poll, released October 22. Support increased by eight percentage points since Gallup asked the same question in October 2011, at which time it found a recordhigh 50 percent in favor. The poll is the first conducted by Gallup since voters in Colorado and Washington approved ballot measures making marijuana legal for adults 21 and older and establishing state-regulated systems of marijuana cultivation and sales. It also comes nearly two months after the U.S. Department of Justice announced it would not interfere in the implementation of those state laws and others that effectively regulate marijuana for medical use. “The dramatically increasing support for making marijuana legal should come as no surprise,” said Rob Kampia, executive director of the Marijuana Policy ONLINE: In-depth analysis from Gallup www.tinyurl.com/gallupmarijuanapoll Project (MPP). “Marijuana prohibition has been an abject failure. Most Americans realize it is unjust, one side of a cultural and political debate. prohibition behind us, and our leaders need to wasteful, and counterproductive to invest in the crimi“The passage of adult-use marijuana inistep up to move things forward.” nalization of adults for using a substance that is far tiatives in Colorado and Washington has “The latest poll results point to the absurless harmful than alcohol. demonstrated widespread disillusion with dity and even venality of persisting with harsh “The news of such widespread support for ending marijuana prohibition,” said Aaron Smith, prohibitionist policies,” said Ethan Nadelmarijuana prohibition bodes well for efforts underway executive director of the National Cannabis mann, founder and executo change state laws around Industry Association. tive director of the Drug the nation,” Kampia remarked. It should no longer “The success of regulated medical and Policy Alliance (DPA). “Two states are in the process adult-use marijuana markets in 17 states and “No other law is enforced be considered scary or of regulating marijuana like alDC is replacing criminal enterprises with leso harshly and pervasively yet cohol, and in the next few years troublesome to speak out gal and responsible businesses that generate deemed unnecessary by so we will surely see several others in support of more sensible millions in tax revenue and tens of thousands many Americans. do the same. marijuana policies. We of good jobs. “Spending billions of dollars “It is time for Congress to “It’s no surprise that 58 percent of Ameriand arresting 750,000 people need to put marijuana take this issue head on,” Kamcans now support bringing this regulated apannually for violating marijuapia said. “It should no longer prohibition behind us, and proach to all 50 states,” Smith said. na laws now represents not just be considered scary or troubleour leaders need to step up The national poll of 1,028 registered voters foolish public policy but also some to speak out in support of to move things forward. was conducted October 3-6 and has a margin an inappropriate and indecent more sensible marijuana poliof error of plus or minus 4 percent. use of police powers to favor cies. We need to put marijuana

12/nov. 2013 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

Reforming draconian drug laws >> Minimum sentencing requirements could disappear for clean-background criminals

cluding dropping the use of mandatory minittorney General Eric Holder and the mum sentencing in certain drug cases, expeObama Administration are continuing to diting the release of certain nonviolent elderly push for reforms of draconian drug senprisoners, leaving more offenses to state courts tencing policies that have resulted in the U.S. fedto deal with, and working with Congress to eral prison population skyrocketing over the past pass bi-partisan senthree decades. The White tencing reform. House on September 19 andEFENDANTS MUST MEET 4 CRITERIA “In my case, the nounced that they will curtail TO QUALIFY FOR REDUCED SENTENCING judge said he didn’t federal mandatory minimum want to give me such drug laws by ordering prosa long sentence but Offense didn’t involve violence, use of ecutors to remove any refera weapon, or selling drugs to minors. his hands were tied,” ences to specific amounts of said Anthony Papa, illegal drugs which would Not leaders of a criminal organization. media manager at trigger mandatory minimum the Drug Policy Alsentences. No significant ties to large-scale gangs liance, who served Holder also ordered or drug trafficking organizations. 12 years under New prosecutors to refile charges York’s harsh Rockagainst defendants in pendNo significant criminal histories. efeller drug laws being cases and to apply the fore receiving clemnew policy to defendants who ency from the governor. are already in the system but have “Mandatory minimums not yet been sentenced. Mandatory minimums are a are a costly and counterpro“I must say I’m impressed at the costly and counterproductive ductive cookie-cutter apspeed and specificity with which cookie-cutter approach that proach that binds a judge’s Mr. Holder has followed up on last binds a judge’s ability to ability to apply a meaningmonth’s comments,” said Ethan Nadelmann, executive director of apply a meaningful sentence ful sentence that will address the offense and prothe Drug Policy Alliance (DPA). that will address the offense vide for public safety.” “This looks like a major good and provide for public safety. “It’s past time, Jasmine faith effort to reform federal Tyler, deputy director of drug sentencing laws as much national affairs for the Drug Policy Alliance as possible given the constraints of federal said, for Congress to take action and end the law and judicial prerogative over sentencing.” draconian practice of mandatory minimum This follows up on Holder’s announcement sentencing.” in August of major federal sentencing changes, in-

Quick Hits!

67 59 20 31 600 88 100 117

Percentage of 18- to 29-year-olds that support the legalization of Cannabis, according to the recently released poll from Gallup. Read more on left page.

Total number of patients officially enrolled in the Washington D.C. Medical Cannabis program, which is not enough to support licensed cultivation centers that are currently operating at a loss. Number of states in the country that allow the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes. There are just 2 states that allow for marijuana use recreationally.

Number of days Steve and Maria Green had to go without their daughter, Bree, who was taken by CPS over allegations related to using medical Cannabis. Number of pounds of marijuana found in the possession of five undocumented transients in Napa, CA, at a home with illegal irrigation.

The percentage by which possession limits would be lowered for MMJ patients in Washington state under recommendations by the Liquor Control Board to the legislature, taking it from the current 24 ounces to 3 ounces. Cost of a proposed marijuana possession fine in Washington, D.C. It may push as low as $25 as D.C. moves towards decriminalizing Cannabis. Number of plants found at the home of 34-yearold Ionio Aguirre-Decarcer, of Plantation, Fla. in a raid by law enforcement, the AP reports.

Quoted

‘‘

IF CITIZENS BELIEVE MEDICAL MARIJUANA SHOULD BE AN OPTION, DOES IT MAKE SENSE THAT EMPLOYERS CAN WORK AROUND THE LAW BY HAVING A ZERO TOLERANCE FOR DRUG USE? WE THINK THERE’S A FUNDAMENTAL DISCONNECT. - Chris Lindsey, a legislative analyst with the Marijuana Policy Project, which helped get medical marijuana legislation passed in Illinois earlier this year. The new law allows employers to enforce their own drug testing policies and enforcement, even if an employee is authorized to use medicinal Cannabis.

national

STEVE ELLIOTT is the editor behind tokesignals.com, an independent blog of Cannabis news and opinion

Oregon dispensaries will have to check for mold/pesticides

regon’s new law allows medical Committee facilitator Tom Burns, who oversees Oregon’s pharmaceutical drug marijuana dispensaries, and creprogram, asked the Oregon Department of Agriculture for input on how to proates a registry for them. It also ceed with cannabis testing standards. The panel is examining how often cannabis comes with another key provision aimed should be tested, and who should do the testing. at protecting patients: it reLeft to be decided is if third-party labs or the dispensaries quires testing of cannabis for themselves will do the testing, and whether labs should be required Left to be decided mold, mildew and pesticides. to register with the state. Also at stake is whether any levels of is if third-party labs That puts Oregon in the mold, mildew and pesticides will be allowed, and if so, determining or the dispensaries company of just a few states the cut-off point for safety. themselves will do which require medical mari“This testing...is going to be very complicated,” Burns said. juana testing. Nationally, Whether to allow any pesticides at all is a key question, according the testing, and some cannabis advocates have lobbied states which allow to Bunch. The long-term health implications of marijuana conwhether labs should medical marijuana to require lab testing for impurities (and taminants like mold, mildew and pesticides aren’t known, he said. be required to register sometimes potency), arguing that patients deserve details “From an inhalation standpoint, I don’t believe there are any with the state. about the product before using it. tolerances or benchmarks that say this level of mold is acceptable The panel in charge of writing rules for Oregon’s House or that level of mildew is acceptable,” Bunch said. Bill 3460 met for a second time at the state capitol. The committee, made “There aren’t standards out there in that regard.” Marijuana testing labs up of lawyers, advocates, law enforcement officials and state administrators, should have to undergo a state certification process, according to Rowshan Reis working through complicated legal and technical issues as it figures out ordan, owner of Green Leaf Lab, a cannabis testing business in Portland. She how to regulate an industry which is already booming in Oregon. employs five people, all of them registered medical marijuana patients.

14/nov. 2013 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

Washington, D.C.

Marijuana Activists Fight For Full Legalization, Home GROW

dam Eidinger, the co-owner of Capital Hemp and leader of DCMJ 2014, is confident that by 2016, a presidential candidate will campaign primarily on the legalization of marijuana. But in the meantime, he’s focusing on legalizing in Washington, D.C. “I imagine the President rolling up a tobacco-marijuana cigarette with John Boehner and sitting on the back porch of the White House to work out their problems,” he said. Eidinger and DCMJ 2014 earlier this year proposed an initiative which would decriminalize marijuana in D.C. The initiative was in support of Councilman Tommy Wells’ (D-Ward 6) Marijuana Decriminalization Bill, which would reduce the maximum penalty for possession of up to an ounce of marijuana from six months in prison and a $1,000 fine to just a $100 fine. But Eidinger officially withdrew that initiative last month, saying that DCMJ 2014 plans to resubmit it as a

bid for full legalization of marijuana in D.C. to drug-related violence. He thinks D.C. Eidinger and the group have now unveiled the voters would support full legalization. new craft of the marijuana legalization initiative “Sixty-four percent in our poll in April for D.C. Titled “Legalization of Home Cultisupported legalization,” Eidinger said. “I vation and Possession of Minimal Amounts of won’t do it if it’s under 60 percent, you Marijuana for Personal Use Act of 2014,” it procan mark my words. If we’re at 59 percent poses the legalization of possesin our next poll of D.C. Eidinger’s initiative sion, use, purchase and transport of voters for legalization, if up to two ounces of cannabis for we’re losing support for lewould allow the people 21 and older. galization because of Wells’ growing, harvesting It also proposes the legalizaefforts, then we won’t do it. and processing of up tion of growing, harvesting and Eidinger and DCMJ processing of up to six plants in to six pot plants —— 2014 have an ally in Counyour home, with up to three plants cilmember David Grosso although only three being in flower. According to Ei(I-At Large), who introof them are allowed to dinger, his proposal could result in duced a marijuana legalbe flowering at a time. quality increases and the defundization bill last month. ing of drug cartels. Grosso’s bill “would levy a The legalization initiative will be competing 10 percent tax on recreational marijuana with Wells’ decrim bill, which already has the and 6 percent on medical marijuana. It support of at least eight other members of the would also authorize the Alcoholic BevD.C. Council. Eidinger at first support the Wells erage Regulation Administration to issue decrim bill, but now he thinks it won’t put an end licenses to recreational marijuana stores.

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national

STEVE ELLIOTT is the editor behind tokesignals.com, an independent blog of Cannabis news and opinion

$400K

Florida MMJ backer put his money where his mouth is...

LAST SUMMER, Orlando trial lawyer John Morgan said he was prepared to spend “a lot of money” on a ballot initiative to legalize medical marijuana in Florida. The latest campaign finance records show Morgan and his law firm have pitched in $400,000 to the People United for Medical Marijuana (PUFMM) campaign, reports Aaron Deslatte of the Orlando Sentinel. That’s nearly two-thirds of the $644,535 the group had raised through September, JOHN MORGAN with $250,000 of that coming in the past three months. This service is going Democratic fundraiser and philanthropist to give thousands of Barbara Stiefel of Coral Gables contributed people who are sick, $100,000. PUFMM has collected enough hurting and injured, signatures, 105,910, to trigger Florida Supeace at the end of preme Court review and an economic analysis of the measure’s financial impact on the their lives, he said. state, which is currently underway. 683,149 valid signatures are required to qualify for the Nov. 2014 gen. election. Morgan, a longtime Democratic fundraiser, made speeches around the state in support of the medical marijuana measure. Morgan told a Tallahassee crowd in August how both his father and brother had suffered from cancer and injuries, and turned to cannabis to find relief from their pain. “This service is going to give thousands of people who are sick, hurting and injured, peace at the end of their lives,” he told a full auditorium. “I’m probably going to spend a lot of money, but if it passes a lot of people are going to be better off.” The measure, even if it gets on the ballot, faces a steep uphill climb. Under Florida law, constitutional amendments must garner 60 percent of the popular vote in order to pass.

Boatload of Weed Runs Aground On Nude Beach. No leads.

ude beach revelers got quite a surprise on October 1 when a boatload of marijuana ran aground in Santa Cruz, CA. According to law enforcement, the Panga boat, had left Mexico carrying thousands of pounds of cannabis. The boat’s captain and crew were able to unload most of the marijuana before the boat, open and low to the water and powered by an outboard motor, was abandoned. Just 80 pounds of the dank payload was recovered by police. The boat’s crew quickly disappeared, and police have yet to find any leads. “This is lower grade marijuana than we see in Santa Cruz,” sniffed one sheriff ’s deputy. (Hey, it’s California, where even the cops imagine themselves to be cannabis connoisseurs.) Nevertheless, he said the schwag could have brought $96,000 on the street.

Ohio Advocates Push For Medical Marijuana >> Family emergency inspires one man’s call for pain medication alternative

leader of the medical marijuana reform movement in Ohio says the numerous benefits of cannabis use mean that it should be legalized for medical and industrial reasons. John Pardee, president of the Ohio Rights Group, did some research after his son was involved in a near-fatal automobile crash in 2008. He learned that conventional medicine offers few options for pain management other than dangerous opiates -- but he found that medical marijuana is a non-toxic alternative. “I found that cannabis has not killed anyone,” he said to a crowd at Oberlin College on Thursday. The Ohio Rights Group is sponsoring the Ohio Cannabis Rights Amendment, which would allow for the medical use of marijuana and the industrial use of hemp. The group has already gathered more than 30,000 signatures from registered Ohio voters, but it needs 385,000 signatures to get the amendment in front of voters on the 2014 ballot. That’s where Cheryl Shuman, “the Martha Stewart of Marijuana,” comes in. “She has the biggest megaphone in America today,” Pardee said. “She’s reached literally millions of people; I couldn’t think of a more appropriate person.” Shuman is a legal medical marijuana user who lives in California but is an Ohio native. “For me, it’s a very personal thing,” she said. “I’m a legal medical cannabis user. I’m a cancer survivor, and I use it so I can stay cancer free. It is a medicine. It should be dispensed in our hospitals. It should be dispensed in our nursing homes.”

W O R L D NEW S

How much will pot cost in this daring South American nation?

ruguay’s government will sell legal marijuana for $1 per gram, according to the country’s drug czar, though Julio Calzada has given higher estimates in the past. A law already approved by Uruguay’s lower house of Congress and expected to pass in the Senate would make it the South American nation the first in the world to tax and regulate the legal production, distribution and sale of cannabis, reports The Associated Press. Calzada said marijuana sales should start in the second half of 2014 at the price of $1 per gram, reported the El Pais newspaper on October 20. Making money isn’t the idea, according to Calzada, but rather the government wants to take the market away from illegal dealers. He had estimated in August that governmentsold cannabis would cost about $2.50 per gram. Unfortunately, Uruguay says it won’t allow cannabis tourism; sales are restricted to locals only.

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rehashed

Photos by Daniel Berman

BORO DERBY Oct. 4- 5, 2013 | 7 Point Studios Seattle

J-Red, left, above, catches his car as he

wins the final race of the weekend with his piece, the Rock-em Sock-em Robot, as his challenger, Robinhood, follows close with a derby car that looked like an old-fashioned propeller boat.

18/nov. 2013 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

glass artists made unique creations, then raced them - for three charities Fred Hutchinson Research Center for Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cancer Agape Home for Women and Children, Bellingham Holy Family Pediatrics ER Fund, Spokane

‘3‘ Cars on film

A photo finish in an earlier race

Epic designs

Work by Brando, Doc & MJ entered.

2 1

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cover story

By Steve Elliott | Northwest Leaf Contributor

patients in State Plans To Force Medical Marijuana Patients TO USE RECREATIONAL MARIJUANA STORES IN A MOVE THAT KILLS HOME GROW & SAFE ACCESS POINTS.

the CRosshairs T

he Washington State Liquor Control Board proposed new rules that would effectively outlaw medical marijuana dispensaries next year and home growing by patients when recreational marijuana stores start opening as I-502 is implemented in the state, in an announcement of their recommendations Oct. 20. The work group, which also included representatives of the Department of Health and the Department of Revenue, was formed after state lawmakers (and law enforcement) “raised concerns” that licensed marijuana stores wouldn’t be able to compete with medical marijuana dispensaries. Patients are currently allowed 15 plants of any size and 24 ounces of dried marijuana under Washington’s medical marijuana law. The new rules would force patients — many of whom are quite ill and on limited incomes — to stop growing at home or in collectives, and to buy the heavily taxed marijuana which will theoretically be available in state-licensed stores next summer.

Thick Irony “There will be a safe and consistent supply of tested, you know, labeled marijuana available for people,” claimed Mikhail Carpenter, spokesman for the Liquor Control Board in an interview with Q13 Fox. Carpenter didn’t mention the fact that under I-502 rules, statelicensed recreational marijuana stores will not be allowed to mention the medicinal uses of Cannabis at all. If enacted, these recommendations will help provide patients with an adequate, safe and secure source of medical marijuana,” Carpenter claimed in an ironic Monday afternoon press release.

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“Among the recommendations are developing a registry for patients and their designated providers, reducing the amount of marijuana qualified patients or designated providers may possess at one time and requiring patients to receive an in-person exam by a qualified health care provider before medical marijuana can be authorized,” Carpenter said. Safe access to medical marijuana for patients would be drastically reduced if the proposed rules are implemented. Seattle now has about 200 medical Cannabis dispensaries, but has been allotted just 21 recreational marijuana stores.

We Were Lied To The move is in direct contradiction of promises repeatedly made by I-502 proponents, including chief author Alison Holcomb of the American Civil Liberties Union of Washington, that the recreational Cannabis legalization initiative would not negatively impact the patient community. It wouldn’t have been quite so bad if the intentions behind I-502 had been honestly presented, from the beginning. But it appears more and more obvious that it was a greedy, arrogant scam from the get go. The fact that it was solemnly presented as “not affecting patients at all” is particularly galling. “I was stupid enough to believe Holcomb and company,” medical marijuana patient Ryan Blackhawke told Toke Signals on Monday. “This is the first time I have ever been ashamed of the way I voted. We need real legalization that protects the rights of EVERYONE, not just recreational users and not just medical users.”

Yeah, this is where they plan to send seriously ill patients, many of them brand new to the world of Cannabis, to get their medicine — to a place where the employees know nothing about medical marijuana, and even if they did, they are forbidden to talk about it. You Must Buy Your Medical Marijuana At A Store Where They Are Forbidden To Mention Medical Marijuana

“I do research on every issue and candidate before I vote,” Blackhawke said. “This vote was not done in a vacuum. I feel totally betrayed. She lied her lying face off to me. “Lies, lies, lies,” commented Tacoma activist Doc O’Zee. “Then, tagged as an ‘unregulated bunch of fakers’ by those who lied. A whole helluva bunch of us read and duly noted every last bit of fine print — only to be thoroughly shat upon by those working on that fabled legal ounce while slinging some of the most absurd accusations known to man. Because they ‘knew’ we were lying, so they attacked instead of replying to concerns.” “Some of us took a lot of flak for not supporting it, but then again there are/were some of us who could see what nonsense that measure actually brought to our table,” Port Orchard activist Renae Ely said. “We used to pay $180 for permission to grow,” said Seattle activist Jared Allaway, referring to the cost of a medical marijuana authorization. “Now we pay $1,000,” he said. “Nice progress.” (Commercial grow licenses will cost $1,000 under I-502; no home grow is allowed.)

ashington collective operators can only look wistfully over at Colorado, where the first tier of recreational marijuana stores will, by statute, all be owned by existing dispensary operators. Contrast that to Washington, where recreational marijuana stores will be forbidden to even mention the fact Cannabis has medicinal uses. Yeah, this is where they plan to send seriously ill patients, many of them brand new to the world of medical Cannabis, to get their medicine — to a place where the employees know nothing about medical marijuana, and even if they did, they are forbidden to talk about it. (What about new patients who need guidance to find the proper strains?) “Great idea,” guys. It would make a lot more sense to do as Colorado and let people who know about Cannabis as medicine dispense it — not amateurs. After all, should party stores sell Vicodin? It can, after all, be used (or abused) recreationally. Let’s make the analogy more accurate. Once these party stores start selling recreational Vicodin, then maybe we should outlaw pharmacists from dispensing it, and focus on it as a “get high and party” substance, entirely discounting its medicinal uses, and actually forbidding store employees from discussing it as medicine. It will be as if you can only buy Vicodin at Party City, folks, not at the pharmacy anymore. And Party City can ONLY tell you about how FUN it is to take it as a party drug, but are not allowed to tell you about it’s pain-easing properties.

Careful Whom You Trust We’ve been treated, since it became clear that the state was moving to shut down medical marijuana dispensaries due to the passage of I-502, to the spectacle of clueless, braying jackasses like Washington NORML’s Keith Henson and Radical Russ Belville alleging that dispensaries “were never legal to begin with,” despite the fact that both collective gardens and the exchange of cash for Cannabis are both specifically allowed under Washington’s medical Cannabis law. Both Henson and Belville actually lifted that line straight from Alison Holcomb. She started repeating the “dispensaries were never legal” meme a few months ago, once the writing was clearly on the wall, and has flogged it ad nauseum ever since. The Continues unseemly spectacle of reporters like wellp. 24 meaning but hapless Dominic Holden of

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cover story

By Steve Elliott | Northwest Leaf Contributor

Continued from p. 23

i-502’s Alison Holcomb was unrepentant the day of

the liquor board announcements, claiming that taking away collectives & home grows from patients is actually a good thing.

“What Initiative 502 does for patients is offer them something that they haven’t had before, which is quality control over the product that is being sold to them,” she said.

ALISON HOLCOMB AT THE I-502 CAMPAIGN OFFICE, 2012. Photo by Daniel Berman

the Stranger enthusiastically endorsing I-502 last fall, cluelessly repeating the lies told him by the New Approach Washington crowd, was painful enough at the time. (Dude even wrote a purple-passaged soliloquy about how he’d been waiting “all his life” for this.) It has reached the level of acute embarrassment; one can only imagine if it has truly dawned upon Dom just how painful a primrose path he laid out for patients. Now, however, we are entering entirely new territory. Both patient home grows of up to 15 plants, AND patient possession limits of 24 ounces are specifically legal under state law. How will Holcomb, Henson, and Belville squirm out of just admitting that the medical marijuana law is being gutted in this state? Never mind; who cares? It comes down to Holcomb’s callow calculus of ambition, in which her rising political star eclipsed the wellbeing of thousands of seriously ill patients statewide.

Washington State Takes A Black Eye It is, of course, deeply obscene to make it nigh-impossible for seriously ill, financially poor patients to get relief from the only strains that work. Making the scenario even more tragic is that many of the strains which work the best for patients, including high-CBD strains that provide enormous pain and inflammation relief, but don’t get you high, will almost certainly not be available in “recreational” marijuana stores focused on the party market. Doubly unfortunate is the fact that concentrates such as Rick Simpson Oil won’t be sold in state-licensed recreational pot stores. There are patients whose lives depend upon a steady source of RSO. But there is no recreational need for such an intense pain reliever. Good old “compassionate, green Washington” will be taking a huge black eye on a very public stage. Suddenly state officials look

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“And it will be available to them whenever they want it in a licensed store that’s legal under the law. They won’t have to worry about crossing the threshold & getting arrested.” like a bunch of greedy, inhuman shysters, With home growing and collectives being taken away from patients. “I want to know which of these elected officials promised to lock up cancer patients and multiple sclerosis patients in their last campaign, and promised to take away their medicine, and their right to a medical defense in court,” Steve Sarich told Toke Signals on Tuesday. “You can bet that we’ll be mentioning that when they’re up for reelection.” “If you think these current recommendations are bad, please understand that they always leave the worst, most heinous, changes for amendments on the floor of the House and Senate,” Sarich told us. “That way, there’s no public comment. And don’t think that anything remotely positive will end up in the bill. The ‘fix’ is in, and the Governor will sectional-veto anything that the LCB doesn’t want in the bill.” “If they’re counting on creating a division in the community this year that they can exploit, they’re more delusional than ever in Olympia,” Sarich said. How high a body count is the state of Washington willing to accept? How many patients will die before Washington’s “enlightened” image becomes threadbare?

Holcomb Isn’t Sorry

lison Holcomb was unrepentant the day of the liquor board announcements, claiming that taking away collectives and home grows from patients is actually a good thing. “What Initiative 502 does for patients is offer them something that they haven’t had before, which is quality control over the product that is being sold to them,” Holcomb said, neglecting to mention that the ultimate in quality control is growing your own, which is being taken away. “They’re going to know who’s growing it, where it came from,”

If you think the PROPOSED CHANGES to MMJ are bad, please understand that they always leave the worst, most heinous changes for amendments on the floor of the House and Senate. That way, there’s no public comment. And don’t think that anything remotely positive will end up in the bill. The ‘fix’ is in, and the Governor will sectional-veto anything that the LCB doesn’t want in the bill. -Steve Sarich, Cannabis Action Coalition

she said. (The irony here is incredibly thick and obnoxious.) “And it will be available to them whenever they want it in a licensed store that’s legal under the law,” Holcomb said. “They won’t have to worry about crossing the threshold and getting arrested.” Let’s take a moment to appreciate the cruel irony of Alison’s statement. “They won’t have to worry about crossing the threshold and getting arrested.” It’s not immediately obvious how Holcomb believes that reducing the patient possession limit from 24 ounces to 3 ounces means patients “won’t have to worry about crossing the threshold.” And if patients dare to try to grow any for themselves, that “threshold” just changed from 15 plants to zero. How many seriously ill patients, who can’t afford the strains in state stores — or who are unable to get the strains and/or concentrates they need there — will be arrested for growing their own, as they’ve been allowed to do for 15 years now under RCW 69.51a, as amended by the Legislature. Despite those hollow assurances of not harming patients, now it seems that state officials believe that the two marijuana distribution systems — recreational and medical — can’t exist side by side, especially since the I-502 stores will be heavily regulated and taxed. It comes down to a matter of competition, and state officials seem determined to remove any competition from the equation.

Eliminating the Competition Lawmakers are concerned that the medical system — which they have already claimed is mostly fake, anyway — will be a rival that undercuts the recreational marijuana distribution system’s ability to collect those fat tax revenues that have state officials salivating. “What they’re doing is they’re trying to eliminate medical,” said Seattle activist Steve Sarich of the Cannabis Action Coalition. According to Sarich, greed is the reason.

Making the scenario even more tragic is that many of the strains which work the best for patients, including high-CBD strains that provide enormous pain and inflammation relief, but don’t get you high, will almost certainly not be available in “recreational” marijuana stores focused on the party market. “What better way to get rid of the competition; you just make them illegal again,” Sarich said. “We are not going to make 200,000 patients in the state of Washington criminals again. That is not what the voters voted for.” One reason that state lawmakers have been so cavalier about destroying medicinal channels of access to Cannabis has already become quite obvious: Many or most in the Legislature, prominently including former narcotics cop Rep. Christopher Hurst, have already decided (without any, you know, scientific studies or actual numbers to back them up) that most patients are faking it. Hurst even mentioned a figure of “nine out of 10 medical marijuana patients” being liars, a figure which he apparently pulled out of thin air. The Liquor Control Board glommed onto marijuana to replace their lost industry; they made such a mess of dispensing alcohol, voters effectively fired them from doing so anymore. Now they’ve been put in charge of Cannabis. What could go wrong? Most of the politicians in Olympia are too ignorant on the topic to understand what’s happening; few understand how ridiculous this makes the state look, to be fostering recreational drug use, whilst simultaneously outlawing a voter-approved system which has worked for 15 years to provide safe access to seriously ill patients. I can tell you that vindication is way overrated, in this instance. I’ve never been so sad to be proven right.

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cover story

By Wes abney | Northwest Leaf Editor

collateral damage step by step, we’ll analyze the recommended changes to mmj law that would needlessly devastate access and harm the very citizens 502 was supposed to “help.” On Oct. 21, 2013, the LCB and DOH released their recommendations for integrating medical Cannabis into an I-502 system. These recommendations were called for by budget proviso language passed by our state Legislature and address the following issues: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Age limits Authorizing requirements for medical marijuana Regulations regarding health care professionals Collective gardens Possession amounts Location requirements Requirements for MMJ producing, processing and retail licensing Taxation of medical marijuana in relation to recreational marijuana

These issues are at the heart of our medical marijuana law, and should be considered essential liberties of patients in Washington. We will break down each of the eight areas and compare them to our current medical Cannabis law. Please share this with family and friends. Raise your voice to protect your liberty!

1. Age limits for medical Cannabis Under our current law, RCW 69.51a, no age limits exist for patients using medical Cannabis. This is important since many patients in Washington are younger than 21 years of age and will be unable to access recreational Cannabis under I-502.

LCB/DOH recommendation • • •

•

Adults 18 to 20 years old should be allowed access to medical marijuana with proper authorization from a health care professional. Children 17 years old or younger should be allowed access to medical marijuana with parent or guardian consent to the authorization. The parent or guardian should participate in the child’s treatment. Authorizing health care professionals should be required to engage in frequent re-examination and follow-up with a child patient and communication with the parent or guardian. The authorizing health care professional should also be required to consult with other health care providers involved in the child’s treatment before authorization or reauthorization of medical marijuana. Medical marijuana products should be prohibited from being labeled in a manner that mimics candy, soda or other treats attractive to children.

Northwest Leaf analysis Most of the language in this section is agreeable, but unnecessary. Patients

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younger than 18 years of age already require parental permission to get a recommendation. What is troublesome about the wording is the mention of a registry, which will be covered later, and the requirement for frequent re-examination without a disclaimer. Medical Cannabis patients should be seen with equal frequency to patients using similar prescription medicines. A policy that would force more frequent and unnecessary visits would significantly affect families financially and cause an unneeded burden.

2. Authorizing requirements for mmj Current laws do not require a patient registry.

LCB/DOH recommendation • • • •

A mandatory patient and designated provider registry should be established and maintained by the Department of Health. Registry to be used to determine eligibility for exemption from state and local retail sales and use taxes on marijuana purchases by qualified patients. The registry should be available to law enforcement and to the Department of Revenue as necessary to verify tax-exempt purchases under Title 82 RCW. All existing authorizations should expire on a date certain to coincide with full implementation of the registry and retail market. All patients with existing authorizations would need to be re-evaluated by a health care professional pursuant to the revised standards and placed in the registry within a designated timeframe.

Northwest Leaf analysis

Patients are not second-class citizens. They deserve the same treatment as any other American using a prescription medicine. A registry is untenable for medical Cannabis patients for several reasons. Our state only registers sex offenders and kidnappers, and medical Cannabis patients should not be added to that list. In addition to the humiliation of having to register, significant privacy issues exist. In other states, the federal government has illegally accessed patient databases and used the information against individuals. Cases have also occurred in which local law enforcement abused registry information. This registry would allow explicit access by law enforcement, something many patients feel uncomfortable with. Furthermore, this registry does little to benefit patients. It would allow a discount of 6 percent to 10 percent on marijuana purchases by eliminating the sales tax, but it would decrease legal possession from 24 ounces to 3 ounces and give law enforcement access to private information. Simply put, this is not acceptable.

3. Regulating healthcare professionals Currently accepted conditions include “debilitating and intractable pain.” SB 5073 requires one-year recommendations, and does not limit doctors in terms of location or a standard procedure for examination. Current laws also allow a petition to go before a Department of Health board for new conditions.

LCB/DOH recommendation Define “debilitating” and “intractable pain” to clearly indicate the condition must be severe enough to significantly interfere with the patient’s activities of daily living and ability to function, and can be objectively assessed and evaluated.

•

• • • • •

Enact comprehensive requirements defining the standard of care for health care professionals who authorize medical marijuana similar to those required by ESHB 2876 (2010) regarding the use of opioids to manage chronic pain. The requirements should address topics such as adequacy of examination, follow-up care and recording keeping. Restrict a health care professional’s practice to ensure it does not consist primarily of authorizing medical marijuana. Require a permanent physical location for a health care professional’s place of practice. Require in-person examinations for authorizations. Require an expiration of authorizations to ensure a regular cycle of reexamination and follow-up care. Eliminate the provision allowing for petitions to add qualifying conditions.

Northwest Leaf analysis

Several different issues are troublesome here, starting with the restrictions on doctors. A doctor should be able to have a practice that focuses on whatever service she chooses, and having mobile clinics are extremely beneficial to patients in rural areas. Also troublesome is the removal of the ability to petition for adding conditions. Current conditions not recognized in Washington, but which have proven medical uses for Cannabis, include post-traumatic stress disorder, ADD/ADHD, anxiety and depression. Overall, the changes would negatively affect patient access to medical Cannabis health care.

4. Collective gardens Current law allows collective gardens to contain up to 45 plants and a rotating membership. Access points in the state currently operate as collective gardens to provide medicine to an estimated 200,000 patients.

LCB/DOH recommendation • Eliminate collective gardens

Northwest Leaf analysis

This is the most heinous of the proposed changes, and it is tied into the elimination of homegrown Cannabis for patients. Washington voters made it clear in 1998 that patients should be allowed to cultivate their own medicine, which provides economic and therapeutic benefits to patients. Many patients rely on collective gardens, and we must fight to protect our collective rights.

5. Possession amounts Patients can currently possess up to 24 ounces of Cannabis, 15 plants, and have an affirmative defense in court.

LCB/DOH recommendation • • • • • • •

Reduce the amount a qualified patient or designated provider can possess at any given time from 24 ounces of useable marijuana (a 60day supply) to 3 ounces (a one-week supply). Allow additional limits for marijuana-infused products in solid/liquid form. Eliminate home grows and the ability for a qualified patient or designated provider to possess marijuana plants in any stage of growth. Define “plant” to avoid any misconstruction of this provision. Eliminate the ability for designated providers to also be qualified patients and thus possess double the legal limit of medical marijuana. Require labeling to include the levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabinoids in medical marijuana products. Restrict labeling and marketing of medical marijuana products to ensure that they are not intentionally attractive to minors or recreational users. Eliminate the provision in RCW 69.51A.045 that grants qualified patients or designated providers an affirmative defense to criminal charges of possession above the legal amount if they can prove at trial the patient’s necessary medical use exceeds the amount determined in law.

Northwest Leaf analysis

Everything in this section needs to go. This is a proposed butchering of the essential right of patients to grow and possess an adequate amount of

medicine. For patients using/producing their own topicals, tinctures, edibles or concentrates, the current limits are barely enough to make quality medicine. Reducing amounts and the ability to grow would essentially end medical Cannabis, which is clearly the goal of the Liquor Control Board and the Department of Health.

6. Location requirements No current laws address medical Cannabis zoning, though the federal government’s enforcement of a 1,000-foot buffer around areas frequented by minors has caused most locations to self-regulate and avoid prohibited zones.

LCB/DOH recommendation •

Medical marijuana licensed business cannot be within 1,000 feet of the perimeter of the grounds of any of the following entities: Elementary or secondary schools; playgrounds; recreational centers or facilities; child care center; public park; public transit center; library; or any game arcade where admission is not restricted to persons ages 21 and older.

Northwest Leaf analysis

These requirements are the unspoken law of the land in Washington, though heavily populated urban areas such as Seattle make the concept of evenly distributed 502 locations impossible. Ultimately, Cannabis should be treated like alcohol or at the least pharmacies, and face similar zoning rules. It is not acceptable to force patients or recreational users of Cannabis to become burdened by access issues in neighborhoods or cities.

7. Requirements for medical marijuana producing,processing and retail licensing No laws address medical marijuana producing, processing and retail due to the veto of SB 5073 by then-Gov. Christine Gregoire in 2011. SB 5073 would have created a system for medical Cannabis.

LCB/DOH recommendation •

A single system for medical and recreational producer and processor licenses is recommended. Only recreational marijuana stores with an endorsement can accept medical marijuana authorization cards. Make the new regulatory system for medical marijuana effective no sooner than Jan. 1, 2015.

Northwest Leaf analysis This is another unacceptable change. Forcing patients to acquire Cannabis as “medicine” from a recreational production system that includes three levels of a 25 percent business tax will negatively affect patients financially.

8. Taxation of medical marijuana in relation to recreational marijuana No laws require taxation of medical Cannabis, though the Department of Revenue has requested that collectives submit retail sales tax.

LCB/DOH recommendation •

Utilize the same tax structure as recreational marijuana, but provide an exemption from state and local retail sales and use taxes on purchases by medical marijuana patients registered with the Department of Health.

Northwest Leaf analysis

This is the carrot dangling for the registry, and it just shows how out of touch the state is. The sales tax exemption does not make up for a loss of all rights, and the recreational Cannabis will still be subject to the various excise taxes.

Tell ‘em: You don’t support proposed changes to our safe, effective MMJ law in Washington. Email: Medicalmarijuana@liq.wa.gov

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cover story

Misled by The Feds

Thee incompetency of state & federal offi Th officials cials in 2011 left Washingtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s medical marijuana industry without the regulation it needed. By TYLER J. MARKWART | Northwest Leaf Contributor

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n April 29th, 2011 Governor Christine Gregoire section-vetoed certain parts of Senate Bill 5073 after receiving legal advice from the Washington state Attorney Generals Jenny Durkan and Michael Ormsby.

schools, colleges, Playgrounds, and public housing facilities, and within 100 feet of any youth centers, public swimming pools, and video arcade facilities);

SB5073 would have created a more heavily regulated market for medical marijuana patients, along with other controversial ideas like a patient registry and state-licensed store fronts. Recently U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder issued an eight-point plan for states implementing medical and recreational Cannabis programs, which specifically mentions enforcement against unregulated markets. The Attorney General’s plan could destroy the Washington state medical marijuana market when I-502 is implemented and possibly even if I-502 is not implemented. But what the Feds have yet to recognize is that there is a legally regulated medical Cannabis market in Washington state operating under what is left of SB5073. Prior to the line item veto, Gov. Gregoire had requested legal guidance from the Federal Government via Durkan and Ormsby. A response to Gov. Gregoire’s request was issued on April 14th in the form of a letter signed by both attorney generals. In this letter, the pair gave legal advice explaining how the U.S. Government is still endowed with enforcing the Controlled Substance Act. The letter stated that the Feds reserved the right to enforce the CSA on any state employee who is involved in any business the CSA would deem illegal. They have also reserved that right in the eight-point plan AG Eric Holder presented to manage I-502’s implementation on a federal level.

-21 U.S.C § 846 (making it illegal to conspire to commit any of the crimes set forth in the CSA). The one thing that the AG’s ignored in their input to Gov. Gregoire was that state workers are immune to prosecution under: 21 U.S.C 885(d) Immunity of Federal, State, local and other officials • Except as provided in section 2233 and 2235 of title 18, no civil or criminal liability shall be imposed by virtue of this sub chapter upon any duly authorized Federal officer lawfully engaged in the enforcement of this sub chapter, or upon any duly authorized officer of any State, territory, political subdivision thereof, the District of Columbia, or any possession of the United States, who shall be lawfully engaged in the enforcement of any law or municipal ordinance relating to controlled substances.

The main points that Jenny Durkan & Michael Ormsby highlight in their letter of advice to Gregoire are from the Controlled Substance Act sections: -21 U.S.C § 841 (making illegal to manufacture, distribute, or possess with intent to distribute any controlled substance including marijuana); -21 U.S.C § 856 (making it unlawful to knowingly open, lease, rent, maintain, or use property for the manufacturing , storing or distributing of controlled substances); -21 U.S.C § 860 (making it unlawful to distribute or manufacture controlled substances within 1,000 feet of

-21 U.S.C. § 843 (making it unlawful to use any communication facility to commit felony violations of the CSA); and

When the federal Attorney Generals of Washington State gave legal advice to Gov. Gregoire on SB5073 they knowingly provided the Governor with incorrect information. In short, they lied to Gregoire, and negatively impacted the rights of every medical Cannabis patient in Washington. The Governor then took this information and section vetoed the appropriate areas that the Feds felt dismissed their powers to raid patients and collectives. The sections that were vetoed would have created more regulations for patients, some beneficial, some perhaps more controversial with patients such as the state patient registry.

12 days after receiving

the Washington state Attorney General’s letter, Gov. Gregoire received another letter from the Washington Association of Sheriff ’s & Police Chiefs on April 26th, 2011 stating their position on SB5073 and how they would also like to see it vetoed: “We oppose any legislation that would move Washington State from a strictly medicinal model to the creation of a commercial model, as E2SSB 5073 does. Our position on this difficult issue has remained unchanged since the inception of the bill last year.” The letter ends with:

“We also share in the concerns that E2SSB 5073’s establishment of a forprofit licensed and regulated dispensary system would be in violation of federal law and potentially place state employees at risk, particularly given recent correspondence with the federal government. That system is not necessary to ensure adequate, safe and humane access to marijuana for medicinal purposes by legitimate patients.” Governor Gregoire never sent a request for guidance from the WASPC, showing that they acted on their own in lobbying the Governor for their own budget gains from the vetoing of certain requested sections of SB5073. WASPC also publicly opposed the passage of I-502 when paid signature gatherers were securing the proper number of required signatures for the ballot vote.

his is a call to all medical Cannabis patients and those who support safe medical Cannabis access! The corruption and closed door decisions regarding patient access need to be brought into the light! Please come together and continue to politely and publicly, contact and educate your local Congressperson about the importance of medical Cannabis in your life and others, and how keeping safe access for patients keeps the community safe and healthier. If they don’t know about how you feel on these topics they can not speak for you when it is time to legislate. It is also important to remind them that the scheduling of Cannabis as a Schedule I substance is not scientifically valid and should be removed in order to properly regulate medical and recreational Cannabis in the state of Washington. The time has come to stand up for your rights as a patient, because our own representatives are doing nothing to represent the will of the people. Let’s change that and help protect medical Cannabis!

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PROFILE

Interview by Wes Abney | Photo by Daniel Berman

What Washington Can Learn from California Calvin Frye,45 : activist Medical Cannabis Pioneer & Documentary Producer

Calvin operates Cloneville Seattle and his flagship collective Compassionate Caregivers Studio City in Los Angeles. Last month he spoke by phone with Editor Wes Abney about the changing politics of medical marijuana in California and how Washington’s patients have to really unite together.

Northwest Leaf: How did you first become aware of Cannabis as medicine? Back in early 2005, I had a neighbor and friend who was diagnosed with cancer and his doctor recommended using MMJ. Believe me, back then MMJ was still a new term, a new idea. He found one of the few clinics, got access to medicine and it helped save his life.

Did that make you want to get involved helping other patients?

After he got well, I decided to open an [ac-

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cess point], though I didn’t believe that they could actually exist at the time. Sept. 1, 2005, I opened Compassionate Caregivers Studio City.

What was the environment like for medical marijuana in those early days? We were one of the first places to open up, and it was a hostile environment. It was an experiment, and we were under the Bush Administration. The other access points weren’t really united at that time either, but from that avenue more and more started opening up.

How has the situation changed in California? It has gone through many changes. Two sets of presidents, two administrations — the initial opening was hard. There were constant raids, and it was really the wild West. We coined the green cross that you see around the country now, and many of the terms like “dispensary” and “co-op.” The legal terms were so vague, but we knew that we were dispensing medicine.

You attribute a lot of positive change to your work on the 2007 documentary “Super High Me,” which starred Doug Benson and was pretty controversial at the time of its release. What was working on a feature documentary like? It was pretty cool, but scary at the same time. All my attorneys advised against it, but I worked under the pretense of being serious. Doug was the funny man, so I came across as serious. I didn’t want people to think MMJ was a joke, and I believe that’s why I am successful to this day. When I went to premier the movie with Doug and the producers at the University of Southern California, we did a Q&A section after the showing, and 75 to 80 percent of the questions were for me. People wanted info. They wanted to know about the fight for medical, and they didn’t realize what was happening. That helped me branch off, to become popular within the movement.

What problems have you seen in Los Angeles? Initially, the powers that be thought that MMJ was a fad, and that a few raids and letters would put this to a halt. It took eight or nine years for the state just to get a dispensary from passing the law in 1996. Once the raids stopped, the Board of Equalization came in for taxes, but there were no rules or regulations, and hundreds of places opened up. After the movie came out, and the city didn’t pass a moratorium, it was on. I remember Benson had a clicker for the number of dispensaries month to month, and at one point over 100 were opening in a single month. At the peak, LA had over 1,800 dispensaries.

What happened to change that situation? The city enacted a moratorium in 2007, and chose to recognize the 187 dispensaries in the city that had registered their business and filed the proper paperwork. My shop was one of the 187, all of which became the center of controversy. After the cutoff for the moratorium, the city was supposed to enact an ordinance, but instead they allowed many of the dispensaries to open

‘‘

There is a unique situation here now that 502 has passed. The people who put 502 together were greedy and had no information. The law is poorly written. It was passed only for revenue potential, and now MMJ is being viewed as a threat to that revenue. Patients have to realize that the state is only after the money.

back up. It was a trial by fire, and back to 1,500 locations.

So the city wasn’t doing its job in stepping in and regulating this incredible expanding industry? Because the city did not do a good job, it opened the window through failed ordinances and lawsuits. Proposition D was put on the ballot, which would explicitly regulate the 187 locations, and create the possibility for others. It passed, and currently the city is shutting down many of the other locations that aren’t covered. Personally, I don’t think 187 is enough to serve the entire patient base of the city, but it is a start. [Editor’s Note: There’s about 3.9 million people in L.A.]

Where is washington state heading, in your view? I predict that if Washington doesn’t get their stuff together, they will start using the same tactics they used in CA. First they threaten landlords with letters, then they use zoning, and finally there are usually local and possible federal raids. There has to be action by the people to stop action by law enforcement.

What advice do you have for the state? Because I have lived through that nightmare and still deal with it daily, I would just advise the patients and businesses to unite. There is a unique situation here now that 502 has passed. The people who put 502 together were greedy and had no information. The law is poorly written. It was passed only for revenue potential, and now MMJ is being viewed as a threat to that revenue. The patients have to realize that the state is only after the money. Washington has to come together, volunteer a proposition or bill, and get the government on our side. There also has to be a potential concession, like a use-tax on businesses or a regulatory system for MMJ . I would rather see MMJ still exist with a reasonable business tax than disappear.

Do you believe that MMJ and 502 can coexist? [502] was written to get rid of medical, and bring it all into retail to make the state money. At the end of the day, greed by the state will push all marijuana use underground, both medical and recreational. This isn’t being talked about in the media. We need patients to organize and bring this into the light. Once it is out in the light, the general public will start making noise, and I am going to help make sure of that.

Parting thoughts for the many patients of Washington? We don’t have to let it blow up. We need to present these facts ... someone has to realize that 502 isn’t going to work and that patients are in a fight for their medicine.

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PROFILE

DAVID THESENVITZ

HIS UNIQUE STYLE OF PAINTINGS are inspired by CANNABIS CULTURE, LOCAL TEAMS, THE SPACE NEEDLE and a bit of THE ANIMAL KINGDOM.

Story by Wes Abney | Photos by Daniel Berman

ather, artist and industry representative David Thesenvitz, 28, has chosen to follow his passions into a world of canvas, colors and dabs. Thesenvitz, aka Deemon, began working in the industry several years ago as a budtender at Seattle Cross. Today, he is selfemployed and thriving, sitting on the periphery of an industry that is developing a new culture. But his passions with Cannabis and art began long before, and the desire to create has been his calling. “I remember sitting in class at Washington State University and being unable to control the doodling,” he said, illustrating his whimsical confidence in his path. “By the end of class, I would have a full page drawing, usually about Seattle or about Cannabis.” Deemon’s connection with the city’s culture, and the plant that has come to identify it, is a continuous presence in his art. “I am a true Seattleite, born in Top Hat, growing up on the Mariners and the Hawks, the Sonics when we had them. I have taken Seattle sports everywhere, down to my tattoos,” he explained. “I love having Space Needles hidden in my art. This is a new Seattle culture blending with Cannabis culture and we are at the forefront of it.”

As a patient for four years, Deemon uses the medicine to combat intestinal problems that leave him with nausea and daily pain. “When I realized I can use Cannabis to help five different conditions instead of taking lots of pharmaceutical pills, it opened my eyes,” he said. “It’s not about the social stigma of pot -you have to be happy for yourself. If I am not medicated, my nausea shows up daily.” In a search for better health, Deemon discovered Cannabis concentrates, though initially they were too heavy a dose. As he adjusted to the more potent form of medicine, he said he found new strength and less dependence on smoking constantly. A large dose of concentrates relieves his symptoms for up to four hours, and lets him focus on art without pain or the hassle of constantly smoking, he said. “My process starts with a blank canvas and lots of bright colors, and the addition of good medicine. I love it. Being able to inspire and share art makes everyone’s day better.” In addition to the freedom of being an artist, Deemon is also supporting his growing family with the art. He had left the industry for a time,

but didn’t know where his aspirations would fit in. His is a perfect example of the ancillary job opportunities coming to the Cannabis world, where a good idea and hard work can transform anybody’s life. “When you leave the industry after three years, you miss the patients a lot,” Deemon said. “And being home with my son watching recreational Cannabis news makes me miss it even more, because it is in the news for the wrong reasons. If you know me, and you know my art, it is for the medicinal stance of the plant. This was a movement before it went mainstream, and art has been an outlet.” In a city known for the creation of grunge music and renegade artists, Deemon has worked into a new niche: Cannabis art. “It’s one of the biggest achievements of my life. People say you can’t make a living making art, even though it isn’t about the money. It’s about people enjoying and feeling your art, and growing one blank canvas at a time.”

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PROFILE

ARTIST David Thesenvitz // Continued from p. 39

‘‘

My process starts with a blank canvas and lots of bright colors, and the addition of good medicine. I love it. Being able to inspire and share art makes everyone’s day better.

For more information or TO PURCHASE HIS ART Instagram: @DeemonPicasso Facebook: Deemon, Artist Email: de3mon@gmail.com

NORTHWEST LEAF

STRAIN OF THE MONTH BY WES ABNEY | PHOTO BY DANIEL BERMAN

THIS INDICA-DOMINANT

strain has both a beautiful bud structure and a heavenly spicy floral bouquet that melds well with hints of citrus and sandalwood. THE LEAVES are absolutely covered in frosty trichomes, and the moderately dense nugs snap perfectly with a perfectly cured presentation. Just loading a bowl of this flower is pleasurable, with sticky tendrils of THC covering the fingers and the edges of the bowl. WHEN COMBUSTED the smoke is easy on the throat and lungs, with a piney smoke that tickles the nose with spices unidentified. There is very little aftertaste, and the clean finish will leave you wanting to take another toke. After two or three hits, a relaxing Indica high hits the body, with an even-centered peacefulness chasing pain away. KATO KUSH is a perfect example of how THC interacts with terpenes to produce a heavy medicating effect without overwhelming levels of THC. In studies on rats inhaling levels of Linalool, the most present terpene in this strain, the rats experienced decreased levels of stress chemicals. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not calling you rats, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth a call for a delivery of some stress-free medicine.

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44/nov. 2013 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

The smoke is easy on the throat and lungs, with a piney smoke that tickles the nose with spices unidentified.

Terpene Profile 2.49% 0.17% 0.68% 0.17% 0.66% 0.62% 4.79%

Linalool Myrcene alpha-Pinene Humulene Caryophyllene Caryophyllene oxide TERPENE-TOTAL

12.52% THC-total • 0.19% CBD-TOTAL • 0.37% CBG-TOTAL

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PROFILE

Story by Wes Abney | Photos by Daniel Berman

The Delivery Man Going behind the scenes of Integrity Care Delivery as they bring medicine to peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s doors

48/nov. 2013 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

In our modern world of convenience, many people in the U.S. have come to expect that any product can be delivered straight to their doorstep.

ut for some reason, the delivery of medical Cannabis has been overlooked by a booming industry. It is prohibited under I-502, but those who use delivery services are often the most vulnerable of patients – limited in mobility, without access to transportation or just unable to make the trip to a brick and mortar collective. Those patients deserve their medicine just as much as anyone else, and they deserve representation in an industry that depends equally on them. For Joe N., a 27-year-old patient of four years, delivering medicine to patients is both a passion and a living. “I consider medical Cannabis a lifeline,” he said. “It is really a necessary part of my life. One of the biggest reasons I started this was seeing people become patients who needed access to medicine, and I knew that I had access to medicine that was just as good as any dispensary. And I know that I am more knowledgeable than 75 percent of the budtenders out there.” Joe’s delivery service is called Integrity Care Delivery, which serves an area from Renton to Snohomish County, with a Joe N. waits for concentration of deliveries in his patient to North Seattle. His minimum answer the door order is $100 for most stops and $50 within the Shoreline at a night stop to Lynnwood-Kenmore area. in Lake City late last month. He and another driver make between four to 10 stops on an average day, providing the selection of a quality dispensary on a mobile platform. “My first medical delivery was two years ago, a call from WeedMaps to a patient in Everett. I don’t remember much about the visit, but it went smoothly. “I’ve done a lot of research and work to take care of the patients. It comes fairly easy to me.” Joe’s delivery model has two options for patients. For a new patient or someone unfamiliar with the medicine, he will bring a kit with seven to eight strains, concentrates and vaporizing options to display for the patient. Those familiar with the service and selection also have the option to preorder, ensuring a quick delivery and easy service. “I’ve found that I can spend up to 30 minutes

From his kitchen overlooking Puget Sound, Brian Green, served by Integrity for about a year, pays Joe for the medicine he ordered. “They’re like a family friend,” he said.

with new patients without throwing off a delivery schedule. The time flies,” he said laughing. “But there are also the visits that literally take a minute. It all depends on the situation.” Often, the questions can lead into interesting directions. “A lot of times a basic question about meds or growing will turn into ‘Can I show you my grow and ask a question?’ ” This type of service is impossible with a normal dispensary relationship, and highlights the intimacy of the delivery model. “I see a couple grows a week, and help people as much as possible. I don’t think advice should be something to charge for. I want to see patients growing good medicine for themselves, and when I can, I donate for their meds to share with my other patients.” While some deliveries are easy, the experience of going to a stranger’s home can be stressful for both parties. Joe has done his best to mitigate the risk by taking precautions. “Prescreening is the biggest weapon that will work to the advantage of a delivery service,” he said. “There are sketchy people out there, and I have had calls where I knew for a fact that if I went on the stop I’d be robbed,” he said with a nervous laugh.

There are sketchy people out there, and I have had calls where I knew for a fact that if I went on the stop I’d be robbed,” he said with a nervous laugh.

Continues p. 50

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PROFILE

Integrity Care Delivery | Continued from p. 49

The Delivery Man

Inspecting his crop of Girl Scout Cookies “So we have people send their recommendation ing someone come to your house, but it’s the people present ankle and feet pain. and ID, and I listen to the voice, the background who run it. They’re like family friends.” “It was like I could feel the pain throbbing, noise and ask them a series of questions. We also Joe said he has become friends with many of the but it went away within a couple of hours, I don’t allow more than an ounce on a first delivery.” patients over the time he has served them. could still feel it but it wasn’t bad,” she said. Just like a pizza delivery person, Joe has encounLike Joni Petersen, a 57-year-old from Lyn“I’ve never had it so good. I couldn’t imagine tered a few memorable, uncontrollable moments. nwood who has been one of his regulars for a year, doing it the old way.” She ordered two grams “We’ve had people popping out of the shower, but has smoked for 40 years. She said she depends each of an indica and a sativa strain; Joe marks not realizing we were there. You never know what on access to Cheeba Chews for relief from her everthe bags daytime and nighttime for her and you are going to see,” he offered. they hug before he departs for anI see a couple grows a week, and help people as much as possible. For Brian Green, a patient in Edother stop. monds, the care and personal service I don’t think advice should be something to charge for. I want to see Of course, all patients want to is what keeps him calling each week. source good medicine, and Joe depatients growing good medicine for themselves, and when I can, “Not only is it the convenience of havlivers. His collective garden provides I donate for their meds to share with my other patients.

50 nov. 2013 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

Clockwise from top-left: Scott and Mandy Purdy (and dog, Mason) go over their options in Kenmore // Driving to a stop in Lynnwood // Smoking on the

last stop of the day with Lake City patient Alex Lofthus, 24 // Weighing “nighttime” & “daytime” bags for Joni Petersen, 57, a patient with major lower body pain.

some of the medicine delivered, and he sources other quality products from local vendors. The Jack Herer and Skywalker OG are both impressive flower options, as is the delicious Super Lemon Haze. A Purple Lavender offered up elevated energy and a clear positive vibe along side a wonderful fruity taste and smell. Integrity also delivers a variety of concentrates with the O-Pen and Dama Oil cartridges. Its oldest patient, a 92-year-old veteran, uses the pens to va-

porize and reportedly loves it. By showing compassion and reliability in deliveries, Integrity is working to change how deliveries are viewed. “There’s a stigma attached to deliveries, but that is changing. I would tell patients to give delivery a chance,” he said. “I realize that there have been bad experiences for some, but I want to tell patients that there are good people running these services,” he said, clearly passionate. “And who knows? You might just find some really good medicine.”

INTEGRITY CARE DELIVERY Integritycare206@gmail.com 206-499-5291

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‘ Meet Nismo & Tank

PROFILE

Questions for the veteran Pho king tran

on how Cannabis helps but is only part of health BY TYLER J. MARKWART FOR NORTHWEST LEAF PHOTO BY DANIEL BERMAN

Pho’s pitbull pups come to all his Cannabis events

#1 Tell us a bit about the work you’re up to My main project that I am working on currently is the Veterans Concentrate Group, or VCG. It is a company composed of two U.S. military veterans focusing on producing quality concentrates for patients. Matt Maximum is the co-founder and the main concentrate producer for the company. I am the co-founder, hash maker and a Cannabis socialite.

#2 Where is your patient network based? I have been working toward building our patient network in the Tacoma-Seattle area. We have made it our goal to produce and provide the highest quality tested medicine to our patient network and the surrounding areas. Originally we were vending at the Tacoma Farmers Market before its forced relocation, but since then we have been focused on refining our extraction process and our abilities to provide the highest quality product possible to our patients.

#3 Where can patients go to find VCG Products?

‘‘

The Cannabis community around here is full of love and support. Patrick, the owner of Rainier Xpress, has taken helping veterans to a whole new level — from offering discounts on meds to even buying meals and authorizations for vetS who can’t afford it. iT’S things like this that help US feel like there’s hope and people out there who care.

We are currently vending our products through a Greener Today, Rainer Xpress, MMJ Universe and Eastside Green Light. We are always looking to expand our patient base and look forward to working with new access points throughout Washington state.

#4 You also rep Happy Daddy Dab Tools. what kinds of products are offered and why do you think they are worth it? Happy Daddy’s tools are hand-forged, polished and packaged here in the Northwest so patients are supporting local business when they purchase or donate for a Happy Daddy tool. These aren’t cheap metal tools from China, and they come in a variety of sizes, styles and quality metals. Patients can find Happy Daddy products at their local head shop, MMJ access points or at many MMJ events around the Pacific Northwest.

#5 How has the MMJ industry supported vets returning home from their duties? Before becoming a Happy Daddy rep, I was in the U.S. Army. Due to an injury sustained overseas, I was forced to return home early as a medical evacuation in 2009. Personally, the MMJ community has been more than supportive of local veterans and of veterans. I have always experienced a great amount of gratitude when dealing with not only veteran supporters, but veterans themselves. Us at VCG have made it our goal to go the extra step for our patients and even farther for veterans in need. As veterans, Matt and I have come to understand the many benefits of medical Cannabis and what it has to offer. We have devoted ourselves to spreading the knowledge and awareness of its uses to not only veterans, but everyone.

#6. How does using Cannabis benefit troops returning from duty? Medical Cannabis helps troops not only with PTSD, but also a plethora of other disorders and diseases. In my experience, a soldier’s PTSD can be set off

ON A PERSONAL NOTE Access to medical Cannabis is crucial and important to the residents of the Pacific Northwest and many of them are Armed Forces Veterans. Prominent members of the medical marijuana community are veterans who depend on this medication to help with everyday issues. MMJ makes it possible for me to live and work throughout my day. After returning home from Iraq in December 2009 I was diagnosed with PTSD that triggered horrible stress, anxiety, and random panic attacks. I was afraid of leaving the house and being around people. MMJ, the Washington MMJ community and its abundances of Veterans have made it possible for me to deal with everyday reality. Without MMJ and its community I as well would have nowhere and no one to turn to, but now with our amazing MMJ community I was able to aid in the founding of the Veterans Concentrate Group and reach out to help more of the people who helped me.

-Pho King Tran

by average day-to-day activities such as large, loud crowds, stressful environments or even unexpected social situations. It is important for us and other patients to understand how to recognize and help people who are going through a PTSD episode through medication and open, calm communication.

#7 With so many OF OUR veterans struggling with SECURING housing, food and medication, has the community done enough to help? The Cannabis community around here is full of love and support. Patrick, the owner of Rainier Xpress [in Olympia], has taken helping veterans to a whole new level -- from offering discounts on meds to even buying meals and authorizations for veterans who can’t afford it. It is things like this that help veterans feel like there’s hope and people out there who care. I believe that if we all become more aware of veterans and involved in the Wounded Warrior Program it will help us understand their need for help in this community. Then we will be able to come to their aid and rescue.

#8 iS THERE ANYTHING That thOSE IN THE Cannabis community CAN do to better support service members WHO MAY BE STRUGGLING with PTSD and other injuries? We can all begin by understanding. I feel that often times PTSD has been misused as a label and, more often than not, an excuse. PTSD in every case is different and though medical Cannabis helps, it isn’t a solution. I believe that the community needs to reach out more and recognize those who are in need.

nov. 2013 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

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Reviews

By wes abney Photos by Daniel Berman

This jam may contain organic berries and have an attractive jar, but doesn’t have very much medicine.

Captain Cosmics Apple Jack Bar, $10.00 195.07mg thc-TOTAL • 4.70mg cbg-TOTAL 0.68mg CBD-TOTAL • 207.77mg ACTIVATED-TOTAL

In a world of the high dose medible Captain

Cosmics might as well be the king. They produce consistently dosed great tasting medibles, and all at a price point that is extremely fair per milligram of THC. What is really unique about this particular medible is the high levels of Terpenes, and the nearly 5mg of CBG. This medible is effective for not only pain, but for depression and other seasonal issues that can put even the most caffeinated Seattleite in a blue-mood funk. The only thing that could be improved on this edible is a dosage disclaimer along with the test results that each package has. While this little cereal bar looks as non-threatening as could be, it has an extremely potent dose. Start small if you try this, and beware! You can’t un-eat it. THE SCORE

Va l ue: Ta st e : E f f ec t: Packaging: Ov e r a l l :

Grammy Jammers Blackberry Jam, $20.00 0.80mg THC-TOTAL • 0.30mg CBG-TOTAL 0.34mg ACTIVATED-TOTAL *PER TABLESPOON SERVING

The test results say it all in this medible.

A $20 price point for this amount of medicine is really not acceptable, and represents a disservice to patients. This is our second time testing Grammy’s jams, and we have also tested the soup line the brand distributes. It appears that there is very little to no medicine in any of their products, and until production is changed and tested these medibles should be avoided by patients and access points alike. THE SCORE

Terpene Profile 1.80mg myrcene 6.63mg alpha-pinene 22.04mg terpene-total

1/4

58/nov. 2013 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

Va l ue : Ta s t e : E f f e ct: Packaging: Ov e r a l l : TESTING BY ANALYTICAL 360

TASTY

Elevation Bars will need to work on their label, a higher amount of activated THC, stronger, longer lasting effects & fixing their pixelated front label!

Reviews

By wes abney Photos by Daniel Berman

Better Budder Bon Bons, $5.00 25.83mg THC-TOTAL • 1.76mg CBG-TOTAL 26.67mg ACTIVATED-TOTAL

Elevation Bar Milk Chocolate, $10.00 46.26mg THC-TOTAL • 0.08mg CBD-TOTAL 1.72mg CBG-TOTAL • 47.46mg ACTIVATED-TOTAL

Overall, the Elevation Bars are a middle of the

road option for patients looking for medibles. The taste of the chocolate is consistent and high quality, though at an average of 45mg THC in each bar the $10 price point makes this an expensive treat. The packaging is decent, with a full ingredients list, but no nutritional information available. The package also claims 60 mg of activated THC, though our testing found it to have less than the packaging claimed. Elevation Bars will need to work on their label, a higher amount of activated THC, stronger, longer lasting effects, and to fix their pixelated front label! THE SCORE

Va l ue : Ta st e : Ef f ec t: Packaging: Ov e r a l l :

60/nov. 2013 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

The best part of the Better Budder Bon Bons

is the taste. A light flaky layer of chocolate-covered wafer protects the inside of this delectable treat, which is filled with a sinfully sweet filling. Although nobody likes counting calories with medibles, this 130-calorie treat comes fully labeled with ingredients and nutritional information. The new and updated packaging is great, and only missing a dosage level. It comes with all the right warnings for food allergies and for RCW 69.51a, and this inspires confidence in eating the medible. At the five-dollar price point this is one of the most professionally packaged and presented medibles on the market, and has an even dose of medication at 26.67mg activated total Cannabinoids. The only thing this medible is lacking is a dosage amount/THC information on the packaging. At the current milligrams it is in the right range for a single dose edible, it simply needs the information. THE SCORE

Terpene Profile 1.72mg Caryophyllene 1.72mg TERPENE-TOTAL

Va l ue : Ta s t e : E f f e ct: Packaging: Ov e r a l l :

Terpene Profile 2.45mg ALPHA-PINENE 1.16MG CARYOPHYLLENE 1.15mg myrcene

TESTING BY ANALYTICAL 360

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TASTY

COMPILED BY NORTHWEST LEAF

Recipes

Medicated Stuff ings >> Discover your new fall favorite

Bacon & Sausage Stuffing 6 ounces sliced bacon 1 pound ground pork sausage 1 1/2 pounds sweet onions, peeled and chopped 2 green bell peppers, chopped 2 red bell peppers, chopped 1 cup fresh mushrooms, sliced 1/2 cup medicated butter 1 TBSP ground black pepper 2 TBSP celery salt 1 TBSP seasoning salt 2 1/2 TBSP poultry seasoning 1 TBSP dried basil 2 TBSP garlic powder 4 cups water 3 (1 pound) loaves white bread, torn into pieces 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). 2. Place bacon in large, deep skillet. Cook over medium high heat until evenly brown. Drain, crumble and set aside. 3. Place sausage in large Dutch oven. Cook over medium high heat, stirring to crumble, until evenly brown. Drain. 4. Add bacon to sausage with onions, green bell peppers, red bell peppers, mushrooms, butter, pepper, celery salt, seasoning salt, poultry seasoning, basil, garlic powder and water. Bring to boil; stir 10-20 minutes, until vegetables are soft. 5. place the bread into mixture gradually, blending until all pieces are coated. Transfer to large baking dish or two medium baking dishes. 6.Bake in preheated oven 40 to 60 minutes, or until top begins to brown.

64/nov. 2013 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

Southern Style Cornbread Stuffing

Slow Cooker Stuffing

Apple Pecan Cornbread Dressing

1 cup medicated butter 2 cups chopped onion 2 cups chopped celery 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley 12 ounces sliced mushrooms 12 cups dry bread cubes 1 tsp poultry seasoning 1 1/2 tsp dried sage 1 tsp dried thyme 1/2 tsp dried marjoram 1 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp ground black pepper 4 1/2 cups chicken broth, or as needed 2 eggs, beaten

1 (9x9 inch) pan cornbread, cooled and crumbled 1 (8 ounce) package herb-seasoned dry bread stuffing mix 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup medicated butter 1 cup chopped celery 1 cup chopped onion 2 cups chopped apples 1/2 cup chopped pecans 2 cups apple juice 3 eggs, beaten

1. Melt butter in skillet over medium heat. Cook onion, celery, mushroom, and parsley in butter, stirring frequently.

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and butter a 3 quart casserole dish.

2. Spoon cooked vegetables over bread cubes in large mixing bowl. Season with poultry seasoning, sage, thyme, marjoram, and salt and pepper. Pour in broth to moisten, mix in eggs. Transfer to slow cooker and cover. 3. Cook on High for 45 minutes, then reduce heat to Low, and cook for 4 to 8 hours.

2. Melt butter in heavy saucepan. Saute celery and onion for 8 to 10 minutes, or until tender. 3. combine cornbread, stuffing mix, parsley, ginger, and salt in large bowl. Mix in celery and onion mixture, chopped apple, chopped pecans, apple juice, and beaten eggs. Spoon dressing into prepared casserole dish and bake for 30 to 35 minutes in preheated oven, or until heated through.

Got a recipe we should feature?

Email it to nwleaf@gmail.com and it just might appear here in our next issue! Photos by FLICKR: SILVIA SONG / SOPHIA A / ANTHONY QUINTANO

2 (8.5 ounce) packages dry corn muffin mix 1 (8 ounce) can cream-style corn 2 eggs, beaten 1/2 cup plain yogurt 1/4 cup milk 1/2 cup medicated butter 1 onion, finely chopped 2 celery, finely chopped 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped 4 cloves garlic, minced 2 teaspoons dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried basil 2 teaspoons dried oregano 2 teaspoons salt, or to taste 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 3 cups chicken broth 1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. 2. combine muffin mix, corn, eggs, yogurt and milk in a medium bowl; stir just until moistened. Pour into prepared pan. 3. Bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until golden brown. 4. melt medicated butter and saute onion, celery, green pepper and garlic in a large saucepan, over medium heat. When onions are tender stir in thyme, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, cayenne and broth. Bring to a boil and then remove from heat. 5. Crumble cornbread and stir into broth mixture; mix well. Add more broth or more bread, as necessary, to achieve desired consistency.

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The Faces of Medical Marijuana Project Hi! I’m Grandma Cat Jeter. As a medical cannabis patient, I’m fed-up with people who don’t know my, or my fellow patients’ medical history, defining me as a “faker” in our legislative halls and hearings. It is time for us to define ourselves so others can not do so wrongly. We need your short “I am a Medical Marijuana Patient” testimony. All testimony will be given to legislators at the beginning of the 2014 session during which future of Medical Marijuana in Washington will be decided. This collection will show the real face of medical marijuana, not how opponents would chose to portray us. ♦ A disguise may be used ♦ Please give your name, even if it is “Bob S” ♦ Say your Legislative District ♦ What qualifying conditions you treat with cannabis ♦ Why cannabis is the correct choice for you ♦Record video testimony of patients you know and and post at Faces of Medical Marijuana Project Washington on Facebook or email to Kevin@ShockTreatmentManagement.com

Don’t allow Others to Define MMJ Patients!

Testimony on behalf of our silent patients welcome, but please state both of your names and your relationship to the patient.

Gallery

STORY AND PHOTOS BY BOB MONTOYA FOR NORTHWEST LEAF

Micro Strains Up Close Each month we’ll highlight growers crafting strains with the goal of helping specific needs, not necessarily obtaining the highest yields

HIS MONTH I searched for micro strains bred specifically to help reduce the symptoms of Post Traumatic Distress Disorder. What I found was one not-so-common bud and one that is commercially available in the medical marijuana industry. I interviewed grower after grower for a true Micro Strain for PTSD, and the fact is not much effort is being made to fix something that is not broken.

NYC Diesel 11.68% CBD

NYC DIESEL is a powerful med with a mix of Sour Diesel and Afghani that is great for easing stress. Its calming effect is due to the heavy CBD and respectable THC levels: 11.68% CBD and 9.17% THC. The pain relief is there for those that have pain-related anxiety. The problem with treating just pain with pills is that it does nothing for the constant worry of being broken and hurting. NYCD was made to get you up and about while reducing pain. RUBY SLIPPERS has twice the CBD-to-THC ratio. This blend has an immense calming effect with just enough THC to keep you off the couch. Its striking visual temptation matches its heavy effects on the body and mind. Himalayan Kush and Utopia Haze combine for a 10.69% CBD and 5.62% THC balance. The smell is sweet oily with a hint of citrus from the bud. The smoke is pleasant and smooth. Immediate cerebral effects come on and finish with a calm body finish. This Micro is available in concentrates and capsules for the patient’s convenience.

available from The Wizard’s Garden, via Rainier Xpress 117 Legion Way SW, Olympia, WA 98501 (360) 489-0132 Rainierxpress@gmail.com www.tinyurl.com/olyrainierxpress

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health & science

BY DR. SCOTT D. ROSE, NORTHWEST LEAF SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR

Vitamin D + YOU

BY NORTHWEST LEAF SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR DR. SCOTT D. ROSE

Those of us north of the 35th parallel are at risk of Vitamin D deficiency — which can lead to depression and body pain. Why diet is only part of it.

any realize that there is an association between vitamin D and the sun. There is a common misconception that we receive vitamin D from the sun, however the sun turns on an inactive form of the vitamin that our bodies have already made. That is if there is adequate exposure of the skin to the sun, for a proper duration, and in the right place on the globe. Vitamin D actually has less vitamin-like activity than it does hormone activity. It affects mostly all cells in the human body at the level of DNA. Vitamin D is a gene regulator, in general turning on genes that benefit the body and turning off genes that don’t - like cancer promoting genes. Over the past decade our understanding of vitamin D has driven the testing for deficiency and the recommendations of vitamin D supplementation to the human diet. Vitamin D is responsible for enhancing intestinal absorption of calcium and phospate, two necessary minerals imperative to physiology. Vitamin D deficiency rates in the Western Washington area are among the highest in the nation in due to the low angle of sun exposure during the winter and all the cloud cover. Cholecalciferol is the chemical descriptive name of the active form of vitamin D3. Ergocalciferol is vitamin D2, the inactive form of the vitamin D molecule. Both can be ingested in the diet or in supplement form. Vitamin D3 can be formed at the skin level from cholesterol when UV rays strike it from the sun, hence the connection with the “sunshine vitamin.” Some statistics state 30 percent of the body surface area being exposed to the sun for 30 minutes produces adequate levels of vitamin D, and they don’t have to be 30 minutes in a row either. That statistic is given for conditions at the equator, with peak midday angles of the sun. Other sources state that 10,000 to 25,000 IU (International Unit) of vitamin D are produced in 30 minutes of whole-

76/nov. 2013 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

Along with natural sunshine, these food items contain the Vitamin D our bodies need

body exposure under similar conditions. As one moves north or south from the equator vitamin D formation decreases especially beyond the north and south 35th parallel. In the US that is equivalent to Bakersfield, CA across the states to the southern border of Tennessee. Anyone living north of these location run at risk for vitamin D deficiency. Even individuals south of the 35th run deficient because of inadequate exposure and/or sunscreen use. In fact, people who live at higher latitudes (in the northern U.S. and Europe, for example) cannot produce much, if any, vitamin D from the sun. Very few foods in nature contain any appreciable amounts of vitamin D. The flesh of fatty fish (such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel) and fish liver oils are among the best sources. Small amounts of vita-

Vitamin D deficiency rates in the Western Washington area are among the highest in the nation due to the low angle of sun exposure during the winter and all the cloud cover.

min D are found in beef liver, cheese, and egg yolks. Fortified foods provide most of the vitamin D in the American diet. For example, almost all of the conventional U.S. milk supply is fortified with 100 IU/cup. Different institutions propose inconsistent recommendations concerning daily amounts of the vitamin. Commonly recommended daily dietary intake of vitamin D is not sufficient, especially if sunlight exposure is limited. Individuals are at their highest vitamin D levels for the year at the end of August and at their lowest for the year at the end of February. Vitamin D has great impact on mood as well.

eficiency is associated with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or “the winter blues” which is prevalent in the Northwest region of the US. There is a growing amount of research into the connection between depression and vitamin D. Receptors for vitamin D have been found in many parts of the brain. The exact mechanism of how vitamin D works in the brain is not fully understood. One theory is that vitamin D affects the levels of chemicals, such as serotonin, and how they work in the brain. Research has supported that a lack of vitamin D in the blood makes it more likely one will develop depression, and taking a vitamin D supplement can improve or prevent depression. Various studies have shown that people with adequate levels of vitamin D have a significantly lower risk of developing cancer, compared to people with lower levels. Vitamin D deficiency was found to be prevalent in cancer patients regardless of nutritional status Vitamin D may reduce the risk of developing multiple sclerosis. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is much less common the nearer you get to the tropics, where there is much more sunlight. Incidentally the Northwest region has the highest rates of MS anywhere in the country, and again some of the lowest vitamin D levels as well. Vitamin D is an important way to arm the immune system against disorders like auto-

Individuals are at their highest vitamin D levels for the year at the end of August and at their lowest for the year at the end of February. Vitamin D has great impact on mood as well.

WHO IS MOST LIKELY TO BE DEFICIENT OF VITAMIN D? Direct source: Vitamin D Council

immune conditions where the immune system has lost its way and is attacking self tissue. Vitamin D can greatly benefit even the common cold. There are alarming rates of Vitamin D deficiency in the US. - data collected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey found that 9% of children across the US were deficient in vitamin D while 61 percent were vitamin D insufficient. Studies have looked at the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in adults in the US. One study’s conclusion found that the overall prevalence rate of vitamin D deficiency in the general population of adults was 41.6%, with the highest rate seen in African Americans at 82.1%, followed by Hispanics at 69.2%. Yet again the criteria for deficiency was set too low at less than 20 ng/ml indicating these numbers are much higher when compared to the proposed ideal of 50 ng/ml. The current recommended daily allowance (RDA) of vitamin D3 in the US is 600 IU for individuals 1-71 years old, 400 IU for under 1 and 800 IU for over 71 years old. These levels are just too low. The European Union recommends 4000 IU for adults, and that is quite a discrepancy. Many scientists and vitamin D researchers contend that human physiology is fine tuned to an intake of 4000–12,000 IU/day from diet and sun exposure with concomitant vitamin D levels in the blood serum of 40 to 80 ng/mL, Continues and that is required for optip. 78 mal health. Thus if one is not consuming adequate amounts

People with darker skin.

The darker your skin the more sun you need to get the same amount of vitamin D as a fair-skinned person.

People who spend a lot of time indoors during the day. For example, if you’re housebound, work nights or are in the hospital.

People who cover their skin all of the time. For example, if you wear sunscreen or if your skin is covered with clothes.

People that live in the North of the U.S or IN Canada.

This is because there are fewer hours of overhead sunlight the further away you are from the equator.

People that are old or young

Older people have thinner skin than younger people and may not produce as much vitamin D. If you’re feeding your baby on breast milk alone, and you don’t give your baby a vitamin D supplement or take a supplement yourself, they are more likely to be deficient in vitamin D.

Pregnant women & the obese

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health & science

BY DR. SCOTT D. ROSE, NORTHWEST LEAF SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR

cil o un e n f Co ak t o D lts t limi h is in ic m adu per h t ita ds up y, w bou e. e V e n h e d a f a in Th mm n t per nt o nsh le su co ha re re t 0 IU iva s of o m ,00 equ ute 10 e min 30

Continued from p. 77

Vitamin D + YOU

What can happen to the body when we don’t get enough?

of vitamin D in their diet and sun exposure is nill then vitamin D supplementation becomes necessary. Vitamin D3, or cholecalciferol is the preferred supplemental form of vitamin D. Vitamin D is fat-soluble, which means your body has a harder time getting rid of it if you take too much (versus a water soluble vitamin for example). The Vitamin D Council, an excellent resource for up to date information on vitamin D research. recommends adults take no more than the upper limit of 10,000 IU per day, the equivalent of 30 minutes of sunshine. While these amounts may seem like a lot, keep in mind that your body can produce quite an amount of vitamin D after a little bit of full body sun exposure. Vitamin D toxicity can occur with high dose

78/nov. 2013 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

supplementation and is consistent with blood levels above 150 ng/ml according to the Vitamin D Council. Toxicity symptoms include “feeling sick”, poor appetite or loss of appetite, increased thirst, increased urination, bowel changes of constipation or diarrhea, abdominal pain, muscle weakness, muscle pain, and/ or a feeling of confusion. If you are taking a vitamin D supplement and are experiencing these symptoms then discontinuing supplementation and get a blood test to measure 25-OH vitamin D (the most accurate blood value) is important. It’s also important to screen for vitamin D deficiency and monitor supplemental therapy by routine blood testing of the 25-OH vitamin D levels. Have your blood tested as a baseline and monitor therapy with higher doses or try first a moderate dose.

Additional Resources www.vitamindcouncil.org Find out more information on deficiency, supplementation, sun exposure, and how vitamin D relates to your health.

Dr. Scott d. Rose is a Naturopathic Physician

Acupuncturist with a private practice in Kirkland, WA focusing on pain management. Askdrrose.com

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CLIMATE THERE’S MORE TO AIR THAN IS FAIR

BY NORTHWEST LEAF SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR DR. SCANDERSON

ndoor growing revolves around the basic sider the system as a whole. When planning It’s helpful to divide the growing environment idea of recreating a natural environment for the air movement in your garden there are a air into two categories, the first being “in.” IN Cannabis to grow in. While the environfew consistent principles one can apply to enair is any air you may be bringing into your ment is sometimes significantly enhanced sure that maximum efficiency is being reached. garden such as fresh air intakes in open sysusing indoor grower tricks and technology, the The benefits of having properly circulating air intems, portable open intake A/C, humidified fundamentals of re-creatair, ozonators, heaters, or any other ing a superior environment By planning your garden so that all your IN air devices are on one side and all device (except fans and closed exmust be adhered to in order change A/C) that generates and your OUT air devices are on another, you increases the efficiency and balance the climate to ensure all efforts to enin your garden. Anytime you are controlling the climate in your garden, introducing newly pushes air into your gardens. hance a natural environment The second is the “out” air. This is treated air on one side and evacuating it or redirecting it on the other will create a suction are effective. Central to any the exhaust fan, carbon filters, deor air stream in a properly treated room so that the new air is forced evenly across the healthy climate control is humidifiers and anything you are room and thereby across the plant canopy. proper air circulation. trying to take OUT of the garden. Understanding some baLastly are fans which I think of sics around air movements and convection currents clude adequate and even CO2 concentrations, as air directors. By combining the devices with will allow you to create an ideal growing environproperly controlled humidity and temperature, your fans in particular ways you will maximize ment for thriving plants as well as efficiently deal increased resistant to disease and pest infestations the efficiency of the devices you are employwith heat. and with sufficient air exchange around the leaf ing which in turn will improve your garden’s Essential to any garden design is to consurfaces, maximum growth rates and plant health. environment overall.

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control You know you will have your air movement dialed in when most of the leaves in the garden area will be lightly moving or shaking at almost all times. This is effective in growing strong supportive stems and improving air exchange at the leaf surface which maximizes growth rates. By planning your garden so that all your IN air devices are on one side and all your OUT air devices are on another, you increases the efficiency and balance the climate in your garden. Anytime you are controlling the climate in your garden, introducing newly treated air on one side and evacuating it or redirecting it on the other will create a suction or air stream in a properly treated room so that the new air is forced evenly across the room and thereby across the plant canopy.

nother way to further improve consistent air movement, is to employ a “bottom up” approach to your IN air and OUT air. Simply put, IN air is recommended to be introduced near the bottom of your garden (close to the floor) and you’re OUT air should be treated towards the top (ceiling) of your garden. This creates an “up breeze”

through your plant’s canopy pulling fallen colder air, heavier humidified air, and heavier C02 air up through the canopy where it can most effectively be used. Ensuring that higher elevated items are OUT air devices and middle and lower height devices are IN air devices and fans only, creates two small pressure systems in your garden. A low pressure one (think: vacuum), and a high pressure one (think: hair dryer). In order to properly apply the bottom up approach it’s necessary to have a loose understanding of how temperature affects air currents. Hotter air is less dense and therefore rises. Cooler air is more dense and therefore falls. Rising hot air will lose heat as it comes in contact with a cooler ambient environment; as it loses heat it will begin to fall. Other elements in the air such as CO2 or ionic humidity also increase air density. The heat that your lights transfers to the air creates a warmer hotter

climate. If you’re IN and OUT air is set up correctly you can create adequate convection currents to ensure hot air is pushed up and trapped above the light hoods safely away from the plant canopy. Combining all these techniques almost completely abolishes microclimates in your garden. These small pockets of over or under treated air can not only create stress for your plants, significantly slowing growth, but can also create higher likelihood of a fungal bloom and pest infestation. Another technique that can be used to further eliminate unwanted air pockets as well as assist in removing amContinues bient heat from lights is p. 84 placing an oscillating fan blowing straight across

nov. 2013 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

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growtech Continued from pg. 83

THERE’S MORE TO AIR THAN IS FAIR

and above the plant canopy immediately under To create that ground circulation in a closed system, the light where you can feel the ambient heat emI recommend using the same fans but rather than blowanating. This prevents hot spots, heat stress and ing from one side of the room to the other, in one direcoften lowers leaf surface temperatures. By placing tion, blow from the outside in. On the outside of the additional fans on the IN air side you are further garden towards the walls, have the fans blowing towards ensuring the proper air Placing an oscillating fan blowing straight across and above the plant canopy immediately movements. You know you will have your air under the light where you can feel the ambient heat emanating IS Another technique to further eliminate movment dialed in unwanted air pockets — PREVENTING hot spots, heat stress and lowerING leaf surface temperatures. when most of the leaves in the garden area will be lightly moving or shakthe OUT air. You then create, in a properly sealed room, ing at almost all times. one or more circular patterns of air. This is effective in growing strong supportive Convection currents will push cooler air toward the stems and improving air exchange at the leaf surbottom and sides of garden. By placing OUT air devices face which maximizes growth rates. closer to the center and IN air devices and fans towards When utilizing all these techniques together the outside you are constantly pulling the hotter air away you will effectively create your garden’s Jet Stream. from the canopy and towards the cooler environment The jet stream can literally be felt as circulating air where it can loose temperature. moving in a consistent direction. In open systems, Creating properly treated air can be one of the most it starts from the In air side at the bottom and difficult and sometimes costly aspects of building and pulling through the canopy and leaves the out air maintaining an indoor growing environment. By underquestions? Never hesitate to email side. In a closed system it’s one or more circular standing how to properly place your different devices in me at thegreengardengroup@gmail.com. air patterns as there is no exhaust generally. The combination with some intelligently placed (relatively) See a wide range of useful growing videos IN air (A/C) moves towards the OUT air (paslow cost fans you will be maximizing the intended funcand tips at Youtube.com/DrScandersonGt sive carbon scrubbers) in closed systems as one tions of all the devices your are employing and maximizmethod of creating this air movement pattern. ing your growing environment for the plants.

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BEHIND THE STRAIN

BY DR. SCANDERSON FOR NORTHWEST LEAF

questions?

Never hesitate to email me at thegreengardengroup@gmail.com. See a wide range of useful growing videos and tips at Youtube.com/DrScandersonGt

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>> The smoke is hashy and oaky with very mild lung expansion unlike most OG Kush’s...

Smoke report/bag appeal

the strawberry snow lotus phenotype with it’s male dominant characteristics. Slow in veg. this plant takes it’s time to create a root mass. Very light nutrients and a little extra magnesium goes a long way to supporting the plant to take shape. Once her roots are established though, she will take off. Responding extremely well to topping, she grows like a super stretchy sativa until topped and then grows almost 100% like an indica dominant hybrid creating substantial side branching and splitting evenly. The snow lotus dominant pheno grows with genetically influenced pink stems, will show a some mild pre-flower characteristics in later veg, and brings with it potent smells of current and strawberry. Assuming that adequate time and care was spent in veg. flipping to flower she goes onto cruise control to a championship finish. Stretching mildly but not overwhelmingly when the photoperiod is flipped, Goji OG opens quickly and begins packing on resin from day 12-14 on. Due to the extensive side branching it’s important to “open” the plant to allow for significant light penetration to all her flower sites. Large spear-shaped colas begin to form bringing with them potent berry n fuel smells that will challenge your carbon filters. Like most OG’s she will consume reasonable amounts of calcium but will also thrive on higher levels of K. Finishing promptly in 60-65 days with a heavy dense yield of potent resin-covered flowers that show through a rainbow of reds, pinks and yellows during flush.

effects Pale green, tightly packed flowers with a heavy coating of resin and a characteristic dark red pistil poking through here and there give these flowers a “typical” OG kush look. Goji OG produces “patient perfect” 1-3 gram buds, each generously coated in trichomes. Cracking the jar provides a potent waft of pine, tar, oak and metallic smells of the Nepali OG all cleverly wrapped in a lite but definite smell of fruit punch. The smoke is hashy and oaky with very mild lung expansion unlike most OG Kush’s allowing large to extra large sized single dose inhales. The exhale carries with it an unexpected burst

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of pure kush flavor departing with a kiss of hash and an earthy spice.

The Genetics Genetics: (Nepali OG) x (Snow Lotus)

86/nov. 2013 FACEBOOK.COM/NWLEAF

Goji OG opens quickly and begins packing on resin from day 12-14.

Consulting with the Goji OG provides an instant

message of relaxation and calm. It’s quick onset washes over the body, turning the sensations of the skin into warm layers of fluffy blanket. A gentle body massage starting from the inner ears and working its way out to the finger tips and tops of the feet makes sitting down and feeling this medication provide relief a great idea. The deliberate and intentional breeding and selection Bodhi is so well known for is richly communicated when the mind is shared with Goji OG — it’s a brilliant pairing for almost any winter day in the Northwest.

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