Evercannabis- Friday March 6, 2020 by Cowles Publishing

MARCH 2020

www.evercannabis.com

GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP Pro sports reconsider cannabis

BHO KNOWS CBD New digs for Valley retailer

POP AND LOCK

Community effort to keep kids safe

SHAPE OF CANNABIS THE

Leafly introduces a new strain guide

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Friday, March 6, 2020

The Spokesman-Review

15% OFF JOINTS AND CARTS MARCH 14TH - 16TH

20% OFF JOINTS AND CARTS MARCH 17TH ONLY

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

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Alene, Idaho

Friday, March 6, 2020

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Friday, March 6, 2020

VOLUME 5 | ISSUE 3

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Kathleen Coleman DIRECTOR OF SALES

Dan Fritts MANAGING EDITOR

The Spokesman-Review

FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK

That fine line between advocacy, orneriness

Joe Butler HEALTH & CULTURE EDITOR

Theresa Tanner ART DIRECTOR, MARKETING

Anne Potter CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Chris Soprych Evercannabis magazine is a monthly supplement of The Spokesman-Review. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent of the publisher.

@EvercannaNews on social media www.evercannabis.com Evercannabis@spokesman.com 509-459-5095

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In the U.S. one year subscription (12 issues) delivered discreetly to your door for just $35. In Canada subscription is $60. For credit card payments please call 509.459.5095 from 9 am to 4 pm, Monday through Friday. For check payments please include your mailing address, email, phone number and mail to EVERCANNABIS magazine, P.O. Box 2160, Spokane, WA 99210.

Contentious debate remains, but constructive dialogue grows When does being passionate turn into just being difficult? Yes, those are deep thoughts on human nature on a nearly-spring day, but I’ve been reflecting on some, um, spirited online comments posted recently on a cannabis industry forum. It started with an invitation from one poster for readers to learn about and consider supporting a new advocacy organization that promises benefits and a better voice. It suggested that being more unified now will be useful later as political, legal and market conditions evolve. As is the way of modern online discourse, at least one person disagreed, called the idea and the proposed new organization stupid, and shared his opinion why. Normal day on the Internet. Then, the original poster threw in an interesting point. She said Washington’s entire cannabis culture has been in such a reactive mode for years due to tough rules, firm state

and federal oversight, challenging market conditions, and shifting public sentiment. “Reactive” is pretty much a normal starting place for any discussion, whether with regulators or peers. Then she challenged readers to think bigger: “What would happen if we weren’t ready to fight anyone and everyone all the time? How cool would that be to get more done?” Evercannabis wasn’t around before Initiative 502, but friends who were part of the signature gathering and voter education effort described terrible and downright explosive discussions where petition organizers tried to bring together many diverse cannabis opinions and special interest groups. The finished product was a grand compromise of legal language summed up as “this is as good of a proposal as we can come up with to make sure enough voters go for it.” Some still remain bitter, including those who maintain that putting any legal framework around this plant or allowing in business elements and state regulation are all downright criminal acts. The lack of homegrow and social equity provisions also remain sore spots.

Of course, some degree of tenacity and persistence isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Continual suggestions for improvement from firm defenders over the last five-plus years are starting to pay off, as the Legislature and the Liquor and Cannabis Board appear more accommodating to adjust rules since the sky hasn’t fallen. As we reported in our February issue, the LCB is currently figuring out how to focus less on automatically suspicious interactions and more on education and collaboration, more like food inspectors vs. armed and armored enforcers. As a longtime media person, I appreciate the value of spirited discussions and free exchange of ideas, and I applaud cannabis colleagues who are still engaged in making things better. It’s been a long road, and there are miles left to go. But the original poster makes a good point: there’s currently a decent-sized window for the industry to come together and focus on positive possibilities instead of automatically reacting to past slights. We’re also always looking for ways to improve our publication, and welcome suggestions or story ideas for future issues!

“I appreciate the value of spirited discussions and free exchange of ideas, and I applaud cannabis colleagues who are still engaged in making things better.” Joe Butler Managing Editor

EVERCANNABIS CONTRIBUTORS Joe Butler is a longtime marketing writer and editor at The Spokesman-Review. He’s an enthusiast of Star Wars, commemorative spoon collecting, and the Oxford comma. Rob Mejia is president of Our Community Harvest: A Cannabis Education Company. Rob lives in New Jersey and spends his free time cooking, playing tennis, and repairing an old house. Taryn Mickelson is originally from New Mexico and now works in Washington’s cannabis industry. She enjoys writing about the positive changes in this rapidly-growing business. Kate A. Miner has a degree in visual anthropology, and has worked in marketing and advertising for many years. She writes, takes photos and teaches yoga. Rick Misterly is a Washington resident whose interest in cannabis has taken him around the world since the 1960s. He is the cannabis and hashish curator for Green Barn Farms in Addy. Theresa Tanner is the Health & Culture editor of EVERCANNABIS. Born and raised in Spokane, she enjoys good food and drink, pop culture podcasts, and relaxing at the lake. Dan Webster is a former Spokesman-Review staff writer who is a community producer for Spokane Public Radio and a blogger for Spokane7.com.

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Friday, March 6, 2020

MARCH CONTENT Leafly tech deciphers pot choices

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FEATURE

LET’S GET VISUAL Leafly’s new graphic guide decodes cannabis................................................14

NEWS

THE FARM LIFE WoW Industries brings big biz to Springdale ...6

ARTISAN EDIBLES Quality comes first at Craft Elixirs ......................7

KENTUCKY GROWN CBD retailer makes education a priority............8

HEALTH

DRINK & TOKE? Combining cannabis, alcohol unpredictable .........................................10

LOCKED OUT Green2Go brings safety program to Tri-Cities............................................11

STAY ACCOUNTABLE Growers, processors keep testing standards high ........................................12

CULTURE

WE ARE DOING IT! Notable women in Washington’s industry .......16

ATHLETIC UPDATES Cannabis rules changing for pros ......................18

THE LAST FRONTIER Alaska attitude remains cannabis-forward ......19

1X 16

LEARN

PASS THE KETCHUP

Cannabis condiments are tricky to find ...........22

INFUSED CARROT FRIES Make your own tasty side dish .........................24

Evercannabis, The Spokesman-Review and the Cowles Company don’t promote or endorse the use of cannabis products. We acknowledge that marijuana products remain illegal under federal laws. If adults age 21 or older choose to purchase or use them, we encourage them to consume sensibly and at their own risk in legal jurisdictions, in accordance with state and local laws. Some cannabis products have intoxicating effects and may be habit-forming. Consumption of marijuana also may be associated with health risks and impaired concentration, coordination, and judgment. Keep away from children. To learn more, visit the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board at www.liq.wa.gov.

STRAIN OF THE MONTH Get a “Gold” rush................................................25

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The Spokesman-Review

NEW & BUSINESS

WoW Industries enjoys life in the country Using their remaining resources, they took their business savvy to Springdale in 2015 where they creJust north of Spokane, in the small ated a self-funded business. They also but tight-knit community of Springhelped cultivate a sense of comdale, you’ll find WoW Industries munity unity and spirit. Cannabis Farm and Altus Extraction Since then, WoW Industries has Lab, both owned and operated by grown from 12 to 24 employees and husband and wife Jennifer and Lance amassed a stable clientele. The Altus Lorz and family friend/business full-spectrum concentrates lab propartner Cole Beaman. duces wax, budder, sugar wax, disAll three originally lived in the tillate, RSO, shatter, diamonds in terp Spokane region, but didn’t all connect sauce, color remediation and more. until they were living in Oregon. “Our main focus is creating jobs for Beaman and Lance were roommates, the local community to help us presand Jennifer had gone to high school ent an enjoyable product grown with with Cole. After Lance and Jennifer consciousness to the environment, married, they ran a small surf and where we are not polluting the Earth snow shop in Oregon. but giving back.” said Jennifer Lorz. They were brainstorming different That focus on community is evibusiness projects when cannabis dent in how WoW Industries is a legalization came to Washington, supporter of Springdale’s Mary Walkprompting them all to return north. er School District. A number of small Their first venture was a medical farms, including WoW/Altus, directly dispensary in Hillyard called North- support the school. Student jerseys side Alternative Wellness. are imprinted with “Go team Go, While the business helped plenty Support your local farmers” on the of patients, there were other unanback. ticipated and expensive problems Lorz said in the beginning, wholewith the space, including constant sale prices were higher and compebreak-ins. A truck even drove into the tition was stiff. Much of their prodside of the building once. ucts went to Spokane shops, but there

By Taryn Mickelson

EVERCANNABIS CORRESPONDENT

To learn more For more information about WoW Industries Cannabis Farm and Altus Extraction Lab, visit www.wow-industries.com.

PHOTOS COURTESY WOW INDUSTRIES

was more product from many small farms than the small number of stores in the area could handle. “I can understand from the stores’ perspective, the overwhelming aspects of having to see so many vendors, to do so much organizing, when it came to sample products.” said Jennifer Lorz. WoW and Altus are still around, and have built up loyal customers who appreciate clean product, plus healthy work environments and competitive pricing. Indoor space is increasing rapidly in 2020 with house-grown strains in the works including Wappa, Humbolt Royal Kush, Yogi Berry, NYC Candy and Guana Bana. “All we want is a safe and clean product that everyone is comfortable with using and has a good time doing it,” she said. “We love to be conscious about our smell, taste and overall quality of our product.” Currently WoW Industries pays for its own pesticide testing to ensure that it always meets current pesticide requirements. It also uses organic soil and Biochar, bio-degradable joint tubes and other packaging that is part of the commitment to provide a product that’s clean and reliable. Disclosure: The author of the article is an employee of WoW Industries as an extraction lab technician.

Growth mode Since starting in Springdale in 2015, WoW Industries Cannabis Farm and Altus Extraction has grown from 12 to 24 employees and amassed a stable clientele. The Altus full-spectrum concentrates lab produces wax, budder, sugar wax, distillate, RSO, shatter, diamonds in terp sauce, color remediation and more.

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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NEWS & BUSINESS

SPOTLIGHT:

Jamie Hoffman of Craft Elixirs Seattle owner focuses on unique infused edibles By Rob Mejia EVERCANNABIS CORRESPONDENT

PHOTOS COURTESY CRAFT ELIXIRS

Jamie Hoffman is founder of Seattle-based Craft Elixirs.

Craft Elixirs’ savoryflavored infused chips.

If you’re someone who appreciates a bit of the exotic or has ever considered a walk on the wild side, you should get to know Craft Elixirs. Specializing in high-end confections, craft cocktails, and unique cannabis-infused food, the Seattle-based company is the brainchild of Chicago native Jamie Hoffman. She and her 23-person crew have been producing small-batch cannabis-infused simple syrups, oils, and confections since 2013. Craft Elixirs is built on two cornerstone principles: produce the best products using superior local ingredients and ensure every piece of the process is compliant. As an only child, Jamie learned to do a lot for herself, including cooking. Early on, she discovered she was a “foodie,” and long before Craft Elixirs was a twinkle in her eye, she was already perfecting a unique infusion process. She knew her process was ‘ready for prime time’ when friends started asking to purchase a cannabis-infused blueberry cordial she was known to make for social gatherings. Around that same time, Washington was making moves to legalize adult-use cannabis so the time was right to begin to build a cannabis food and beverage business. Jamie moved to Seattle and started the difficult process of obtaining an edible license. After months of research and filling out forms, the license was awarded. Jamie and her team set to work creating delicious and gorgeous edibles and elixirs. Attention to detail is truly a hallmark of the brand. It can take up to a year to create and perfect each product in the Craft Elixirs line. Part of that process is working with the local community to source the best raw flower (cannabis bud) and berries from local producers. Partnerships with quality growers like Puffin Farms, Doc & Yeti Urban Farms, and Sidhu’s Blueberry Farms have helped Craft Elixirs win the Dope Cup two years in a row, a big point of pride for

Jamie and her team. But it isn’t all about high-quality products; it’s about creating a company known for integrity. Jamie found that the best way to demonstrate this is to be transparent and compliant. That means she devotes nearly half her time to staying on top of new regulations. One of the most pressing challenges for Craft Elixirs’ Dank Jamie today is the Chocolate Syrup lack of regulation around the hemp industry. Shipping across state lines is murky territory and dependent upon the amount of THC found in flower. Some of her competition chooses to ship across state lines but for the time being Jamie limits her products to Washington. This combination of high quality products and deep professionalism has proven to be a winning combination. Craft Elixirs now has a line of about 25 products and is found in more than 100 Washington shops.

Let’s talk treats!

Pioneer Fruit squares, available with 10 milligrams CBD or THC, come in six natural fruit flavors like sour cherry, pineapple crush and blackberry. If you prefer savory, Craft Elixirs offers infused chips in flavors of sweet potato, roasted garlic, and sea salt and cracked pepper. Ready for dessert? Try the Dank Chocolate Syrup over ice cream or in a drink. And, of course, the crown jewel is their line of drink mixes and cooking elixirs. Visit www.craftelixirs.com to find retail locations.

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The Spokesman-Review

NEWS & BUSINESS “We always make sure what we teach is accurate, up to date, and backed by science.” Jessica Charles Regional manager at the Spokane Valley retail location of Bluegrass Hemp Oil

BHO moves to new Valley location CBD retailer hopes to educate, inform about product uses By Joe Butler EVERCANNABIS WRITER

Although we’ve all seen plenty of CBD products out there, there are still some mysteries about what these letters mean. The short answer is that CBD is a natural chemical compound found in the cannabis plant. When consumed, CBD attaches to receptors throughout the human body. This process is believed to boost various functions in the immune system and central nervous system, and can reduce pain, improve alertness and lower anxiety. Because CBD doesn’t cause significant mental and physical changes, like THC, another common cannabis compound, CBD products are not restricted to state-licensed cannabis retailers. That’s the nutshell version, but Jessica Charles, regional manager at the Spokane Valley retail location of Bluegrass Hemp Oil (BHO), is always willing to answer questions. “Sometimes we have people come in who already know what they want, and don’t want to chat, and other times we have customers who end up having great 30-minute conversations all about CBD and what it can do,” Charles said. “Some people love coming in to soak up as much info as they can.” BHO creates and sells a variety of fullspectrum CBD-infused items, like extracts and body care products, including bath soaks and lotions. It also offers CBD products blended with honey, and recently released a line of five truffles, including a popular bourbon flavor. The CBD is extracted from hemp grown in Kentucky, where it has been legally cultivated since 2014. Kentucky Cannabis Company received one of the state’s first permits for harvesting hemp for research purposes and the first for exclusively CBD. The vertically-integrated company creates extracts and consumer products under the BHO name. It also opened the country’s first CBD-only store in 2016 and today has shops in Lexington and

JOE BUTLER/EVERCANNABIS

Regional director Jessica Charles poses inside Bluegrass Hemp Oil’s new location on Argonne Road. Midway, both in Kentucky, plus Spokane Valley. Samples of each batch are sent to Trace Analytics, an independent testing laboratory in the Spokane area, to verify purity and consistency. Charles said this optional test-

ing assures customers that extra efforts are taken to ensure quality. Currently, Washington customers can purchase BHO’s CBD products at its new location on Argonne Road close to Sprague Avenue. It recently relocated from Pines

Avenue to a new spot that provides more space and better visibility. Charles is now looking for new opportunities to spread the word about the usefulness of CBD products to potentially help customers improve their health. “We want to be thought of as a place to go where CBD works well,” she said. “People can get good benefits, but there are some variables, so at least we can give good advice in what types to try.” BHO is a member of the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce and also recently joined the Holistic Chamber of Commerce. The shop is planning regular open houses/information sessions throughout 2020. Each will have a different monthly theme and cover possible benefits. February’s theme was self-love and heart health. This month touches on how CBD can aid fitness, plus a nod to spring basketball rivalries between Gonzaga and Kentucky. April focuses on Parkinson’s disease and autism awareness, and May is dedicated to seasonal allergies. Charles said she and the store staff stay current on research into hemp and cannabis products. They’ve attended seminars by Dr. Dustin Sulak, a nationally-known Maine osteopath who specializes in the medical uses of cannabis. “We always make sure what we teach is accurate, up to date, and backed by science,” she said. Even if someone can’t come into the store for extended conversations, the BHO staff offers a detailed Education section on its website, as well as a regular podcast, “Full Spectrum Living with CBD.” Co-hosted by Charles and BHO Executive Director Adriane Polyniak, the podcast features interviews with various experts in cannabis, health and nutrition. The first season of 24 episodes can be found at www.bluegrasshempoil.com/podcast, as well as common podcast download apps. “These have been very popular,” Charles said. “Season 1 just came to an end and we should start recording Season 2 soon.” A ribbon cutting and grand opening for Bluegrass Hemp Oil (BHO) takes place 3:30-5 p.m. March 12 at 101 N. Argonne Road, Suite G, Spokane Valley. The BHO’s website can be found at: www.bluegrasshempoil.com.

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Alene, Idaho

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The Spokesman-Review

HEALTH & SCIENCE

A cocktail’s consequences What happens when a person mixes cannabis and alcohol? By Dan Webster EVERCANNABIS CORRESPONDENT

It’s only natural to take a soothing drink after imbibing a bit of cannabis. Especially when such imbibing involves some kind of smoke. And let’s be honest – nothing cools off a palate better than a cold beer, a chilled glass of wine or some other iced alcoholic drink. Yet this poses a question: What effect, either short or long term, does mixing cannabis with alcohol have on your body? From a pure physiological stance, it’s difficult to say. Since we’re still in a situation where the U.S. government considers marijuana a Schedule 1 drug – thus partnering it with heroin, LSD and ecstasy and rating it more dangerous than cocaine, meth or oxycodone – federal funds devoted to researching the effects of cannabis haven’t been exactly flowing. Yet some research, however limited, has been conducted. And a number of those studies have proven inconclusive, sometimes even contradictory. According to Healthline, an online health resource, one 2010 study showed that mixing alcohol and cannabis had little effect. Then again, a 2015 study – which involved participants consuming alcohol (or a placebo) before being asked “to inhale either a low or a high dose of THC” – indicated that those who drank alcohol showed “significantly higher peak THC levels.” Yet both studies were fairly small – the 2015 participants numbered just 19 – so the conclusions are debatable. A 2019 study by Penn State University is more definitive. Recruiting some 1,017 participants from 49 states between the ages 18 and 25, the study compared people who drink alcohol to those who drink alcohol and use marijuana simultaneously. “The results suggest that individuals who simultaneously use alcohol and

marijuana are at a disproportionately higher risk for heavy, frequent and problematic substance use,” said Ashley Linden-Carmichael, an assistant research professor at Penn State’s Edna Bennett Pierce Prevention Research Center. “The problem with simultaneous use is that it can affect people cognitively and perceptually, and also have an impact on motor impairment,” LindenCarmichael said. In a 2014 Psychology Today article, Constance Scharff, Ph.D., made the case that mixing alcohol and cannabis can pose a specific potential harm. She pointed out that the human body has a natural reaction to the overconsumption of alcohol: vomiting. Yet citing a Northwestern University study, Scharff wrote that “marijuana has an antiemetic effect, meaning that it makes it more difficult for the body to vomit.” This, she added, can lead to a possibly lethal condition: alcohol poisoning. Offering its own set of guidelines, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) flatly states the following: “Using alcohol and marijuana at the same time is likely to result in greater impairment than when using either one alone.” The CDC adds that anyone taking prescription drugs should check with their physicians to make sure any kind of marijuana and/or alcohol use will not affect their prescribed medications. Maybe the best advice comes from a researcher named Scott Lukas, a professor of psychiatry and pharmacology at Harvard Medical School. Talking to Vice.com, Lukas explained one of the difficulties involved in researching the effects of combining alcohol and cannabis: “Not everyone responds to alcohol and marijuana the same (way),” he said. Lukas’s advice: Use common sense. Be judicious, he said, don’t overdo and “always err on the side of caution.”

Can consuming cannabis and alcohol together change your reaction to both?

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

UNDER LOCK AND KEY

Friday, March 6, 2020

HEALTH & SCIENCE

Tri-Cities retailer joins forces with health district to provide free lockboxes

In partnership with Benton-Franklin Health District and Educational Service District 123, cannabis retailer Green2Go began distributing free lockboxes to prevent underage marijuana use in October 2019. From left, Green2Go General Manager Manny Longoria; Vanessa McCollum, Benton-Franklin County Public Health Educator; and Mike Mahaffey, Green2Go HR Gen/COS.

By Kate A. Miner EVERCANNABIS CORRESPONDENT

Green2Go, a cannabis retailer based in Tri-Cities, is committed to public safety and community engagement. Owners Jessy and Steve Lee also encourage education whenever possible. They feel strongly about eliminating the negative stigma related to cannabis, and see themselves as stewards of the good things marijuana has to offer, particularly when it comes to medicinal use. Their retail cannabis locations in Kennewick and Tokio are considered recreational and medical, and 100% of their budtenders are medically certified. As part of its ongoing dedication to public safety and community involvement, Green2Go recently announced a partnership with the Benton-Franklin Health District and Educational Service District. The goal is to prevent underage cannabis use by distributing free lock boxes or bags for adults to secure their cannabis and other substances to make it difficult for children or pets to access. “We urge consumers to recreate responsibly, and store all cannabis products safely,” said Steve Lee. “And this family safety initiative is right in line with everything we represent at Green2Go.” Mike Mahaffey, Green2Go’s safety manager/medical marijuana consultant, brought the program to Green2Go’s attention after it was piloted in a different town and didn’t work. He felt, with some basic marketing, it could do well at Green2Go. At the same time, local school district employee Bertha Glatt, and Vanessa McCollum, a public health educator from the Benton-Franklin Health District, reached out. Everyone agreed it sounded like a good idea and the program was launched in late October 2019.

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COURTESY GREEN2GO

The lockbox effort has already seen great success. The initial boxes and bags went quickly, and Green2Go has already reordered them a few times. No purchase is necessary to get a box or a locked zipper bag, however only one is provided per household. Recipients are asked to fill out a brief survey and a release form supplied by the health district. “Education is key in minimizing the stigmas surrounding marijuana,” Mahaffey explained. “We teach how to use cannabis safely and responsibly, including how it’s monitored. Educating parents and adult influencers about the importance of preventing youth access to marijuana teaches awareness. Making them more safety conscious.” The Lees have focused on community outreach on their own and through the Green2Go brand.

Steve Lee, a member of the Kennewick City Council, recently publicly encouraged individuals and business owners in the area to continue their financial support of a local Renaissance Fair that announced that it needed to shut down due to increasing costs. Last year, he and Jessy also paid more than $10,700 toward the lunch debt of all students in the Columbia School District and the free and reduced lunch debt for all the students in the Kennewick School District. He also invited others in the cannabis industry to support the community and inspire each other to do more. For more information about the Lock Box program at Green2Go, call (509) 420-0000, ext. 1. For information about Spokane Regional Health District’s “Weed to Know” program that encourages cannabis caution and safe storage, visit srhd.org/weedtoknow.asp.

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The Spokesman-Review

HEALTH AND SCIENCE

INDUSTRY PUSHING FOR BETTER PESTICIDE PRACTICES Leaders seek more accountability of growers, processors By Taryn Mickelson EVERCANNABIS CORRESPONDENT

Cannabis growers regularly face the challenge of finding the best ways to keep bugs off their bud. While chemical pesticides are fairly common in other agricultural endeavors, the cannabis industry faces public pressure from consumers to use as little of them as possible, especially from medical patients who don’t want any additives in a product that could possibly harm their weaker health. Currently Washington’s cannabis industry must adhere to an approved pesticide list provided by the Washington State Department of Agriculture. Testing for the presence of acceptable pesticides or others that aren’t on the list must be performed by a certified third-party lab approved by the state, and must be completed at time of harvest. Washington regulators conduct random pesticide checks, but cannabis companies are not currently required to perform mandatory testing. This has led to some retailers to begin to perform their own tests for pesticides, heavy metals and microbial contamination in order to hold the industry accountable. These include Cinder and Uncle Ike’s. While consumers generally appreciate this extra precaution, growers whose products test “hot” (unauthorized items detected) are required to re-test,

extracted into apple juice. Testing showed higher levels of heavy metals and pesticides during the apple extraction process, so the industry took steps to improve their pesticide practices. This might be a good time to focus on this aspect for cannabis. “I think the industry has to come together and find a way to help the smaller businesses,” said Ed Stremlow, chief operating officer and co-founder at Analytical 360. What he doesn’t want to see is a general “buyer beware” system where some pesticides are assumed to be in every cannabis product, even if they’re not known or closely measured, like chemicals in tobacco products. “I think cannabis is a product we can all stand behind and While state regulators conduct random pesticide checks, Washington cannabis companies are not make it one of the safer prodrequired to conduct testing on their product. ucts for the consumer, I don't think we want this to turn into a re-grow or improve their areas. integrity, and those will be the Department of Agriculture warning label such as on cigaThe consequence of a failed test, ones to survive, since we want a would use for testing. rettes,” he said. including cost and negative safe and clean product for the For smaller farms, the inHaving some producers be public attention, are other inconsumer,” said David Niebuhr, creasing practice of testing by able to sell directly to concentives to be careful with pesti- who works in the area of hemp Washington cannabis retailers sumers, which was proposed in cides. and cannabis analysis for Anamay become somewhat disOlympia this year, might help. Analytical 360 was the first lytical 360. ruptive for producer/processors, This way, growers could see cannabis testing laboratory in California is the first state to especially those who focus on actual financial pressure to Washington to open in 2011, make strict laws about cannabis extracted products like concen- deliver a clean product, if focusing on the medical market testing. The state requires that trates and shatter rather than they’re the ones selling it withfor testing of cannabinoids, every producer provide a report pre-rolls. out the middleman role of a terpenes, microbes and residual that testing has been done for In 2011, similar discussions retailer. solvents. It also tests water, pesticide residuals using both took place in the state’s apple “In the cannabis industry we hops and commercial hemp. liquid chromatography and triindustry about possible product have always wanted to make “Testing seems to be helping ple quadruple mass speccontamination and the need for this a proactive industry with a require more and more people trometry (GCMS/MS). This is better testing. Extra attention clean and safe product,” Stremin the industry to keep their similar to what Washington’s was given to apples that were low said.

“Testing seems to be helping require more and more people in the industry to keep their integrity, and those will be the ones to survive, since we want a safe and clean product for the consumer.” David Niebuhr A hemp and cannabis analyst for testing laboratory Analytical 360

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Friday, March 6, 2020

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UPCOMING EVENTS

March 8

CHABA and Cannabis 101 for Washington LMTs, Arlington. Arlington School of Massage hosts continuing training for Licensed Massage Therapists and those in the massage industry, focusing on cannabis products, legality and accommodating client requests. Jennifer Chan will present. www.asomschoolofmassage.com

March 12

The Cannabis Alliance, Seattle. Monthly meeting of growers, retailers and other supporters of Washington’s cannabis system. www.thecannabisalliance.us Grand Opening, Bluegrass Hemp Oil, Spokane Valley. Check out the new location for this shop that features CBD products extracted from Kentucky-grown hemp, 3:30-5 p.m. www.bluegrasshempoil.com.

March 19

Lemonhaze Budtenders First, Spokane. Lemonhaze connects cannabis budtenders and buyers in an informal, social setting at free private gatherings around the West Coast. The event at the Glover Mansion includes a party and budtender expo. www.lemonhaze.com

March 22

The Dope Show, Spokane. Comedians perform before and after partaking of locally purchased cannabis products. The crowd often loves it. www.spokanecomedyclub.com/events/24962

March 25

Cannabis & You, Mt. Vernon. Cannabis/health expert Michael Scott will discuss the endocannabinoid system and how cannabis can connect with it to regulate and improve health. Seminar is at the Skagit Valley Co-op. www.skagitfoodcoop.com Planning a cannabis themed-event for the public? Send details to evercannabis@spokesman.com.

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Friday, March 6, 2020

The Spokesman-Review

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Friday, March 6, 2020

FEATURE STORY

Leafly develops new visual language for cannabis SEATTLE COMPANY’S GUIDE SUGGESTS PHASING OUT INDICA, SATIVA DISTINCTIONS By Kate A. Miner EVERCANNABIS CORRESPONDENT

Headquartered in Seattle, Leafly is the world’s leading cannabis technology platform that helps global customers discover products by providing reliable information. Consumers can use the Leafly website and mobile app to learn about the right products for their lifestyle and wellness needs. Then they can find these products from licensed and regulated retailers in their area. At the end of 2019, Leafly published the Leafly Cannabis Guide, a tool for consumers to not only learn about cannabis in general and the various strains, but a better way to perform research. The guide uses data-based visuals to help people discover the best cannabis strains. “Leafly has been at the forefront of shaping the conversation on cannabis and demystifying this rapidly evolving product and industry,” said CEO Tim Leslie. But he also said some aspects of cannabis can remain mysterious,

even among consumers. “As our understanding of cannabis grows, so does our need for a more sophisticated, yet intuitive language to help people navigate the very personal effects cannabis has, and while indica, sativa, and hybrid are starting points for understanding, this form of categorization doesn’t take advantage of our growing understanding of the effects of the various compounds found within the plant,” he said. For decades, cannabis plants have been classified as indica, sativa, or hybrid, often focusing only on the distinct physical features of each plant. Typically, sativas grow tall and thin, while indicas grow short and stout. Because indicas and sativas have specific physical traits, this has led to an assumption that each has certain effects. The truth is that regardless of whether a strain is an indica or sativa, its chemical profile – that is, the cannabinoids and terpenes in it – determine how it affects you, not physical features. Additionally, decades of crossbreeding and hybridization

have made it so some strains thought to be sativas are actually indicas, upon genetic analysis. In a 2010 article by Dr. Ethan Russo, a pioneer in the study of the body’s endocannabinoid system, he explained the importance of cannabinoids and terpenes and the benefits they can create. This is referred to as the “entourage effect.” The entourage effect is how all cannabinoids and terpenes work together with other compounds in the body to unlock the wellness benefits of cannabis, not just THC and CBD. This is why certain components of cannabis provide benefits, such as relief from pain, inflammation, depression, anxiety, and more.

The Cannabis Guide

Exploring strains that suit your unique body and needs is an important part of discovering cannabis, but can also be frustrating. Many can relate experiences of purchasing a strain expecting one experience, and having the opposite, even a negative experience. Because all bodies and settings are different, the same strain can

FIND YOUR SHAPE: CANNABINOIDS

affect two people in different ways and in different circumstances. With Leafly’s Cannabis Guide consumers can now study colors and shapes on a flower-shaped label to understand what elements in one strain may or may not suit them. In the same way an alcohol drinker might choose an IPA over a stout, or a Riesling over a Pinot Noir, by providing accurate source data, cannabis consumers can be confident in knowing a strain’s chemical composition indicated by the visual “flowers” on the label. They will also be able to check the reliability of strain names. Leafly’s Cannabis Guide represents the average of all data from lab partners. Which means when someone looks at a particular strain like Blue Dream, its chemical profile will be shown as an aggregate of samples of this plant from hundreds of growers. If a grower produces a product that they market and sell as Blue Dream, but it doesn’t align with the average of Leafly’s data, con-

Cannabis technology platform Leafly introduced a visual language to help consumers better understand cannabis strain traits, as seen above with White Tahoe Cookies.

sumers can question whether or not it’s right for them based on how it differs.

Using the guide

The Cannabis Guide provides visualizations of strain profiles to better explore the complexity of cannabis using easily recognizable shapes and colors. These include: l Diamond = THC, meaning it may get you high. l Circle = CBD, meaning it will not get you high but may help pain. l Diamond/circle in the middle indicates whether THC or CBD is more dominant l Shorter diamonds: A THC strain to get you high but not too strong. l Only circles: Don’t want a high at all. l Circles and diamonds: Combination of THC and CBD. l Colors. Various terpenes, which are naturally occurring tastes and fragrances. Some may appeal to individuals more than others, such as Myrcene (blue), which has an earthy smell, or

IMAGES COURTESY LEAFLY

Limonene (yellow) which has a citrus smell. Leafly’s Cannabis Guide also combines its unique data with online customer reviews. This means that anyone, regardless of cannabis experience, can easily learn supplemental information such as cannabinoid profiles, potency, dominant ter-

penes, and customer-reported effects. The Cannabis Guide will give you a baseline to better understand what’s in a strain before purchase and help you begin to

determine what strains are best for you. “It’s really about helping consumers find the right strain and the right product as quickly and easily as possible,” said Nick Jikomes, Leafly’s principal research scientist. “We want people to see the difference between products when a real difference exists. We want you to be able to

see with your eyes what you can’t smell with your nose.” Whether it’s on the Leafly app or Leafly.com, Leafly’s goal is to empower customers to discover the best cannabis products for them. There is an ever-growing range of legal cannabis products as broader legalization gains global momentum, and Leafly plans to remain a mainstream

FIND YOUR COLOR: TERPENES C A L M I N G

Represented by circles CBD alone will not get you high. Strain flowers with a center circle are CBD-dominant.

Represented by diamonds

CBD

THC makes you feel high. Strain flowers with a center diamond are THC-dominant.

voice providing customers with current cannabis information and content. The new Leafly Cannabis Guide can be found on the newly rebranded Leafly.com and on the Leafly app. To watch a video describing the Cannabis Guide, visit www.leafly.com/news/ cannabis-101/leaflys-new-mari juana-strain-flower-system.

THC

E N E R G I Z I N G Myrcene Earthy

Pinene Pine

Also found in hops, mango and lemongrass.

Found in pine needles, rosemary, basil and dill.

Caryophyllene Pepper

Limonene Citrus

Terpinolene Fruity

Found in black, pepper, cloves and cinnamon.

Also found in fruit rinds, rosemary, juniper, peppermint.

Also found in nutmeg, tea tree, cumin and lilacs.

Page 15

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Friday, March 6, 2020

The Spokesman-Review

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Friday, March 6, 2020

FEATURE STORY

Leafly develops new visual language for cannabis SEATTLE COMPANY’S GUIDE SUGGESTS PHASING OUT INDICA, SATIVA DISTINCTIONS By Kate A. Miner EVERCANNABIS CORRESPONDENT

The Cannabis Guide

FIND YOUR SHAPE: CANNABINOIDS

Cannabis technology platform Leafly introduced a visual language to help consumers better understand cannabis strain traits, as seen above with White Tahoe Cookies.

sumers can question whether or not it’s right for them based on how it differs.

Using the guide

IMAGES COURTESY LEAFLY

penes, and customer-reported effects. The Cannabis Guide will give you a baseline to better understand what’s in a strain before purchase and help you begin to

FIND YOUR COLOR: TERPENES C A L M I N G

Represented by circles CBD alone will not get you high. Strain flowers with a center circle are CBD-dominant.

Represented by diamonds

CBD

THC makes you feel high. Strain flowers with a center diamond are THC-dominant.

THC

E N E R G I Z I N G Myrcene Earthy

Pinene Pine

Also found in hops, mango and lemongrass.

Found in pine needles, rosemary, basil and dill.

Caryophyllene Pepper

Limonene Citrus

Terpinolene Fruity

Found in black, pepper, cloves and cinnamon.

Also found in fruit rinds, rosemary, juniper, peppermint.

Also found in nutmeg, tea tree, cumin and lilacs.

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The Spokesman-Review

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

Women crushing cannabis scene in Washington A shoutout to those who continue to pave the way for legal product By Joe Butler EVERCANNABIS WRITER

Lara Kaminsky is the former executive director of The Cannabis Alliance.

If you looked at everyone who helped Washington’s legal cannabis program get off the ground and then helped it stay aloft, you’re going to see plenty of women, starting with attorney Alison Holcomb, who famously crafted the legal language for Initiative 502. More than one person has compared the whole legalization process to building an airplane after takeoff. But, in this case, the essential people involved have proven to be expert mechanics and pilots. Since 2012, many Washington women have taken on leadership roles working to lobby lawmakers or their communities, and have proven able to bring together diverse groups of cannabis enthusiasts with strong passions and opinions. Others have focused on growing their own businesses, and helping owners manage theirs. This may mean some long days and nights, or the need to drive to Seattle, Olympia, or anywhere else their representation is needed or there’s a request for a load of cannabis or cash. Those who are parents face the same struggles as

Crystal Oliver is co-owner and co-founder of Washington’s Finest Cannabis in Deer Park. other working mothers – sick kids, childcare demands or meal times – but they can’t have their children on-site at their family-owned business or farm. We know we’re not breaking new ground here, since many female cannabis entrepreneurs have received significant credit over the years for their accomplishments. Womenfocused political groups like Women of NORML have chapters around the state and country. Podcasts like “Maria & Jane,” “High Tea Life” and “High Friends” highlight women’s voices and experiences in the cannabis industry and culture. National cannabis magazines even occasionally give the spotlight to innovative canna-

bis enthusiasts nationwide who happen to be women. But Evercannabis would still like to take this opportunity to salute many of the women involved in helping the cannabis industry grow and thrive, especially those within our readership and community. Many of the following women of business have already appeared in our pages over the last four years, sometimes as story sources, sometimes as guest columnists, and some as Evercannabis correspondents. We’ve greeted them at events, trade shows, vendor days and public hearings. We’ve heard them speak at cannabis and non-cannabis events. Their opinions are respected and welcomed. Take a moment to get to know some of the women who continue to play important roles in helping normalize cannabis and iron out some of the state’s initial framework to get us where we are today: Crystal Oliver is coowner and co-founder of Washington’s Finest Cannabis, a cannabis farm in Deer Park. She is also the executive director of the Washington Sungrowers Industry Association, a trade organization that supports the work of outdoor cannabis farmers around the state. Recently,

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CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

Ahnya Smith is co-founder of the Colored Cannabis Collective. Oliver has been active advocating for the “craft cannabis” bill that would allow farmers of a certain size to sell directly to the public. Lara Kaminsky recently stepped down from her role as executive director of The Cannabis Alliance, which she held for more than four years but remains active. She was active in putting the organization together and getting to know the ins and outs of the entire industry. Her efforts took her to Olympia, to Gov. Jay Inslee’s office, to Washington, D.C., and all around the state. Danielle Rosellison is the owner of Trail Blazin’ Productions, a cannabis farm in the Bellingham area that may have been the first Washington cannabis business to become a member of its local chamber of commerce. Rosellison was the first president of the Cannabis Alliance and personally contacted several groups of growers, patients and advocates to come together. Her company

focuses on ensuring all of its products are tested for quality, something that’s optional in the industry for adult-use. Stephanie Lamb was hired to run the kitchen at Blue Roots Cannabis. The company already had some popular edible items but she added more including infused chips and cookies. She was given more leadership roles in the organization including sales and operations, and has also been involved in developing its new brand, Crave. Shilo Morgan and her husband, David, own Lucky Leaf, a downtown Spokane retailer. They originally opened in TriCities, but zoning restrictions led them to relocate further east. The shop has become a popular gathering place for a diverse cross-section of Spokane life and also hosts monthly art exhibitions. Ahnya Smith is co-founder of the Colored Cannabis Collective, a non-profit organization dedicated to community service

and improving representation for people of color, especially those involved in the cannabis industry. The group also focuses on changing some of the social stigma around cannabis as well. The CCC has scheduled community clean-ups and other beneficial projects. Vicki Christopherson is the head of the Washington CannaBusiness Association, which engages with the cannabis community and elected officials. The group has been active in working with the Legislature and the Liquor and Cannabis Board to improve procedures for 502 businesses. It also created a fund to help medical patients who can’t afford cannabis for their conditions. Who are some the inspirational women you know in the cannabis industry? Share their stories with us at evercannabis@spokesman.com so we can continue to highlight this community of business owners and activists.

Shilo Morgan and her husband, David, own Lucky Leaf in Spokane.

Danielle Rosellison is the owner Shephanie Lamb oversees operations at Blue Roots of cannabis farm Trail Blazin’ Cannabis. Productions.

Vicki Christopherson is head of the Washington CannaBusiness Association

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The Spokesman-Review

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

Let’s play ball Pro sports consider changes to cannabis policies ting to this is especially current and former athletes advocating for medicinal use of cannabis as While there’s a stereotype that an alternative to opioid pain cannabis automatically turns medications. consumers into lazy couch poIn December 2019, Major tatoes, there are also sports that League Baseball and its players have long been connected to union announced an agreement “stoner culture.” Surfing, skatethat marijuana would be reboarding and snowboarding have moved from the list of banned always been associated with the substances, treating its consumplaid-back attitude of those who tion in a similar manner as allike to partake, even as the cohol. Players who test positive sports’ popularity rose and enfor THC will only be subject to tered competitive spaces, indiscipline if their behavior cluding at the Olympic level. while under the influence is And just as these alternative related to unbecoming consports have entered the mainduct. stream, cannabis is gaining acFurthermore, the League is ceptance in traditional competi- implementing testing for several tive sports, including baseball, substances – synthetic cannabifootball and even golf. noids, cocaine and opioids – and A number of national sporting advocating treatment-based organizations have opened dissolutions to drug abuse issues. cussions about the cannabis issue Players will be required to now that legalized medical and complete educational recreational cannabis has programs on “the reached over 30 states. Contribu- dangers of

By Theresa Tanner

EVERCANNABIS WRITER

As cannabis laws change across the state, professional sporting organizations reconsider their drug policies.

opiod pain medication and practical approaches to marijuana,” according to a joint statement. The policy, which came about after 27-year-old Los Angeles Angels pitcher Tyler Skaggs died of a drug overdose in July 2019, took effect during this year’s Spring Training. In 2014, the National Football

League somewhat lightened its stance on marijuana use, and well-known figures in the organization – Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady – recently spoke about more changes we may see in the future. “I think the world is sensitive to the issue regarding marijuana, and it’s also an issue contemporarily that we are excited about being in-step with the social and legal scene as it goes forward,” Jones said in a Dec. 13, 2019, radio interview with Dallas’ 105.3 The Fan. In a separate interview with Westwood One Sports, Brady noted that “The times are changing and progress is good,” as he discussed research and the loss of stigma

associated with cannabis. One of the most buttoned-up sports has also entered the cannabis conversation, although much more reluctantly. After golfer Robert Garrigus was suspended for three months by the PGA Tour after a random drug test showed elevated levels of THC in his system, he met with Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan in July 2019. “It was a good conversation and I let him know my piece,” Garrigus told Golfweek’s Adam Schupak. “They had to deflect. They have an image to protect and uphold. There’s nothing the Tour can do right now because we’re following (World AntiDoping Agency) guidelines.” Garrigus said he uses marijuana to treat knee and back pain. He finds it laughable that CBD and THC are prohibited, but “I could be on Oxycontin on the golf course and get a TUE (Therapeutic Use Exemption) for that. I think that is ridiculous.”

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CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

The state of cannabis in the 49th state

Along with beautiful landscapes, Alaska has long been known for its pro-cannabis attitude.

While legal status has changed, Alaska’s cannabis culture remains true to community, nature By Rob Mejia EVERCANNABIS CORRESPONDENT

Because of its size, climate, and separation from the Lower 48, many of us look at Alaska with amazement and curiosity, mainly because we don’t know much about it! This is especially true when it comes to cannabis.

Like every state, the story of cannabis in Alaska is unique and wandering. It is one of 11 states that currently allows for adultuse cannabis, but it periodically had legal status well before 2014. Even Harry Anslinger, the noted anti-cannabis commissioner who called marijuana “as harmful as a rattlesnake,”

testified before Congress in 1937 that he wasn’t sure if Alaska had any cannabis laws at all. Here are the highlights of Alaska’s complex cannabis history: 1960s: Many Alaskans used cannabis as an act of social protest. This rebellion was fueled by an underground system of sophisticated indoor and outdoor (summer) grows. 1972: Citizen Irwin Ravin was arrested for possession and he successfully sued, though the verdict took three years to

achieve. Two weeks before Ravin’s verdict, the courts separately ruled in favor of cannabis decriminalization (1 ounce or less resulted in a fine). 1982: Cannabis fines were dropped. 1989: A statewide petition circulated to make cannabis illegal again. Measure 2, which recriminalized cannabis, passed in 1990 with 54.3% of the vote; 8 ounces or less resulted in a 90day jail sentence and a $100 fine. 1998: Public opinion shifted again when medical cannabis

was approved by 59% of voters, which allowed possession of up to 1 ounce and up to 6 plants for personal grow. For the next 15 years there was a tug of war between bills criminalizing pot and allowing for legal adult use. 2014: A recreational adult use measure passed with over 53% of the vote. This measure allowed for the development of state-regulated dispensaries, and possession of up to 1 ounce and the growth of six plants. Alaska

See ALASKA, 20

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The Spokesman-Review

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

ALASKA

and effectively. This ethos stems largely from the staff that’s actively involved in Continued from 19 yoga, exercise, outdoor sports, and community events. Their clientele sometimes became the third state to legalize adult asks such questions as, “What’s a good use after Colorado and Washington. yoga strain?” or “What’s good to smoke 2019: The Last Frontier became the before a hike?” first state to approve cannabis use in Like other states, Alaskan dispensaries retail locations. Consumption areas must sometimes struggle with unrealistic state be separated from purchasing areas with regulations. One example is that manufaca secure door, and have a separate venti- turers of concentrates must choose a lation system or be outdoors. Alaska’s specific product name when they fill out Marijuana Control Board approved the an application, and all future product first applications for on-site consumption must be sold under that name, even if the to two locations, GoodSinse LLC, in product changes. Mandates like this can Fairbanks and Cannabis Corner in the hamper innovation and may lead to inacKetchikan Gateway Borough, in early curate product labeling. 2020. But the future for Enlighten looks It’s against this tangled and ever-evolvbright as the company focuses on coming cannabis tapestry that recreational pliance and community engagement. This cannabis retailer Enlighten Alaska finds spring, they are raising funds for a youth itself a valued member of the Anchorage shelter by collecting money from their community today. Enlighten is a close-knit family business customers for a month with a plan to match donations. This activism is even started in 2017 by Jane Stinson and her more impressive given that cannabis busichildren Leah Levinton and Evan Levinnesses are not eligible for tax deductions ton. Enlighten prides itself as being a for charitable donations. place of education and wellness. This sense of giving and community is While Enlighten Alaska has knowlwhat keeps cannabis special in Alaska and edgeable budtenders, the shop has gained a reputation as a place that welkeeps the staff at Enlighten busy and comes novice and first-time users want- fulfilled. These are the kinds of stories ing to learn how to use cannabis safely that the cannabis industry needs!

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LEARN & GROW

KETCHUP OR MUSTARD? Finding cannabis-infused condiments may lead to several dead ends By Dan Webster EVERCANNABIS CORRESPONDENT

It was a simple question. And the answer came quickly and efficiently. I was standing at the counter of Lucky Leaf, the downtown Spokane cannabis retailer. A friendly young woman, who looked to be in her mid-20s and bore the tattooes and piercings you’d expect of someone working in a pot store, asked how she could help me. “I know you sell edibles,” I said. “But do you sell, uh, condiments? You know, like ketchup or mustard?” She turned and I followed, down the counter. Pretty soon she placed four different packages in front of me. One was Green Baker Cannabis Infused Cooking Oil, 10 one-ounce servings of 10 milligrams of both THC and CBD. “Drizzle it over pasta, add it to salads, sauces and dressings,” read the online instructions. “Put it in soups and chowders or stir it into your smoothies. The possibilities are endless.” Then there were the two packets of Swifts Cannabees Pure Honey – one with 10 milligrams of THC and 2 milligrams of CBD, and the other 10 milligrams of THC only. “Pure honey infused with cannabis oil in a convenient packet can be used as a natural sweetener,” goes the ad copy, “(and) can be drizzled on

COURTESY OUR COMMUNITY HARVEST

Our Community Harvest’s CBD-infused line of condiments includes barbecue sauce, hot sauce, ketchup and mustard.

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Online instruction for Green Baker Cannabis Infused Cooking Oil your favorite treat or simply enjoyed entirely on its own.” And, finally, there was the package of 10 sugar packets. Hot Sugar! by name, a Grow Op Farms/Phat Panda company product boasting equal parts THC and CBD (10 milligrams a serving). But … no ketchup, no hot sauce, no steak or barbecue sauce. It’s not as if such products don’t exist, or did for awhile, at least. Yummi Karma in California previously sold a variety of condiments, including ketchup and barbecue sauce, but the company has since discontinued these products due to increased edible regulation. You may also find traces of information about infused condiments from companies like Lorax Labs, The Herbal Chef and Freddie’s Medicated Hot Sauce online, but no active product details. And even if these products are currently available, they are all created in California, which means they are not legal to sell or ship in Washington. To combat this interstate sale restriction, New Jersey-based cannabis education company Our Community Harvest has developed its own line of CBD hemp condiments, like BBQ sauce and hot sauce, which can be sold and shipped nationwide. OCH president (and Evercannabis correspondent) Rob Mejia noted that finding cannabis condiments can be tricky; “It’s not a standard offering.” At the downtown Cinder store, I got pretty much the same reaction as I did at Lucky Leaf: No ketchup, mustard or barbecue sauce, and not much call for them. Then I called Satori North and

spoke to a young woman named Courtney Sargent, who was as helpful as they come. She told me that, other than sugars and some oils, the only kind of condiment that her store regularly carried was a spicy sriracha-like THC tincture put out by Fairwinds Cannabis, a producer-processor in Vancouver. That sounded interesting, especially when I went to the Fairwinds Cannabis website and read the description: “100 mg of THC (25 servings) and a flavor profile even better than the original redefine the tincture category for all of us. Do you love Sriracha, but wish it was bumped up a bit on the heat scale? BAM! This tincture clocks in at around 6,000 units on the Scoville chart.” Unfortunately, none were on the store’s shelves when I called. “Usually, when we get it, it sells out pretty quick,” Sargent said. But as for other kinds of condiments, Sargent said that her store solicits data from its customers about what products they desire. “That’s what the producer-processors want,” she said. “Feedback.” And what feedback has she heard regarding condiments? “I haven’t really had anybody ask about that,” she said. Which echoes the opinion of one industry observer from Portland who said that the cannabis business in Washington state is still trying to find what works – and what doesn’t. “There just might not be a market for it,” the observer said. “Everybody’s still just kind of throwing stuff on the wall to see what sticks.” Apparently, though, that doesn’t include anything you’d want to slather on a hot dog.

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LEARN & GROW

JESSIE MOORE/ THE FRESH TOAST

SAVORY-SWEET CANNABIS CARROT FRIES

By Jessie Moore THEFRESHTOAST.COM

If you love the flavor of sweet potato fries, you’ll love the sweet-savory flavor of oven-baked carrot fries. Drizzled with homemade cannabutter and seasoned with salt, pepper, and parmesan, they’re an earthy-salty-sweet snack that doesn’t taste distractingly of marijuana, yet still has positively intoxicating effects. And best of all? They’re ready when you are. These simple (non-fried) carrot strips can be made

in the oven in just about 20 minutes.

Cannabis Carrot Fries

(Makes six servings) 2-3 medium carrots, or 5-6 small carrots 2 tablespoon cannabutter (see below) 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese Salt, pepper, and seasonings to taste Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment. Peel carrots and slice of tips and ends. Slice each carrot in half, making two short halves. Evenly

slice each half either in half or in quarters, to your desired “fry” size. Place carrots in a large bowl; drizzle with cannabutter. Sprinkle with cheese, salt and pepper and any other seasonings you’d like. Mix by hand to evenly coat carrots. Spread carrots onto prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle any remaining liquid on top. Bake in preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are crisped to your liking (on the longer side if you like them less-soft on the inside; it’s OK if the edges even have a slight bit of blackening). For extra crispy edges, turn on the broiler for the last minute or two of cooking; monitor carefully to prevent burning. Remove from oven and let cool briefly before enjoying warm. A note on dosage I “dosed” this recipe with 1 teaspoon of cannabutter per serving (3 teaspoons = 1 tablespoon). The strength of your finished product will depend on many factors, including the type of marijuana you used and how you made your cannabutter.

Small Batch Cannabutter

1/4 ounce marijuana 1 stick (4 ounces) unsalted butter 1 pint water (may need more during cooking) Just as you would toast nuts to bring out the flavor, you want to toast your marijuana before making cannabutter. This process is called decarboxylation. Scatter the marijuana on a lined, rimmed baking sheet; toast at 240 degrees Fahrenheit for 30-40 minutes, turning a few times throughout the baking. Remove from oven and let cool completely. Finely grind the cannabis, using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Once water is boiling, add butter. Once the butter has melted, reduce heat to the lowest simmer you can and add the ground cannabis. Cook for about 3 hours, stirring occasionally so marijuana doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan. In terms of doneness, you’re going to notice that as the water evaporates, the liquid will become thick and glossy. When it’s starting to look almost done, set up either cheesecloth or a fine-mesh strainer perched above a heatproof bowl. Strain the cannabutter over the bowl. If using a cheesecloth, squeeze to strain out any last bits of liquid; if using a strainer, press down with a spatula or wooden spoon. Let the liquid cool to room temperature, then transfer to the refrigerator to chill thoroughly. After about an hour, you can remove the cannabutter from the bowl and scrape off any excess cooking water. Store well-wrapped cannabutter in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or in the freezer for up to six months.

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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LEARN & GROW

STRAIN OF THE MONTH: ACAPULCO GOLD

MEMORIES OF A MEXICAN CLASSIC By Rick Misterly EVERCANNABIS CORRESPONDENT

Although there is little likelihood that this strain from grower Pioneer Nuggets shares identical genetics with the original landrace strain from the Mexican state of Guerrero, it does show some of the unmistakable characteristics of classic Mexican weed. I chose Acapulco Gold knowing that I would be spending January near the birthplace of this particular strain. The Gold from those long-gone days once represented the peak of quality, and considering how far the U.S. has come in domestic production of our weed in the last 50 years, I expected the same from Mexican growers. What I was actually given by older, well-established expat artists who should know better was disappointing: a hard-pressed mix of leaf and stems attached to flowers full of immature seeds. Once rolled into a joint and lit, the smoke smelled of old burning leaves and left your breath and clothes reeking like an ashtray full of old roaches, plus a short-lived buzz. If it had been a little drier and brown this stuff would have been identical to something found in an old shoebox from decades ago. This brings us to why we should be grateful for legalization of cannabis in Washington. Sure the rules, seemingly written by Calvinist Puritans with an eye on restriction and revenue, could stand some revisions. But despite all of the regulations and hassles, some quality cannabis has been created, like what’s come from Pioneer Nuggets. The grower describes itself as the area’s first “manufacturer” of cannabis products. In direct contrast to high-tech industrial growing methods, the Pioneer team employs a diverse array of biological players to help plants along in their artificial homes. Everything from

beneficial insects and nematodes to bacteria and natural-occurring minerals protect the plants from harmful pests and soilborne diseases. This is a responsible approach to what could require heavy use of toxic artificial products. There’s a great YouTube tour of its cultivation facility in Arlington that’s worth checking out. Appearance: These tightly compressed flowers were too dry with no rebound when touched and crumbled easily, way below the ideal moisture content of 10% to 12%. A nice pale green in color, the buds were thickly encrusted with fully ripened trichomes plus reddish, golden pistillate flowers caught at their peak. Aroma: Once the seal was broken an unusual fragrance caught my attention. It was complex and at first sniff I was at a loss to its identity: sort of a sweet, spicy fragrance with more coming from the deep center. The two dominant terpenes, Camphene and Phellandrene, were new to me and required further research. After many more sniffs and dry hits, I’d describe them as rosemary and a trace of eucalyptus. Effects: To truly experience the fine quality of this 21st century version of the Mexican classic, it’s best appreciated through a clean pipe or vaporizer. The smooth, non-expansive smoke will fill your lungs with no cough or discomfort. My suggested serving would be to roll a good joint in a ZigZag and take the goodness in to get an idea of what it was like back in the day. The feeling will hit you quickly as a bright euphoria raises even the heaviest spirits. Sharing will further enhance the lighthearted openness. Hilarity is likely to ensue and the wonderment should last for a good three hours. Food may become irresistible. If enjoyed early in the day a second session may be necessary, or as an evening indulgence keep going until you pass into an easy sleep.

Acapulco Gold Grown by Pioneer Nuggets, Arlington Total THC: 21.77% CBD: 0.00% Total Terpenes: 1.9% Dominant Terpenes: Camphene 5,305 ppm; Phellandrene 4,987 ppm; Pinene 4839 ppm; Myrcene 2022 ppm Purchased at Royals Cannabis, Spokane

PHOTOS COURTESY PIONEER NUGGETS

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Friday, March 6, 2020

The Spokesman-Review

CANNABIS LABEL CANNABIS IN BRIEF

SALES HIGHER NEAR IDAHO BORDER SALEM – An analysis by the Oregon Office of Economic Analysis indicated that legal cannabis sales are 420 percent higher (no joke!) at cities near the Idaho border compared to the rest of the state, which suggests that Idahoans are crossing the border to buy their product and likely bring it back home. This is illegal due to Idaho’s firm laws against any kind of marijuana possession. The Gem State is largely surrounded by states that offer adult-use and/or medical cannabis; Wyoming only allows hemp-derived CBD products that contain less than 0.3% THC by weight. The study showed Oregon cannabis sales were $201 per adult resident statewide in 2019. Similar rates were shown for interior Oregon and communities along the California and Washington borders. But the amounts near Idaho more than doubled. The study also showed that 75 percent of Oregon sales and 35 percent of Washington sales were along the Idaho border. “Sales in counties along the Idaho border were much stronger than I anticipated,” said Josh Lehner, who analyzed the data. “Even after throwing the data into a rough border tax model that accounts for incomes, number of retailers, tax rates and the like, there remains a huge border effect.”

Source: Oregon Live

502 business maps removed OLYMPIA – The Washington Liquor and Cannabis Board recently removed maps and addresses from its website that show where processors and producers are located. Although the state’s initial concept was to provide as much transparency and disclosure as possible when Washington’s legal cannabis marketplace was created in 2014, the cannabis community believes that making this information public makes it easier for criminals to target businesses. Several break-ins and burglaries have taken place at Washington cannabis businesses over the last few

Texas officials arrest, release man for hemp

years, including some that seemed to target certain locations or possibly were committed by similar people. For instance, three adjacent farms were burglarized in the same evening in Kitsap County in 2019. Although none of the crimes have been directly connected to the information available on the LCB site, several company owners asked the agency to find solutions that would make finding a business’s exact location more difficult for unwanted visitors. Location information about specific businesses can still be provided with a public record request.

Source: MJBizDaily

AMARILLO – During a December traffic stop of a U-Haul along Interstate 40, a Texas trooper found dozens of boxes filled with what he thought were cannabis plants. After a call for assistance and verification from the local DEA Task Force, authorities arrested driver Aneudy Gonzalez of Florida on charges of felony drug possession. The Texas Department of Public Safety promoted the bust and troopers took pictures in front of the truck, saying 3,000 pounds of marijuana were seized. A month later, Gonzalez was released after authorities tested the plant and found it was genetically hemp. Texas law states hemp must have less than .3 percent THC, a natural compound, which distinguishes it from recreational or medical marijuana. DEA officials said they

weren’t aware that Texas had different laws for hemp than other cannabis plants, and weren’t sure of the THC content. Gonzalez’s attorney welcomed his client’s release from jail, but was still waiting for the return of the hemp. He also was requesting financial compensation for the month Gonzalez spent in jail, as well as an apology. Texas authorities said the trooper believed that the plants were marijuana, an opinion that was solidified when the DEA concurred. Source: Associated Press

Washington shops rank high in kid ID checks SEATTLE – Researchers studying legal compliance at U.S. cannabis retail shops found that businesses generally perform well at checking IDs. A study recently published in the December Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs described how people who “appeared young” were told to not to bring ID when they visited 350 cannabis stores in the West, including Washington and Colorado. They asked to buy something and noted if store staff asked for ID at any time during the process. The study visited 85 shops in Colorado and 90 in Washington. Findings showed that all 349 surveyed shops refused to sell to someone without an ID. One noted difference between Colorado and Washington is that Colorado shops had more workers at the door who wouldn’t let people proceed without proper ID. “More than 40 percent of buyers made it onto the sales floors in Washington without having their IDs checked, and only about three-quarters were checked before making the purchase attempt,” the study said. “Checking IDs at the door may be an effective compliance technique.”

Source: Marijuana Moment

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Alene, Idaho

Friday, March 6, 2020

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