January 10, 2021 Evercannabis by Cowles Publishing

January 2021

www.evercannabis.com

NEW LEGISLATIVE SESSION

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in store for Washington cannabis

TRAVEL TIPS IN THE TIME OF COVID

NO REST FOR GROWERS

Even outdoor farms stay busy in off-season

THE SENIOR DEMOGRAPHIC

Older adults trying cannabis for first time

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The Spokesman-Review

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

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The Spokesman-Review

FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK

VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 1

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Kathleen Coleman DIRECTOR OF SALES

Dan Fritts

MANAGING EDITOR

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.

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Industry continues push to improve 502 system Cannabis pros will seek similar goals in Olympia By Joe Butler

EVERCANNABIS EDITOR

Sure, it can be an unpopular opinion in certain crowds, but Washington’s cannabis marketplace and regulatory system aren’t too bad. Of course, this is relative, since every legal state’s system has high and low points, and the fact that ours is still going with frequent fine-tuning eight or so years in says a lot, especially as we see other states struggle with even getting their initial components together. It’s also becoming common to see stakeholders in other states drag their feet or find procedural ways to delay the implementation of these voter-approved efforts. This could take the form of everything from declaring “a rigged vote” to announcing plans to adjust the rules. This is happening in South Dakota, where voters approved medical and recreational cannabis in November, but police organizations have sued, claiming the ballot language

was illegal. It’s understandable: Some officials tasked with setting up an equitable, safe, and financially sound system are often those who were previously strong opponents. Washington’s Liquor and Cannabis Board officials have even said the same thing, in hindsight. Early leaders relied heavily on law enforcement experts to craft the legal framework, which meant an initial focus that was less about educating and encouraging stakeholders, and more about monitoring and punishing rule-breakers. You go with what you know, and there were fears that, without appropriate enforcement, everything would revert to its lawless roots. Generally, these fears haven’t materialized, and the LCB and other agencies have been working on toning down a perception of being heavy-handed. The LCB has also explored more opportunities for the industry to share input, as witnessed by a recent virtual hearing on proposed rule changes that drew plenty of concerned citizens. Still, there are two areas where many in Washington’s industry can still say “we can

do better,” and both are likely to be discussed in Olympia this legislative session. One is home-growing access for non-medical patients. This has been proposed for years and still faces similar objections: Law enforcement doesn’t want to get in the business of counting plants, especially in private residences; producers/ retailers worry that it could cut into their business; and it was never included in the original initiative. Another topic that could be discussed is a change to the 37% excise tax, currently the highest in the country. Industry members want it lowered to improve their bottom line; medical patients want it lowered so it won’t hurt their budgets; but lawmakers may want to nudge it higher to shore up other weak sectors. We’ll do our best to share info about these topics, but if you have concerns or opinions, consider contacting your lawmakers or even testifying on a topic. We’d also encourage you to follow the Cannabis Observer (cannabis.observer), a non-profit that offers gavel-to-gavel coverage of relevant governmental sessions and meetings that are hard for a lot of us to make it to.

“It’s understandable: Some officials tasked with setting up an equitable, safe, and financially sound system are often those who were previously strong opponents.”

EVERCANNABIS CONTRIBUTORS Linda Ball is a freelance

journalist based in Washington State. In her 18 years as a journalist she has covered a wide variety of topics including environmental issues, city hall, arts and entertainment, education, human interest stories and now the rapidlychanging 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. 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 dates back to the 1960s and has taken him around the world. 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.

Seattle native Mary J. White is a cannabis chef and the author of two cookbooks. When she’s not inventing new cannabis recipes, she can be found in the garden, on the beach, or playing with a grandkid.

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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JANUARY TABLE OF CONTENTS

12 16

ON THE AGENDA

Washington Legislature convenes Jan. 11. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

STAYING BUSY

Outdoor growers work through winter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

SANDPOINT STAYS WELL

Retailer offers “Idaho version” of topicals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

PLANES, TRAINS AND AUTOMOBILES

Staying safe and legal on the road. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

CANNA ORGANIX

Sequim grower highlights collaboration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

SENIORS SEEK MEDICAL BENEFITS

Study shows older adults are trying cannabis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

THE MOTHER CANNABINOID

There’s much more than THC and CBD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

MIND YOUR MANNERS

Lighthearted look at proper pot use. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

COOKING WITH CANNABIS

Real food keeps us happy and healthy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

STRAIN OF THE MONTH

Dark Side of the Moon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

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.

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The Spokesman-Review

NEWS & BUSINESS

ASSOCIATED PRESS

The Washington Capitol is seen on the last day of the 60-day legislative session March 12, 2020, in Olympia.

Cannabis goals outlined for upcoming session Remote Legislature will make things unusual for lawmakers, citizens By Joe Butler

EVERCANNABIS WRITER

Lawmakers will have to adjust to some changes during the upcoming session of the Washington Legislature, starting with a remote format for many sessions

and hearings due to COVID-19 precautions. The high learning curve and anticipated technical challenges may alter how lawmakers, lobbyists, staff and concerned citizens will conduct the state’s business. “It changes how and when we

interact with representatives and senators,” said Crystal Oliver, executive director of the Washington Sungrowers Industry Association, a group of about 60 cannabis growers. “It’s no longer possible to pop into their office for 10 minutes between committee hearings, nor is it possible to have a brief conversation with a representative or senator as they’re walking down the hall. It really changes the dynamic of

those ongoing conversations.” At the same time, the format may improve accessibility for people who have had challenges making it to Olympia to testify, observe or discuss policy. “This year it’s going to be a lot easier for folks on the east side of the state to engage with their representatives and senators directly,” Oliver said. Chris Marr, a lobbyist for the cannabis industry, former state

senator and past member of the Liquor and Cannabis Board, expects a strange session – and possibly a shorter one. He said the cannabis industry has done well in past sessions by putting out calls for passionate stakeholders to testify on critical bills. “Some past bills are often affected by big turnouts of See LEGISLATURE, 7

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NEWS & BUSINESS

LEGISLATURE Continued from 6

cannabis licensees, where there is a lot of emotion,” he said. Marr also expects more attention from lawmakers on cannabis topics, but for unusual reasons. While many Washington businesses shut down or altered services due to the COVID-19 pandemic, cannabis was declared essential, which led to significant sales – and state revenue, thanks to a 37 percent excise tax. Many in the industry have wished this number could be lowered, but Marr said it’s possible that lawmakers may suggest an increase to bring in additional tax dollars. “Cannabis is one of the few bright spots in not just a budget year, but in a budget crisis year,” he said. Lara Kaminsky, past executive director of the Cannabis Alliance, has been asked to help with the Alliance’s policy efforts. “The past year has really brought to light the need for community and our ability to be successful relies so heavily on our ability to work together,” she said. “After a year of being marked essential, there are many areas in the law that need interpretation, adjustment, and clarification.” The Cannabis Alliance, a group of professionals from different areas of the cannabis community, outlined its legislative agenda in November. One of its efforts is to request the creation of a state Cannabis Research Commission. “The establishment of this commission helps us be on the forefront of best practices regarding growing methods, worker safety, crop protection and more, helping us achieve our goals for a vital and sustainable industry,” Kaminsky said. She said the Alliance

will also be seeking to exempt authorized medical patients from paying the excise tax, and to continue a push to allow any adult to grow personal amounts of cannabis. “Giving people the right to grow at home has multiple positive benefits for the individual as well as the industry,” she said. “We are the only legal state to not allow it – not only does it make sense on a practical level, but allowing people to grow at home increases their knowledge, understanding and interest in the cultivation of cannabis … making them more informed consumers.” She said beer homebrewing helped boost the craft beer industry, and homegrown cannabis can do the same thing. Marr said home grow has its supporters but has traditionally been a tough sell for the larger Legislature, especially since it is already allowed for certain medical patients. More access could hurt the industry and introduce more challenges for law enforcement as well. Oliver hopes to increase the responsibilities of the Washington Department of Agriculture, especially in areas such as pesticide standards and the need to implement a Certified Cannabis program. She and other members are again hoping for official recognition of cannabis farming as an agricultural activity, which will allow tax deductions and exemptions. State officials and advocacy groups are also focused on equity topics, including efforts to bring more people of color into ownership and leadership roles. “This year, representatives have been asked to limit legislative proposals due to challenges facing their staff as they navigate a fully remote session,” Oliver said. “They’ve been asked to focus on

issues that advance equity, respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, advance economic recovery, and address the climate crisis so as we promote our priorities, we work to connect our issues to these priorities.” The LCB has been discussing equity, as has a state-created equity task force authorized after last year’s session. The state group was supposed to begin meeting in April to discuss recommendations for this coming session, but due to pandemic disruptions, it didn’t come together until November, so Marr is uncertain it will be able to accomplish its task in time for effective discussion. Kaminsky said the Alliance also is eager for improvement in equity efforts. “Equity is a theme that runs through all of the work we do and improving access for patients, as well as devoting research to safe product and working conditions, fits squarely in that directive,” she said. The Alliance and the Sungrowers organization spent much of the last year talking with lawmakers, especially members of the House Commerce and Gaming Committee and the Senate Labor and Commerce Committees, where cannabis legislation must pass through. “Legislators have become more astute in their understanding of our issues,” Kaminsky said. “They ask informed questions which really helps us lay out our reasons for pushing the issues we care about. We’ve even had previously resistant legislators participate in farm tours and virtual tours helping us demystify the industry for them. Since we now have six years under our belt, not to mention that most states have some form of cannabis legalization, we are slowly winning hearts and minds.”

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The Spokesman-Review

NEWS & BUSINESS

No winter hibernation By Linda Ball

EVERCANNABIS CORRESPONDENT

The weather outside might be frightful, but that doesn’t mean that outdoor growers – or “sun growers” – are sitting inside and eating bonbons all winter. In fact, like most other farmers, cannabis growers are good at finding plenty of ways to keep busy until it’s time to plant in the spring. Dave Varshock is the general manager of Aloha Botanics/Dreamin Green Farms in Okanogan. The company is owned by a long time Pacific Northwest family, employing 20 to 25 people under normal operations, but is down to 10 employees plus three managers in winter. Varshock said if everything goes as planned they hope to keep everyone employed through next winter when they are built out some more. The farm consists of 98 acres, with 50 acres on pause; the company plans to eventually use the space to offer cannabis weddings and tours. There are 22 acres of cannabis in production at various times. Varshock said the farm also includes acreage used to grow vegetables, which are donated to the community. A shop and processing buildings consume 22 acres. Aloha Botanics processes a variety of cannabis products, from flower to pre-rolls (no edibles, though, as there is no commercial kitchen). During the winter, there is still plenty do, including post-processing, packaging, marketing, sales, executive planning, research and development. This year Varshock said he will be making his own seeds. When the company does build out the facility, production staff will be able to work indoors yearround. Varshock said he is also very involved in keeping up with Liquor and Cannabis Board rules – the agency also doesn’t take a break for winter. “It really is important to me that everyone plays by the rules, and that those rules protect consumers while not squashing the producer,” he said. Another grower in the Okanogan area, just outside of Tonasket, is Crescent Valley Farms. The partners are husband and wife Stephen and Katy Grimes, Stephen’s brother Andrew Grimes and their father, Rod Grimes. Katy said Rod was the visionary, who

... FOR OUTDOOR GROWERS

asked his sons if they wanted to join him in creating a farm that’s as organic as possible. The family started Crescent Valley in 2015 on leased land, but purchased the 22 acres on the Okanogan River in 2017. Katy Grimes said it had been an organic tomato farm. The former tomato farmer took them all under his wing giving them tips on organic farming. The business now has two cannabis pens of three acres each and about two and a half acres of cherry trees, with the remainder of the land currently fallow. She said harvest takes about two months as they hang dry most of the plants. Then they begin the processing, breaking down the different size buds. In the off-season they sell wholesale, build their brand, grow mother plants inside, and plan for the next season. In the spring, they offer clones for sale to other I-502 producers. Right now, their focus is on flower, but they hope to

offer pre-rolls and tinctures next year. At Jade Stefano’s Puffin Farm in Ellensburg, consisting of 20 acres on the Yakima River, just shy of an acre is devoted to cannabis, with the remainder containing vegetables and hay. Like Grimes, Stefano’s harvest is hung to dry, which takes a few weeks as they dry in a cool, low-moisture environment. From there, her harvest is put into curing bins, which are carefully monitored for moisture to not only protect the plants from microbial growth but for taste as well. Puffin Farm has a CO2 extraction facility in Seattle where employees produce vape cartridges and hashish. They also sell flower, pre-rolls and infused prerolls. All of their packing is done at the Seattle facility, so they keep busy because there is no middleman before the harvest reaches the retailers. Puffin Farm is Clean Green certified

and recently received a regenerative farming certificate. This means, Stefano explained, is that they are most concerned about the environment and value protecting it with sustainable farming, taking it to the next level by regenerating the soil and the eco-system. Stefano is on the board of directors of the Washington Sungrowers Industry Association. The group’s mission is to “support sustainably farmed sun grown cannabis by encouraging positive environmental and economic policy through advocacy, education and research.” The organization currently represents 54 businesses, which hold more than 90 WSLCB licenses combined. Executive director Crystal Oliver recently sold her farm and moved to Olympia to focus on policy work and advocate for farmers. She said it’s still a “lean” organization with only herself on staff, along with a contracted lobbyist.

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NEWS & BUSINESS

Wellness shop featuring CBD opens Bodhi High hopes this model in Sandpoint can spread to other states By Joe Butler

EVERCANNABIS WRITER

Junior Solis has worked for nearly a decade on the medical marijuana side of Washington’s cannabis world. He enjoys getting creative making products that can help people feel good, and has developed his own blends of topicals and tinctures that contain cannabis along with different essential herbs. Recently, someone asked him a great question. “They had tried some of my items in Washington, but wanted to know if I had ‘an Idaho version,’” Solis said. This meant something that’s still helpful but low in THC, the compound that causes the mental and physical “high” associated with cannabis. Products with more than .3% THC, although legal for adults in Washington, could lead to extended jail time or big fines if discovered in the Gem State or in other states with strict anti-pot laws. He used his engineering background to change around elements of his formulas to create something that’s enjoyable, but without that particular illicit compound. “I’ve come up with a way for topicals to go all the way into the bloodstream, which a lot of them don’t do,” Solis said. “You get to homeostasis right away.” This concept of THC- and non-THC versions of these products made him and other friends in Spokane’s cannabis community develop an innovative strategy – why not use their collective cannabis knowledge and passion to make high-quality non-THC wellness items available in every state? So Solis enlisted the help of Sam Kannall, owner of Bodhi High, a Spokane cannabis producer/processor, Michael Early, who has also worked in the cannabis industry, and Justin Wilson, owner of POM Cannabis retail shops, to get things rolling. In July, they opened Bodhi Elements CBD Wellness in the Cedar Street Bridge building in Sandpoint. The former location of Coldwater Creek is in the heart of downtown and has become a popular place to browse a variety of retail shops,

PHOTOS BY MICHAEL THOMPSON/TERPTALKTV FOR BODHI HIGH

Bodhi High, a Washington cannabis producer, recently opened Bodhi Elements CBD Wellness in Sandpoint. The shop offers a variety of CBD-based products. coffee shops, bistros and more. The new Bodhi Elements sells a variety of legal products including topicals, tinctures, salves, face creams and vape products. Customers can also place custom orders for whatever kind of physical or mental pain they’re experiencing or flavors they prefer. Solis uses a variety of compounds connected to healing and positive responses from the body, including CBD, CBG, CBN and broad-spectrum CBD. Products can be found with .3% or less THC, and some with 0% of THC, which could be useful for people who might want healing products but also concerned about drug test results. “We provide full consultation and familiarization with these products,” he said. “We can help with individual needs

Junior Solis came up with many of the formulas for tinctures and topicals at Bodhi Elements. – we’re always doing custom orders, everything from someone who wants or needs something a little stronger to someone who might be allergic to peppermint.” He also likes to educate people about

the differences in quality. “Some may have tried CBD they’ve bought at places like the gas station and it hasn’t worked, so I like to tell them that not all CBDs are created equal,” Solis said. “I’ve always felt that selling something high-quality that helps people is more important than making money.” Solis enjoys hearing from customers about whether something worked well, or if they didn’t like something and want to explore other options. He and the other partners have already had inquiries about opening other retail locations, something he’d be in favor of. While there are restrictions on THC sales to certain states and age groups, CBD can be sold more freely. “We’d love to have our items in many stores, all around the country,” Solis said.

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Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

STOCK UP ON YOUR STASH Cannabis shops are somewhat sparse depending on how far out you go, so you’ll want to stock up before you venture out. Also, be aware that cannabis cannot be consumed on federal land. This includes federal parks and forests, military property, and many ski resorts that border public lands. Either wait unitl you’re sure you’re on safe ground or stick to edibles or vaping rather than smokable flower.

HEADING OUT OF STATE

FOLLOWING THE RULES PROTECTS EVERYONE By Kate A. Miner

EVERCANNABIS CORRESPONDENT

Later this month, we’re coming up on exactly one year since the first coronavirus case in the United States was confirmed in Washington state (Jan. 21, 2020). And during that year, we’ve seen cases rise and fall and rise and fall and rise again with a steady increase since October as chilly weather sent people indoors. In Washington, winter already can be a challenging time, with dark days filled with snow and ice, or at least constant rain, depending on your location. This winter, however, has been

STAY HEALTHY Before you go anywhere, get your flu shot. Flu and COVID-19 symptoms are similar, so if you become ill with the flu, it could necessitate a trip to the doctor or even the hospital, which puts you at additional risk. It is also possible to get both infections, either simultaneously or concurrently. Practice basic self-care such as getting enough sleep and eating healthy. Exercise, even if it’s cold, wear appropriate clothing, and go outside as often as possible. There is no shortage of research extolling the benefits of outdoor time.

more difficult than most with COVID-19 halting or altering usual seasonal fun. As winter drags on, you may long for a change of scenery. After months of reading and streaming and puzzles and virtual happy hours, we’re all getting a little antsy. You could always experiment with making edibles, start a pipe and glass collection, or study up on cannabis farming. But if your heart is set on escape (and legal guidelines allow), try these tips for travelling in the time of COVID.

GO ON AN ADVENTURE IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD Stay in your pod, bring plenty of water, edibles, and clothing layers – and head outdoors! Not only will you get great exercise and cleanse your lungs, you’ll feel relatively safe away from crowds. We’ve found some area trails that are busy, but masking and distancing was not an issue, and many times we were the only ones on the trail. Do your homework by checking out conditions and reading online reviews from recent dates about crowd and use. Remember, the weekends and sunny days are always busier. Some useful regional websites are www.AllTrails.com and www.WTA.org.

If you decide you must travel, it can be done safely. I’ve had to travel numerous times in the last six months, both by plane and car, to several states, and have remained healthy and safe. Here are my recommendations: • Always wear a mask. If you can, use disposable masks that you can remove and toss regularly after being around people, especially on a flight. If you use a reusable mask, wash it daily in hot water and soap, and air dry. The outside of the mask is where most contamination occurs, so if you touch your mask, wash your hands with hot soap and water. • Keep your distance. Regardless of where you are, stay 6-10 feet away from others. If they get too close, step away, or say something. While boarding a plane recently someone was stand-

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ing inches from me, so I turned around and said, “Keep your 6-foot distance please.” Immediately they realized their mistake and backed up. Don’t be shy: You are protecting yourself and others. • Carry a small hand sanitizer bottle. Spray it on your hands, things you’ll be touching, or the outside of the mask. I purchased some great CBD sanitizer recently, which not only smells great, but keeps my skin moisturized. • Follow local guidance. Different cities, counties and states have different rules, so make sure your travel does not coflict with any restrictions. In Washington, visitors and returning residents are advised to self-quarantine for 14 days after non-essential travel to other states or counties.

VENTURING OUT WITH CANNABIS The use of cannabis has never been more desirable. It’s relaxing, invigorating, helps anxiety, and researchers have conducted numerous studies suggesting that cannabis extracts may decrease levels of the host cell receptor that the novel coronavirus uses to gain viral entry to target tissues. But what about travelling with cannabis? In the U.S., the federal government still classifies marijuana, even medical marijuana, as a Schedule I controlled substance, which means anyone transporting it across state lines is committing a federal crime and can be charged with drug trafficking. However, TSA’s screening procedures, governed by federal law, are focused on security, and are designed to detect potential threats to aviation and passengers. If they discover your personal stash, they might just throw it away or ignore it. But that’s a still taking a big risk. If a

Friday, January 1, 2021

TSA officer discovers an item they feel violates the law during the security screening procedure, they may bring in local law enforcement to determine whether to initiate a criminal investigation based on the laws of that state. It’s not a bad idea to look up your airline’s rules and regulations too. Many carriers, including Delta Air Lines, Alaska Airlines and American Airlines have created policies that ban medical marijuana from their aircraft, even if you have a state medical card. You should also check the laws of the states you are traveling to or through. Even if you have a medical marijuana card, you can be arrested and charged for possession in states where medical marijuana is not legal. A vape pen is a must for the traveling canna-consumer, especially if you’re headed to a destination with a harsh penalty for smoking. Given the prevalence of e-cigs and the minimal smell of vaping oil, a vape pen is about as incognito as it gets. But remember that vaping and charging your battery on an airplane is prohibited and extremely dangerous. Make sure your vape pen is in your carry-on and not your check-in luggage. When a carry-on bag is checked, all electronic cigarette and vaping devices, along with any spare lithium batteries, must be removed and should be taken with you in the aircraft cabin. Some airline carriers require that vape batteries be stored in a separate battery case. Amtrak’s policy is equally strict. The use or transportation of marijuana in any form for any purpose is prohibited, even in states or countries where recreational use is legal or permitted medically. Greyhound Lines bans alcohol and drugs anywhere on the bus (including checked baggage). If you choose to drive with marijuana, be discreet and aware of local and interstate laws. Many marijuana arrests begin as traffic stops. Even a cool travel-sized smoking kit without anything to smoke could still be seen as illegal paraphernalia if you encounter law enforcement in a less cannabis-friendly state. Or a couple of joints could still attract negative attention, even jail time, in certain states.

WHAT ABOUT CBD? Travelers can carry CBD products that contain less than 0.3 percent THC, and can bring products that are approved by the Food and Drug Administration in their checked or carry-on luggage. Regardless of whether you decide to hunker down, have outdoor adventures, or pack your bags and try the skies – stay safe and stay calm.

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The Spokesman-Review

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

HEADING OUT OF STATE

FOLLOWING THE RULES PROTECTS EVERYONE By Kate A. Miner

EVERCANNABIS CORRESPONDENT

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The Spokesman-Review

NEWS & BUSINESS

SPOTLIGHT

Canna Organix quietly leads state’s sun-grown cannabis evolution By Kate A. Miner

EVERCANNABIS CORRESPONDENT

Canna Organix has built a business that leverages the best of a unique location. Located in Sequim on the Olympic Peninsula, this cannabis grower, manufacturer and distributor launched in a quiet location the owners felt was the best for enjoying life and growing high-grade “sungrown indoor products.” Founder Tim Humiston began his cannabis journey as one of the first caregivers under I-692, Washington’s first medical marijuana initiative. Learning medical laws, limitations, and inconsistencies in patient-caregiver protection led Humiston to Mendocino, Calif., to pursue year-round greenhouse production. It was here he met Wendy Bentley, Steve Olson, and Kyle Canty, and they all learned to grow cannabis on a larger scale, including production and processing, plus a lot of consultation with experts. Through constant experimentation, research and innovation, they developed processes and techniques, and in 2013, founded Canna Organix. Canna Organix is in the heart of the Olympic Rain Shadow, a region with a unique microclimate that receives only 16 inches of rain a year and 250 days of sunshine. The Sequim region is only 15 miles in diameter and the only desert in Western Washington, creating an ideal climate for producing cannabis naturally without chemical pesticides. Canna Organix has become an important part of the rural community, including providing 40 living wage jobs. “We have talented and en-

COURTESY PHOTOS

Lead cultivator Kyle Canty and nursery manager Trevor Walters. thusiastic people that work for us,” said Wendy Bentley, who serves as business manager. “We pursue quality over quantity, people over profit, and strive for sustainable practices and innovative systems. We believe true success and happiness is lived and breathed. Our employees are a bunch of kick-ass enthusiasts excited about life and passionate about their performance.” Bentley deserves much of the credit for developing the supportive and collaborative culture. She strives to make it a comfortable place, providing nutritious meals for employees and focusing on interacting on a real human level.

Canna Organix has two brands and 40 products, including flower, all-bud joints, cannabinoid isolates, extracts, and vape cartridges. Canna Organix is its higher-end product line, and Canna Whupass is the value-based brand. Canna Organix only uses live soil that contains living microcosms such as bacteria, fungi, protozoa, nematodes, arthropods, and earthworms to break down organic matter to naturally make nutrients available for plant roots. The plants are mindfully cared for; each bud is individually hand-trimmed for minimal trichome loss, and hand-watered with natural fresh spring water.

No chemical products are used, almost all packaging is recyclable, pre-rolls are packed in RAW natural unrefined rolling papers, and almost everything that comes into the building is recycled, including recyclable containers, and biodegradable gloves. “Cuttings start in coco bricks before being transferred to a living soil medium in 20-gallon pots for flowering and we hand-water everything,” explained Kyle Canty, who oversees a team of eight cultivators. “Each pot gets individual attention, and we love it till its end.” While not the most cost-effective process, this personal approach is part of the team’s goal of “letting the plant express naturally,” which the team says yields healthier crops with higher terpene contents. Today, three greenhouses and seven hoop house structures stand on the 3-acre property. Each greenhouse also houses three smaller hoop houses and a state-of-the-art lighting/heating system. Humiston developed custom greenhouse controllers using Raspberry Pi single-board computers. This custom controller operates on a predictive system that collects and computes data from inside and outside the covered structures to provide an optimal environment. “The controller works in concert with a heating system to control humidity in a novel way that reduces costs,” Humiston clarified. “This allows us to dark out the environment and manipulate the photo-period so that we can flower plants yearround.” He also has modified furnaces and ductwork under the greenSee ORGANIX, 13

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NEWS & BUSINESS

ORGANIX Continued from 12

houses. The heat moves through the ductwork and vents under the canopy, providing warm air from below the plants and up through the canopy which also whisks away moisture and mold. At a certain point, the fans kick in, and the now-moist air is flushed outside, while being constantly replaced from below. The spaces between the greenhouses are packed with outdoor-grown cannabis to max out the company’s licensed canopy allowance. This provides approximately 25 greenhouse harvests per year with an additional large outdoor/fully sun-grown harvest annually. The smokable flower from these custom greenhouses has unique features. Canna Organix

prides itself on its genetic library, with strains such as Wedding Cake, Zkittlez, Gelato 41 and Do-Si-Dos. The team prefers cultivars with fruity terpenes and has begun a breeding program – Cannagenex – to develop new flavors. “Genetics are where we’re setting ourselves apart from other grows,” Humiston said. The team started the breeding program by recreating popular genetics by crossing those cultivars’ parents together, often the only option to get those genetics into the state’s legal program due to the federal ban on shipping across state lines. Now that Canna Organix has established a reputation for high-terpene varieties, the team is rolling out new creations. Some were introduced this year with great success. Prior to the coronavirus pandemic, Steve Olson,

the company’s head of marketing and customer relations, would visit retail partners and hold vendor days at each location, where he could interact and educate consumers directly. These days, marketing efforts have been focused on social media. The company starts teasing new genetics before they hit the market, and has developed what it calls “strain stickers,” individual logos for each cultivar that creates a recognizable image that customers can associate with the product. “There are thousands of ways to grow marijuana,” said Kerry Bennett, Canna Organix’s president. “We’ve chosen our location, grow style and innovative processes to bring cannabis and cannabis products to market that we ourselves want to consume.”

COURTESY PHOTO

Rainbow Runtz grown by Canna Organix.

Friday, January 1, 2021

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The Spokesman-Review

HEALTH & SCIENCE

Older adults trying cannabis first time to address pain, sleep and depression By Theresa Tanner

EVERCANNABIS WRITER

Medical marijuana is now legal in over two-thirds of the country, plus Washington D.C., and its prevalence is reaching a new generation. Nope, not Gen Zers coming of legal age; older adults are turning to cannabis, many for the first time, as a medical treatment. A study by researchers at University of California San Diego School of Medicine, published in October 2020 by the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, reports that adults age 65 and older use cannabis primarily for medical purposes to treat common health conditions, most commonly pain, sleep issues and psychiatric conditions like anxiety and depression. For participants who reported cannabis use, three-quarters found it to be “somewhat” or “extremely” helpful in managing these conditions. “For the most part, patients reported that cannabis was helping to address these issues, especially with insomnia and pain,” said Christopher Kaufmann, PhD, cofirst author of the study and assistant professor in the Division of Geriatrics and Gerontology in the Department of Medicine at UC San Diego, in a press release. Of 568 patients surveyed, 15 percent had used cannabis within the past three years, with half of users reporting using it regularly and mostly for medical purposes. Researchers also discovered that 61 percent of the patients who used cannabis had initiated use after age 60. “New users were more likely to use cannabis for medical

reasons than for recreation,” said Kevin Yang, co-first author and third-year medical student at UC San Diego. First time users were more likely use topical products, rather than smoking flower or ingesting edibles. Ninety-four percent of respondents said family members were aware of their cannabis use, and about half reported their friends knew “Also, they were more likely to inform their doctor about their

cannabis use, which reflects that cannabis use is no longer as stigmatized as it was previously,” Yang noted. “The findings demonstrate the need for the clinical workforce to become aware of cannabis use by seniors and to gain awareness of both the benefits and risks of cannabis use in their patient population,” said Dr. Alison Moore, senior author and chief of the Division of Geriatrics in the Department of Medicine at UC San Diego School of Medi-

cine. “Given the prevalence of use, it may be important to incorporate evidence-backed information about cannabis use into medical school and use screening questions about cannabis as a regular part of clinic visits.” The researchers said future studies are needed to better understanding the efficacy and safety of different amounts and types of cannabis in treating common health conditions in older adults. “There seems to be potential

with cannabis, but we need more evidence-based research,” said Kaufmann. “We want to find out how cannabis compares to current medications available. Could cannabis be a safer alternative to treatments, such as opioids and benzodiazepines? Could cannabis help reduce the simultaneous use of multiple medications in older persons? We want to find out which conditions cannabis is most effective in treating. Only then can we better counsel older adults on cannabis use.”

“The findings demonstrate the need for the clinical workforce to become aware of cannabis use by seniors and to gain awareness of both the benefits and risks of cannabis use in their patient population.” Dr. Alison Moore Senior author and chief of the Division of Geriatrics in the Department of Medicine at UC San Diego School of Medicine

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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HEALTH & SCIENCE

THINKING BEYOND CBD Other ‘letters’ offer other properties By Taryn Mickelson

EVERCANNABIS CORRESPONDENT

Products from WOW Industries.

There has been lots of talk about CBD and other cannabinoids found within the cannabis plant that are said to have healing remedies, which makes them worthy of praise. For those not up on their cannabis biology, cannabinoids are the more than 100 natural forming compounds found in the cannabis sativa plant. The two most notable are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive compound, and cannabidol (CBD). THC is flying off the shelves among recreational users in legal states, while CBD is rapidly making its way into medicine, pet food, topicals, edibles and more.

PHOTOS BY TARYN MICKELSON/FOR EVERCANNABIS

The laboratory space at The Source CBD, a Spokane business that specializes in hemp-based products.

A third cannabinoid that is growing in interest is CBG (cannabigerol). It is commonly referred to as “the Mother Cannabinoid.” Its acid form is the precursor to the three main branches of cannabinoid development. Enzymatic action is the determining factor for the proportion of CBGA (cannabigerolic acid), which can grow into THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid), CBDA (cannabidiolic acid) or CBCA (cannabichrome carboxylic acid) before heat from UV light makes this transformation happen. In humans, CBG actively communicates with the body’s endocannabinoid system, including both the CB1 and CB2 receptors. It also regulates neurohormones, which affect mood, metabolism, pain response and appetite. CBG has been shown to offer antibacterial, antispasmodic and vasodilation healing properties. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine’s National Institutes of Health, the recent identification of cannabinoid receptors has led to an increase in studies pertaining to the endocannabinoid system and its regulatory functions in health and disease. One article stated, “In the past decade, the endocannabinoid system has been implicated in a growing number of physiological functions, both in the central and peripheral nervous systems and in peripheral organs.” CBD has been shown to help patients feel relief from chronic pain, help cancer patients with side effects of chemotherapy treatment, ease anxiety, and help with sleep. Recently, doctors have launched small-scale CBD studies and trials to find other uses for these compounds, while CBD is starting to gain notoriety as a treatment for mood disorders and general anxiety disorders. Some PTSD patients say they benefit from CBD. According to ClinicalTrials.com, there were 276 clinical studies for CBD trials and research that started in the past year. For instance, on Nov. 2, a clinical trial took place at the University of Virginia, testing the effectiveness of CBD shea butter

on hand osteoarthritis patients. There are many ways for patients to use CBD such as tinctures, which are taken sublingually and absorbed into the bloodstream by the capillaries in the cheeks, gums and under the tongue; CBD oils, recommended for chronic pain areas and skin absorption; CBD capsules, taken orally can aid sleeping and calm anxiety levels; smoked or vaped; or in topicals. The Source CBD, located on East Third Avenue in Spokane, has been specializing in creating its own hemp-based products for the past seven years. Inside is a full spectrum lab using an ultrasonic system to emulsify and bind molecules together in order to provide tinctures, butters, concentrates, vape cartridges, pet tinctures and more. Because of The Source’s ultrasonic system, products will never require shaking in order to activate those molecules because they stay bound together for the life expectancy of the product. Creating a quicker absorption rate, the molecules activate more quickly, which in turns helps create an instant relief effect. Sales Manager Reeno Walsh said The Source looks beyond CBD for ways to help people. “What makes us so special is that we are able to have access to the full spectrum of cannabinoids,” she said. “For example, when we are able to make a tincture with added CBG and CBD, it just gives it that extra punch to be able to help anyone, especially when it comes to anxiety.” The Source CBD can infuse multiple cannabinoids together to create a powerful reaction. Among the different arrays of products, Walsh said a few community favorites have been the Special Reserve tincture and newly flavored pet tinctures. Cannabis and hemp can produce at least 113 cannabinoid compounds, and more may be found in the future. “There is no reason not to use CBD – it can do everything from help someone with their sleep, anxiety, ADHD or chronic pain; you name it,” Walsh said. “I love seeing how life-changing these products are.”

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The Spokesman-Review

CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

Idaho author’s book on pot etiquette is anything but stuffy By Tracy Damon

EVERCANNABIS CORRESPONDENT

Vanessa Fimbes

She has a lot to say about etiquette, but Vanessa Fimbes is no Miss Manners or Ann Landers. “Etiquette means so much more than just passing the pipe or not slobbering on the joint,” Fimbres said. Fimbres’ book, “The Original Book of Pot Etiquette,” includes everything from what not to do while partaking in marijuana, to the 10 Pot Commandments, to the many ways cannabis can be ingested, to her life story and how it revolves around cannabis, to ruminations on a higher power. “When I started it, it started as a pot etiquette book. But as you can tell, I love the higher spirit. I love an entity higher than ourselves. I really felt that this was my opportunity to actually reach some people. No one would pick up a book about being a better person … but they would if there is a pot leaf on it.” Fimbres, an central Idaho resident who also spends some time each year living in Hawaii, has recognized the pot leaf symbol since she was a young child. “This book has been in my head since I was 15 years old,” she said. While not all readers will appreciate the large print, how the topics seem almost random in some spots, and the stream-of-consciousness writing style, Fimbres says the self-published book is that way on purpose. “It’s an easy read, don’t you think?” she said. “I actually wrote it as an easy read because of my daughter. People these days don’t read. And the more serious stuff is in the back for people who want more information.” For some, the most interesting part of the book may be the author’s story. While most writer’s biographies are a couple of paragraphs at most, Fimbres spends

“The Original Book of Pot Etiquette” by Vanessa Fimbres can be ordered through most online booksellers, including Auntie’s Bookstore. six pages on how she grew up in the cannabis culture with hippie parents, including a dad who owned a head shop and a mother who attended “tea” parties (as in pot tea). She goes on to chronicle her travels around the country following the Grateful Dead, living with unhoused people in San Francisco, and moving from state to state, having pot-centered adventures long before it was legal. “We were growing weed in Oregon one time and a cop came to the door,” she said. “He was cool and said, ‘Everything is legal until someone knows about it.’ Which basically meant we should build a taller fence. And we did.” She also taught others about marijuana and its many benefits, worked with incarcerated populations and volunteered for NORML, a nonprofit group that represents the interests of American marijuana users. “I have been an advocate for marijuana way before it was cool

to be an advocate.” Beyond the advocacy and love for pot Fimbres isn’t afraid to emphasize in this book, “The Original Book of Pot Etiquette” has another theme repeated throughout its pages: the importance of enjoying life and being thankful for what you have. “It’s something we should all strive for. Right now, I am looking at the river and yellow leaves and mountains. What a gift. There are people who just can’t grasp how special this is. We’re so caught up in the rat race, in stuff that’s not really important.” That’s why Fimbres says it was important to hit on topics beyond torching the bowl or – the ultimate sin for some – stealing someone else’s lighter. “Manners and etiquette in society – we’re desperate for it,” she said. “With the phones these days, no one looks up, no one makes eye contact. Kids can’t even give you a proper greeting when introduced.” So what’s next on Fimbres’ todo list? A book on child rearing or self-improvement? First, she would like to do a deluxe edition of this book, adding more photos of people smoking and interviews with people who use marijuana, followed by a book on “incredible edibles.” “I was at a party where it was just pot, no alcohol, and desserts … they were amazing.” Fimbres says she loves that marijuana has become an art, with some infused food products resembling something you would get in an upscale restaurant or fancy bakery. Most of the time for her though, when it comes to weed, Fimbres’ preferences are pretty basic. “I enjoy flower. I know there’s dabs and oils and vape pens and those are nice for some things like taking a walk or running errands, but I like smoking a bong: I like bong hits.”

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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LEARN & GROW UPCOMING EVENTS

Jan. 12-14

Lemonhaze. Washington producers/ processors and retailers are invited to attend this “Virtual Up-Front” to find ways to do business together. Participants can use the Lemonhaze platform to conduct 1-on-1 video sales meetings. lemonhaze.com

Jan. 14

The Cannabis Alliance, Seattle. Monthly meeting of growers, retailers and other supporters of Washington’s cannabis system. The Alliance is also scheduling virtual happy hours for social interaction for members each Tuesday at 5 p.m., plus occasional virtual “Office Hours” to meet the staff. thecannabisalliance.us

Jan. 19

“The Future of Cannabis Marketing.” This virtual TEDstyle talk organized by the Cannabis Marketing Association features industry professionals giving 20-minute presentations about what challenges and opportunities they see ahead. Optional post-event VIP Speaker Roundtable sessions available. www.eventbrite.com/o/ cannabis-marketing-association-11133584337 If you know of any cannabis industry related events that you would like to see listed, please email the information to evercannabis@spokesman.com.  Due to health concerns, some events may be canceled, postponed or moved online. Please check with event organizers to verify prior to attending.

COOKING WITH CANNABIS

Time for New Year cheer By Mary J White EVERCANNABIS CORRESPONDENT

Friends! Happy happy 2021! I don’t think I can say that enough, so happiest of new years to you all. I’m pretty sure we can all agree that 2020 was tough on everyone, with the scary uncertainty of a pandemic and the incredible drama around the election … yep, I think we can agree that a new year feels good. One thing I’ve always disliked though is that “new year, new you” stuff. Of course, the beginning of the year is a great time to take stock and see where we’re at, but at the same time, I feel that we put all kinds of unnecessary pressure on ourselves what with resolutions and goals and, naturally, dieting. I’m sure you all, like me, are lugging around some COVID pounds. Now I’m not advocating any particular way of eating except eat the real stuff! If we can avoid the processed stuff, we’ll all be a lot happier and healthier. With that in mind I want to share my kale salad recipe with you. Please don’t freak out – it’s SO good, and you’ll feel wonderful after you enjoy it. Of course, the addition of infused oil helps a lot. Give this incredible salad a try and I bet you’ll have an even better 2021!

Best Kale Salad

(Once you try this you’ll be one of those people who say, ‘I love kale’! This was inspired by a great salad I had at Tom

COURTESY VAL MCKINLEY

Douglas’s Serious Pie and everyone loves it.) To serve four, you’ll need: 1 large bunch kale (dinosaur or lacinato are good), stems removed and leaves chopped 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 ½ tablespoon infused olive oil (for a CBD salad, use hemp rather than full plant cannabis) Large pinch salt 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 Fresno or other chili pepper, seeded and finely diced (adjust the spiciness by how much of the pepper you use) 3 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted

Grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese (optional) In a big bowl, mix the lemon juice, salt, and mustard, then whisk in the canna olive oil. Add the kale to the

bowl, along with the sliced pepper and mix it all up with your hands. Massage the dressing into the kale mixture, then put it in the fridge to marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes. Repeat massage a few

times as it’s marinating – it really does make a difference. When it’s all chilled and ready to serve, place the salad on chilled plates and top with the pine nuts and cheese. So good!

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The Spokesman-Review

CANNABIS BRIEFS

STATE JOINS REGULATOR GROUP OLYMPIA – Washington is now part of the Cannabis Regulators Association, a new group of government organizations that hope to compare notes about creating and enforcing cannabis rules. Now that more states have approved recreational and medical marijuana programs and several are under development, regulators want to pool their expertise and share what has worked and hasn’t worked as well. Rick Garza, director of Washington’s Liquor and Cannabis Board, will be vice-president of this new association. Washington and Colorado were the two first states to develop adult-use programs five years ago, and officials from both states are frequently asked for assistance from states that are trying to develop theirs. Garza envisions regular meetings of the group to share knowledge and recommend best practices. Every state is tasked with developing its own framework with its local leaders and industry members, but the suggestions from the other states can be useful. “That covers everything we do, whether it’s licensing, whether it’s enforcement, packaging and labeling, or banking.” Source: Spokane Public Radio

European Union declares that CBD not a narcotic, removes bans BRUSSELS, Belgium – The European Union’s highest court has determined that CBD is not a narcotic drug, a strong ruling that removes bans against sales of it in some member countries. The EU’s Court of Justice declared that CBD, a natural compound in cannabis, doesn’t appear to have any psychotropic effect or harmful effects on human health. The ruling came from a case in France where an exporter of whole hemp-based CBD oil, KanaVape, was prosecuted for selling narcotics. Under French law, only hemp fiber and seeds are allowed to be used in commercial products, not the flower. It also must include less than .2 percent of THC. Court officials determined that France’s firm ban against CBD/hemp contradicted EU laws that were created to allow free movement of goods. It based its findings on two United Nations conventions defining illegal drugs that include cannabis extract but don’t specifically include CBD products. France also allows the sale of synthetic CBD products. “The national court must assess available scientific data in order to make sure that the real risk to public health alleged does not appear to be based on purely hypothetical considerations,” the court wrote. Source: The Guardian

ASSOCIATED PRESS

A hemp plant is pollinated at the Unique Botanicals facility in Springfield, Ore., in April 2018.

Western states picked as top pot spots

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Andre Shavers, who runs a marijuana delivery business, checks his delivery bag in Oakland, Calif., in May 2017.

DENVER – California has been declared as the top state for those interested in getting started in the cannabis business, based on a list created by Cannabis & Tech, an industry magazine. The ranking included factors such as financial opportunities, taxing structure, government support (or lack of it), customer base, and social acceptance of cannabis. California is a newer adult-use market but has had a medical system in place since the 1990s. It has been facing inventory challenges, varying municipal support, and some difficulties moving customers and businesses away from underground/black market commerce. But it was also praised

for offering delivery operations. The list placed Colorado as No. 2, based on an easy application process and availability of a variety of licenses, not just growers or retailers. Washington was placed as No. 3 based on the size of the market and high customer demand. Also praised was the diversity of products that go beyond flower and pre-roll, such as edibles and concentrates. But the Evergreen state was also dinged for challenges in obtaining a producer/processor license, as well as offering one of the largest tax rates at 37 percent. Oregon and Nevada were next on the list. Source: Cannabis & Tech Today

Spokane, Wash. / Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

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STRAIN OF THE MONTH

Dark Side of the Moon Start 2021 with blast from the past

Dark Side of the Moon full flower pre-rolls

By Rick Misterly

EVERCANNABIS CORRESPONDENT

Besides being the first review of the New Year, there are a few other firsts included below that are of note. For starters this is my first foray into the world of pre-rolls. This may seem like being a bit behind the times, but for me they never really came to mind as an option. The next innovation included assembling a panel of experts to sample said joints and conduct a shared tasting via video conference. With our current pandemic situation, we are presented with new obstacles, yet with a little imagination and technical assistance, enjoyable, alternatives can be found. This new format offers possibilities of more interactive reviews that could include new voices from people with a more diverse range of experiences in regards to cannabis use. Appearance: They are joints and I don’t think they could be mistaken for anything else. They were packaged as a set of five weighing half a gram each, perfect for a small get-together where everyone has their own. Probably the next best thing in these weird times. Aroma: Right out of the package, you can smell the fresh scents. Before any further analysis, all three panelists agreed to the strain’s complexity, which grew deeper after passing under their noses and taking a hit, before it was lit. Panelist 1 detected a subtle floral aroma that also appeared in the taste and found it to be a very smooth smoke. Panelist 2 characterized the initial smell as “skunky” defined as lily, while Panelist 3 described the strong first impression as “musky” with a floral aroma more like carnations or dianthus flowers. So we could say “floral,” but differ on what flower. Other aromas present were damp, well-cured tobacco, lime peel, dry cedar, sage, cooling cloves and olives. Our third panelist found rich, earthy forest floor a more fitting description, but also agreed

with the cedar, tobacco and black olives suggested by Panelist 2. They both found common ground that clove, sagebrush and rosemary were easily present in the hit before it was lit. Taste upon ignition was of Southeast Asian spices while the smoke was smooth and the joint burned perfectly. Effects: Here is where the tricky part came in as the amount consumed varied with all panelists. While mulling over the taste, Panelist 3 kept taking large hits while observing the burn and overall quality of the smoke. The other two seemed more reserved in their consumption, thus giving a good scenario on effects. All three described the first impression as a comforting feeling. Panelist 1 reported that after smoking half his joint he experienced a comfortable head high. He wrote that the contents were “very potent” and an enjoyable experience. Panelist 2 cautiously smoked 40% of his allotment and called it “noticeable but not strong.” But he too felt a “compressive, enveloping feeling that left him in a Zen-like neutral state of equanimity,” unlike anything uplifting or fear-inducing. The best part of his high lasted about an hour and a half with the overall feeling reaching four hours. But he didn’t sleep as soundly as some weed allows. Smoking 60% of the joint, Panelist 3’s heavier dose took him way beyond the others to places you might expect from something named after the lunar location that Pink Floyd sang about. The first feeling somewhat matched the others’ descriptions, but the comfort extended into the room that made the walls move in, like

Harvested: Oct. 14, 2020, at BudCo, Spokane Purchased at: The Top Shelf, Airway Heights THC: 22.7% CBD: .1% Total cannabinoids: 22.8% Hybrid: Green Ribbon X Spirit of the Sky Dominant Terpenes: Myrcene 3.6mg/g, Limonene 2.1mg/g, Camphene, .94mg/ g

a warm comforting envelope, allowing the mind a release from bodily constraints. He described this, as best he could, that while watching on his screen how familiar people and settings morphed into things wondrous and unexpected. While his mind was sharp and could maintain a discussion about the subject and other topics, everything changed visually. Like Panelist 2’s short-trimmed beard and hair became the perfect look for a character from a Shakespearean play and even his simple dark V-neck pullover and white shirt looked like something appropriate for the character. Shadows in the background of a once-familiar room became mysterious Moorish niches from a Moroccan palace. That extra toke crossed the line into a fantastic realm beyond standard imagination. Even after two hours of this on-screen exchange, once alone our third participant reported falling into a type of hypnagogic state that added to the pleasure and unusual power of this strain. He called it a candidate for his own “Private Gripweed.” Depending on your dose and setting, Dark Side of the Moon will definitely help with relaxation and enjoyment. Despite its calming effects we can safely say that there was no down or depressive feelings from this strain. The mind remains engaged yet unrestrained enough to dissolve the straight edges that define the normal, everyday experience into something strange and unplanned, spontaneously created by our imagination.

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The Spokesman-Review