Spokannabist, january 27, 2017 by Cowles Publishing

Spokannabist Growing Every D Day ay

MARIJUANA HELPING VETERANS WITH 2222

PTSD

VALENTINEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DAY GOODIES

POT SHOP TOURS

Spokannabist is a product of The Spokesman−Review’s marketing division. • Friday, January 27, 2017

SPOKANNABIST ISSUE 9

VOLUME 1

DIRECTOR, SALES & MARKETING Kathleen Coleman PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Dan Fritts MANAGING EDITOR Joe Butler CREATIVE DIRECTOR Anne Potter GRAPHIC DESIGNER Trish Merryman LOCAL CONTRIBUTORS Dan Webster Renee Sande Courtney Dunham Lisa Leinberger Shallan Knowles S. Michal Bennett Tricia Jo Webster Autum Schumacher ADVERTISING LEAD Matthew Hawkins

509.459.5095 spokannabist@spokesman.com

Proud member of

It’s not necessarily wise to compare anything positively to the dot-com boom since the memories from AFTER the bubble burst (pain, turmoil, dead Pets.com puppets) are still vivid compared to the sky-high investment opportunities and business ventures before things started going south. But Forbes recently declared that the country’s legal cannabis industry has ofﬁcially exceeded dot-com status in terms of growth – legal pot sales exceeded $9.3 billion last year, up 30 percent from 2015! Combined sales in Washington, Colorado and Oregon jumped 62 percent year to year – even the best dot-com years saw only 20 percent growth. With more states working on creating or expanding their marijuana marketplaces, sales are expected to go higher (pun very much intended). Will we someday see an adjustment/ correction? Probably, but even the most critical market watchers say there are at least ﬁve, maybe 10 great years ahead before things tighten. In the meantime, enjoy the ride! • Do you like Spokannabist? Or do you have suggestions for topics we can cover more extensively? We’re eager to hear everyone’s thoughts. Visit bit.ly/2j5VoX0 to take a short online survey. As a way to get a larger sampling, we’re randomly selecting three people to receive $25 gift cards for your troubles! Joe Butler, Managing Editor

IN THIS ISSUE 16 Sweet Treats Drinks, candies can work magic

A PTSD Solution? Veterans exploring beneﬁts of marijuana

Canna House 15 Locals Owner wants farm-to-table vibe

20 Sightseeing Cannabis-themed tours available statewide

Interested in being a Spokannabist FREE distribution location? Please contact 509.459.5095 or spokannabist@spokesman.com

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.

Spokannabist is a product of The Spokesman−Review’s marketing division. • Friday, January 27, 2017

WSU BUILDING BRE THALYZERS NEW DEVICE DESIGNED TO DETECT

THC LEVELS

Drivers are considered legally impaired in Washington or Colorado if they have above 5 nanograms per milliliter of THC in their blood. Oregon doesn’t have a stated limit for marijuana-related impairment, but relies on a trained officer’s observations. By S. MICHAL BENNETT Spokannabist Correspondent Alcohol breathalyzers have become effective tools for law enforcement to detect how much is too much for someone behind the wheel or in other safety situations. But measuring or detecting active cannabis levels has become a convoluted challenge. “There are a variety of different techniques that people are making to try to detect marijuana, but the core thing that we do not know is what it means to be impaired,” said Dr. Brian Clowers from the Department of Chemistry at Washington State University’s College of Arts and Sciences. “Until we address this, attempts for roadside detection or for law enforcement are going to be challenged in court.” He and his chemistry students are currently researching detection methods with the goal of providing solid data for the development and implementation of a handheld marijuana breathalyzer. Similar research and development and field testing into portable detection devices is taking place around the country. Up to this point, cannabis detection has primarily involved trained drug detection animals, blood tests that can take weeks to process, or wipe tests, such as those used on baggage at airports. These methods are less effective for determining immediate impairment levels, which law enforcement can encounter at traffic stops. THC, when compared to alcohol, is fundamentally different on multiple internal levels. THC particles in the bloodstream are considered ‘sticky and nonvolatile,’ which can make them difficult to quickly extract and detect. Ethanol in booze is water-soluble, which means it moves into your body’s fluids as it is processed. THC, however, is considered lipophilic, which means it remains in fat cells and can stay in the body, but not the bloodstream, for weeks. A third predicament involves current legalities of extraction. Officers can observe physical characteristics of drivers such as red eyes or poor coordination. They can request a blood test, which must be performed at a doctor’s office, hospital or medical facility. If a driver refuses , their license can be revoked for at least a year. The driver can also contact an attorney to determine whether to consent to a test. However, extended delays could affect test results. Officers can also request a warrant for a blood test if they have reasonable suspicion of intoxication. Clowers and his students are looking for ways to tackle these challenges. Their effort starts with high-end mobility spectrometry technology, used at airports to screen passengers and luggage for narcotics and explosives. The technology is being adapted to identify the presence of THC. “We are looking at how we can extract small amounts of material from complex matrices of compounds, whether it be saliva, blood or air, then we are ionizing those molecules, detecting them and trying to assess whether or not the compounds that are present in that swipe fall in the same category as THC,” he said.

Clowers took over the research of Dr. Herb Hill this fall, who retired after 40 years. He believes this project has potential beyond roadside detection applications. “I believe it’s really a public safety element and advocacy for sound evidence-based, analytical approaches,” he said. “There are point-of-care diagnostics in medical facilities trying to understand what kind of impairments someone may be subject to. There are workplace safety concerns. These are things that extend beyond impaired driving.” Other schools and private companies are pushing to get something in the field, but Clowers said continuing testing is critical, especially learning what specific factors define impairment. “We can have a bunch of different detection methods, but they won’t mean anything if we don’t define this on research level as well as a legal level,” he said.

Spokannabist is a product of The Spokesman−Review’s marketing division. • Friday, January 27, 2017

THINGS TO DO JAN 31 FEB 4-5 FEB 16 FEB 2 5

SEED TO SALE 2-DAY SHOW, DENVER The National Cannabis Industry Association’s event at the Colorado Convention Center invites cultivators, dispensary operators and manufacturers to discuss ways to do business better. seedtosaleshow.com/denver-2017 THE HEMP AND CANNABIS FAIR, BAKERSFIELD, CALIF. This celebration of legal marijuana includes the latest products, growing tools, edibles, medical info and more fun. www.thcfair.com 3 -DAY CANNACON EXPO, SEATTLE. More than 50,000 members of the cannabis industry will discuss topics, products, and best practices. Similar Expos take place in Anchorage, Alaska, each September, and Santa Rosa, Calif., in April cannacon.org/seattle

DEC 31

HEMP LIFE FESTIVAL, AUSTIN, TEXAS Learn all about hemp products at this informational and musical gathering, while enjoying local bands and food trucks. Visitors can attend workshops and receive info about various brands plus samples. www.hemplifefestival.com

Whether you are a seasoned consumer or curious about cannabis, Our professional budtenders would love to visit with you! Conveniently located 2.3 miles N of I-90 at the Liberty Lake Exit ‒ 3 miles from Stateline

Spokannabist is a product of The Spokesman−Review’s marketing division. • Friday, January 27, 2017

By RENÉE SANDE Spokannabist Correspondent

Topical products beneﬁt the body without the highs

Not every marijuana shopper is in search of something nice to smoke or eat. Some are more interested in what these products can do for their bodies, including possibly easing muscle pain or combating inﬂammation from conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. People with fresh tattoos appreciate topical products like lotions or salves that are said to ease pain and soothe tender skin. Flavored lip balms ease winter chapping and dryness this time of year.

“Right now we’re working on expanding our topical selection even more as sales have picked up so much lately,” said Eric Skaar, manager of Sativa Sisters in Spokane Valley. Part of the appeal of topical products is that you don’t need to ingest a large amount of THC for pain relief, or even marijuana products. THC is a compound in marijuana plants that causes the mental and physical changes commonly referred to as the high. Legal hemp contains less than .3 percent THC but can contain higher percentages of CBD, a related compound in both plants known for pain-ﬁghting properties. A small amount of THC is required to activate CBD, however.

With many cannabis-infused lotions, salves, oils and sprays, the THC and CBD is absorbed only into the skin tissue, which can trigger a reaction in the sensory nerves just below the skin. It’s said to create a safe, Icy Hot-like effect, but just in a localized area. “Other than transdermal patches, cannabis topical products are not going to enter your bloodstream and you’re not going to get high from them,” Skaar said. Some cannabis topical product users credit CBD with helping other skin conditions, as well. According to Ah Warner, CEO of CannabisBasics.com, cannabis “can stop the progression of skin sores while repairing skin from herpes simplex, fever blisters, eczema, psoriasis, acne, hemorrhoids, dandruff, dry chapped skin and up to second degree burns.”

Many Spokane marijuana retailers carry a variety of topical products. The percentage of CBD and THC varies. For instance, 1-2 ounce CBD lotions are between $15-20, and 4-ounce containers are $40-50. Skaar said topical products are also popular for their aromas – customers can choose fruity scents like coconut, grapefruit or vanilla. “We’re thrilled that they’ve become so popular,” Skaar said. “We’ve been working with topicals since day one – they’re a great way to introduce someone to the world of cannabis who doesn’t use cannabis.”

Double Delicious

SOOTHING CREAM

SOOTHING GEL

1 oz. (115.64 mg THC, 57.12 mg CBD) $25 (Green Star Cannabis)

1 oz. (43.68 mg THC, 47.6 mg CBD) $20 (Green Star Cannabis)

Shoppers can choose from lotions, oils, salves and more, including these products from Green Star Cannabis. Photos by Trish Merryman, Spokannabist

Spokannabist is a product of The Spokesman−Review’s marketing division. • Friday, January 27, 2017

What’s your plan for 420? If your store, farm or business is planning anything special on or around April 20, let us know! We’re creating a list of celebrations or other local events for this unofﬁcial cannabis holiday. Send us a note at spokannabist@spokesman.com spokannabist@spokesman.com..

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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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This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgement. 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.

Spokannabist is a product of The Spokesman−Review’s marketing division. • Friday, January 27, 2017

CANNABIS NEWS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE

GUAM GOVERNOR SUPPORTS LEGALIZING RECREATIONAL POT Gov. Eddie Calvo has proposed legalizing recreational marijuana on the island, with heavy taxation. Calvo announced the plan in December, just a week after he vetoed a bill that would allow medical marijuana patients to grow pot at home. Calvo had cited concerns about the cost of regulating residential grow operations, The Pacific Daily News reported. The governor turned his focus to recreational marijuana, which he said could generate tax revenue to fund public safety and education. “I want us to look at how states navigated into recreational marijuana. Let’s figure it out and then tax the heck out of it and use those taxes to help fund our hospital, public safety and education,” Calvo said. The vetoed bill would have required residents to obtain a permit and have routine inspections by law enforcement and public health officials. “Unless the means of how the regulation of home cultivation is to be funded or staffed is identified, the anticipated enforcement will impose new and different duties upon our health and law enforcement agencies that will deplete their already strained resources,” Calvo stated.

WALLA WALLA COUNTY TO CONSIDER BAN ON MEDICAL POT OPERATIONS

HAGATNA, Guam (AP) – Guam

Source: Associated Press

WALLA WALLA, WA – Walla

Walla County commissioners are considering a permanent ban on medical marijuana operations in unincorporated areas of the county. A public hearing on this topic in December followed a sixmonth moratorium enacted by commissioners last June in response to new state laws regulating medical marijuana. The county has already banned recreational marijuana production, processing and sale in unincorporated areas. At the June meeting, county planning consultant Bill Stalzer said the county code “is silent” on medical marijuana. This is particularly in regards to cooperative growing operations intended to replace the community gardens. Such gardens were allowed under regulations existing before the changes in state law went into effect on July 1. The changes in the regulations of medical marijuana were enacted by the Legislature in 2015. Among the major changes were the elimination of collective gardens and medical marijuana dispensaries. Source: Tribune Media Services

COLORADO’S GOVERNOR REFLECTS ON ‘GREEN’ LEGACY CORONADO, Calif. – Four years after Colorado became one of the first states to legalize recreational marijuana, Gov. John Hickenlooper sounded a cautionary, if humorous, note: “Don’t break out the Cheetos or Goldfish too quickly.” Hickenlooper found himself wrestling with how to implement a law he had opposed. Now, with other states passing similar measures, the Democrat has become a kind of marijuana counselor to his peers. Governors call him up for advice. Hickenlooper, who owned a Denver brewery before entering politics in 2003, said he usually gives the same, specific advice: Focus on marijuanainfused brownies, gummy candies and lollipops. “We didn’t regulate edibles strongly enough at first,” Hickenlooper said. He cited a spike in emergency room visits by kids who had eaten marijuana products and, in a few cases, died. In recent years, Colorado launched an extensive ad campaign about the dangers to kids and teenagers, and lawmakers have passed measures requiring that edible labels be stamped to show they contain pot. The risks for children are high, according to a report published by physicians at Children’s Hospital Colorado that showed an increase in emergency room visits for kids under 9 who ingested pot. Source: Tribune Content Agency

“PRINCE OF POT” MARC EMERY AND WIFE ARRESTED IN MONTREAL MONTREAL (AP) – Montreal

police have launched raids against illegal cannabis stores opened one day earlier by the self-proclaimed “Prince of Pot,” Marc Emery, and his wife, Jodie. Marc Emery was extradited in 2010 to the United States, where he pleaded guilty to selling marijuana seeds to American clients from his Vancouver-based store and was sentenced to five years in prison. After spending four years behind bars, he was released on good behavior and flown from a facility in Louisiana to Detroit, before crossing the border into Windsor, Ontario. He has become a prominent advocate for marijuana legalization in North America. He also has been expanding his chain of dispensaries across Canada, despite the fact that the drug is still illegal. Cannabis Culture, the brand owned by the Emerys, has a dozen shops. Hundreds of customers lined the street throughout the day on a recent Friday to make their first pot purchases at the MountRoyal, Montreal location. The store reportedly sold out its stock, leaving only cash for police to find. Ottawa is moving “properly and responsibly,” to legalize marijuana, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said, but the current law governing cannabis will stand until new legislation is ratified.

Source: Associated Press

Spokannabist is a product of The Spokesman−Review’s marketing division. • Friday, January 27, 2017

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Spokannabist is a product of The Spokesman−Review’s marketing division. • Friday, January 27, 2017

502

31 148

SPOKANE COUNTY

RETAILERS SPOKANE COUNTY

PRODUCERS/ PROCESSORS

STATISTICS AS OF DECEMBER 2016

364

SOURCE:502DATA.COM

WASHINGTON STATE

RETAILERS WASHINGTON STATE

PRODUCERS/ 1052 PROCESSORS ,

Spokannabist is a product of The Spokesman−Review’s marketing division. • Friday, January 27, 2017

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Spokannabist is a product of The Spokesman Review’s marketing division. • Friday, January 27, 2017

PTSD 2222 WASHINGTON VET

By DAN WEBSTER Spokannabist Correspondent

It’s no understatement to say that marijuana changed than one. Collins, 36, owns an indoor marijuana producer/pro before Wicked Weed ever became a business, Collin cope with the lingering effects of post-traumatic stres Collins served in the Army for six years. He was a ﬁ take a medical discharge in 2004. “I didn’t go to war, but I had a lot of trauma,” he sai murder calls, and that just affected me as a young m The effects were nearly debilitating. “After I got out of the army, I was lost in life and dra U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs) and they started a zombie for years.” A zombie? “That’s the term I want to use,” he said. Then, Collins tried marijuana. “It was more recreational than medicine, you know. B all my pills, I started doing well in life. I was a better p Collins’ story isn’t unusual. A number of veterans su advocate the use of cannabis products for veterans s testimony from veterans like Collins who share similar Roger Martin is founder and executive director of G nonproﬁt with chapters in six other states (an organiz chapter was held in Everett last July). In an interview with a Fox News TV station in Colora here to get vets high. We’re here to help vets that hav “I’ve spoken with thousands of veterans who have “Many tell me that cannabis is the only thing that help One of those veterans was Nick Kahl, an Iraq comb to his face and spinal cord. Kahl was given prescriptio “It saved my life,” Kahl told the news station. “I’m a present, fully present, when they’re around. I can sit a asked for anything better.” The problem here is that despite such statements, use of marijuana in PTSD treatment, for good or bad approved marijuana for recreational or medicinal use, government as a Schedule 1 substance – the same c lacking in research funding. That may be changing. Gov. Jay Inslee signed a law State University and the University of Washington to w conduct marijuana research. Last May Congress passed legislation permitting VA with their patients – at least in states where use is leg But marijuana use remains illegal on the federal leve

Spokannabist is a product of The Spokesman Review’s marketing division. • Friday, January 27, 2017

D AND POT 22222222 TERANS SEEK CANNABIS SOLUTIONS d Mark Collins’ life. And in more ways ocesser in Airway Heights. But long s discovered that marijuana helped him ss disorder (PTSD). ﬁreﬁghter until a back injury forced him to id. “I went on a lot of suicide calls, an.”

“

WE’RE NOT HERE TO GET VETS HIGH.

WE’RE HERE TO HELP VETS WHO HAVE MEDICAL ISSUES.

work closely with veterans who might want to use marijuana, with or without other prescribed medications. “We don’t have enough studies to show that it’s safe long-term or safe with the medication we’re currently prescribing,” said Dr. Rebecca Meiers, Chief of Primary Care of Spokane’s Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center. “We have to weigh the risks and the beneﬁts of every treatment.” As for whether use of marijuana will deny a veteran access to VA facilities, Dr. Meiers says, “Absolutely not. Living in Washington State, we have a large veteran population that uses marijuana. It’s a matter of those veterans talking to their provider and coming up with a treatment plan that is individualized.”

ank a lot,” he said. “I went to the V.A. (the d giving me anxiety medicines and I was

22222222222

But I stopped drinking, I stopped taking person.” upport groups around the country suffering from PTSD. They readily provide r stories. Grow for Vets USA, a Colorado-based zational meeting for a Washington

MEANWHILE, VETERANS SUCH AS MARK COLLINS PURSUE THE TREATMENT THAT, THEY SAY, WORKS BEST FOR THEM. “AS I WAS TRYING TO TELL THE DOCTORS WHEN I WAS ON A BUNCH OF MEDICINE AND DRINKING, I DIDN’T CRY, I DIDN’T FEEL ANYTHING, I JUST WENT THROUGH LIFE,” COLLINS SAID. “NOW I MAY FEEL STUFF, I MAY BE DEPRESSED OR STRESSED, BUT AT LEAST I FEEL THINGS.

ado Springs, Martin said, “We’re not ve medical issues.” been helped with PTSD,” Martin said. ps them with PTSD.” bat veteran who suffered severe wounds on drugs before turning to marijuana. a better father to my children. I’m and talk to my wife … I couldn’t have little science exists that supports the . Even though some 30 states have the continued listing by the federal category as heroin – has meant a severe w in 2015 that allows Washington work with the state’s license holders to A doctors to discuss medical marijuana gal. el. That restriction hampers those who

I FEEL THE HAPPINESS IN LIFE NOW.”

2222222

Right, this Spokane resident who asked not to be identiﬁed, is a retired combat veteran and was part of the 23rd Infantry Division – Americal. Left, Wicked Weed, a Spokane-based marijuana producer, is owned by veteran Mark Collins, foreground. Employees include, front to back, Collins, Brett Emmett, Cassie Bradford, Moriah Carleton, Tamra Lynn Murray, Danielle Lane and Charlie Clark. Photos by Shallan Knowles

Spokannabist is a product of The Spokesman−Review’s marketing division. • Friday, January 27, 2017

MILITARY

ZERO-TOLERANCE FEDERAL POSSESSION LAWS AND PENALTIES COME INTO PLAY

IF CANNABIS PRODUCTS ARE FOUND IN A SERVICE’S MEMBER’S CAR OR PERSONAL PROPERTY ON A BASE OR INSTALLATION

By JOE BUTLER Spokannabist Writer While veterans are free to imbibe any substances they choose, active and reserve duty military members and recruits face strict regulations for use or possession of pot. Marijuana remains illegal under the federal Controlled Substance Act and the Uniform Code of Military Justice, and the Department of Defense extends these rules to all branches of the military, regardless of local laws in states or countries where military members are stationed or deployed. Each service conducts its own regular substance testing programs, and failure could lead to court martial and a potential dishonorable discharge. Public Affairs ofﬁcials at Fairchild Air Force Base conﬁrmed that all of their personnel follow these regulations. The Air Force Reserve Command reports that more reservists test positive for marijuana than all illegal drugs combined. There are no exceptions for medical marijuana; most conditions that would merit a legal prescription could disqualify someone from military service. If a physician suggests it, reservists are encouraged to refuse or ask for alternatives. Service members are also encouraged to be aware

ACCORDING TO MILITARYONESOURCE. MIL, THE U.S. DEFENSE DEPARTMENT’S MILITARY LIFE ONLINE RESOURCE,

“DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE ARE INCOMPATIBLE WITH READINESS, THE MAINTENANCE OF HIGH STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE AND MILITARY DISCIPLINE.”

if a spouse or civilian family members legally uses or possesses marijuana products. Federal possession laws and penalties come into play if cannabis products are found in a service’s member’s car or personal property on a base or installation. Spouses or family members who also work on base in civilian capacities aren’t tested regularly, but still can face federal penalties if they’re found to have drug-related products. U.S. Defense Secretary Ash Carter has expressed interest in relaxing some recruiting standards, such as fitness levels, prominent tattoos or past pot use, in order to expand the number of eligible candidates for the volunteer military. Currently, military applicants are asked about past drug and alcohol use, including charges or convictions, trafficking or physical dependence. A recruiter can automatically declare someone ineligible, or some branches allow Drug Eligibility Determinations, where a specialist can review an applicant and decide to disqualify them or allow a waiver if there was only casual use in their past. This standard often is defined as less than 20 experiences with a “softer” drug like marijuana or alcohol. All recruits are tested for substances during processing and arriving at boot camp. A failure can lead to disqualification, although people who test positive for THC or alcohol once can re-test six months later.

Spokannabist is a product of The Spokesman−Review’s marketing division. • Friday, January 27, 2017

LOCALS CANNA HOUSE By LISA LEINBERGER Spokannabist Correspondent

LOCALS MARKET

THE IS WHERE CUSTOMERS WILL FIND PRODUCTS FROM MICRO-GROWERS, SMALL BATCHES THAT CHANGE REGULARLY.

Doug Peterson, owner of Locals Canna House in Spokane Valley, picked up a sniffing sample of Converse City Kush and described its smell as “earthy.” “The ‘nose,’ or the smell, is unique,” he said. THE He moved on to a sniffing sample of WHERE FOLKS CAN FIND GOOD Grape Ape, another popular strain. “That’s more of a fruity smell.” PRODUCTS AT GREAT PRICES. Locals Canna House offers customers a chance to smell the aromatic notes in many of the products it sells. If you’re searching for something skunky, fruity, earthy, sour or sweet, connoisseurs Peterson divided the showroom into several sections. can find what they are looking for at There are counters for glass and edibles, plus areas he the shop’s convenient sniffing station – a selection calls Locals Market and Growers’ Outlet. of secure jars with air holes that can be sniffed and “Customers know that over here, we’re going to get compared. (Coffee beans help cleanse the aromatic a good deal,” he said. palate between sniffs.) Peterson said he is entirely focused on local, not only Peterson likes to think of his dispensary as a cannabis the products he sells but the décor. He asked a friend farmers’ market. He focuses on smaller local growers, to make the accents on the walls from wood from his and enjoys cultivating relationships with producers. He property, and displays artwork from local artists. also likes to go out and visit their farms when possible If there was a cannabis version of a neighborhood and get his hands dirty by digging in the soil. pub, this would be it. He wants Locals Canna House to have a farm-to-table Until recently, Peterson really relied on word-of-mouth feel, which benefits growers and customers. marketing, relying on existing customers to share their The business opened in July 2015, and moved to its experiences with their friends and encourage them to new location on East Sprague last fall, which offers visit. 2,500 square feet of retail space and climate-controlled “We’re sort of a grass-roots-type store, and I’m proud storage.

GROWERS’ OUTLET

of that,” he said. “Do things right and the sales will come.” Complying with regulations has also been high on his list of priorities. Peterson worked extensively with the City of Spokane Valley to get approval of the store. IS The City Council took a tour, as did the planning commission. He wants to be the liaison between the city and the cannabis industry. He said training his staff is paramount, making sure they are not only knowledgeable about the products, but that they put in extra effort to get to know customers. “This is your ‘Cheers’ weed shop,” he said. “I want this to be a destination.”

LOCALS CANNA HOUSE 9616 E. Sprague Spokane Valley www.localscannahouse.com Danaka Orr and Jonathon G. Brendle, employees at Locals Canna House, check out the sniff stations at the Spokane Valley cannabis retailer, which wants to be compared to a craft brewery in terms of high-quality product plus friendly, knowledgeable staff. Photos by Trish Merryman, Spokannabist

Spokannabist is a product of The Spokesman−Review’s marketing division. • Friday, January 27, 2017

y a D s ’ e n i t n e l Va n o e v o l h t i W

By TRICIA JO WEBSTER Spokannabist Correspondent

Chocolates. Flowers. Bubbly. All lovely ways to celebrate good feels on Valentine’s Day. But how about considering additional ways to bring more ‘green’ fun into your romance? Start with special touches from Zoots that can satisfy your sweet tooth along with your sweetie. “Cannabis-infused edibles are a great addition to a romantic evening,” said Patrick Devlin, co-founder of Zoots Premium Cannabis Infusions, a Seattlebased edible processor. “If you’re new to edibles, it’s important to understand that

you are in control of your experience.” “Everyone has their own preferred serving size, and each person reacts differently to cannabis-infused edibles. Body size, physical activity, diet and more all impact reactions,” Devlin said. “Depending on how much you consume, you may begin feeling the effects in as little as 30 minutes or as much as two hours.” He said it’s important to wait until you feel the full effects before consuming more, and be ready to enjoy the evening: the effects can last two to four hours.

Kooki Dough Blondies and Chocolate Mint Cookies 10 mg of THC Come in packs of two

ZootBites Caramel Espresso Brownies 10 mg of THC Gluten-free Come in packs of two or six

Spokannabist is a product of The Spokesman−Review’s marketing division. • Friday, January 27, 2017

Speaking of liquid love, Spokanebased Henderson Distribution offers other ways to make this Valentine’s Day enjoyable beyond its Incredible Edible cookies. Its Arousal Tincture is an indica-based creation meant to induce relaxation and enhance mood. Infused with suma root, a Brazilian ginseng, this tincture heightens sensations by increasing blood ﬂow. Henderson founder Deanna Henderson says this tincture is all about extending foreplay and reaching bigger, better pleasure payoffs. Hubba hubba. Kronic Klimax is another of Henderson’s feel-good concoctions. This long-lasting water-based personal lubricant is light and slippery, with just a hint of added friction. It’s also safe to use with latex condoms or adult toys, and, although it’s not technically an edible, it’s not harmful if swallowed. Kronic Klimax uses indica-dominant

cannabis blends to help users relax, and is available in four essences – Fudge Berry (chocolate raspberry), Hot Box (warming peppermint), OrangeGasm (creamsicle) and Vanilla Wet Dreams (vanilla cream). Each bottle contains 100 mg of THC and Henderson suggests massaging a quarter-sized drop into the area you want to stimulate. It absorbs quickly, so you may need two applications. This stuff makes for a really slow high that can lead to long, lovely lovin’ sessions. Zoots products can be found at about 20 Spokane-area cannabis retailers. More info is available at www.zootology.com/. Henderson Distribution products are available at most Spokane-area cannabis shops as well, and more info can be found on Facebook.

Liquid Love ZootDrops are premium watersoluble cannabis-infused concentrates that can be consumed straight or stirred into beverages. Good for ﬁrst-time users. If you want to be more cautious, try a half capful for 2.5 mg

ZootDrops 5 mg of THC per capful Comes in Lemon Relaxation – a calming chill-out blend; and Mandarin Lime High Energy, for those who want a little extra pep.

Spokane’s Original Cannabis shop! Menu available on Leafly.com & Weedmaps.com

Winter Hours Monday – Saturday: 9 A.M.–10 P.M. Sunday: 9 A.M.–9 P.M. 9107 N. Country Homes Blvd, #13

509-919-3467

Disclaimer: 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.

Spokannabist is a product of The Spokesman−Review’s marketing division. • Friday, January 27, 2017

502 47

Million

REVENUE RE AS OF DECEMBER 2016

SPOKANE COUNTY

TOTAL EXCISE TAX COLLECTED

260

Million

SPOKANE COUNTY

TOTAL SALES SINCE 2014

401

Million

WASHINGTON STATE

TOTAL EXCISE TAX COLLECTED WASHINGTON STATE

1644 TOTAL SALES

, Million

Marijuana Retail Sales

$4m

2015

2016

TOTAL

2014

2016

TOTAL

$39m $76m $118m

$16m $148m $362m $525m

$3m $15m

$3m

$25m $56m $83m

Processor Sales

Producer Sales

$0m

$2m

Producer Sales

Excise Tax Collected

2015

Marijuana Retail Sales $31m $323m $696m $1,050m

Processor Sales

TOTAL SALES

SINCE 2014 (m = million)

(m = million) 2014

SOURCE:502DATA.COM

$6m

$59m

$7m $66m $138m $260m

TOTAL SALES

$2m

Excise Tax Collected

$17m $28m $47m

$51m

$69m

$49m $486m $1,109m $1,644m

$16m $129m $256m $401m

Spokannabist is a product of The Spokesman−Review’s marketing division. • Friday, January 27, 2017

REMEMBERING TO

FOCUS ON THE END-USER By LARA KAMINSKY Special to Spokannabist Up to this point my columns have focused on the issues that business owners face in this new legal cannabis paradigm. As executive director for an industry trade organization, it sometimes feels like the end consumer is left out of the conversation. Today, I would like to talk about you: the consumer. You have a tremendous part to play when you use your voice and couple it with your purchasing power. It is imperative that you speak up about what you want to see and don’t want to see as we forge this new industry. What are your values as a consumer? As consumers there has never been a better time to inﬂuence the course of an industry. Due to the restrictions on interstate commerce the industry is still relatively small and your choices can have a big impact. Here are a few suggestions on how this could look. • Do you want to see small businesses thrive? Do you care about sustainable business practices? Do you want to see packaging that is recyclable or otherwise environmentally-friendly? Then ﬁnd out more about where your product comes from and the companies that create it. • Do you care about local buying habits? Find out if there are producers in your region and request that your retailer supply products that come from the immediate area. • Do you care how your product was

grown? Indoor or outdoor? If you want outdoor, is it even allowed in your county? Do you care what products were used to mitigate pests? Retailers are required to document pesticides used and provide customers the information upon request. Ask to see the documents; every retailer should have them. • Are you not able to find the products you seek? Find out why. Tell your retailer what you are looking for. If the product isn’t available, find out why. If enough people ask for certain types of products the request WILL filter to the producers and they WILL start producing it. • What’s your general knowledge? Do you know about cannabanoids? What are terpenes? What is the terpene profile of your favorite product? How do you think those terpenes affect your experience? The more you know about what you consume, the more you can influence business attitudes and move companies toward greater social responsibility and better products. Lara Kaminsky is Executive Director of The Cannabis Alliance, a Washington nonprofit trade association that understands that the war on drugs has created misperceptions, mistrust and even fear about the industry and legalization. The Cannabis Alliance strives to change those perceptions, through education, advocacy and helping set the highest possible industry standards. www.thecannabisalliance.us.

Spokannabist is a product of The Spokesman−Review’s marketing division. • Friday, January 27, 2017

POT M S I R TOU

WHEN IN SPOKANE TUMBLEWEED TOURS

A NICHE AMONGST CURIOUS, WOULD-BE USERS By COURTNEY DUNHAM Spokannabist Correspondent

The increasing popularity of legal cannabis is contributing to another growth area: tourism. Many Evergreen State residents and travelers are interested in learning more about the marijuana industry, from planting and cultivating to processing, selling and enjoying. A variety of tourism companies now exist to show off high points. Similar to wine tours, guests can learn the ins and outs of the business, from seed to sale, plus the social components. “A lot of people who are 50 and over did (marijuana) when we were younger, but now don’t know where to go, what to ask, and who to trust,” said Dawn Wiksten, owner of Tumbleweed Tours, which offers guided limo and bus trips around the Spokane area. “Our tours offer a chance to ask questions and meet people like themselves.” She said day and weekend tours are valuable, not just for education, but for fun. They’re designed for anyone age 21 and older who has never visited cannabis shops or legal growing operations, has wanted to, but feels awkward knowing where to start. Wiksten considers herself a good advocate. An active grandmother raising a child, she deals with pain daily from degenerative spine disease and ﬁbromyalgia. Her doctor initially prescribed

Oxytocin, plus up to 16 ibuprofen a day for pain relief. This encouraged her to start researching cannabis as something possibly better for her body. “I can’t tell you what a difference in quality of life CBDs and cannabis oils have brought,” she said. Rather than always having the same stops every time, she works with a variety of producers and processors, based on client preferences, location and availability. Tours sometimes visit Royal’s Cannabis on North Division, a retailer, and Billifer’s Buds, a processor. Stops at Northern Quest Casino usually include a visit to businesses in Airway Heights like The Top Shelf. “Our tours are safe and respectable, not anything back-alley or sleazy,” she said. “All the stops include fun, variety and a feeling when guests leave of having had an experience like never before. If you only come to meet likeminded people, taste amazing products and food, you’ll get your money’s worth.” Participants learn proper ways to eat and smoke marijuana products as well as varieties of hemp or marijuana-infused lotions and oils. Many participants are interested in the medicinal value of marijuana as alternatives to prescription drugs. Wiksten, an Idaho resident, feels passionate about marijuana laws someday changing in her own state and others. “I and many others have chosen to live in a state that does not value its health care or its seniors,

and those are the people who have the greatest interest and need to use marijuana,” she said. “We have found exactly what works for us. I feel passionate about opening up that conversation more.” She has observed that the largest market for pot products is seniors. “Many really need relief and are active and still want to have fun,” she said. Wiksten is tired of people calling pot a ‘gateway drug’ to worse substances. “I’m not going to hide something that I’m proud of. Don’t we have enough problems?” she said. “Many of us used marijuana years ago – we gave it up for decades, and it didn’t turn us into druggies.” Tumbleweed Tours also offers trips to area wineries, breweries, museums, and gardens. For more information on day-long and “Workless Weekend” getaways to Leavenworth, Wenatchee, Walla Walla or other locations, visit www.tumbleweedtours. com or call 855-933-3867. Dawn Wiksten (above), owner of Tumbleweed Tours, and Donnie King, owner of King Limousine, arrange guided visits to cannabis retailers and growers. Photo right by Shallan Knowles Kush Tourism (opposite) offers regular tours of cannabis growers, processors, and retailers in Seattle. Photo courtesy Kush Tourism

Spokannabist is a product of The Spokesman−Review’s marketing division. • Friday, January 27, 2017

WHEN IN SEATTLE KUSH TOURISM By JOE BUTLER Spokannabist Writer

Cannabis tours are similar to winery visits, a blend of social and educational. But there is one exception: no freebies. Washington State law prohibits any marijuana producer, processor or retailer from giving any samples of any products. Though most of the organized trips include a visit to at least one retailer where people age 21 and older can buy anything, purchasers must wait until they get home or their hotel room to partake. Even with these restrictions, there’s no shortage of people interested in learning the ins and outs of this new industry.

ONE TRAVEL PACKAGE INCLUDES: A visit to a glass blowing studio, where artists craft custom pipes, and another ends at Howls Distillery, where local spirits are available.

SEATTLE

Private tours of certain businesses can also be arranged, and Kush Tourism also picks people up from the airport, which can be handy during a long layover. It also recommends cannabis-friendly lodging establishments for people staying longer.

Michael Gordon, owner of Kush Tourism in Seattle,

Information: kushtourism.com

KUSH TOURISM

offers cannabisthemed bus or limo trips around Seattle. The itinerary can focus on the growing side, the processing or oil extraction side, the retail side, or different niches like medical options, topicals or edibles.

Spokannabist is a product of The Spokesman−Review’s marketing division. • Friday, January 27, 2017

As we dig into the New Year with all our fresh plans, projects, and ambitions, it’s a perfect opportunity to touch on the motivated side of cannabis consumption. Contrary to the “decompress and chill” stereotype, many partake of the ‘green goodness’ to get more active, rather than couch-locked. Several sativa-dominant and hybrid strains are prized for their energizing, focusenhancing properties. Some recent studies have shown that cannabinoids can help treat ADHD, and that some products can positively impact the brain’s dopamine levels. Anecdotal evidence shows that CBD can help the brain without the “head high,” and offers a true, gentle, option to assist with clarity. So in the spirit of adding a little pep to the step in 2017, here’s a bite-sized punch of nutrient packed, energyboosting goodness. These little morsels make a great morning treat or pre/post work-out fuel. If you partake for pain/inﬂammation relief and are looking to introduce more physical activities, you can easily substitute CBD oil, or add CBD product to your THC-infused oil base. Remember: CBD may have a neutralizing effect with THC. Effects vary with strain strength and body physiology. Depending on the ratio of CBD to THC, the “head high” may become limited, to nonexistent. Alaska native and Spokane transplant Autum Schumacher is classically trained in French cooking and focuses on nutritional wellness. She’s passionately dedicated to bringing nutritious healing options to all.

By AUTUM SCHUMACHER Spokannabist Correspondent

y g r e

e t i B s

VG GF Makes 20-bite size morsels (OK for vegan/gluten-free)

20 dates, pitted, chopped 1/3 cup quick oats 1/4 cup cannabis coconut oil or canna-butter 1 heaping tablespoon sunﬂower butter or nut butter of choice (Peanut butter, while a common and popular spread, has been known to dull or delay effects of THC)

1 tablespoon ﬂax 2 teaspoons chia seeds Optional: 1 scoop protein powder

Place all ingredients in a blender or food processor, pulse to combine, puree until well blended. Scrape down sides, blend, and repeat until ingredients are well combined. Scoop into desired serving size, rest in fridge until ﬁrm. These can be frozen and kept at least six months, or one week stored at room temperature.

Spokannabist is a product of The Spokesman−Review’s marketing division. • Friday, January 27, 2017