EVERCANNABIS AUGUST 2019
TRIPLE C
Giving cannabis a friendly face
MORNING MUG
MAKING MONARCH Growing flower with conscience
Caffeine gets an extra kick ETIQUETTE EXPERT Emily Post meets pot
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evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, August 2, 2019
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evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, August 2, 2019
This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit-forming. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of the reach of children.
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evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, August 2, 2019
VOLUME 4 | ISSUE 8 DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Kathleen Coleman
DIRECTOR OF SALES Dan Fritts
MANAGING EDITOR Joe Butler
HEALTH & CULTURE EDITOR Theresa Tanner
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Anne Potter The Spokesman-Review
EDITORIAL TEAM Kip Hill
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From the
Editor’s Desk Will a spoonful of sugar make medical marijuana too appealing?
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hat if your cannabis tasted bad, especially your edibles? That’s the recent suggestion of Dr. Peter Grinspoon, a contributing editor for Harvard Health Publishing, part of Harvard Medical School. He suggested that creating unpleasant flavors of cannabis, perhaps a literal bitter pill, might make the product more appealing as medicine and less “fun” as a recreational substance. A nasty taste might make patients know they’re taking something good for them, like their other medications, so they’ll be forced to grit their teeth and gulp, reducing the risk of wanting to eat too much in one sitting, and avoiding any social stigma as well. Emergency room visits or nonmedical panic attacks from taking too much or the wrong item could potentially drop. This concept also could, in theory, discourage kids from sampling an adult’s stash of grown-up candy, cookies and chewy things, and possibly reduce poison control calls, although pills might be tempting in different ways. Grinspoon said he is seeing a trend toward sweeter and saltier cannabis treats, including chocolates and chewy things (remember: never say gummy in WA!). Though these flavors are all clever and creative, he has concluded that the wide variety of flavors only cause confusion and curiosity, and suggests that medical-grade cannabis should look and taste like just another pill. This approach does appeal to some who want to normalize
the role of cannabis. In the future, perhaps making a medical purchase could be as easy and as dull as going to your pharmacy, perhaps somewhere sterile and bright. Picking up one’s medicine could also avoid associating with the people who want to just have fun and party. I do appreciate the approach of trying to distinguish patients from recreational, adult-use consumers to make medical options more accessible, but it’s my experience that the current marketplace works well when it allows people to try whatever they like and learn what makes them feel best, instead of just sticking to that old rule of thumb “if it tastes bad, it must be good for you.” That would essentially move marijuana into the category of broccoli, Brussell sprouts or liver, when it’s really supposed to be something that is said to help people by making them feel good. What do you think? Tell us your thoughts at Evercannabis@spokesman.com, or follow us on social media at @EvercannaNews to join the conversation.
Joe Butler Managing Editor
evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, August 2, 2019
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INSIDE News & Business 6
CLOSING TIME
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KUNG FU VAPES
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PROTESTIVAL RETURNS
Quitting the biz
Local company gets hands-on
Seattle event marks 28 years
Health & Science 10
WARNING SIGN
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DAILY MEDICINE
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PLANT PEOPLE PLANET
Researchers seek definitive answers
Cannabis in capsules growing
Grower aims for sustainability
Culture & Lifestyle
AUGUST CONTENT 6
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HELPING HANDS
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CBD MASSAGE
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SUMMER SWEET
Non-profit cleans up community
Skeptic tries unique new service
Frozen dessert has cannabis core
Learn & Grow 20
DRINK IT IN
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HIGHER ETIQUETTE
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STASHLOGIX
Try an infused coffee or tea
Table manners for cannabis
Engineer makes storage safe
Marijuana and marijuana-infused products are legal for Washington residents 21 years and older. It has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. It can impair concentration, coordination and judgment. There may be health risks associated with consumption.
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evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, August 2, 2019
NEWS & BUSINESS
SHUTTING DOWN Market challenges lead some growers to call it quits
By TARYN MICKELSON EVERCANNABIS Correspondent
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THCBD, a Spokane grower, closed its doors earlier this year. Photos by Taryn Mickelson
n 2012, when sales of recreational cannabis in Washington became a reality, the love for growing the plant and making an honest living doing so became a reality for many entrepreneurs. The industry has since boomed with more than 1,400 producer/processors, but right around 500 retailers they can sell to. According to 502data.com, a state analytic service, as of November 2018, only 10 out of all these producer/processors have actually achieved annual revenue exceeding $1 million, dispelling the belief from outside the industry that everyone is making tons of money. As legal cannabis continues to expand, prices continue to decline, further decreasing the odds for small businesses to see increased profitability, regardless of product quality. Retail prices are now considered to be less than current black market value, which sometimes presents an economic dilemma of whether to legally sell wholesale at an average price of $2.50-$3.75 for a gram of flower, or $4-$5 a gram to black market customers. THCBD, a Tier 2 producer/processing farm based in Spokane, was established in 2012 as a medical grow. It shuttered this spring due to the unsteadiness of the industry. Owner Zac Steve started in the industry as Lilac City Collection Association, a medical dispensary. Lilac City and THCBD overlapped for a year until THCBD began to grow on its own. “Back during the medical cannabis days, there were long days and nights plucking, trimming, and taking care of these sensitive plants with other friends, talking about what we would do if cannabis was decriminalized at a larger level,” Steve said. “When it happened, I jumped on the opportunity.” Steve said the early days of legal adult-use were less competitive, allowing retail stores the chance to stay loyal to a certain number of brands. But with such a large pool of product to choose from at lower prices, many retailers are now offering brands on a rotating basis, an approach that’s good for consumers but mixed for wholesalers.
In 2015, Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board increased the maximum number of retail licenses to 556 but didn’t give a limit to producer/processing licenses. Steve said Washington’s wholesale market is still oversupplied after two years of favorable harvests and lower prices. “I remember driving out to one shop and seeing a sign that read, ‘Sorry, we already have enough vendors and are no longer taking samples at this time,’” he said. The decision to shut down was disappointing, but not unexpected to the staff. Will Harris started in the industry working with plants and dirt at an outdoor farm. He moved into sales, and later became THCBD’s production manager. “THCBD was a close-knit family and to see it go was hard on everyone. I want the public to know growing cannabis isn‘t always easy or as simple as some believe,” he said. “It can be tedious, laboring and sometimes difficult. There are many factors, and if one thing goes wrong, that could do major damage to the finances of a small business.” For instance, system-wide problems can result if the wrong soil is sent or mislabeled, if a plant somehow gets pollinated and creates seeds, or if certain bugs infest a crop. “A chain of events such as bad soil was hard on the plant, then our concentrates lab was no longer able to run due to restrictions that were too expensive to accommodate, and other events like this ended in the closure of a business I put my all into,” he said. “Simply put, the margins were too thin to thrive financially in this industry.” The oversaturation of certain commercial products also could be a challenge. The most popular item is flower, which is the easiest and most affordable to grow. But companies that create other items like concentrates or edibles need to invest in specialized equipment or employees with different skills. Besides Steve and Harris, the employees at THCBD included three growers and two processors. Most want to stay in the industry. The license, name and location are all for sale.
evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, August 2, 2019
STRAIN OF THE MONTH
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SOUR DIESEL New Day Cannabis, Newport
90% Sativa 10% Indica THC 17% CBD .14% Terpenes: Myrcene 56% Caryophyllene .41% Limonene 2.1%
Courtesy photo New Day Cannabis
Understanding the production methods that go into what we smoke is just as important as the effect. So when I tried one of New Day Cannabis’ products, I wanted to learn about the company’s approach to quality and the environment. I learned that they use LED lighting and operate an earth-sheltered production facility to cut back on energy use. They also make sure the location is pesticidefree, requiring close attention throughout the entire growing cycle. Their sustainable practices amount to “organic” although the term cannot be officially used for cannabis.
APPEARANCE: The color of its Sour Diesel ranges from light green, from the nice amount of leaf on the bud, to a pale golden on the actual flower, with plenty of reddish brown “hairs” coming from down deep. The fairly tight buds, but not rock hard, also speak to its freshness. AROMA: As someone who owns diesel vehicles, I couldn’t detect any actual diesel aromas. What came out instead was a warm dry energizing spice like Indian cuisine, with evidence of grapefruit zest. In the spice profile was Ajwain seed, sort of a slightly pungent oil which could be imagined as diesel if there wasn’t a botanical source of that smell.
TASTE: A buttery smooth smoke with a slight hint of hazelnut. The warm spice coming through had a little oil flavor on the finish. Interesting, with a lot to savor. EFFECTS: With relatively low THC compared to other premium cannabis brands, this Sour Diesel produced a nice balance between a sharp, creative head and a soothing, relaxed body high. Very soon after ignition, I felt a soft cloak spreading evenly over my body. No jolting rush but a steady creeping of comfort and relaxation. Good clear mental focus opened creative possibilities yet with energized motivation. This strain helped me through a couple of long days of physical labor. These effects arise from the high
levels of Myrcene. This “cause and effect” should alert us to the futility of giving our cannabis names like “Sativa” or “Indica.” These terms have become popular as a convenience to explain certain effects, and I would prefer to describe how a plant makes us feel. In future reviews I’ll try and get away from these outdated terms. Reviewed by Rick Misterly
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evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, August 2, 2019
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Alexis Dawson and John Dawson Jr. from Kung Fu Vapes recently released the Quasar, a cannabis vaping device. Photo by Joe Butler
Spokane Company Vapes Around The World By JOE BUTLER EVERCANNABIS Writer
Kung Fu Vapes
4811 N. Market St., Spokane (818) 254-8861 www.kungfuvapes.com
ohn Dawson, Jr., knows exactly when his “Aha!” moment happened. In a tattoo shop in San Diego, a friend asked him to try an early version of a vape pen loaded with hash, a cannabis concentrate. He’d smoked pot before growing up but never experienced the type of high as he did with that device. He instantly knew that plenty of people are going to love their cannabis this way, and he wanted to be part of it. “We went on a mission right then to all the stores around town and bought any kind of e-cigarette and vape pen we could find, so we could take them all apart, see how they were made, and see if we could figure out how to make them better,” said Dawson. Today, a decade later, Dawson is the owner of Kung Fu Vapes, which provides components for vaporizers, including batteries and cartridges, plus all sorts of pens and pocket rigs designed for heating cannabis concentrates or oil. “We love to help design, brand, and package products for different companies,” he said. Located on Market Street in the Hillyard area, he and co-owner/ brand manager Alexis Dawson now work with producers and processors and retailers in 25 states. While Kung Fu Vapes must follow state rules governing the sale and use of vape products, the restrictions for 502 licensees don’t apply, allowing it sell and distribute outside of Washington. “This evolution is a trip – we have a small niche of the industry, but we’re doing huge numbers around the country and even internationally,” John Dawson said. Vape pens/e-cigs can deliver a more potent experience than smoking flower. They’re also more discreet than a traditional pipe or bong, can easily fit in a pocket or purse, and the vapor doesn’t fill the lungs or have a strong odor like pot smoke does. A client may have ideas of what
they want or don’t want in their next vape product. Or Dawson’s manufacturing partners in China may suggest new products and materials. Mostly, the ideas for come from his own hands-on research. “We’re always trying to push the industry forward,” he said. “We never want to follow trends – we want to create them.” He also likes to visit different growers and social media/industry influencers, and is always attending cannabis events around the country, either as a vendor or an attendee to learn what new products are in the works. It’s also a chance to educate consumers and possible partners about everything Kung Fu Vapes can bring to the table. He and Alexis essentially do everything – it would easy to hire sales people around the country, but he likes being handson and involved in all discussions and decisions. Kung Fu Vapes recently released the Quasar pod system, a one-time use fillable pen that’s already receiving praise for its portability, stability, and ability to use different types of oil. It’s child-proof, and there’s no wicking or alloys involved. Later this year, it plans to release Kung Fu Vitals, a pre-filled device containing CBD oil sourced from high-quality hemp grown in New York. Dawson said this is a great time for the industry. There are a lot of vape products, producers/processors want to make sure their customers have safe, reliable and enjoyable products, and that’s where he thinks Kung Fu Vapes has established a great reputation. “What we’re seeing right now is this perfect blending of electronic materials and cannabis, and it’s all going to get bigger,” he said. “There are a lot of products out there, but your hardware is going to define you.”
evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, August 2, 2019
AUG. 16-18
28th year
Hempfest celebrates 28 years this month of being the world’s only cannabis protest-ival.
By LINDA BALL EVERCANNABIS Correspondent
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empfest, Seattle’s annual ‘all things cannabis’ festival, kicks off Aug. 16, with more than 100,000 people expected to attend. The event started in 1991 as the Washington Hemp Expo. Approximately 500 people attended the one-day event at Volunteer Park that focused on the failed war on drugs, a need for better information, and a chance to have fun. By 2001 the event had grown so much it moved to Myrtle Edwards Park, providing more space and the opportunity for extra days. Admission is free with more than 300 arts, crafts, food and informational vendors planning to show their wares along the expansive waterfront of Myrtle Edwards and Centennial parks. There will be three stages, including the Hemposium Stage that will feature panel discussions. Notable speakers this year include Myrtle Clarke and Julian Stobbs, also known as the “dagga couple.” (Dagga is what marijuana is called in South Africa.) The couple has fought for legalization in
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that country and to erase the records of people with criminal records for possession of dagga. Adults can use or grow dagga in their private spaces; however, there remains uncertainty regarding other possession or usage laws. Another slated speaker is Carolyn Garcia, aka Mountain Girl, the former wife of the Grateful Dead’s Jerry Garcia. In 1976, she penned a book about marijuana cultivation, called “Primo Plant: Growing Sinsemilla Marijuana.” Garcia currently sits on several boards including the Marijuana Policy Project. Other notable speakers include: • Dr. Sunil Aggarwal, recognized at Hempfest as National Activist of the Year in 2018, and one of the founders of Advanced Integrative Medicine of Seattle. • Nick Mosely of Confidence Analytics in Redmond, a state-certified and accredited testing lab for cannabis flower, concentrates and edibles. Confidence Analytics provided test results for the first cannabis samples in the U.S. • Bonita “Bo” Money, the founder of Women Abuv Ground, which is educates
and supports women of color who want to be part of the cannabis industry. With recreation and medical legalization in California, she wants to see more opportunities for people of color, especially since African-Americans and Latinos have borne the brunt of cannabis-related arrests.
Photos courtesy Seattle Hempfest
• Seth Cunnigan, who is diagnosed with fibromyalgia and has been documenting his walking trips from San Diego to Seattle. Notable musical acts this year include Seattle band Sky Cries Mary, a psych rock/ cosmic group formed in the late 1980s by Roderick Wolgamott and Ben Ireland. Also performing is the Bellingham-based band, Cryptamnesia, which bills itself as monster hard rock with monstrous theatrics. DJ Yella – a member of the World Class Wreckin’ Cru with Dr. Dre, as well as N.W.A – will also be featured on the main stage. Recently, a legal wrinkle over what vendors could say or display in their signage threatened to impact Hempfest. But the Liquor and Cannabis Board recently clarified its policy to allow 502 licensees to display business name on a booth and to disseminate information that is “noncommercial” in nature, such as educational, informational or advocacy literature. For more information, including an event schedule, visit www.hempfest.org.
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evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, August 2, 2019
HEALTH & SCIENCE Local health experts warn against using marijuana while pregnant, even as research remains inconclusive By Kip Hill The Spokesman-Review
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any questions about marijuana use during pregnancy have yet to be definitively answered by researchers, but health officials say there’s enough information out there to justify urging restraint. “Let’s utilize some caution here, and pause, to really make people talk about it,” said Melissa Charbonneau, public health nurse with the Spokane Regional Health District’s Community and Family Services division. “Yes, it is frustrating, because you don’t have all the answers. But the answers we do have, I think, are enough to give you pause.” That’s the thinking behind the launch several years ago of “Weed to Know,” a public education outreach, targeting a population of young mothers with less concern about using the now-legalized drug. While marijuana use remains scarce among pregnant women and was at just 7% in 2017, according to national surveys on drug use, that figure is up from just 2.4% 15 years ago, and 3.9% in 2014, when recreational sales began in Washington. The Health District warnings use language that is not definitive. Those messages warn that cannabis may affect a baby’s birth weight or interrupt the formation of cognitive abilities in their formative years, not that they will. There’s research to support the statements, but participants in those studies skew toward lower-income mothers seeking health care at public facilities in other countries,
many who used other substances, such as alcohol and tobacco, while pregnant. Those confounding factors can be eliminated through statistical modeling. Celestina BarbosaLeiker, associate dean of research at Washington State University’s Nursing School in Spokane, also is trying to avoid their influence on the question of marijuana’s effects on a fetus by speaking directly to pregnant mothers who use local but who don’t take other substances. “The perception of cannabis has changed among pregnant women,” Barbosa-Leiker said. “These are not heroin users or polysubstance users. They were continuing use to help other chronic conditions, like chronic pain.” Barbosa-Leiker and Charbonneau both note that major health organizations instruct health care providers to discourage marijuana use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Multiple studies have shown that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive element in marijuana, can be passed to a child through the mother’s milk for weeks after her last use of the drug. There’s also evidence that in the womb, THC passes through the placenta. There are also several unknowns that could be answered by mothers willing to speak openly about their use of cannabis in an era where the drug isn’t criminalized, BarbosaLeiker said. “The studies have largely focused on smoking,” Barbosa-Leiker said. “We don’t know the impacts of all the other ways to ingest.”
Barbosa-Leiker is in the final step of a three-phase study that’s looking at the interaction between mothers, health care providers and the marijuana retailers themselves about what advice is being given to pregnant women seeking guidance on cannabis use. Meanwhile, a researcher at the University of Washington recently received funding from the National Institute for Drug Abuse to recruit mothers using cannabis to treat morning sickness. The study hopes to determine, through in-utero imaging, any effect on the formation of the child’s brain. Such research is needed in
order to understand the effects of marijuana use during pregnancy and weed out the effects of other substances or recreational use as a factor in child development, said Crystal Oliver, executive director of the cannabis advocacy group Washington Sungrowers Industry Association. “Universally, we would all like to see good research that would answer these questions,” said Oliver. Historically, research into the health effects of marijuana, and indeed any research into the drug, has been hindered by its classification under federal law as
an illegal substance in all instances. As research into the drug continues, the Health District will continue to urge the region’s mothers to avoid cannabis in all of its forms while both pregnant and breastfeeding. “The whole thing with this was, we want to stimulate some conversation,” she said. “We don’t have all the answers, but we want people to think twice.” An extended version of this article was published in The SpokesmanReview on July 7, and can be read in full at evercannabis.com.
evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, August 2, 2019
Keep cannabis locked up tight,
of little eyes, who just might, bis na n a c al ep rigin . g Ke o in kagin c pa
far away and out of sight, e wher nabis e. n a c e Use a n ’t s kids c
nabis p can u k c t Lo even to pr e us . teen
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Keep canna bis wher e kid s c a n ’t re a c h .
think it’s for them and take a bite. In 2 01 Wa s 7 , c a l l s hing to th Cen e ter i ton Poi son nvo 0-5 lv in p re v c re a s e i n g k i d s d f ro ious m year by 5 the 7.7% .
Le “No ave o n war t for K nin i d s” g la bel s.
When it comes to cannabis, safety is essential. It can be hard even for adults to see when edible treats include THC. That’s why cannabis-infused products can be dangerous for those who may think it’s regular food. Some teens may even search for cannabis products at home. But you can keep everyone—from kids to pets—out of risk by storing your cannabis safely. So, keep your cannabis where kids can’t reach, in original packaging, and with “Not for Kids” labels intact.
For more on safe storage, visit KnowThisAboutCannabis.org
* Source information for statements can be found at KnowThisAboutCannabis.org/Sources
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evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, August 2, 2019
Pre-employment screening won’t hurt hiring in Nevada
NATIONAL BRIEFS
Arizona court allows extracts for medical use
CARSON CITY – With a few exceptions, Nevada employers can’t refuse to hire job candidates if they fail marijuana screening tests. Gov. Steve Sisolak signed the bill in June that makes Nevada the first state where employers aren’t allowed to reject job applicants if the presence of marijuana is found in their preemployment substance screening.
PHOENIX – The Arizona Supreme Court has ruled that registered patients can legally consume cannabis extracts, a product that was not explicitly included when the state’s medical marijuana marketplace was created in 2010.
Rodney Jones, a registered medical marijuana patient, was arrested with a small amount of hashish in 2013 and convicted for possession of cannabis and drug paraphernalia. Jones received a twoand-a-half year sentence. His attorney appealed the case to the Arizona Court of Appeals in 2018, which ruled that the framework only included dried flower of the marijuana plant. That case was then appealed to the state Supreme Court.
In a unanimous ruling, the court determined that certain quantities of extracts fall under the Arizona Medical Marijuana Act and are legal for registered patients to use as a possible method of treating chronic pain or other health conditions. “A plain reading of the relevant provisions compels our conclusion that the AMMA protects the use of marijuana, including resin, so long as the patient doesn’t exceed the allowable amount and otherwise complies with the statutory requirements,” the ruling stated. The court’s decision vacated Jones’s conviction and sentence.
Source: AZCentral
Kroger stores to carry CBD products CINCINNATI – The Kroger Company, which includes grocery stores and general retail stores around the country, will now begin selling CBD products. The country’s largest grocery chain announced plans to offer hemp-derived CBD topical products, such as lotions and oils, at 945 stores in 17 states.
include less than .03 percent THC, the compound in cannabis plants with psychoactive effects.
“Like many retailers, we are starting to offer our customers a highly-curated selection of topical Kroger products like lotions, balms, is the first oils and creams major grocery that are infused chain to begin with hemp-derived CBD,” a Kroger offering the spokeswoman said.
“
product.”
Although some national chains have begun selling CBD products, these have been more medical and wellness-focused, such as Walgreens, CVS, GMC, and Vitamin Shoppe. Kroger is the first major grocery chain to begin offering the product. CBD items extracted from hemp can be purchased legally since they
The chain doesn’t plan to offer CBD in food or dietary products at this time – health and beauty products have less liability and aren’t regulated by the FDA. Washington is one of the 17 states that will begin selling these products. Kroger-owned stores in the state include Fred Meyer and QFC.
Source: CNBC
“As our legal cannabis industry continues to flourish, it’s important to ensure the door of economic opportunity remains open for all Nevadans,” said Sisolak.
He said the law also contains commonsense exceptions for public safety and transportation professions where the employer believes that marijuana use could affect others’ safety, such as firefighters, EMTs, or those who operate vehicles as part of their job duties.
If an employer does require a substance use screening, the candidate can also provide a second test that the employer must accept. The policy takes effect in 2020.
As legal cannabis use and access increases, various municipalities are adjusting their policies to not penalize users. New York City’s Council also passed a ban on using marijuana screening as a condition of employment, and Maine doesn’t allow employers to discriminate based on marijuana use. Source: CNN
evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, August 2, 2019
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You may be Qualified to use Cannabis and not even know it!
Are Cannabis Capsules Right For You?
MISSION: We are a compassionate group of medical and administration professionals, helping patients in Washington State, obtain the right to use cannabis medicinally. We provide a service that enables patients to see a Medical Provider that will help them in their holistic health decisions. We offer education on cannabis use, the law supporting such use , Rcw69.51a, and offer verification services to both the Provider and Patient. Patients For Patients Medical is owned and operated by Tracy Sirrine, a cannabis patient, and a compassionate business owner . I , Tracy, am dedicated to helping people live their lives comfortably on their terms. I have seen the amazing benefits of cannabis use, in seizure patients as young as 9 yrs old, and curing the cancer of a 43 year old. We have helped these patients obtain the legal right to heal themselves. We help our chemo and radiation patients / terminal patients for free. We also seek out community groups to volunteer time with the community.
REDUCED COMPASSION PRICE FOR CANCER PATIENTS We are open in
Bellevue, Yakima, Kennewick, and Spokane Valley 888.204.1260 PHONE 888.204.1280 FAX
By KATE A. MINER EVERCANNABIS Correspondent
I
f you are considering trying cannabis but the idea of smoking or vaping doesn’t appeal, then capsules could be an alternative. Though they’re still relatively new, capsules are quickly making their way into the spotlight, providing a safe, convenient and less stigma-inducing way to enjoy some of the benefits. Capsules offer an element of simplicity, and a more precise way to measure the amount of cannabis you are ingesting. Each capsule is a pre-measured dose making them a viable option for consumers who aren’t excited about using syringes or eating sugary edibles. Healthcare practitioners will often recommend capsules since they can prescribe an exact milligram amount to a patient. Additionally, capsules have no waste and can easily be integrated into your regular vitamin/supplement routine. They can also be transported safely and discreetly. Some Washington producers/processors are finding success creating capsules, including Fairwinds, based in Vancouver. The company is
committed to creating highlyengineered nutraceutical cannabis wellness products, and one of the state’s leading capsule manufacturers. “We use advanced, worldclass cannabis cultivation and processing technologies alongside unique Eastern medicine philosophies and formulations,” explained Steve Schechterle, marketing director, “And we aspire to redefine the way society approaches health and wellness.” Fairwinds founders James and Wendy Hull wanted to share their passion for
healthy living, nutrition and natural medicine, which is why, when they ventured into cannabis, they pushed for higher standards in cultivation and processing to provide the most effective and safe products. Fairwinds offers 10 types of capsules, each with specific CBD/THC ratios and combinations for specific needs. Its capsules are formulated with fortified cannabis terpenes
124 E RIVERSIDE AVE | IONE, WA | 509-442-3420
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and premium flower, in a Summer hours powerful herbal blend, that Mon - Sat 9-8 Sun 10-6 is cryogenically frozen to Product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this preserve potency allowing 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. it to better absorb into the bloodstream. Besides dosage size and how you take them, how are cannabis capsules different than other forms? It really comes down to what effects you want. “If you’re using cannabis to help you sleep, you most likely want a product that will provide a longer-lasting experience,” Schechterle said. “If you want something for a more immediate effect, smoking or vaping is the way to go, but the experience is shorter. Capsules provide a slow and gradual onset, with Riverpoint Pharmacy is a compounding pharmacy that different lengths of experience depending on your body specializes in creating individual, custom medications. type and the different ingredients within the capsule.” We have solutions: We offer a full line of Budtenders, especially • Hormone therapy for men and women those with medical marijuana • Topical pain formulations Ananda Professional training or state certification, • Dosing and dosage form changes, CBD products. should be able to explain • Preservative and allergy free medications more details about capsules. FREE HORMONE CONSULTATION They can let you know about if you mention this ad other brands worth explorFor more information ing, including Canada’s or to schedule a consultation call Wildflower out of Canada and Ceres, which is based in Washington.
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EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to 7KH 6SRNHVPDQ 5HYLHZ f Friday, August 2, 2019
FEATURE STORY Evergreen Herbal Introduces
Sustainable grower focuses on consciously-grown, clean, consistent product By KATE A. MINER EVERCANNABIS Correspondent
E
vergreen Herbal, a producer/professor based in Seattle, is known for high-quality edibles and drinkables including 4.20 chocolate, Sinners & Saints hard candies and Blaze cola. Its stated mission is to “create a world where cannabis can be consumed in a spirit of wellness, freedom and fun by providing consumers with access to healthy and reliable cannabis products.” Company officials also emphasize being committed to developing new ways to enjoy clean, sustainable and consciously-grown cannabis. It’s this commitment to innovation and sustainability that led Evergreen Herbal to seek out technology to create a new brand of flower that doesn’t require pesticides, chemicals, or even soil. MONARCH is grown in its own facility near Tacoma, which focuses on strict environmental controls. Cultivation takes place in a completely pharmaceutical-grade environment which provides a higher quality, cleaner and safer product. “We only have one Earth and we want to do our part to preserve it,”
said Marco Hoffman, CEO and founder. “We are in the business of producing cannabis products that people can trust. We have the most technically-advanced cultivation facility in the nation, and we believe that you shouldn’t have to choose between high-quality, potent cannabis and sustainability.” MONARCH’s state-of-the-art facility in Shelton, which came online this summer, uses an aeroponics system where the root stems of the plant are suspended in air, and water is generated through condensation. Nutrients are added and sprayed onto the roots, recaptured, and recycled, making the grow facility fully water-neutral and environmentally superior. Traditional irrigation systems can carry fertilizer, pesticides, and other chemicals into a clean water system. Visitors to the facility must wear sanitized scrubs and enter an air shower beforehand to remove any pollen, bacteria, or other hazardous microbials. Grow rooms are equipped with high-quality air handlers, allowing the air to move through a 6-stage filtration system. Moisture is than removed
from the air, collected and used to irrigate the plants. All water goes through a 6-stage system to remove everything above .0001 microns (a single bacterium is 2.10 microns), and germicidal LED lighting cleans and disinfects the grow rooms. This means no chemicals are needed and 40% less energy is consumed. MONARCH initially offers two sativa strains, Agent Orange and Koffee Breath; two indica lines, BlackBerry Headband and Face-Off OG; and one hybrid, Sherbert. Each plant is grown under automated conditions so all environmental factors such as moisture and nutrient levels can be programmed in every time so the product is identical. “MONARCH is unique,” said Stephen Lay, Eastern Washington sales representative for Evergreen Herbal. “When purchasing cannabis in Washington you may or may not
know the product you’re getting. If you purchase a strain, there’s no guarantee it will be the same every time.” Lay said this uncertainty can be confusing and frustrating to consumers. Cross contamination can also degrade a product, often caused by pesticides. Chemicals and genetic testing used in many grow facilities can also provide an inconsistent product, along with being harmful to the environment. “With MONARCH, we provide a consistent and pure product grown in an environmentally sustainable way,” he said. The Evergreen Herbal philosophy advocates clean and healthy living and the staff is passionate about the environment. “Not all cannabis is created equal and consumers need access to education so they can make educated choices when purchasing cannabis,
said Hoffman. “By taking a scientific approach to growing cannabis in a socially conscious way, we can provide a truly organic, clean product that our customers can depend on. Our motto is, plant people planet.” Lay and other sales representatives are now working on getting MONARCH products into stores around Washington, hoping store owners – and consumers themselves – will be eager to discover something so clean. To learn more about MONARCH™, watch a video about the grow facility, and learn which stores carry it, visit www.monarchgrow.com/.
Evergreen Herbal grows its MONARCH product line with a state-of-the-art aeroponics system. Photos by Kate A. Miner
EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to 7KH 6SRNHVPDQ 5HYLHZ f Friday, August 2, 2019
“
We only have one Earth and we want to do our part to preserve it.”
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evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, August 2, 2019
CULTURE & LIFESTYLE
COLORED CANNABIS COLLECTIVE
focuses on outreach S
Members of the Colored Cannabis Collective have taken part in a variety of community clean-ups. Photos courtesy Ahnya Smith
By TRACY DAMON EVERCANNABIS Correspondent ay “CCC” and many people – at least those from an older generation – think of the Civilian Conservation Corps, a Depression-era public works program that put unemployed men to work. Today, a different entity is using the same acronym to define their public service efforts. While the original CCC’s mission was to pull America out of a Depression, this group focuses on improving the image of the cannabis industry. “I want to show that we can all find a common goal with this plant,” said Colored Cannabis Collective President Ahnya Smith. “I am just trying to build a cannabis community we can all support.” Colored Cannabis Collective – or ‘Triple C’– is a Seattlebased non-profit that works to alleviate stereotypes associated with marijuana, and improve
communities through networking, charity events, and community service projects, all centered around pot. Smith, who works at Herban Legends, a Seattle cannabis retailer, started the group with fellow cannabis-activist Lorenz Houston last September. “We linked up and became friends and talked about the issues that we were seeing with cannabis and how the ‘War on Drugs’ really messed things up,” said Smith. She contends that prohibition has limited access, knowledge and research involving the cannabis plant. “We wanted to be the change that we wanted to see in the industry,” she said. This change includes giving back to communities through neighborhood cleanup days, putting together gift bags for homeless people, recycling, conducting food
drives, fundraisers, holding smoke sessions, and other activities. Members also work to change the stereotypes that people associate with marijuana use and users. CCC is working to normalize cannabis use with a public relations campaign that includes marketing materials featuring people of color (POC), LGBTQ and women. The only people Smith says are excluded are those under age 21, the legal age limit to use cannabis. While Smith welcomes everyone to the CCC, she says people of color have been unfairly prosecuted and persecuted for using cannabis over the years – much more so than their white counterparts. “We want to bridge the gap between the badge and everyday people,” said Smith. Events aren’t currently scheduled on a regular basis but Smith hopes to soon start having monthly meetings, along with regular social,
civic and charity events. She’d like to expand statewide, and is planning an event in Spokane as early as this fall. The long-range objective is to take CCC national. Smith plans to visit Chicago, Las Vegas and Los Angeles, and hopes to organize some meetups and cleanups while there. In the meantime, Smith says she has people who want to help CCC grow by serving on the board that will eventually govern the non-profit. But she also says she has been criticized by some people for the inclusivity of the CCC. “I’ve had people say they couldn’t be involved because I’m OK with those other than POC. What I want to share is that we can all find a common goal and a common good with this plant.” Participants range across the board when it comes to
demographics, from young to old, male to female, and with a wide spread of ethnicities represented. As for the people who do want to be involved, Smith says it’s for a variety of reasons. “I think it’s people wanting to give back. Some love conservation and love the clean-up aspect. Others love the inclusion. Some just love the smoke seshs and the social aspect. It’s a draw of different things for different people.” For more information, visit colored-cannabis.com or follow @coloredcannabiscollective on Instagram.
evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, August 2, 2019
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Feeling good
CBD getting the spa treatment By LESLIE KELLY EVERCANNABIS Correspondent
I
’ve had many massages through the years. But never before have I achieved the state of relaxation that hovers between bliss and snoring out loud. It happened recently at Habitude, a high-end salon and spa in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood. Habitude launched its SpaCanna list of services in 2018 … on 4/20, naturally, and the treatments were an instant hit, said owner Inez Gray. “It is really, really popular,” she said. “The clients love it and the massage team really feels like it is helping them.” Prior to introducing enhanced body massages, Gray and her team researched CBD lotions and oils on the market and decided to go with Apothecanna out of Colorado, one of the product pioneers that promise to provide pain relief and stress reduction. Like other CBD products, these do not contain THC, a compound that induces the high often associated with cannabis. Currently, there are not many scientific studies to back up the pain relief claims of CBD. Last year, however, the FDA approved CBD to treat a rare form of childhood epilepsy, and indicated more research is underway. From a purely anecdotal point of view, I was mighty impressed, and I’m not easily
wowed. In fact, I arrived to my afternoon appointment carrying a healthy dose of skepticism and a mild case of stress after struggling to find street parking. Plus, there was a construction crew digging up the street outside. “Oh boy,” I thought, “I bet I’m going to hear the beep, beep, beep of that heavy equipment while I’m trying to chill out, CBD style.” After walking through the front door of the Aveda salon and spa, that concern melted away as the calming Ayurvedic scents washed over me. Ahhhh, that’s better. After I checked in and robed up, my massage therapist Sheila led me to a peaceful room where we sat as she explained the lineup of Apothecanna products. Sheila has been a massage therapist for 17 years, and has never before seen the kind of results that come from CBD-infused products. “It’s really amazing,” she said. Yes, I’ll be the judge of that. After climbing onto the table, lying face down, Sheila came back in, dimmed the lights and turned up soothing background music. Soon after she began kneading my shoulders, she picked up on my go-to issue. “Do you spend a lot of time working on a
keyboard? You’re pretty tight.” Yes, well, I’ve only been at the writing game since 1980, an up-and-down journey that included cross-country moves, layoffs, downsizing, paying off student loans, selling a house, and traveling 20,000 miles in a RV. No big deal, yeah, life can be a mighty big stress bomb. After working my back and legs, Sheila darned near put me to sleep with the most comprehensive foot reflexology treatment I’ve ever received. “Was I snoring?” I asked. “I didn’t hear a thing,” she replied diplomatically. Doesn’t matter if I nodded off, this 60-minute massage was dreamy. But the real payoff came later, as I crawled into bed on a warm summer night. While it was still light out, I was lights out, and didn’t wake up until morning. Can’t remember the last time I slept all the way through the night. Truly amazing. For more information, visit habitube.com Habitude Canna Care massages start at $162. The spa has recently added CBDcentric facials and pedicures to its services.
Apothecanna CBD-infused Topicals Relieving, the company’s original product, features arnica, peppermint, and juniper essential oils to soothe joints and muscles. Calming serves up lavender, chamomile, and frankincense essential oils to reduce stress and anxiety. Circulating addresses stiff, sore muscles with ginger, capsaicin, and grapefruit essential oils. Extra Strength contains double the dose of the original Relieving formula, so it may cause minor tingling sensations. Sexy Time is a lightweight intimacy oil, but this was definitely not that kind of massage!
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evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, August 2, 2019
PUDDING POPS with a Cannabutter Core Story and photo by JESSIE MOORE The Fresh Toast Correspondent
Hey, remember Pudding Pops? This homemade version has a totally tubular surprise in the middle: a cannabutter core! This recipe starts out with instant pudding, combined with whipped cream for a perfectly creamy texture and flavor. Then, while filling the Popsicle molds, you sneak in a spoonful of cannabutter in the center of each pop. When they’re frozen and it’s time to enjoy, it’s like each portion has a psychedelic buried treasure hidden inside!
Add whipped cream and whisk.
Use 1 teaspoon of cannabutter per serving.
PUDDING POPS
SMALL BATCH CANNABUTTER
1 package (3.9 ounces) instant pudding (any flavor) 2 cups cold milk 1 cup whipped cream 6 teaspoonscannabutter* 6 small paper or plastic cups (6 to 8 ounces, and not too wide, works best) 6 popsicle sticks or wooden coffee stirrers
1/4 ounce marijuana 1 stick (4 ounces) unsalted butter 1 pint water (may need more during cooking)
DIRECTIONS 1. Scatter cannabis on a lined, rimmed baking sheet; toast at 240 degrees F for 30-40 minutes, turning a few times throughout the baking. Remove from the DIRECTIONS oven, and let cool completely. 1. In a large bowl, whisk the 2. Finely grind the cannabis with pudding mix and milk together a spice grinder, or mortar and until it begins to thicken. pestle. 2. Add the whipped cream, and 3. In a medium saucepan, bring whisk (or stir) until incorporated the water to a boil. Once the and smooth in color. water is boiling, add the butter. 3. Spoon a small amount of the When the butter has melted, pudding into each cup. Spoon 1 reduce heat to the lowest teaspoon of cannabutter on top simmer possible and add ground of the pudding. cannabis. 4. Divide the remainder of the 4. Cook for about 3 hours, stirring pudding evenly among the cups occassionally, ensuring the (they won’t be all the way full). marijuana doesn’t stick to the Press a popsicle stick or wooden bottom of the pan. In terms of coffee stirrer into the center of doneness, you’re going to notice each one. that as the water evaporates, 5. Freeze for at least 4 hours the liquid will become thick and (overnight is even better, texture- glossy. wise). To remove from the cups, 5. When it’s starting to look run a sharp knife around the almost done, set up either perimeter of each cup; you might cheesecloth or a fine mesh need to use kitchen shears to cut strainer above a heatproof bowl. the cups away. Store leftovers in Strain the cannabutter over the the freezer for up to 1 month. bowl, making sure to get every Keep out of reach of children. last drop from the pan. 6. Let the liquid cool to room A NOTE ON DOSAGE temperature, then transfer to the I “dosed” this recipe with 1 refrigerator to chill thoroughly. teaspoon of cannabutter per After an hour, you can remove serving. The strength of your the cannabutter from the bowl finished product will depend on and scrape off any excess cooking many factors, including the type water. Store well-wrapped of marijuana you used and how cannabutter in the refrigerator for you made your cannabutter. up to 2 weeks, or in the freezer for up to 6 months. Keep out of reach of children.
evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, August 2, 2019
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evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, August 2, 2019
LEARN & GROW
COFFEE, TEA & CBD
Add more buzz or chill to your daily drinks By KATE A. MINER EVERCANNABIS Correspondent
L
et’s face it, we all enjoy the idea of a freshlybrewed cup of coffee or tea, whether it’s hot, iced or blended. Every day a new concoction involving coffee and/ or tea emerges, and Washingtonians can’t get enough. These beverages are traditionally relied upon for waking up, punctuating workdays, weight loss, finding friends, suppressing boredom, or even helping you sleep. Which is why cannabis may appeal to consumers of coffee and tea. In the past, if you wanted to enjoy a cup of coffee with a dose of THC, your only option was to purchase and brew your favorite grind, and then add some form of cannabis-infused tincture, butter, honey or chocolate.
Unfortunately, this method doesn’t always provide the best flavor, and results certainly can vary. In a culture obsessed with fine coffee and tea, it seems obvious that THC- or CBDinfused products would enter the mainstream market. “Like codeine and caffeine, a combination used to relieve symptoms of muscle tension headaches, CBD takes caffeine to a new level,” said Mike Forest, owner of Forest Pharms, a hemp company based in Spokane that has been working with new products, genetics, and ideas to further progress the ways we use cannabinoids. “You can drink a cup of CBD-infused coffee before bed and still get a good night’s sleep.” Forest and his team at Forest
Pharms are working on perfecting the process of precisely infusing coffee with cannabis and hemp, and recently released a Full Spectrum Nano-Hemp Coffee in conjunction with Sleepy Monk Roasters out of Oregon. “The problem is that cannabis is not very bioavailable, which is why THC and CBD are typically suspended into something that increases absorption,” he said. He said Forest Pharms uses a new technique that involves a fat-bonded, full-spectrum, nanotization process that can increase bioavailability by 100-200 percent. “We use an ultrasonic process that breaks down microparticles to nanoparticles and allows the hemp to be water soluble and creates a much
easier way to dissolve and absorb the product,” Forest said. More and more purveyors of coffee and tea are experimenting with CBD possibilities. Starbucks announced in March that they hope to be one of the first major coffee chains to offer CBD-infused drinks, and singer Willie Nelson’s brand, Willie’s Remedy, recently released Willie’s Remedy Whole Bean Coffee, infused with certified organic full-spectrum hemp oil. One of the top cannabis-infused coffee options in Washington is from Fairwinds out of Vancouver. Fairwinds and Paper Tiger Coffee Roasters, also located in Vancouver, source cocoa/java blends locally. Their products – Catapult Cannabis Infused Coffee and Hot Mocha Coffee – provide 10mg of THC per serving. Tea, on the other hand, has a different appeal and audience. The combination of a plant-based product infused with water seems more familiar, and whether it’s CBD paired with green tea leaves, or THC and soothing chamomile, these beverages stimulate the senses and marry the tradition of relaxation and ritual in a harmonious way. Evergreen Herbal out of Seattle, one of Washington’s first manufacturers and distributors of cannabis-activated products, makes a chai tea, an Assam black tea, a jasmine green tea, and a “PM Formula” sleepy time tea, all with 10 mg of THC per serving. There’s something so perfect about combining coffee or tea with cannabis. Cannabis combined with your coffee or tea can provide a splendid sense of focus and relaxation that can smooth out the buzzing high of caffeine or complement the soothing effects of a sleep-inducing tea.
A number of out-of-state companies are developing cannabis-infused coffee and tea. • House of Jane, California • Therapy Tonics & Provisions, California • Skyline Boulevard Co., California • BrewBudz, California • Kikoko, California • Canyon Cultivation, Colorado • Canna Tea, Oregon • The Mad Hatter Coffee and Tea, New Mexico • Top Leaf, Canada
evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, August 2, 2019
BUDFEST
on the Bay
I
f you’ve ever pondered why Bellingham’s unofficial nickname is “The City of Subdued Excitement,” a walk through Zuanich Point Park on Sunday, July 14, 2019, might have revealed the answer. An easy-going crowd of several thousand gathered on the waterfront for the first Bellingham Budfest, a tourism festival hoping to “legitimize, normalize, educate and celebrate” cannabis. The family-friendly event featured live music, a silent disco and yoga, a coloring contest, educational panels, and local vendors. A 21-plus section allowed cannabis businesses to share information about their products and services; no cannabis sales were permitted.
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evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, August 2, 2019
PSociety olite May I Offer You Some Cannabis? By THERESA TANNER EVERCANNABIS Writer
L
izzie Post is the greatgreat-granddaughter of American etiquette expert Emily Post. She is copresident of the Emily Post Institute, the author and coauthor of several etiquette books, and cohost of the podcast “Awesome Etiquette.” Her latest book, “Higher Etiquette” is a 101 primer, a how-to manual and an entertaining guide for navigating the world of cannabis with respect, generosity and gratitude. I recently spoke with Post via phone to learn how this unique book came to be. This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Why did you decide to write “Higher Etiquette”? It was one of those beautiful moments where the universe puts everything together. People who knew I was a fan of cannabis joked that I should write an etiquette book. Then I received an email from Kelly Williams Brown’s agent (Kelly and I were working on another project together) asking, “A publisher is looking to publish a book about weed etiquette, do you know someone?” Alone at my desk, I raised my hand.
How long did the book writing process take? We wanted to fast-track this book, so I committed to a much shorter manuscript deadline. I signed the contact in late December 2017, then went to Colorado on January 6 to begin research. I turned in the manuscript May 4, so less than four months.
Was there anything that surprised you in your research or writing about cannabis and its culture? Cannabis has no retail market in Vermont, so I visited other states to learn from experts. There was a huge educational curve, learning about cannabinoids and terpenes. I was coming from the land where you take what you can get, so it was really fascinating and fun. I learned so much about the
science of cannabis. It made such a difference to understand why I prefer certain strains and consumption methods, and I learned from other people about what worked for them. Every culture and social group is different, and it can vary by region. I was surprised at how many people asked that smoking take place outdoors only.
evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, August 2, 2019
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Grams $5
Half Ounce $45
Eighths $15
Ounces $100
Quarters $30
1G Oil $10
Munchie Monday - 20% OFF Edibles Tanker Tuesday - $15 .5g Cartridges Lizzie Post Photo courtesy of Nadia Hucko
Can you talk about the design of the book? The clothbound cover and embossed gold lettering feel very vintage. That’s what we were going for! I have to shout-out the book designer, Lizzie Allen. The original “Etiquette” book was a solid deep blue with simple 1920s gold lettering, and we wanted to evoke that. Our brand is has a vintage-feel, though the advice is modern. We put a pot leaf on the cover, but it’s simple and clean.
Why should people who don’t use cannabis read your book? This book breaks down negative stereotypes that we’ve received in prohibition. People have heard that it makes you lazy, crazy, and paranoid – they don’t see how someone who uses could be an active member of society. It’s a plant that is used by many different types of people for many different reasons. Even if it’s not for them, it’s good for others.
How do you think the cannabis culture will change with more places legalizing cannabis? I think you’ll see more consumption at mixed group parties with guests that both consume and those that doesn’t. My hope is that you’ll see a better integration of both communities. I don’t drink very much, but I go to parties where there’s drinking. But I don’t mind; as long as people are being respectful and safe, there’s no problem. Visit higheretiquette.com for more information about Lizzie Post and the Emily Post Institute.
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Vendor Days Every Friday! (509) 244-8728 1515 S Lyons Rd Airway Heights, WA Mon-Sat: 8:30-12:00 | Sun: 10:00-11:00 Tokerfriendlyspokane.com
Warning: This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Smoking is hazardous to your health. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. Should not be used by women that are pregnant or breast feeding. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of reach of children. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug.
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evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, August 2, 2019
STATE BRIEFS
Unlicensed plants found, homeowner arrested CENTRALIA – Lewis County authorities discovered more than 1,000 marijuana plants during a raid of a home just east of Centralia. County and state law enforcement also arrested Chixu Huang, 37, in June and charged him with manufacturing marijuana.
In early June, officers received a search warrant to enter the home on Little Hanaford Road. They found about 1,000 growing plants and 33 drying plants in a detached shop on the property, along with materials for distribution, packaging and sales. The search also found $160,000 in cash.
UW to study moms, baby brains
SEATTLE – The University of Washington School of Medicine is seeking newly pregnant woman in the Seattle area to study the prenatal effects of cannabis.
The “Moms and Marijuana” study will take MRI brain scans of 6-month-old infants to examine potential differences in the brains of children whose mothers used cannabis, and those whose mothers did not use cannabis, alcohol or cigarettes during pregnancy. The study hopes to look at how these substances could influence fetal and infant growth and development. There is already data available about nicotine and alcohol use during pregnancy, but little research into only cannabis use.
“The very few investigations that have studied prenatal cannabis exposure and infant brain development have all involved women who are polysubstance drug users,” said Natalia Kleinhans, study coleader and radiologist. “This study is targeting a very specific population of women who are using marijuana to manage their symptoms while pregnant,” Kleinhans said. “There’s little research to back up the medical and public health advice they’re getting to stay away from pot to control nausea.”
Participants should be no more than 13 weeks pregnant, 21-34 years old, and use marijuana frequently or not at all. Contact information can be found at depts. washington.edu/klab/infoMM.html.
Source: WeedMaps
Prankster suggests name change SILVERDALE – Kitsap County residents are being told to disregard calls claiming to be made by a Public Works employee with bogus project updates. Several residents reported that they were contacted several times in June by an individual claiming to be “Bob Doblina from the county,” advising them that several projects were scheduled to begin on or around their properties, including changing the name of Clear Creek Road to Cannabis Way. The prank caller or callers also told homeowners that county trucks would be parking in front of homes or businesses for two weeks at a time
to repair potholes, cell phone towers would be installed in residential driveways, and random holes would be dug in their yards. Recipients of these calls discovered the phone number went to the Silverdale Chamber of Commerce, which denied making these calls. The Chamber and the Public Works department are working with their respective phone providers to investigate the issue and also to stop the phone spoofing. Kitsap County Public Works officials said people seeking information about actual summer works projects can call (360) 337-5777. Source: Kitsap Daily News
Court documents said Huang told investigators he had just moved to Washington to grow marijuana, and knew that it was illegal for people to grow marijuana without a state producer or processor license. Wil Halstead from the Lewis County Prosecutor’s Office told court officials that Huang should be considered a flight risk. Halstead also authorities plan on arresting Huang’s wife, who reportedly withdrew a large sum of money from a bank immediately after her husband’s arrest. Huang requested a court-appointed attorney, but Commissioner Tracy Mitchell court said that he appeared to have enough assets to coordinate a defense and pay for a private attorney.
Source: The Chronicle
Q&A
evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, August 2, 2019
I’ve noticed lately that the buds for sale today seem to be trimmed much tighter – is there a reason for that? Trimming is part of the harvesting processing. Trimmers are usually found in the growing and extraction parts of the industry. Some vertical companies with grow, extraction, and retail operations outside of Washington may employ trimmers at the shop itself. Trimmers spend hours cutting sugar leaves from the bud to increase potency and reduce the harshness of the smoke. More growers are offering carefully, tightly trimmed bud simply because they look better in photos, especially on social media, and are more appealing to customers. Tighter trim also usually results from a wet trim (done shortly after harvest) vs. a dry trim where the bud has been allowed to dry longer. Some new trimming machines are also calibrated to trim the buds closely.
Have cannabis questions? Contact Rob Mejia at evercannabis@spokesman.com.
EVERCANNABIS CONTRIBUTORS
LINDA BALL is a freelance journalist based in Washington State who has covered a variety of topics including environmental issues, city hall, arts and entertainment, education, human interest stories and now the rapidly-changing cannabis industry.
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. TRACY DAMON is a Spokane-based freelancer who has been writing professionally for 20 years. She has been covering i502 issues since recreational cannabis became legal in Washington. LESLIE KELLY is a food and wine writer who started her career at The Spokesman-Review in the 1990s. She and husband John Nelson are traveling the country in a cantankerous motor home, chronicling their adventures @ ourgrandtour on Instagram.
UPCOMING EVENTS
ROB MEJIA is president of Our Community Harvest: A Cannabis Education Company; he tweets at @OurComHarvest. 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 sector. 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 dates back to the 1960s. He’s the cannabis and hashish curator for Green Barn Farms in Addy and writes the “Rick’s World of Hashish” blog. 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.
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Aug. 8 Lemonhaze Budtender Party, Spokane. Area budtenders and other industry supporters invited to come and enjoy themselves at the Glover Mansion. Hello@ lemonhaze.com Aug. 8 The Cannabis Alliance, Seattle. Monthly meeting of growers, retailers and other supporters of Washington’s cannabis system. Live feeds available in Bellingham, Arlington, Tri-Cities and Olympia. thecannabisalliance.us Aug. 16-18 Hempfest, Seattle. The 28th annual hemp protest-ival lets people celebrate as well as get fired up for social justice issues with live music, vendors and more. www.hempfest.org/ Aug 21 Learn and Grow with Washington Marijuantrepreneurs, Spokane. Networking happy hour followed by industry presentation, Luigi’s. meetup. com/Spokane-Eastern-WA-Marijuana-BusinessNetworking/ Aug. 25 The Dope Show, Spokane. Enjoy “stand-up comedy under the influence” from rotating comedians at the Spokane Comedy Club. whosmokesweed.me/TheDopeShow Aug, 30 Eastern Washington Budtenders’ Ball, Spokane. Dance and socialize at the Arbor Crest Estate Grounds. Event also includes presentation of Best Budtender. www.budtendersballevent.com Planning a cannabis-themed event for the public? Send details to evercannabis@spokesman.com.
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evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, August 2, 2019
Oregon Convention Center | Portland, OR
• 300 exhibitors with a wide variety of goods and services • Speakers with experience in inventory turns, merchandising, store flow, and customer retention programs Hundreds of Hemp and CBD • Hund products • The latest in merchandising & display cases • Designers and architects of award-winning retail environments • National marijuana brands
evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, August 2, 2019
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SAFETY FIRST WITH SMART STORAGE Entrepreneur Skip Stone locks it up with StashLogix By ROB MEJIA EVERCANNABIS Correspondent
S
kip Stone lives in Colorado, the first state to legalize and begin sales of adult-use cannabis. Similar to many legal cannabis users, Skip has a full, active life that includes a family with small children and a pet. He is an engineer by trade and likes to problem solve. This is what led him to a cannabis solution. Stone spotted a simple common problem when using cannabis. He would bring some home from a legal dispensary and then transfer the product into a glass jar or similar container. But he worried about what would happen if his kids or a curious pet happened upon the product. So, as a responsible adult user,
Stone set out to solve this problem. His goal was to create a portable and discreet “stash box” that locked easily, eliminated smells, and organized multiple products. The result was StashLogix. Like any entrepreneur with a strong idea and a unique product, Stone needed funding to scale operations. He took his prototypes to a cannabis funding event in Boulder called CanopyBoulder. Investors embraced the potential of a cannabis storage box company and gave Stone his initial funding. Stone created multiple-sized storage boxes with rubber gaskets to eliminate odor; attractive outer packaging so the cases resemble high-end handbags or shave kits; and an ingenious locking
OTIS ORCHARDS 21502 E GILBERT RD, OTIS ORCHARDS, WA
mechanism that uses the open ends of the zipper to lock the boxes with a simple 3-digit code. Along with storage bags and cases, StashLogix sells accessories to further protect and maintain a cannabis collection, including pipe cleaners, odor-absorbing packs and stash jars in a variety of materials (bamboo, glass, aluminum and hemp-based plastic). There have been challenges along the way for this start-up. In 2017, Customs and Border Protection confiscated 1,000 StashLogix products in California, saying that they were designed to hold and conceal drugs. Of course, any lockable storage box could be used to secure various legal pharmacy products. Stone
appealed the ruling and won, getting his seized product back after almost 2 years in February 2019. Today, StashLogix is recognized as a reputable, reliable storage product that helps responsible cannabis users keep their products away from children and pets. His products are available at dozens of retailers, many in Canada, as well as online at www. stashlogix.com.
MOSES LAKE 955 W BDWY AVE, MOSES LAKE, WA
SPOKANE 1325 N DIVISION, SPOKANE, WA
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evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, August 2, 2019
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This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and ju judgment. udgment. 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. deer. Keep out of the reach of children.