Feb. 2019 — Northwest Leaf

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THE ENLIGHTENED VOICE

THE INDOOR ISSUE

FREE / NWLEAF.COM

# 1 0 4 | F E BRU A RY 2019

HARMONY FARMS GROW LEAD KYLE CORBIN PRUNING ZENSATION AT THE LACEY, WASHINGTON CANNABIS FACILITY. INDEPENDENT Cannabis JOURNALISM SINCE 2010


THE harvest issue


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feb. 2019

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OGZ Fireweed produces stunning strains that have earned them a solid reputation in the WA Cannabis marketplace. Our photographer used a Nikon D800 fitted with a 105mm macro lens, stopped down to f/45, to bring this Mandarin Cookie #3 into crisp focus — revealing every delicate trichome. Learn more about these \talented Shelton-based growers on pg. 42.

THE INDOOR ISSUE PHOTO by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS

11 Editor Note 12 Cannabis News 14 by the numbers 16 jerry whiting 18 bring it to bonnie 20 prison outreach 24 budtender 26 stoner owner 28 profile interview 32 highly likely 36 strain of the month 40 the indoor issue 42 ogz fireweed 44 harmony farms 46 exotiks 48 skörd marijuana 50 rhythm css 52 cleanliness 54 iPM Best practices 58 VALENTINE’S RECIPES 62 tannins + terpenes 66 PRODUCT REVIEW 70 stoney baloney


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ZOE SIGMAN | Q&A THE PORTLAND RESEARCHER TALKS ABOUT HER WORK AS PROGRAM DIRECTOR FOR “PROJECT CBD” AND SCIENCE EDITOR OF THE HIGH-BROW CANNABIS PUBLICATION, “BROCCOLI.”

FEB. 2019

BY SIMONE FISCHER @SIMONEFISCHERR | PHOTO by CHRIS RYAN @CANNABIS.PHOTO


E S TA B L I S H E D 2 0 1 0

T H E E N L I G H T E N E D VO I C E

editor FOUNDER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Wes abneY | wes@NWleaf.com | 206-235-6721

CONTRIBUTORS

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Sarah Climaco Editing

Daniel bermaN | photography & design daniel@bermanphotos.com

Steve Elliott National News Simone Fischer Profiles

ART DIRECTOR

Danielle Halle Reviews

BRANDON PALMA | BRANDING & DESIGN brandon@eighthdaycreate.com

Mike Ricker Features Meghan Ridley Editing Chris Ryan Photography Pacer Stacktrain Features Nate Williams Production Laurie & Bruce Wolf Recipes

CONTENT DIRECTOR AJ AGUILAR | CONTENT & CURATION aj@eighthdaycreate.com

ADVERTISING Shane vancamp | ADVERTISING SALES shane@nwleaf.com 253-561-6837

We do not sell stories or coverage. We are happy to offer design services and guidance on promoting your company’s recreational, commercial or industrial Cannabis product or upcoming event. We are targeted and independent Cannabis journalism. Email or call to discuss advertising.

ON THE COVER Harmony Farms wants to make sure you’re at peace, with plenty of fun, creative strains that jump off the shelf with jar appeal. We stopped by this Lacey, Washington grow last month and were pleased to see an efficient and well-ran operation. This image of grow lead Kyle Corbin pruning Zensation stood out as a real moment behind the scenes. Learn more about the growers pg. 44-45. photo by daniel berman @bermanphotos

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Thanks for picking up the first Indoor Issue of Northwest Leaf! Indoor Cannabis cultivation began in the dark ages of Cannabis prohibition as a tool to avoid detection, effectively hiding a plant inside garages, closets and warehouses from prying eyes. As far as plants go, Cannabis is a happy girl with the right indoor environment, and over the last 30 years the technology and techniques for growing inside have expanded and caught up to the 21st century. Today’s indoor gardens are as much a work of science as they are agriculture, creating controlled environments perfectly suited to the plants cultivated within. For years I’ve heard Cannabis activists argue that one day all weed would be grown outdoors, or at least in greenhouses. Admittedly, that argument is built on logic. If weed isn’t illegal, why grow it indoors? As the Leaf has expanded, we’ve dedicated an issue each year to the outdoor harvest and the efforts of full sun-grown farmers, while leaving indoor gardens as something we featured occasionally as unique gardens popped up. So when we sat down to plan the 2019 editorial calendar, the idea for an Indoor Issue was new. Our issues this month look through gardens in Washington, Oregon and Alaska, so check out the other Leaf’s online content for coverage outside of your state! Through exploring the modern realities of indoor growing, from Fairbanks, Alaska where temperatures can swing from negative 30 to 30 degrees fahrenheit in a single day, to the controlled environments of Oregon’s organic gardens, it is clear that indoor Cannabis is evolving and defining the craft Cannabis movement. I believe we will always have indoor Cannabis on a business scale, and while it won’t touch the miles of greenhouses sure to dominate the future of our beloved agricultural commodity, we will always see incredible craft Cannabis grown indoors. We explore how farms are adapting to the unique challenges of growing indoors, creating a high-end product in markets that are flooded with mid-grade flower, and how they are using the controlled environments and inputs to grow some of the best examples of strains in the world. As an art, a science, a craft and a passion, indoor Cannabis is something that can be done sustainably, and with truly spectacular results. Craft comes in all forms, big and small, and I encourage you to ask your favorite budtender for a craft indoor Cannabis recommendation, and to try the farms we feature this month! You won’t be disappointed.

WE EXPLORE HOW FARMS ARE ADAPTING TO THE UNIQUE CHALLENGES OF GROWING INDOORS, CREATING A HIGH-END PRODUCT.

-Wes Abney

feb. 2019

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N O RT H W E S T L E A F / O R EG O N L E A F / AL AS KA L E A F

note


national news

12 growing

medical

Well, they certainly haven’t been in any hurry, have they? Washington lawmakers are talking about legalizing home Cannabis cultivation more than six years after state voters approved I-502, the only recreational legalization law in the country that doesn’t include home grow. Companion bills were introduced in the Washington House and Senate that would allow adults 21 and older to grow up to six Cannabis plants for personal recreational use, reports Marijuana Moment. If multiple adults live at the same residence, up to 15 plants could be grown in the unit under the proposed law. The current system limits consumer access to Cannabis and forces people into the commercial market, unlike recreational legalization laws in other states. But regulators and police officials — and sadly, some in the industry, particularly pot shop owners — have opposed allowing personal cultivation, each for reasons of their own. With the Democratic majority in the Washington Legislature expanding after November’s midterm elections, there’s new hope that a home grow bill can actually pass this session.

Students in Washington state would be allowed to possess and use medical Cannabis at school under a proposal reintroduced in the Legislature by state Rep. Brian Blake, a Democrat from Aberdeen. Blake filed House Bill 1060 on January 14, reviving an effort to loosen Washington state’s Cannabis law to allow children who rely on medical marijuana to treat serious medical conditions. School districts in the state would be required to let qualifying students “consume marijuana for medical purposes on school grounds, aboard a school bus or while attending a schoolsponsored event,” according to the bill’s language. According to Rep. Blake, “This is not a marijuana issue,” reports The Aberdeen Daily News. “This is (about) children having access to education.” Blake said the bill was inspired by a constituent, John Barclay, whose daughter uses Cannabis oil to treat epileptic seizures. “It would be difficult for her to attend school otherwise.”

nwLEAF.COM

Washington State Democrat files bill to allow Lawmakers Consider Washington state students Legalizing Home Cultivation to take medical marijuana on school grounds

FEB. 2019

STORIES BY STEVE ELLIOTT / TOKESIGNALS.COM


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by the numbers

18 9 3,500 8 2.4 percent of Washington state teens report that they have smoked pot, down from 20 percent before legalization.

U.S. governors received an “A� grade on their Cannabis policies in the recently released annual NORML report card.

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Washingtonians may be eligible for clemency under the Marijuana Justice Initiative.

ounces of medical Cannabis can be purchased in a single visit to a licensed shop in Oregon, up from one ounce.

FEB. 2019

billion in U.S. marketplace value for Acreage Holdings, a multistate Cannabis company whose Superbowl ad calling for nationwide MMJ was rejected by CBS last month. The 30 second ads cost $5 million. BY STEVE ELLIOTT / TOKESIGNALS.COM



OPINION nwLEAF.COM

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BY JERRY WHITING LeBlancCNE.com/podcast

HEMP’S BIG, CORPORATE PROBLEM.

I’ m a big fan of hemp. I eat and drink it every day. Their vision of hemp’s future is written by accountants, marketers I make tinctures, topicals and other hemp products. I love the stuff. and shareholders, and I fear corporate interests aren’t necessarily what But there are things about hemp that keep me up at night. consumers want or need. In fact, I’m pretty sure the future looks like fast Not the plant itself, but the hemp industry. food, factory beer and the rest of what corporate America churns out. There’s no doubt that hemp is big business. The signing of the Farm Much of the soybeans and corn that are grown in the U.S comes from Bill removed hemp from the Control Substances Act opening the door Iowa, Minnesota, Indiana, Illinois and Nebraska. What happens when to interstate commerce. Vote Hemp reports that 41 states have enacted chunks of that farmland are converted to hemp? Acres and acres of hemp. hemp bills and that the 2018 hemp harvest saw 78,176 acres of hemp Now imagine a portion of that hemp is grown from non-feminized seeds grown in 23 states. I should be happy, right? that produce male plants. Those males will produce pollen that will blow Yes, hemp farmers are multiplying and many of them are making unfettered far and wide. Not only will neighboring Cannabis farmers be money. For years activists have championed hemp as a crop that can upset, other hemp farmers will be up in arms too. help small family farms. The 2018 hemp harvest saw prices of $50 to Before long, Cannabis farmers and hemp farmers will battle it out $100 a pound and more. Farmers earned up to $40,000 an acre with a like the cattle and sheep ranchers of old. Your county extension agent premium for farmers who grew organically. But today, demand for hemp as mediator or referee? Nothing has prepared them for this new crop. It far outstrips supply and most of the market is doesn’t help that Cannabis and hemp are usually narrowly focused on CBD extraction. administered by different state agencies. THEIR VISION OF HEMP’S My fear is that as the hemp industry gets Inevitably, when the conversation turns to bigger, the hemp farms will get bigger too. hemp (or Cannabis) grown on a large scale, FUTURE IS WRITTEN BY And as the hemp market gets larger, it will Monsanto, now a part of Bayer, comes up. ACCOUNTANTS, MARKETERS favor larger players with smaller farms getting Consider this: Bayer makes RoundUp AND SHAREHOLDERS, marginalized.Why does this concern me? Small (glyphosate), a weedkiller shown to cause cancer AND I FEAR CORPORATE farms can make money growing 2, 5 or 10 and other serious diseases. Bayer also sells acres in 2019 and maybe 2020. But in the not genetically modified seeds. Why? Because they INTERESTS AREN’T too distant future Big Ag will jump in and grow were bred to withstand glyphosate. Don’t worry, NECESSARILY WHAT hemp like they do soybeans, wheat, cotton and Bayer is the pharmaceutical company ready CONSUMERS WANT OR NEED. other crops. They’ll grow lots and lots of it on to sell you medicine to cure what GMO crops huge farms in multiple states. sprayed with RoundUp causes. An evil closed Big Ag will dictate how the market grows loop if you ask me. and takes shape by virtue of their sheer size and market share. No large So vote with your wallet. Educate yourself and shop deliberately. corporation is interested in a large variety of cultivars grown sustainably. Support those that embody your personal values and lifestyle. Big Ag doesn’t employ passionate individuals with an intimate and often Boycott the bad actors while supporting companies that build the kind lifelong association with Cannabis and/or hemp. They’re interested in of culture and environment you want your grandchildren to live in. Share things that grow consistently year after year across multiple locations, and what you learn and know with others. Don’t let the corporations take that yield the highest profit. hemp away from us. We just got it back after all these years.

FEB. 2019

PHOTO BY DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS



OPINION

ACTIVIST, ATTORNEY, RESPONSIBLE CITIZEN...

L BY BONNIE FONG FOR NORTHWEST LEAF

BRING IT TO

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BONNIE

nwLEAF.COM

“I am a Cannabis producer and I have hundreds of employees. Recently, an employee came to me to discuss his health issues and medical Cannabis recommendation. He would like my permission to consume medical Cannabis in his car in the employee parking lot during his break and lunch. Where can I tell him to consume and can I have the same policies for recreational users?” Thanks for asking this important question. Unfortunately, due to the rules currently in place, there is no legal option for you to permit your employees to consume Cannabis on premises or be intoxicated on shift. First, under WAC 314-55-015(12), Marijuana licensees may not allow the consumption of marijuana or marijuana-infused products on or within the licensed premises. This means that you cannot allow smoking/vaping/ ingesting or any kind of Cannabis consumption on site at all. Employees cannot consume any kind of Cannabis in or outside of the building, including the employee parking lot. Second, the WACs prohibit intoxication of employees, and the standards for assessing impairment for Cannabis are speculative at best. There can be no question of the sobriety of employees on shift. Specifically, under WAC 314-55-110 (4) Licensees have the responsibility to control their conduct and the conduct of employees, customers, and visitors on the licensed premises at all times. Except as otherwise provided by law, licensees or employees may not: (a) Be disorderly or apparently intoxicated by liquor, marijuana, or controlled substances on the licensed premises; … or (e) Engage in or permit any employee or other person to engage in the consumption of any type of marijuana, usable marijuana, marijuana concentrate, or marijuana-infused product on the licensed premises. Therefore, the WACs absolutely prohibit Cannabis consumption on site and apparent intoxication of employees on site. This means that the company cannot permit employees to consume Cannabis on the premises.

ong before I was a Cannabis attorney, I was a Cannabis activist. I often get asked how to be an activist without being in the public eye. For many Cannabis users, once Cannabis enters your life it is here to stay. This was certainly true for me. Once I smoked my first joint in college and enrolled in a sociology class, “Drugs and Society,” I became a believer in the benefits of Cannabis and realized the harmful effects of the war on drugs. Being a Cannabis user was not just about getting high, it was an act of civil disobedience against a colossal systemic problem in our justice system. From my perspective, the best way to be a Cannabis activist is to set an example of how normal and respectful Cannabis use can be. I regularly engage in conversations with non-users about the effects of alcohol, cigarettes, and other legal stimulants versus Cannabis. I explain the medical benefits of Cannabis and how THC and CBD literally save lives. I challenge their perception of industrial hemp and ask them to provide one good reason why our American farmers should not be able to produce hemp. When non-users hear these compelling points from a calm and rational advocate, they are more likely to be receptive and change their minds. This includes being a good citizen. Don’t drive intoxicated. Don’t flaunt a lit joint in front of children. Don’t over consume. Be respectful and responsible. Every day we show the world how normalized Cannabis use can be is another opportunity for us to change the minds of those against Cannabis use. Don’t conform to the stoner stereotype – let Cannabis conform to your lifestyle. Be smart, be respectful and be happy.

It also means that the company cannot permit employees to consume Cannabis and return to the store to finish their shift. While there may be an argument for medical necessity, Cannabis is not a prescribed medication in Washington so any potential ADA claims would very likely be unsuccessful. Additionally, if sobriety is a requirement under administrative rule or safety requirement, medical need for prescriptions are often overridden by the courts. There is also the issue of safety and liability to the company. If an employee is consuming Cannabis on their lunch and subsequently causes injury to himself or others, the company could be held liable for permitting employees to consume Cannabis on shift. For this reason, it is prudent to have a strict no Cannabis consumption policy while on shift. The laws surrounding the prohibition of appearing intoxicated have not caught up with the state’s recognition of the medical need for Cannabis. This not only is an issue for employer/employee relations, but also raises issues surrounding the medical use of Cannabis in children and their right to go to school. Washington has come a long way with Cannabis legalization, but the state has a long way to go to protect medical Cannabis patients. Until the laws change, your employees (medical or recreational users) cannot consume Cannabis on shift at all.

The information provided in this article is not legal advice and provided for educational purposes only. If you are in need of a criminal defense attorney, contact bonnie@c3.legal to schedule a consultation.

FEB. 2019

SEND YOUR QUESTIONS TO BONNIE@C3.LEGAL

PHOTO by DANIEL BERMAN


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prisoner outreach

Antonio bascaró,84

AMERICA’S LONGEST-SERVING CANNABIS PRISONER

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It can be all too easy to forget those

such as Antonio Bascaro. Here we find the longest serving, non-violent federal Cannabis prisoner approaching nearly 40 years behind bars. After spending nearly half his life in prison, thankfully, he is finally scheduled to be released in June of 2019. Antonio, an 84-year-old Cuban war hero, has suffered in prison since 1980 for conspiracy to import and distribute marijuana. Prior to prison, he attended two years of medical school before leaving to pursue his passion in flying. He joined the Cuban Naval Air Force and became one of their best pilots. At one time he was even working with the CIA in an attempt to overthrow Castro. It was after leaving the air force that Antonio fell into a career of importing Cannabis into the United States. Antonio’s skills as a pilot attracted heavy hitters in the Miami drug scene. “He could fly close to the water, he could not be detected,” reminisced friend and former Cannabis smuggler, Eugene Fischer. Eugene had met Antonio during his own 20-plus-years institutionalized for an unrelated Cannabis conviction. Approximately four years after his release, Eugene passed away due to complications from the poor conditions he endured in the prison system.

driving right away. He even knows what computer In 1980, Antonio was arrested and charged for he wants to get. He is ready to start living again.” importing 600,000 pounds of Cannabis. Federal Although Antonio’s release date is near, his health agents expected him to turn over evidence, however, remains a concern. His family has feared he would he refused to cooperate due to his deep sense of loydie behind bars, and as he aged that fear intensialty and honor. Antonio’s case played out during the fied. The following link is Antonio’s online petition harshest years of the war on drugs. asking for the president to grant him clemency. Jury nullification wasn’t an option. A jury would Presently, the petition has nearly 110,000 signanever exercise their right to nullify unjust drug laws due tures. As we witnessed in the well publicized case to the overwhelming propaganda and fear instilled in of Alice Johnson, the president has the power to the American psyche. release anyone at anytime. Ironically, the actual “kingpin” who hired Antonio We urge you to sign this petition has been released. Only Antonio remains Send your as a message to the federal governlocked up for this nonviolent crime. Deletter of support ment indicating support for Antonio’s spite the severity of his sentence, Antonio Antonio Bascaro #03846-021 release, and that no one should be and his family have remained hopeful FCI Miami caged, not even for a day, because of that someday he would be free and PO Box 779800 a plant. finally, that day is nearly here. They are Miami, FL 33177 counting down the months and weeks instead of years. One of his greatest supporters, his daughter Myra Bascaro, had this to say when we asked her about her father’s future: “Even though we have a date and nothA petition from Antonio’s ing can stop it, it just doesn’t seem real. It is hard to daughter, Myra, pleads for believe because for so many years we have been hopthe president to pardon him ing that he will come out, but he never did. It’s like I am scared to believe it. My siblings and I are planning a huge welcome home party with lots of his friends in Change.org/p/donald-trumpMiami. He will be staying in Florida with his sister. He please-grant-clemency-to-myis doing okay. As you can imagine, he already has a father-antonio-bascaro huge plan. He is going to get a driver’s license to start

Fa c e b o o k . c o m / F r e e AC u b a n H e r o

FEB. 2019

BY KRISTIN FLOR AND MINDI HALL FOR NORTHWEST LEAF



New Section For 2019! Mission Statement To promote and foster the growth of the cannabis retail experience. To develop and enhance the Business 2 Business relationships between dispensaries and vendors in this emerging market. Our Vision Our vision is to bring collectives, vendors, growers and auxiliary companies together to create the synergy that was lacking in this area of the cannabis culture/industry. One of the biggest problems (which is universal in this industry) Is that the buyer or procurement agent is lacking time. This allows the decision maker, to meet, see and discuss products at their leisure. This allows the decision maker to see many compliant companies at once, and to create ongoing relationships. Justin, Hap and the Champs Dispensary+ team look forward to helping create an atmosphere that you can thrive and conduct business, at your LEISURE. We are also open to companies/vendors you want to see there. Feedback is important, and we are open to it. The industry is changing and helping you expand to a bigger market share is our goal. The Champs family of shows continues to grow and look forward to growing with you. For More Information Hap Kent- office: (818) 855-1528, cell: (818) 640-7010, email: Hap@ctsdplus.com Justin Wilson- cell: (509) 994-7051, email: Justin@ctsdplus.com

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BUDTENDER OF T HE MONTH

@SMOKE_TOGETHER

NIKKIEHANLEY when did Cannabis first come into your life? I guess you could say I was bit of a late bloomer. Regular use of Cannabis in my life began during my senior year of high school/ freshman year of college. I like to think my late bloomage was due to an intense family dispute that is vivid in my memory to this day. I was 14 years old, and my parents found a letter I wrote to a friend saying that I was curious about smoking weed. I was grounded pretty much indefinitely after that. To be honest, looking back I am happy I started smoking weed a bit older. I feel it takes a level of maturity to create a balanced Cannabis user lifestyle.

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“OUR COMMUNITY IS VERY OPEN AND FEARLESS. I’VE HAD SOME OF THE MOST HONEST AND REAL CONVERSATIONS OVER CANNABIS.” Located on 6th Ave in Tacoma, this bright, hip and funky neighborhood offers one of the Cannabis community’s highlights for access to top shelf herb. After a night out at the local comedy club Shaka Brah, I found myself in need of a joint and right across the street was the perfect stop for my late night craving. Open until 11:45 PM, Emerald Leaves in Tacoma offers a spacious shopping experience with access to your favorite Cannabis products. A bright and welcoming smile pleasantly greeted me, and it was senior budtender, Nikkie Hanley. While I shopped for the perfect fix to my high spirited craving, she offered valuable product knowledge about the various cannabinoid compounds and their beneficial properties. Not only was Nikki a wonderful and informative help in shop, she also offered me a gateway to access more wisdom about the plant and a network to connect to other Cannabis friendly community members outside of the shop.

How did you become a Budtender? I was a regular here, it was my favorite shop in town. There was so much to learn about this plant and new market! The staff was always kind, knowledgeable, helpful and became my friends. Those conversations inspired my affinity for Cannabis and pursuit for more knowledge. One day a senior budtender from the shop offered me a job at Emerald Leaves. I was excited and eager to get started. Part of what intrigued me most was the plant’s complex and diverse compounds, and how they smelled, tasted and affected you differently. I was thankful to have an opportunity to learn more. That was September of 2015, and I’ve worked with the plant ever since.

their big awestruck bright eyes as they explore. It feels like we are an adult candy shop at times, and I truly enjoy working in such a unique environment. What’s your favorite way to consume? It’s not always ideal, but to be real my all time favorite way to consume is with a gravity bong. Oh man that shit rips your face off! It’s the highest, most impactful high that I’ve had. I feel like it is the best way to try Cannabis for the first time. What are your favorite strains and producers? It might sound cliche because of all the hype, but honestly I absolutely love Gelato. Canna Organix grows a great Gelato, and they are also my favorite producer out of Sequim, WA. Two other strains I can’t live without are Durban Poison for productive focus, and a 2:1 high CBD strain called Aliens on Moon Shine. It’s often hard to find. How do you find the right product for someone? My opening line is “What are the strains you love and what are the strains you hate?” I think it’s important to lead by getting to know my customer’s preferences, then I can gauge the outcome with an effective recommendation. Also, for the edible buyer I always like to ask if they are interested in the delectable enjoyment of the product or aiming for a strong, impactful high. I always do my best to connect each buyer with the product that they will enjoy most!

Why do you like working at Emerald Leaves? Working on 6th Ave in Tacoma is a huge reason why. I love the community surrounding this shop. The energy and atmosphere of the emerald leaves 2702 6th Ave neighborhood is alive, Tacoma, WA fused with art and (253) 507-4591 good company.

favorite part of the job? My favorite part of this profession is the community that I have EmeraldLeavesTacoma.com @EmeraldLeavesTacomaFans What are your hobbies? the privilege to work Recently in my spare with. Our community time I have been recording a is very open and fearless. I have Cannabis podcast called CBD had some of the most honest ‘Cannabis Beyond Dope’. This and real conversations over podcast offers the community a Cannabis. I have made some platform to binge on Cannabis of my closest friendship on the knowledge, and access to a readily job, and we all look out for each available industry network for other. New customers also steal Cannabis business conversations. my heart at “hello”. I love to see

GOT A FAVORITE BUDTENDER? TELL US WHY! NWLEAF@GMAIL.COM

FEB. 2019

INTERVIEW by AJ OG @AJ.OG | PHOTO by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS


VA C A T I O N S W E E T S B O O K I N G D A I L Y M A K E A D A I L Y VA C A T I O N B Y V I S I T I N G T H E S E L O C A T I O N S

HYPEHERBALLY

EVERGREEN MARKET

14702 WA-99, LYNNWOOD, WA 98087

AUBURN 402 16TH ST NE, A-100, AUBURN, WA 98002

BUDDY'S 420 SUNSET BLVD N, RENTON, WA 98057

GRASS & GLASS 420 SUNSET BLVD N, RENTON, WA 98057

SOUTH RENTON 4242 E VALLEY RD, RENTON, WA 98057 NORTH RENTON 409 RAINIER AVE N, RENTON, WA 98057

FLOYDS PULLMAN 5952 AIRPORT RD, PULLMAN, WA 99163 SEDRO-WOOLLEY 410 W STATE ST,

MARY'S FINEST MARIJUANAS 420 SUNSET BLVD N, RENTON, WA 98057

SEDRO-WOOLLEY, WA 98284

FWEEDOM MOUNTLAKE TERRACE 21911

365 RECREATIONAL

64TH AVE W D,

17517 15TH AVE NE, SHORELINE, WA 98155

SEATTLE 12001 AURORA AVE N #1

MOUNTLAKE TERRACE, WA 98043 SEATTLE, WA 98133

LOCAL ROOTS EDMONDS 23221 EDMONDS WAY A EDMONDS, WA 98026 BOTHELL 212 W WINESAP RD #101 BOTHELL, WA 98012

GOLD BAR MARIJUANA 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 he health risks associated with consumption of this product. For use only by adults 21 and older. Keep out of reach of children.

17002 415TH AVE SE A2, GOLD BAR, WA 98251

GREENER TODAY 1AGT SOUTH SEATTLE 5209 MARTIN LUTHER KING JR WAY S SEATTLE, WA 98118 AGT SHORELINE 16053 AURORA AVE N


STONER OWNER

TAERHEE 26

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owner CLUTCH CANNABIS Tae Rhee is a heritage medical Cannabis grower and retailer who transitioned early into the recreational Cannabis marketplace. His passion for Cannabis and community has carried on through the years, keeping him focused on bringing quality Cannabis and producers to his loyal customer base. We sat down to chat about his medical roots, why he smokes the products he sells, and how that translates into a community based dispensary that has value for locals and visitors to Clutch alike.

FEB. 2019


STONER OWNER highlights individuals who have developed their love for Cannabis into a thriving business. This monthly column celebrates leaders and business owners who love and consume the plant, giving them real insight into the industry’s true roots and culture.

How did Cannabis come into your life? First as a

teenager, your typical youthful smoking, and I wasn’t too into it until after college. It became more of a serious thing when medical Cannabis started happening here in Washington. That’s how I entered the world of marijuana. I started working at a dispensary as well as a grow, and it exploded from there. It has been a crazy few years.

What inspired you to start Clutch? Being fortunate

to get the license was the start. I was part of the original lottery system. Having worked at the medical dispensary enabled me to apply and go through the transition from medical to recreational, and we opened our doors in 2015.

Was it hard to start in the recreational market? It was tough, and I had a very limited budget and investment from my parents, only $10,000 on day one. There were not a lot of growers in the beginning either, and what was available was maybe not your most sought after outdoor. I was literally buying that weed at $6 per gram wholesale. It wasn’t easy the first few months.

Does your medical CANNABIS heritage help you in the new recreational market? What do you miss from medical Cannabis? For sure, I think the transition

and the challenge of it was vetting new producers, and vetting not just their growing methods but also their strains. It still has its challenges, but as a whole the industry is moving in a positive direction. I think one of the things I miss the most is to be able to grow and have the closed loop system, where a shop can grow and provide flower that they’ve grown. And I miss the classic turkey bags and being able to throw your face into a really dank bag of weed.

Do you still have old patients come by the store? Absolutely, daily. It’s one of the best things about still being in the location from years ago. To see them be able to find what they were missing and need medicinally, it’s a good feeling.

What does it mean to you to be a Cannabis business owner that consumes the plant? I don’t know what the consumption rate is for owners in the industry, but at this point I feel like weed has kind of evolved over time in terms of what it does for me. Right now I’m really fascinated by the flavors and terpenes that these growers are coming up with. Our most recent drop of Exotic Genetix was the Strawberries and Cream, and you know I’ve smoked and smelled a lot of “strawberry” strains, but it’s insanely strawberry-dessert-creamy-deliciousness on a level I haven’t smelled before. That’s just super exciting. Everything that’s being sold or will be sold at Clutch definitely gets sampled and we collectively vett the strains.

How do you handle consumption for yourself and your employees? For me, it’s pretty much

abstaining during the day, and I’m not at liberty to say what my employees choose to do outside the store. We do encourage our team to sample our strains though. They’re just as excited about what’s coming out as anyone else, and it always helps to know the products we are selling.

What is your favorite strain + way to consume? I’m about the flower, will be probably flower forever, and I like it in a joint. I think the ritual of rolling up is really fantastic. Currently and for a really long time it has been Gelato from Canna Organix. But it’s like trying to pick a favorite child based on what we carry. I would smoke anything from our $10 donkey butter to the top shelf $15 strains, because I would smoke anything on our shelves. I will say that everyone has a different budget, and whatever it is we provide, whether it’s something to get you by or splurge on, there is quality that can be found at any price point.

goals for the shop moving forward? The store

is at a point where we want to focus more back into the Cannabis culture and the community within the recreational market in Washington. There are some regulations that make it a little more difficult, but under full compliance we are about supporting stoners and artists and all the weird people out there who are doing cool things. So in 2019 you’ll see Clutch doing things within the community, like sponsoring the Spliff Film Festival in part with The Stranger, teaming up with Do 206 to sponsor Beat Match, and anything else that supports our community and Cannabis.

What would you like to see more of in the industry and for the future of Cannabis? I would like to see more OGs in this. The community is small, and there may be a lot of new players in recreational, but there is still that OG community from medical and a lot of our current staff are former medical, either patients or worked in the industry. So we go pretty deep as far as the Seattle Cannabis community is concerned. And, at some point in time it’s inevitable that we are going to have to talk about consumption and where and how it should be handled. I want to see that happen and growing at home addressed. I think home growing should be allowed. Growing Cannabis is not easy, but anyone who wants to try it should be able to. It’s a really fun hobby if you want to pick it up.

hobbies/interests outside of work beside weed? I like the outdoors and cooking. Weekends you’ll find me either hiking, camping or dirt biking when the weather is right. CLUTCHCANNABIS.COM 11537 RAINIER AVE S SEATTLE, WA 8AM-11:45PM DAILY (206) 457-8301

“RIGHT NOW I’M REALLY FASCINATED BY THE FLAVORS AND TERPENES THAT THESE GROWERS ARE COMING UP WITH.“ INTERVIEW by WES ABNEY @NWLEAF | PHOTO by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS

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PROFILE

ZOE SIGMAN CannabisResearch&Education

W E H A D T H E P L E A S U R E O F I N T E R V I E W I N G ZOE SIGMAN, SCIENCE EDITOR OF BROCCOLI MAGAZINE, AND PROGRAM DIRECTOR AT PROJECT CBD. LIKE SO MANY OF US, SIGMAN GOT HER START IN THE CANNABIS INDUSTRY AS A BUDTENDER. SHE EVENTUALLY WORKED HER WAY TO BECOMING THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION AT FARMA, A HIGH-END PORTLAND POT SHOP. NOW WITH THE DISPENSARY LIFE BEHIND HER, SIGMAN IS PURSUING CANNABIS RESEARCH FULL-TIME. IN BETWEEN CO-BUILDING PROJECT CBD AND PENNING THE LATEST ARTICLES ON CANNABIS, SHE DISCUSSES HER CURRENT RESEARCH INVOLVING CBN AND ALL THE HEADACHES THAT COME WITH TRYING TO RESEARCH CANNABINOIDS IN A TUMULTUOUS POLITICAL CLIMATE.

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28 What are you currently working on in terms of cannabinoid research? I just started my job with Project CBD, which has been an amazing, crazy ride. The transition has left me longing for more time to pursue my curiosity. A lot of infrastructure-building is necessary as we grow as a nonprofit, and it’s requiring a whole new realm of research from me. Who knew there was so much to corunning a nonprofit? One recent project is our own research effort - a survey to collect patient use data. The regulatory hurdles impeding research on cannabinoids in this country are significant and have stifled reliable information about cannabinoids and their therapeutic potential. We decided to go straight to the source - the people already using Cannabis therapeutically. Our survey gathers all sorts of information about how and why people are using CBD. Over a thousand people have already responded, and it’s really cool to see many of the anecdotes about CBD use corroborated in the data. I can’t wait to get to share our insights with everyone. Another project we’re hoping to launch this year is an online research library. We’re just in the initial stages now, and I’m excited to see the idea through to fruition. People often ask how I find information about Cannabis, and the truth is it’s mostly digging through PubMed to find relevant articles. Which is hardly accessible for people without a research fetish.

FEB. 2019

Everyone with Project CBD has gathered a ton of research material over the years and we want to make that into some sort of public resource. I’m currently working on a piece on cannabinol (CBN). There’s been a significant increase in interest about CBN, and it made me prick up my ears. People all over the internet were claiming that it would help with sleeplessness, so I started to dig. Turns out there’s almost nothing on CBN and sleeplessness. It was one of the very first cannabinoids to be identified and isolated. What are the current challenges and limitations of researching CBD? The FDA? Funding? There are so many! There are funding issues. There are supply chain issues. And there are issues with regulations and legality. Also, it totally depends on what you mean. There are many kinds of research in the scientific world. Some are easier to work in than others. The area that struggles the most in the US is clinical trials - that is, trials with actual human participants and significant controls. The government makes it really difficult to test drugs on humans, and even more so for Cannabis. In order to get federal approval to study Cannabis or cannabinoids in the United States, researchers need to acquire approval from a baffling number of organizations both federally and locally. At any point, any one of these organizations can deny an applicant, or just not respond. If they are approved, they need to take a truly astounding number of steps to ensure that the material is totally accounted for.

To top it all off, researchers attempting to run trials using Cannabis are only allowed to use Cannabis grown at one location – the University of Mississippi. Dr. Sue Sisley, one of the very few researchers conducting clinical trials with federal funding, tested that Cannabis and found all sorts of contaminants like heavy metals and mold. Unsurprisingly, it was also very low in THC. Kind of uninspiring after all of the effort it took to acquire. Donors are reluctant to fund projects that involve illegal substances, like Cannabis. They’re also hesitant to fund research that won’t result in something proprietary. Pharmaceutical companies create drugs that they hold the rights to for a significant amount of time before generic versions are allowed. This makes it worth it to spend a huge amount of money on research. Clinical trials can cost tens or hundreds of millions of dollars to run, and the people who invest usually want a return on their investment. When the drug finally makes it to market pharma companies will often charge exorbitant prices for their drugs to justify the astronomical price of research and development. Cannabis throws a wrench in that system. It’s widely available in the United States, and relatively inexpensive to acquire. So how do you make money on it? There are plenty of people trying. What about the public sector? It can be even more difficult. While it’s relatively easy to get public funds to study drug abuse and substance use disorders,

Q & A by SIMONE FISCHER @SIMONEFISCHERR | PHOTO by CHRIS RYAN @CANNABIS.PHOTO


it’s much more difficult to fund medicinal studies. There’s a whole branch of government dedicated to preventing drug abuse, and it’s the same one that makes studying Cannabis so difficult – The National Institute on Drug Abuse. In general, it’s really difficult to fund medical research. A huge chunk of the funding from the National Institute of Health (NIH), which you might assume goes towards understanding the health impacts of Cannabis, actually goes to substance use disorder studies.

Learn more at ProjectCBD.org

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How will new research/knowledge around CBD (and other cannabinoids) evolve the Cannabis market? That is the question on everyone’s lips. CBD has definitely reached fad status, and no one is sure how it will all play out. The medical market will definitely benefit from more research. But at what cost, if any, to the recreational market? People want confirmation that CBD and cannabinoids are actually doing them good, and more research will do that. It will also show the limits of what any specific cannabinoid can do and create more reasonable expectations of what cannabinoids are useful for. Medical acceptance will lead to mainstream acceptance, no question. But it’s quite unusual for a substance to take this path to medical acceptance. It wasn’t the medical community making all of the most interesting discoveries about CBD, it was the public. For thousands of years, Cannabis has been used medicinally. For decades, prohibition blinded

“AS WE GAIN MORE INSIGHT INTO INDIVIDUAL MOLECULES AND INCREASINGLY COMPLEX CONSTELLATIONS OF THOSE MOLECULES, WE’LL SEE THE EVOLUTION OF PRODUCTS IN THE MARKETPLACE. REALLY, WE ALREADY ARE.”

How can current OMMP patients potentially contribute to or benefit from this work? There are a couple of clinical trials being run at OHSU that are recruiting participants. You don’t need to be an OMMP patient, or even a regular Cannabis user to get involved. Every tiny insight that researchers gain will benefit everyone. Get involved with policy work! The reason research is so hard to fund is largely because the plant is still illegal. The more quickly it’s legalized, the more quickly we can see the benefits of unfettered research. NORML is still doing incredible work on legalization, as is the OCA and CCA. My pet project is based on a report that was released in Oregon in 2015: SB 844. A state task force was appointed to create a report on the then-current state of Cannabis research and recommend actions for the state of Oregon, and they recommended the establishment of the Oregon Institute for Cannabis Research. This institute would establish a place for Cannabis researchers to conduct their work and provide insight into the medical uses of Cannabis and cannabinoids. Nothing has been done by the state, or, as far as I can tell, any institutions to follow through on that recommendation. I’d love to see an effort come together to establish this institute and make Oregon the destination for Cannabis research in the US.

PROFILE

Western science to Cannabis’ benefits. It was overwhelming public pressure that began to pry its eyes open. I think we’ll continue to see innovative medicinal uses come from the public, even as scientists rush to catch up. People are starting to get excited about cannabinoids beyond just CBD and THC. There are well over a hundred cannabinoids found in the plant, and very little is known about the vast majority of them. I want to see these minor cannabinoids explored more fully, and to understand their complex relationships with each other. This plant and its effects are beautifully complicated and nuanced, and we have decades of work to fully understand them. The question of isolated molecules versus full-spectrum effects has already begun to affect scientific literature. In most cases, the scientific community studies the effect of one molecule on a specific disease pathway. Cannabis is challenging this pattern. The hundreds of active compounds in the plant seem to be more effective working in concert than in isolation. This makes studying it really difficult by traditional Western standards. As we gain more insight into individual molecules and increasingly complex constellations of those molecules, we’ll see the evolution of products in the marketplace. Really, we already are. The process will just continue to become more refined.


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Chelsea Cebara, left, and Mistress Matisse, who founded Velvet Swing, the best-selling Cannabis lubricant on the WA market.

FEB. 2019


VELVETSWING Founders Chelsea Cebara & Mistress Matisse

STORY & PHOTO by DANIELLE HALLE @SWEET.DEEZY

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Cebara has crafted a perfect balance of cannabinoids and a terpene “Total Market Dominance” isn’t just a catchphrase for Mistress Mablend that is designed for both arousal and effective dermal absorption. tisse’s brand, Velvet Swing, the best-selling Cannabis lubricant on the The intended effect of the mixture in Velvet Swing is to increase blood flow Washington market. They’re also soon to be expanding to California and sensation, which leads to better orgasms, á la the Velvet Swing tagline. and beyond. Mistress Matisse, the professional dominatrix and sex advice What more could you ask for? Some users have asked for a psychoactive expert behind the weed lube, agrees that it can easily be enjoyed both product to use in addition to the sexual primer. alone and with a partner. Once Velvet Swing has been applied, there is a short waiting period while One of the most exciting features of the product is that the lubricant the product is absorbed into the body. During this time, I recommend giving is water-based. In a world that is becoming increasingly aware of safe, their newest product, Velvet Kiss, a try. consensual practices in sexual culture, it is imperative for consumers to With a ratio of 5:1 THC to CBD, it’s not necessarily going to blast you use water-based lubricant with their condoms. Oil-based sexual lubricants into outer space. Cebara and Matisse aimed for a mild high. At 2.5mg of break down latex condoms, rendering them ineffective and putting users THC and 0.5mg of CBD per spray, I can see it being an extremely effecat risk. This fact was one of many thoughtful ingredients that product tive microdose. A lot of women have expressed to Cebara that weed isn’t development manager Chelsea Cebara and her co-founder Mistress Masexy because it makes them anxious, so the spray contains an anti-anxiety tisse brewed together when creating Velvet Swing. This lube was created terpene blend in addition to the CBD to decrease anxiety, paranoia, and by women with safe and satisfying sexual experiences in mind. self-consciousness. I have always been intrigued by the women behind Velvet Swing, and I This led me to wonder—is sex truly better when you’re high? I enjoy the was so excited for the opportunity to interview both co-founders to learn combination, but I can’t imagine it’s the same for everyone. When I asked about the history of the product and the two women who have made it them to comment on this topic, they certainly had a lot to such a success. say about consent. Cebara notes that while we’ve got an Cebara explained to me that she has been making weed IN HER 10 YEARS existing cultural framework for alcohol around consent, lube for a long time as a medical marijuana patient in OF WRITING A SEX we’re not seeing where Cannabis plays into that converWashington. Prior to this, her experience with Cannabis sation. Some sex educators advise to never “play” altered was extremely limited, so she was blown away by the ability ADVICE COLUMN, THE of it to relieve her pain caused by endometriosis. She had BEST ADVICE MISTRESS but Cebara thinks “people can make their own risk assessment,”—and I agree. tried everything, but no prescriptions ever worked, especial- MATISSE EVER GAVE Any substance you’re taking alters your perception of ly not the way Cannabis did. WAS TO “NEGOTIATE reality, so it’s important to remember best practices when it “Not only was the pain gone in a way that I had never LIMITS FROM YOUR comes to safe sex. Always make sure you’re communicating experienced, but I wasn’t even high. I was just healed,” and being aware of your partner’s boundaries. “It’s always she said. This mind-blowing revelation led Cebara on a HEAD AND NOT FROM better to speak up when you think something is going wrong, search for knowledge and understanding of how CanYOUR FEELINGS.” and ask people if things are okay,” Matisse said. “To be the nabis worked. This is how she became a budtender and best sexual partner you can be, you need to be prepared to eventually weed-lube-scientist. In the dispensary, Cebara advocate for your own limits and stay in touch with reality.” began to see products being released that were designed for sexuality, but This can sometimes be tricky while high. Both women had a few recomcontained horrifying ingredients such as glycerin, which is safe to ingest, mendations for sex while stoned, such as not sleeping with a stranger or but not vaginally! someone you’ve just met. In the kink world, as Cebara explains, there is a It wasn’t long before Cebara found herself leading sex and Canna“yes-no-maybe” list that partners can agree about which certain sexual acts bis workshops, where she taught participants about how to safely enjoy are permissible, hard limits, or open to experimentation. Cebara recomconsensual sex while enhancing the experience with cannabinoids. Shortly mends stick to the “yes” side while high and have a way to communicate after that, Mistress Matisse offered her long-time friend the role at Velvet nonverbally when crossing over into “maybe” territory. Swing. Cebara was hesitant about this official job in the weed indusYou want to check in all the time with your partner to make sure they are try, and for a good reason—she was pregnant. Matisse and her friend still okay with the situation. In her 10 years of writing a sex advice column, Howard Lee, CEO of Tarukino, partnered together to sweetly persuade the best advice Mistress Matisse ever gave was to “negotiate limits from your Cebara to take the job with benefits, and things took off from there. head and not from your feelings.” It was a race between Cebara’s daughter’s arrival and Velvet Swing. So, if you find yourself wanting to do a little bedroom exploring, consider Which one was going to make it to the world first? Velvet Swing beat her elevating your sexual experience with a little dab here and there of Velvet by eight days. Luckily by then, Cebara was already on maternity leave. Swing. I personally think it’s the perfect accessory with or without a sexual Velvet Swing utilizes the emulsion technology that is owned by Tarukino. partner. “Go light and you will have lovely results,” Cebara said. It is a water-based formulation that is safe for use with latex and polyisoEverybody’s chemistry is different, so you’ll want to do some experimentprene condoms, as well as all silicone sex toys. It was thoughtfully created ing both alone and with a partner to see what your effective dose will be. with all types of sexual partners in mind.


highly likely #42

EARLBLUMENAUER Representing Oregon’s 3rd Congressional District, Blumenauer, 70, is a powerful and unlikely voice in support of Cannabis. Will his new seat on the House Ways and Means Committee overseeing trade be the key to nationwide legalization?

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Michelle Andonian

A

ccording to a Pew Research Center Poll, more than 62 percent of Americans favor Cannabis. This is what makes 12term US representative Earl Blumenauer so impressive to those of us who value honesty and actual representation in Congress. Representative Blumenauer has been at the forefront of progressive politics for decades. He’s been a staunch conservation activist, utilizing his power as a legislator to push for stronger environmental regulations, and famously developed the “Congressional bike caucus” which became the national voice for cyclists across the nation. Beyond all of this, Blumenauer is perhaps the most vital advocate for Cannabis that we have in our nation’s capital. He’s a member and founder of the Congressional Cannabis Caucus and has pages on his official website devoted to Cannabis-related issues and questions. He’s been one of the very few representatives willing to stick his neck out for the legalization of the plant in Oregon, but also as someone who advocates for the businesses who have made our community the envy of the Cannabis world. To that end, he’s advised countless businesses and researchers – and through it all, he’s been one of the primary people who has shaped what legalization looks like in the state of Oregon. At the same time, he’s given his ear to Cannabis-related businesses who have so often been marginalized, ignored, even outright shunned by the politicians that are supposed to represent them in Washington. And he talks to us too. Blumenauer has appeared on Merry Jane. He has been a speaker at countless Cannabis conferences. And most recently, was a keynote speaker at the Cultivation Classic in Portland. At this event, he delivered one of his most inspiring speeches on the legalization of Cannabis nationwide. In it, he laid out a scenario where Cannabis would be legal nationwide in two to four years. All it would take, he said, was a democrat-controlled Congress. Don’t look now, but as of last month – we’re there! And so, it’s fitting that last month Blumenauer introduced his most ambitious bill regarding Cannabis yet, a lofty proposal that would mark a real sea-change in drug policy nationwide.

LAST MONTH BLUMENAUER INTRODUCED HIS MOST AMBITIOUS BILL REGARDING CANNABIS YET, A LOFTY PROPOSAL THAT WOULD MARK A REAL SEA-CHANGE IN DRUG POLICY NATIONWIDE. Highlighting Cannabis pioneers who paved the way to greater herbal acceptance.

FEB. 2019

Put simply, the bill would put the regulation of Cannabis under the Bureau of Alchohol, Tobacco and Firearms rather than the DEA. It would also, more importantly, allow canna-business owners access to the federal banking system. Finally, it would finally upend the current embargo on canna-research at the federal level in the US. This bill is titled (wait for it) – House Resolution 420 and dubbed the “Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol Act.” I can only hope that by the time you’re reading this it’s gained some real traction in Congress. The tide is turning. We the people want Cannabis legalized, and we want it done nationwide. For that, we offer a hearty “thank you” to Rep. Blumenauer for all his hard work!

By PACER STACKTRAIN





STRAIN OF THE MONTH

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Clementina nwLEAF.COM

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ITH A NAME LIKE CLEMENTINA, I expected to be swept away to a sunny, tropical paradise. I was not disappointed when I began to explore the contents of the jar of Pura Vida Cannabis. Prominently stating “Live Your Best Life” on the label, I knew I was in for a treat. Upon first look, I was impressed to be met with a seal under the lid of the jar, preventing the wonderful aromas beneath it from escaping. Once I clawed my way through the preservation packaging, I delighted in a subtle, earthy funk that was rounded out by a zesty citrus twist. Each time my nose left the jar, I found myself drawn back for more like I was sipping a cocktail of terpenes that I just couldn’t get enough of. Examining the picturesque bud produced a geometric vision of tight clusters of amethyst calyxes boasting bright, wild orange hairs. Lime green leaves are lined with trichomes that explode into every direction, forming a chaotic, sparkling design. Pura Vida Cannabis Company has taken great care of preserving the dignity of both the captivating looks and enchanting flavor of these buds. I was seduced by the salsa that dances over my lungs when inhaled. A smooth, heavenly sweetness is met with a hint of pine that leaves a clean feeling in my mouth. The splash of bright citrus is especially important to note here because although it is mild, it is very uplifting and energizing. The effects had me feeling not only like I was living my best life, but also living la vida loca! For those with anxiety, I would recommend smoking Clementina in small doses. If you like to take your clothes off and go dancing in the rain, then by all means—smoke a whole joint of Clementina to yourself! I did. I’m not usually one to get silly when it comes to weed, but a whole joint of Clementina had me energized, giddy and happy. Bless my nail artist for putting up with my shenanigans on that day. My previous experience with Clementina, in smaller doses, was strictly professional. I only took a few hits and felt focused enough to get my work done. It was not only a motivated high, but it kept me relaxed enough to stay in the creative flow. After getting to know Clementina by Pura Vida, I’ve decided to make her my Valentine-a. Waiting on a shelf to change your life, you can find her in your local dispensary.

FEB. 2019

“I’M NOT USUALLY ONE TO GET SILLY WHEN IT COMES TO WEED, BUT A WHOLE JOINT OF CLEMENTINA HAD ME ENERGIZED, GIDDY AND HAPPY.“ REVIEW & PHOTO by DANIELLE HALLE @SWEET.DEEZY


PuraVida Cannabis 22.6% THC PURAVIDA-CANNABIS.COM


This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Smoking is hazardous to your health. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. Should not be used by women that are pregnant or breast feeding. For use only by adults twe


enty-one and older. Keep out of reach of children. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug. This product may be unlawful outside of Washington state. 21+ Recreational


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42 ogz fireweed 44 harmony farms 46 exotiks 48 skรถrd marijuana 50 rhythm css 52 cleanliness 54 iPM Best practices FEB. 2019


THE INDOOR ISSUE

DOUBLE STUFF #3 GROWING AT OGZ FIREWEED IN SHELTON, WA.

STORIES BY WES ABNEY @NWLEAF | PHOTOS by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS


the indoor issue

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GROWER TOM THOMPSON SHOWS US AROUND

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OGZ FIREWEED

rowing from roots laid down in medical Cannabis, OGZ Fireweed is wrapping up a massive pheno hunt to deliver new strains cultivated with love to the recreational market. Located in the quiet town of Shelton, OGZ Fireweed is one of the few heritage medical Cannabis companies that successfully transitioned into the 502 marketplace, bringing with them a dedicated team and core foundation of care for Cannabis. Most of the original team from medical remains, along with the core strains that made the garden and retail store of old successful. But what really lets OGZ stand apart is the year long strain hunt the team has embarked on to bring new genetics and flavors to their customers LOCATION and loyal fans. S HE LT O N, WA “I was always a pheno SIZE: TIER 3 hunter and I had a lot of GROWING 20+ STRAINS strains in medical, and BUILDOUT IN 2016 brought them all into the

FEB. 2019

recreational business,” owner nabis instead of retailing it. “OUR WHOLE GOAL Ty Rundquist explained. “It’s just “I’ve been growing Cannabis WAS TO BRING being a connoisseur and wantfor myself and friends since I was MEDICAL GRADE ing to have the best and most a kid, and that’s all I’ve ever realCANNABIS TO THE flavorful products out there, ly done. I’ve maybe had a normal RECREATIONAL which I feel like our original job for a week or two of my life, MARKET, AND strains are, but it’s exciting to so once I started to see the indusTO P ROVIDE OUR bring new flavors to the market.” PATIENTS WITH try open up, I knew I had to keep THE SAME QUALITY OGZ Fireweed, pronounced growing. It’s my calling in life.” as “OG’s” or “O.G.Z.” began in P RODUCT AND STRAINS The buildout began in January AVAILABLE NOW.” 2010, and according to Rund2016 and began running in July quist there’s no wrong way to of that same year, and has been say it. He opened the first two medical collectives producing Cannabis ever since. Many of the team in Kitsap County, one just outside Port Orchard members transitioned over from medical, includand the other near Silverdale. Frustrated with the ing lead grower Tom Thompson. quality and consistency of products, he began “Our whole goal was to bring medical grade growing his own medicinally to provide for the Cannabis to the recreational market, and to patients that came into the store, Tacoma’s Green provide our patients with the same quality prodThumb. Soon a small growhouse became several ucts and strains available now,” Thompson said warehouses full of medicinal Cannabis, and when passionately. “We wanted to increase value, not recreational opportunities became available, he lower our standard of Cannabis and push it to our chose to focus on producing and processing Cancustomers.”

By WES ABNEY @BEARDEDLORAX | PHOTOS by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS


Q UI C K H I T

TIER 3 20,000 FEET OF CANOPY INDOOR + OUTDOOR DURING SUMMER COMPLETED THIRD PHENO HUNT TO DEVELOP EIGHT NEW STRAINS H E R I TAG E M E D I C A L C A N N A B I S G A R D E N B R I N G I N G PA S S I O N T O 5 0 2

When the garden crossed over it brought tried and true strains that have done well in the recreational market, including tasty flavors like Animal Cookies, Cookies and Cream, Dutch Treat, the Girl Scout Cookies Forum cut, and White Romulan. As the garden continued to grow and expand, Rundquist saw the need to develop new strains, and the team had all collected seeds to bring into 502 when the company first started. Our tour of the farm was at the tail end of their third pheno hunt, with 20 strains popped from seed and hundreds of clones in flower for the last six months. “It is definitely problematic to do a pheno hunt - putting original genetics aside to try out some of the new strains and see what kind of reaction the recreational market gets off them. Sometimes you find quality products and sometimes you don’t. Our first run we didn’t find any keepers, but we’ve had a lot better success this time, isolating eight new solid strains,” Rundquist said, being open about the difficulties of hunting for fresh genetics from seed. ”But it’s like evolving too, you always have to evolve and stay ahead. It will be worth it in the end when we have our eight new flavors and our eight original classics all rotating.” Producing under the OGZ Fireweed brand are Cannavore and Bling Factory brands, with the team’s hard work found in over 40 dispensaries statewide. Inside the facility, flower starts off as clones from select mothers before being transplanted into one of the five rotating flower rooms. Each flowering room is managed by a different employee, all maintaining slightly different variables in a friendly competition and test to see which strains perform best under which conditions. It also allows the growers to really connect with their rooms, and give each plant as much love as possible. Once the flower is grown to completion, it’s hung whole plant style and hand trimmed before heading to packaging or processing. Medium and large size nugs end up in jars or mylars for smoking, and the rest are sent out for processing. Dabstract Labs and Rogue Raven process their hydrocarbon extracts, but the team also squishes dry sift rosin onsite, for solventless dabs full of flavor and free of chemicals. A company’s values start at the top, and with Rundquist leading OGZ Fireweed, the brands have found success in 502 - doubling in revenue each of the last three years. It hasn’t been easy to transition, but being involved from the garden to packaging has kept his hands in the dirt, which is the best way to stay in touch with a growing plant. The hard work is paying off, with new strains like Rainbow Cookie, Captain Cake, Citrus Bomb and more ready to hit the market this year. “I oversee everything, so even when I’m in the packaging room I ask myself ‘man, would I want to buy that eighth?’ And I smoke like 10 times a day, and smoke everyone else’s weed too to see what people are producing. But I do prefer to smoke the weed we grow,” Rundquist said with a chuckle. “Not to say that there aren’t phenomenal products out there. At the end of the day, I love smoking and growing weed.”

BRANDON SMITH, TYLER MIRELES AND CHRIS CHRISTENSEN TRIMMING COOKIES & CREAM AND CITRUS BOMB LAST MONTH

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PACKAGER ROBERT RUNDQUIST WEIGHS OUT GRAMS OF MOOSE TRACKS, A NEW STRAIN, NEXT TO EDEN MASSARO AND ANGELA BROWN

DOUBLE STUFF #3

BLACKWATER

GROWER SEAN THREET TOPPING OLD LEAVES TO LET NEW ONES FLOURISH ON SOME NEO #1.

ogzfireweed.com / @ogzfireweed


the indoor issue

HARMONYFARMS

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GM KURT BAUMER AND COFOUNDER/OWNER RYAN HILL AT THEIR LACEY, WA FACILITY

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esponsible scale is the name of the game for Harmony Farms, positioning the company in the top three producer/processors in Washington while running a relatively lean and efficient operation. Located inside a massive warehouse in Lacey, Harmony Farms is an impressive, multi-story structure-in-structure facility that took millions of dollars to build. The tier 3 has 17 flower rooms, each running a unique strain and all under LED lights for efficiency and terpene production. With a constant rotation of 25-30 strains every six months, they are blending scale and strain selection with a craft attitude. The company has a total of 50 full time employees, keeping track of over 7,000 plants from clone LOCATION to packaging. As the largest L AC E Y, WA wholesaler of vapor carSIZE: TIER 3 tridges in the state, it takes a village to grow, process and PRODUCES 100,000 CARTRIDGES MONTHLY fill over 100,000 cartridges

FEB. 2019

per month. During work days flowering rooms, which hold exactly WITH A CONSTANT the massive facility is abuzz with 100 plants. ROTATION OF 25energy, as team members are “Each room is its own tailored en30 STRAINS EVERY constantly moving in sync tovironment, monocropped and adjustSIX MONTHS, THEY wards a shared goal - successful ed per cycle instead of having strains ARE BLENDING cultivation and processing from share an environment,” said Lead SCALE AND STRAIN clone to shelf. Gardener and General Manager SELECTION WITH A “We’ve hired with an emphaCRAFT ATTITUDE. Kurt Baumer, who began growing in sis to find the right people who California years ago when his father will last a long time. We treat everyone right, with was diagnosed with cancer. healthcare, vision and dental benefits long before “We work to create a tailored profile per strain, the state required it,” co-founder Ryan Hill said and are gathering tissue samples to test to watch proudly. “Our directive since day one was to be the plant as it goes through the cycle, and see lean and mean and do more with less than any where the nutrient efficiency is. If you aren’t using producer in the state.” science to look at what your plants demand, It all begins upstairs, where the plants begin you’re just guessing and reacting. We try to be as their lives as clones. The top story of the structure data driven as possible when growing.” is open-air within the greater warehouse, filled Each flowering room is packed full of large tresto the brim with clones in various stages, and tled plants, with waves of terpy freshness bursting mother plants planted in a custom coco mix. Once out as soon as a door is open. the clones have reached flowering age, they are All grow employees are fully suited before moved one strain at a time into their own new entering a room, and cleanliness is a major factor.

By WES ABNEY @BEARDEDLORAX | PHOTOS by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS


S

Q UIC K H I T

TOP 3 PRODUCER/PROCESSOR I N WA S H I N G T O N S T A T E ALL LED GROW LIGHTS FOR EFFICIENCY O W N E R S B E G A N G R O W I N G M E D I C A L LY, TRANSITIONED INTO THE 502 MARKET

By treating each room as a clean room, feeding separately from individual reservoirs and only using a single strain in an environment, the flower comes out spectacular. With the added efficiency of LED lights and lowered costs, Harmony Farms is able to produce more Cannabis for less cost, not to mention less energy. “Indoor gardens use a lot of energy in general, not just for lighting, but for power for keeping the garden cool. We started with HPS Gavitas like many others, but LEDs were an exciting prospect with the energy savings and the quality we saw in farms from Colorado firsthand,” Hill explained. “We’ve used LEDs for years and are very happy with the quality of flower we have. And once we discovered the quality was better while saving money, it was a pretty easy decision.” The LED lights do more than just save energy costs. Harmony has seen terpene production levels increase, which translates into better quality flower and concentrates. “LEDs increase terpene production, absolutely,” said Baumer. “I had never seen a large scale LED grow before coming on here, and from the first harvest the proof was in the pudding. We also found that the flower yields went up, and that the lower buds are not nearly as larfy. We use all of our trim and lower buds for oil, so this has a big impact.” While the best flower ends up in hermetically sealed glass jars, all the rest is sent down the hall to be turned into concentrates. Harmony doesn’t use any hydrocarbons, instead focusing on Co2 and distillate production. Their high terpene cartridges are extremely popular, with levels as high as 18% and using only Cannabis derived terpenes in the strain specific cartridges. They also produce Airo Pro cartridges, which have a custom blend of fruit-based terpene flavors. Whether strain specific or with a custom flavor blend, the number one goal for the farm is quality when it leaves the facility. “The ethos of Harmony is natural quality, and when we started the company the idea was to deliver as much value to the customer in both product look and feel. That’s why we pesticide test, put our flower in glass, and maintain the highest quality level possible,” Hill said excitedly. “We always aim to deliver a high-end, top-shelf product at a mid-shelf price, clean and with no additives.” In addition to pesticide testing their own flowers and oils, the company also pesticide tests any outside material that is used for processing. “We just don’t take for granted that everyone else is honest,” Hill said, acknowledging what a struggle it is to find clean material in Washington’s recreational market. Caring about the product is what has put them in several hundred stores statewide, and allowed them to be at the top of the industry in sales revenue. “We’ve always tried to grow Cannabis we wanted to smoke. It’s been quite a ride with the constant unknowns of where the industry is going, and changing so fast with all the new products, companies, buyouts and crazy deals,” HIll said with a smile. “We’re just sticking to what we’ve always done, getting the highest quality products to our fans out there.”

KURT CHECKS OUT A ROOM FULL OF BERRY WHITE

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THE EXPANSIVE SITE HAS THE FEEL OF A WELL-OILED MACHINE

A VIEW INTO THE EXTRACTION AND PROCESSING ROOM

CARNIVAL KUSH AND BLACKJACK GROWING

harmonyfarmsnw.com / @harmonyfarmswa


the indoor issue

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HUMIDITY IS USED TO HELP THE GROWING ENVIRONMENT THRIVE

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EXOTIKZ

the best gardens, the terps do all the talking, and the strains inside the Washington Exotikz garden are roaring with flavor. There are two main factors that influence how well an indoor producer will do in a saturated Cannabis marketplace. For Exotikz, they bring both the genetics and branding necessary to more than stand out. The breeding company began in California, with legendary rapper and Cannabis entrepreneur Berner and Ivan of Jungle Boys. Both are famous within the pot scene of California and beyond, especially with Berner’s success with the Cookies brand, which encompasses strains, clothing, products and recently dispensaries. With hype for days and dispensaries LOCATION in California selling out of TAC O MA, WA their strains, it was a natural SIZE: TIER 2 progression for the genetics 8,000 SQ. FEET OF CANOPY to find their way to WashingFOUR FULLTIME EMPLOYEES ton’s pot market.

FEB. 2019

BY HASH AGENCY

Today the beautiful genetics and when you hit that perfect WITH HYPE FOR DAYS from Exotikz, Jungle Boys and combination of genetics and AND DISPENSARIES Lemonnade can be found in a environment it’s a lovely thing.” IN CALIFORNIA Tier 2 license operated by Hash The five flowering rooms SELLING OUT OF Agency in Tacoma, housed in a inside the facility are crewed by THEIR STRAINS, IT facility designed with input from four full-time team members, WAS A NATURAL the growers in California. and are able to run on a five P ROGRESSION FOR The genetics were licensed THE GENETICS TO day a week schedule. With FIND THEIR WAY TO to the license holders, and are 8,000 feet of total canopy, WASHINGTON’S exclusive here in Washington to it’s a lot of work for the small POT MARKET. Hash Agency, making them the team, and passion drives them only source for fabled strains like forward to grow the unique the delicious Lemonchello 28. strains that come from the California creators. With a limited drop model and a careful cultiva“Each room feeds separately, and we have tion, the team behind the garden is finding great to treat each strain differently. Like our Lemonsuccess in a saturated market. nade strains, we clone them early and veg them “I like the challenge of growing these unique longer to make sure they reach the potential we strains, and the artistic value of making beautiful are looking for,” Krasavage explained. Cannabis. It’s beautiful, the symbiosis with the “It can be frustrating and a process of love at plants,” said Lead Grower and Chief Technology the same time, to find what each strain needs Officer Eric Krasavage. “I get something back from and try to give it the perfect balance.” the plants when they are happy and breathing, Walking into the first flowering room, nick-

By WES ABNEY @BEARDEDLORAX | PHOTOS by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS


Q UIC K H I T

EXCLUSIVE HOME OF EXOTIKZ, LEMONNADE A N D C O O K I E S G E N E T I C S I N WA S H I N G T O N STRAINS BRED BY B E R N E R A N D I VA N O F J U N G L E B O Y S U N I Q U E S T R A I N S A N D F L AV O R S MAKE THIS GARDEN SPECIAL

WEDDING CAKE

LEMONCHELLO

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named “Little Tony,” we were hit by super bright citrus and lemon terps, mingling in with the smell of kush and grape. Indoor grow rooms are often sterile in feel and smell, but the air inside the Exotikz grow is thick with terps. The air literally feels sticky with weed, and walking amongst the dense, frosty colas reveals unique smells and strains all bred for select values. One of the first strains we saw was the fabled Wedding Cake, a purple tipped frosty indica cross between Cherry Pie and Girl Scout Cookies. Rich with earthy and sweet notes, it slows time down with a heady euphoria that leads to pleasant drooling vibes. Next was the Mimosa #26, a deep purple beauty, with bright citrus and lemon flavors and tons of frosty trichomes. All the flowers coming out of the grow are liberally coated in THC, and have been bred for very specific outcomes that translate to one thing. Fire Cannabis. The next strain we enjoyed was the Purple Punchsicle, a fruity earthy blend of grapes, cherries and woodsy kush layers. Our favorite in the garden was the Lemonchello 28, a stunner of a plant that reeks of fresh squeezed lemonade and brightens the palate with spicy citrus flavors, featuring a hybrid high that shares the Cherry Pie indica vibes with more uplifting terps. Overall, everything growing in the Exotikz Washington garden is tried and true, proven by the team in California known for creating world class Cannabis. The Hash Agency team has built from the solid genetics to unleash a family of strains on the 502 market that are unique in every aspect, each tasty and worth a sesh.

CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER ERIC KRASAVAGE

ASSISTANT GROWER MEGAN BURT WORKING WITH CLONES

DRYING ROOM

hash.agency/exotikz


the indoor issue

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NEW STRAINS ARE TESTED IN EVERY GROWING CYCLE.

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SKÖRD

efining craft Cannabis with innovation and passion, Skörd Marijuana is creating beautiful indoor flowers and hash on a sustainable level. The secret to success in Washington’s craft Cannabis market is constant evolution. Companies that hold still are left behind as the force of consumer demand shifts constantly towards new strains and fresh options, leaving corporate midgrade weed to sit on shelves at lower and lower prices. Skörd has not only taken this situation seriously, it’s why the team behind the company started growing Cannabis in the first place. “Our passion from the beginning was in selecting genetics and popping seeds,” said Founder Josh Anderson. “Our consumers LOCATION specifically want new flavors BAT T L E GR O UN D, WA and they’re connoisseurs SIZE: TIER 2 like we are.” 7,500 SQ. FOOT CANOPY The craft movement for FOUND IN 40+ STORES consumables began with

FEB. 2019

beer, with the American Brewdon’t do it. The effort is immense “WE’RE TRYING TO ers Association characterizing and the return isn’t guaranteed, GROW WHAT WE a craft company as defined because growing craft Cannabis ENJOY AND SHARE by innovation, distinctive and WHAT WE ENJOY WITH is difficult. Growing from seeds individualistic approaches to will produce varieties of the same OU R CUSTOMERS.” connecting with their customers, strain (phenotypes) that have and integrity by what they brew different characteristics like yield, and their general independence. This classification flavor and even effects. Selecting the best cut is carries over well into the Cannabis movement, a labor of love, and leads to the most unique where the suds are swapped for buds but the love expression of a strain that is only found within the remains the same. parent garden. “We’re trying to grow what we enjoy and share Growing from seed brings other advantages what we enjoy with our customers,” said Anderson. beyond unique genetics. Clones taken from out“Skörd is full of people passionate about what side sources can bring pests or systemic pesticides we are doing, and growing the same weed over that live for generations, and hurt the quality of and over gets boring.” Cannabis produced. The only way to prevent and Inside their high tech single flowering room, control this is to start fresh from the beginning, a section of new strains are tested every single which Anderson was determined to do. growing cycle. The process to go from popping “We’re bug and mold free and remain that way a seed to selecting a phenotype of a strain takes because everything grown is from our space and a minimum of 10 months, assuming a choice was popped in our building from day one. We strain is found, which is why many companies also pesticide test all our products,” he explained.

By WES ABNEY @BEARDEDLORAX | PHOTOS by CHRIS RYAN @CANNABIS.PHOTO


Q UIC K H I T

SINGLE, PERPETUAL HARVEST ROOM W I T H A L L S TAG E S O F F L OW E R I N G P L A N T S I N O N E S PAC E . P R O P R I E TA R Y N U T R I E N T B L E N D C R E AT E D A N D O W N E D B Y C O - F O U N D E R R YA N A N D E R S O N. P E S T I C I D E T E S T E D S I N C E D AY 1 . A L L S T R A I N S F R O M S E E D, W I T H N E W PHENOTYPE HUNTS EVERY CYCLE.

When asked why they pesticide test, although it isn’t legally required, Anderson’s answer is simple. “Proof. We’ve been saying we’re ‘pesticide free’ since the beginning, but a lot of people said that and are obviously lying. Many claim they can’t afford it. It does suck to spend the extra money, but the reputation is there and it’s valuable to have a massive backlog of past tests to prove our intentions from the beginning.” A big part of the success in Skörd comes from data. Prior to starting the company Anderson was a BMW mechanic, and he has taken his mechanical and technology skills and applied them to the garden. Sensors run throughout the entire facility, measuring everything from Co2 levels and canopy heat temperatures to water content and feeding levels. The goal is to perfect a cycle for a strain, and then use the information to repeat the cycle as efficiently as possible. “The idea is to create a recipe to record and track an entire grow cycle, which gives you a better chance of duplicating it. I love being able to see what’s going on in the garden with data and a controlled environment, and that’s why I’ve always been an indoor gardener.” This tier 2 is only utilizing about half its potential with 7,500 square feet of canopy, but every gram grown is sold as flower or processed into oil. A lab onsite processes hydrocarbon extracts using propane, and an ice water extraction system leads to solventless hash rosin squished for the purest essence of the plant. All flower sold is hand trimmed, sold in glass and packaged with care. Their unique strains include Wonka Bars, Blackberry Octane, Lemon Shortbread, Mint Chocolate Chip, Blue Lemon Pie, and the Chocolatina. The Chocolatina reeks of fuelly-earthy-sour-chocolate with a beautiful euphoric and uplifting high, one of the best hybrids we’ve tasted on the market. Most unique are the reserve hash rosin drops, which come from the test portion of the garden. Blending different phenotypes and strains into a beautiful squish, the hash produced from the mix of plants are completely unique and not recreatable. Overall everything coming out of the Skörd facility is worthy of trying, and the first ones to do so are the owners, ensuring it meets their quality standard. Skörd Marijuana can be found in 40 plus stores around Washington, with top shelf flower, prerolls, hydrocarbon and solventless concentrates. “I take a lot of pride in growing clean pot for our friends and family, and I love being able to work here and have a tight knit group whose pickiness and focus on quality is all the same,” said Lead Grower Steve Powers, the creator of Powers Rosin Plates. “Josh and Ron Goldman [co-owner] are a wealth of knowledge and it feels great to be growing here.”

WONKA BARS IN THE DRYING ROOM

TEST TABLE

BRAD HYDRATING COCO BAGS.

ZKITTLEZ X SIN MINT COOKIES

iskord.com / @skordmarijuana


the indoor issue

RHYTHM Cultivation Solutions & Services

and I founded Rhythm Cultivation Solutions & Services, committed as an exhibitor in the 2015 MJ Biz Con, and began work on the new business. WHAT TOOK THE PROJECT FROM CONCEPT TO REAL-WORLD APPLICATION?

At the 2015 MJ Biz Con, we launched a proof of concept and found numerous cultivators interested in working with us to bring it to life. After months of communication, we signed deals and broke ground on the first beta site.

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WHAT HAS BEEN THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE YOU’VE BEEN MET WITH IN DEVELOPING THE SOFTWARE, THE HARDWARE AND THE BUSINESS? Developing a software and hardware

solution that has all the unique features Cannabis cultivators are seeking, yet is still easy to learn, use, and maintain, has always been a fun challenge. When it came to the business the challenge was around funding. Wanting to avoid outside investment, we relied on our networks in other industries to bring in projects that funded development and overhead costs for Rhythm.

Cory Winters, Founder/VP Project Management Raul Guerrero, Founder/VP of Engineering Cale Winters, Founder/President

nwLEAF.COM

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he first time I encountered one of Rhythm’s incredible cultivation systems, I was nothing short of blown away. I always envisioned, standing in grow room after grow room, that there just had to be a better way to do things. Lofty thinking coming from someone who has only cultivated Cannabis on a personal scale, but this was the case none the less. Then, last year as we traveled across the state to produce our first-ever Sustainability Issue, I encountered the very dream setup I had imagined for so long. At Eco Firma Farms in Canby, Oregon, an early model Rhythm unit resides. This machine does it all and is truly a one-stopshop of cultivation automation. It is also what I believe will be the standard for indoor cultivation facilities of the future. According to its website, “When fully utilized, Rhythm is a completely automated, turn-key, industrial grade cultivation control solution that

FEB. 2019

HOW MANY GROW OPERATIONS DOES RHYTHM CURRENTLY HAVE MACHINES IN?

We signed five beta partners across 2016 and, after a long beta process, our team launched Rhythm’s Batch Series AFS in November of 2017. We have since installed eight projects in numerous markets across the country and have a backlog of committed projects into 2020.

can manage your entire facility’s feed delivery, recipe management, pH and EC stabilization, runoff, lighting, temperature, humidity, CO2 and power.” A bold statement and an even bolder endeavor to bring the concept to life. We caught up with president Cale Winters to learn more about Rhythm and how it came to be. HOW DID THE COMPANY GET STARTED?

HAVE YOU EVER INSTALLED A SYSTEM IN A MEDICAL GROW OR AN ILLICIT GROW?

In 2014, Cory met a commercial grower in Denver, CO that introduced him to his operations. At the time, Raul Guerrero and I were both working as applications engineers for two of the largest automation companies in the world. Understanding our expertise in automation and controls, Cory probed to learn more about the challenges Cannabis cultivators faced and the lack of tailored solutions available to them. After attending the 2014 MJ Biz Con to get a feel for the industry, we decided to go all in. In early 2015, Raul, Cory,

We’ve installed systems in both recreational and medical only marijuana markets, however, we do not do business in illicit operations and will continue to uphold that as we grow into the future. DO YOU HAVE ANY SYSTEMS OUTSIDE OF THE US, AND IF NOT, ARE THERE PLANS FOR INTERNATIONAL EXPANSION? Currently, our

business has focused on the U.S. markets, but we have all the necessary certifications to begin moving into Canada second quarter of 2019. Once we’ve fully developed an infrastructure to support the North American markets, we’ll continue to move into new global markets.

INTERVIEW BY NATE WILLIAMS @NATEW415



the indoor issue

KEEPIT CLEAN

It might seem frivolous, but it’s the little things that make the biggest difference.

Truly, there isn’t any big secret or shortcut to indoor cleanliness. The real heroes of the grow are the meticulous cleaners. For success, it requires a diligent daily routine, high standards, hard work and elbow grease. Nothing in this list should surprise you, and there are no easy workarounds. You are mopping. You are dusting. You are cleaning every nook and cranny, and all of your hard work will be rewarded with clean, healthy buds.

Sanitation is an important part of indoor gardening, which ultimately equates to keeping up cleanliness 24/7. Alongside mopping, the walls and all lighting fixtures should be wiped regularly as well for dirt, general debris and bugs who could be lurking. Lights should be wiped down after every flower harvest, ideally. Grime build-up on lights can weaken the light source to the plants resulting in lower yields and sub-par harvests. CHECK INTAKE FILTERS REGULARLY

All indoor growers should be checking intake filter(s) weekly. Routinely checking your intake filter allows you to catch potential problems (like unwanted pests or bugs) before they reach critical mass. Keeping the airflow clean within a contained space cannot be understated when it comes to the success of an indoor grow. Check intake filters once a week and replace when soiled with debris. If you work hard on keeping your grow space clean, consequently, the air filters will last longer as well.

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SHOWER BEFORE ENTRY, SET ASIDE GROW CLOTHES AND SHOES.

LUVLI’S INDIGO #2

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STERILIZATION: BLEACH AND HYDROGEN PEROXIDE

You should be sanitizing daily and sterilizing before and after each harvest. When cleaning clone and seed spaces, many growers often prefer using a dilution of hydrogen peroxide. I prefer bleach, but many choose to use hydrogen peroxide because the unstable oxygen molecule turns into water and doesn’t harm plants. This doesn’t mean you cannot use bleach, but you MUST make sure you thoroughly rinse everything to make sure the bleach doesn’t come into contact with delicate clones or plants. Sterilization kills all potential pathogens that put your garden at risk, at a very low cost to boot.

FEB. 2019

ROUTINE SANITATION: SWEEP AND MOP DAILY

You should be mopping your grow every day. Yes, you read that right EVERY DAY, and preferably after feedings. (You know, when you spill your mix everywhere, or there might be a leak in your automation.) If my grandmother were writing this, she’d tell you to mop twice a day! Once in the morning and once at night. I come from a family of nurses and OCD cleaners, and it proves to require the same diligence within an indoor grow. So many problems in an indoor grow are largely due to a lack of cleanliness. Every part of the grow should be mopped with a diluted bleach solution. Let me put it plainly: your grow should be cleaner than your living quarters.

Before you step foot into a grow, think about the investment it took to get to this point. If you take your garden practice seriously, you should shower before you enter the grow. Additionally, you should have a pair of shoes (Crocs preferably) that are specifically for the grow alone. I suggest Crocs because they are easy to clean. Your shoes should also be sanitized regularly – especially if you are dealing with pests. Showering removes the dirt or any pests that might be lurking on clothing or on your hair. Having garden-only clothing and shoes also ensures that nothing from the outside will walk in (via your shoes) and compromise your investment – the grow. Ultimately, this all helps eliminate the risk of introducing a pest to the garden. It might seem frivolous, but it’s the little things that make the biggest difference. CLEAN ALL GARDEN TOOLS, POTS AND ACCESSORIES

After every harvest, all pots should be sterilized with bleach before new plants are transplanted. All garden tools should be cleaned after every task in order to prevent any potential cross-contamination between rooms or plants. Nothing about this list is complicated, but it requires a decent amount of manual labor in order to ensure your cleanliness standards aren’t compromising your indoor grow space.

BY SIMONE FISCHERR @SIMONEFISCHERR | PHOTO BY @BERMANPHOTOS


MARIJUANA PRODUCTS MAY BE PURCHASED OR POSSESSED ONLY BY PERSONS 21 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER. THIS PRODUCT HAS INTOXICATING EFFECTS AND MAY BE HABIT FORMING. MARIJUANA CAN IMPAIR CONCENTRATION, COORDINATION AND JUDGEMENT. DO NOT OPERATE A VEHICLE OR MACHINERY WHILE UNDER THE INFLUENCE. THERE MAY BE HEALTH RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH THE USE OF THIS PRODUCT. FOR ADULT USE ONLY. KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.

MARIJUANA PRODUCTS MAY BE PURCHASED OR POSSESSED ONLY BY PERSONS 21 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER. THIS PRODUCT HAS INTOXICATING EFFECTS AND MAY BE HABIT FORMING. MARIJUANA CAN IMPAIR CONCENTRATION, COORDINATION AND JUDGEMENT. DO NOT OPERATE A VEHICLE OR MACHINERY WHILE UNDER THE INFLUENCE. THERE MAY BE HEALTH RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH THE USE OF THIS PRODUCT. FOR ADULT USE ONLY. KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.


the indoor issue

SCOUT FOR INSECTS

Scouting for insects involves routinely checking the crop to establish a baseline of pest populations and disease trends. Scouting is a very detailed process that can take a lot of time, but the payoff of discovering problems early is priceless. Yellow sticky cards are 3” x 5” cards with adhesive used for scouting. Place yellow sticky cards in the entire facility and check them on a weekly basis. Yellow sticky cards aren’t used to reduce pest populations, rather they are an effective way to determine the number of flying insects. You can find fungus gnats, thrips, whitefly and winged root aphids on sticky cards. The number of flying pests on cards help determine the extent of an infestation or the introduction of a new pest. Inspect leaves with a 20x hand lens and bring leaf samples back to a higher magnification stereo microscope. SCOUT FOR PLANT DISEASES

While scouting for insects, look for plant diseases. The most common plant diseases in Cannabis are powdery mildew, Botrytis, Pythium and Fusarium. Powdery mildew occurs in leaves and flowers. Botrytis infects flowers with a grey, white fuzzy mold. Pythium and Fusarium are called “root rot” because these diseases manifest at or below the soil line. QUARANTINE INCOMING CLONES

If you purchase incoming genetics, make sure to keep them in an area separate from the rest of the facility. Reputable suppliers will have an excellent IPM program in place. Some clone suppliers are willing to educate you about their prevention processes.

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IPM

SANITATION

It is important to clean rooms between crops and maintain a clean work environment to prevent the exposure to pathogens. In Oregon, you can apply Zerotol to dip cuttings, clean hard surfaces and disinfect rooms. The Zerotol label is very detailed and designed to prevent plant pathogens indoors. Bloom Garden Supply carries Zerotol and has the best stock in Oregon. CULTURAL PRACTICES

Use the correct methods to grow a healthy plant. Don’t overwater plants or allow plants to dry too much. Excess fertilizer causes plants to be more susceptible to insects like aphids because the tissue is soft and easy for insects to feed on.

nwLEAF.COM

BENEFICIAL INSECTS

Integrated Pest Management in Indoor Cultivation

G

rowing in an indoor environment can greatly increase the extent of an infestation because the environment is warm and humid. There are some simple methods you can follow to prevent devastating crop loss indoors. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an agriculture principle that combines all plant pest and disease management tools available in a well-informed manner to solve long term problems. The tools of IPM include scouting, plant quarantine areas, sanitation, cultural practices, beneficial insect releases and approved pesticides.

FEB. 2019

Beneficial insects have become standard in Cannabis production. There are many predatory insects to choose from to reduce insect and mite populations. Start with the beneficial predatory mite Stratiolaelaps scimitus in the early stages of production. They will eat thrips and fungus gnats. You should work with a beneficial insect supplier who ships predatory insects directly from the insectary. APPROVED LIST

Follow the Oregon Department of Agriculture approved list to select the correct EPA registered products to prevent pests or diseases. Contact a Licensed Pesticide Consultant if you have questions about choosing the right product.

BY MORIAH LACHAPELL FOR OREGON LEAF





RECIPES

by laurie wolf Photos By Bruce wolf

February 2019

LOVE IS IN THE AIR, and hopefully, Cannabis is too! Whether you are celebrating with friends, lovers or co-workers, this year let Cupid have his arrows, we’ve got something a whole lot better. The current strain we are loving is Blue Dream from East Fork Cultivars. These three recipes are straightforward, delicious and promise to make a day about love considerably lovelier. And we need all the love we can get. Happy Valentines Day from Laurie and MaryJane! #DontFearTheEdible!

SALMON FILET WITH FIRE ROASTED RED PEPPER PUREE Serves 4

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4 6-ounce pieces salmon 1 tablespoon olive oil Salt & pepper 4 teaspoons canna-olive oil 3 roasted red peppers, cut in strips 1/4 cup chopped onion 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 cup chicken broth 1/4 cup cream, optional 12 small peppers, cut in half and seeded 1/3 cup pesto Chopped fresh basil or flat parsley

BEST BEET SOUP Serves 6

1. Heat oven to 425F. Place salmon on a baking sheet with sides. Brush with the olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. 3. In a medium sauté pan heat the canna-oil over medium heat. Sauté the red peppers, onion, and garlic until the onion is soft, 4-5 minutes. 4. In a blender or food processor combine the peppers with the broth and the cream. Taste for salt and pepper.

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5. Back in the medium sauté pan, heat the red pepper mixture over med. heat. 6. Place the small peppers on your work surface. Spoon a teaspoon of pesto into the halved peppers.

WHITE CHOCOLATE & CHERRY BARK Serves 8 2 cups white chocolate melts or chips 2-3 tablespoons canna-butter 1 cup granola 1/3 cup dried cherries 1. In a double boiler melt the chips with the canna-butter. 2. Place a sheet of parchment on your work surface.

7. Bake the salmon in the oven and roast until just done, 12-15 minutes.

3. Pour the white chocolate onto the parchment.

8. Transfer the salmon on plates. Add three pepper halves and spoon the red pepper sauce over the salmon.

5. Allow to set for one hour before breaking into pieces.

9. Garnish with the fresh herbs & enjoy.

FEB. 2019

4. Sprinkle white chocolate with the granola and the cherries.

Cannabis, chocolate and cherries. What a combo!

1 ½ pounds fresh or canned beets 3 garlic cloves, peeled 1/4 cup chopped onion 1 bay leaf 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar 1-2 tablespoons canna-oil or butter 1/4 cup chopped dill pickle ½ cup buttermilk ½ cup whole fat yogurt 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill Salt and pepper Pumpkin seeds Yogurt 1. In a large soup pot cover the beets with water. Add the garlic, onion and bay leaf and cook until tender, about 30-40 minutes, until fork tender. Drain and cool. 2. In a blender or food processor combine the beets, vinegar, oil, pickle, salt and pepper. Puree till smooth. Add the buttermilk and yogurt, dill and puree again. Add salt and pepper to taste and garnish with the optional toppings.



«¡§¤ ¤ ¡ « } } }~ }

LOCATE THE STORE NEAREST YOU ( } } * WARNING: This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Smoking is hazardous to your health. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. Should not be used by women who are pregnant or breast feeding. Keep out of reach of children. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgement. It is illegal to operate a vehicle or machinery while under the influence of marijuana. This product is unlawful outside Washington State.



tannins & terpenes

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This month we are pairing the Pomegranate Ginger Cider from New West Cider with Pineapple Pomegranate flower organically cultivated by Roganja. The cider pours a vibrant red color with medium carbonation and little to no head. The pomegranate taste kicks through first, followed by a subtle, yet slightly spicy ginger flavor which cuts through the sweetness. The Pineapple Pomegranate flower pairs perfectly with this well-balanced cider. I smoked a few bowls out of my water pipe and noticed a strong pineapple flavor, followed by subtle pomegranate notes on the exhale. Each hit was smooth and clean, with little to no lung expansion. The strong pomegranate from the cider pairs nicely with the strong pineapple from the flower, creating a sweet and tart fruit medley that’s a perfect summer smoke and drink. The ginger helps to balance the sweetness and acidity from the pineapple and pomegranate flavors. As always, we suggest sharing both of these products with friends.

FEB. 2019

Pomegranate Ginger Cider with Pineapple Pomegranate Flower brewed by NEW WEST CIDER grown by ROGANJA

REVIEW by WILL FERGUSON @710DENCIES | PHOTO by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS


LEADERS IN CANNABIS LAW SINCE 2013

CHALLENGE AUTHORITY

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 YEARS OF AGE AND OLDER. KEEP OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN.

C3.LEGAL



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review

“A QUICK STONINESS GRABS THE MIND FROM THE FIRST EXHALE, RUSHING THROUGH THE BODY IN A WAVE OF INDICA BLISS THAT MAKES THE BODY FEEL LIGHTER AND SLOWS THE REFLEXES ALL AT ONCE.”

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D.R.U.G.S. American Hash Makers

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C

annabis has wrestled with the label of “drugs” since the days of DARE, when little kids were told that smoking pot causes cancer, not healed those who used it. To honor the misinformation perpetuated by the powers that be, American Hash Makers released their version of DRUGS, aka Dank Rolled Under Government Supervision. A solvent free version of caviar, these are drugs that you can feel safe about smoking. We love

FEB. 2019

caviar here at The Leaf, but hate the hydrocarbon burn that comes with many versions of this product. These DRUGS are made using Chocolate Diesel flower and Hindu Kush solventless bubble hash for an extra punch of effects that gives this a real kick, all processed without chemical solvents. Completely natural and using techniques for hash that date back thousands of years, this caviar is clean and delicious. Opening a jar of the caviar releases a thick pine-citrus fuel, sandwiched between layers of earthy kush and a strain specific chocolatey richness that only comes from full spectrum hash. The squares of caviar break open easily, revealing the compressed layers

of flower and hash on the outside, teasing of the flavors and high to come when smoked. Ripping into a bowl is delightfully easy, with none of the hydrocarbon spark of other caviars. This caviar melts lightly into an easy burn, slowly cherrying into fat hits that last without hurting the lungs, finishing with a clean white ash. Flavors are dominated by the hashyness of the Hindu Kush, but notes of the Chocolate Diesel are definitely present, especially in the effects. A quick stoniness grabs the mind from the first exhale, rushing through the body in a wave of indica bliss that makes the body feel lighter and slows the reflexes all at once. The fullness of the high hits within a half

38.8% THC | 0.2% CBD AmericanHashMakers.com @American_Hash_Makers

hour, lasting for several hours, and is a fun balance between too high to move and just high enough where anything is enjoyable, including spacing out on the couch. Perfect for heavy hash smokers or those looking to amplify a flower high, these DRUGS are truly dank. American Hash Makers has been processing Cannabis since 2015, focusing on clean and minimally processed hash sourced from indoor and sun-grown farms to deliver the purest effects of flower possible. From their five star bubble hash to the caviar we sampled, what comes from this processor is sure to be clean and tasty. They only source pesticide tested products, and honor the classic history of processing hash with the modern demands of the recreational market.

REVIEW by WES ABNEY @BEARDEDLORAX | PHOTO by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS


THE ORIGINAL V-FIRE

LOS ANGELES | SAN FRANCISCO | DENVER | DETROIT



Experience Fruitopia. Look for E Blunt in Colorado, Washington and Alaska.

At this time we are only offering our products to licensed distributors. If you would like to be a processor/distributor in your area please contact: rob@eblunt.com (907) 351-8207

eblunt.com @ ebluntvapes Facebook/ Twitter/ Instagram


STONEY BALONEY #1

70

Keep it simple, stupid...

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There are some things in life you just can’t unsee. A dog getting hit by a car. Your parents tongue kissing in front of the fireplace. The back side of a 276-pound plumber wearing Carhartts bought at 243 pounds who engages you in professional conversation about pee traps while awkwardly arching his back for a distinct angle on the garbage disposal. But as with everything that exists in the universe, there is a balance, a yang to the proverbial yin, and thankfully, life has a way of offsetting these disturbing shocks by providing pure visuals of situational bliss. And many of us find, through the kaleidoscope of Cannabis, that the myriad of events given in any particular day are delightfully accentuated by its recreational use. Now, there are, of course, particular times when augmenting your reality through the haze blazed effects of Cannabis are not recommended, like while attempting to solve algebraic number theories, landing a fighter jet on an aircraft carrier, or defending yourself in court. Which is exactly why, when dabbling in your preferred method of marijuana mindfulness, it is generally advised

FEB. 2019

to follow one of the world’s most elementary guidelines: The KISS principal, the acronym better known for the wise proverb “Keep It Simple, Stupid.” That said, the odds of your daycation embarkation resulting in a pleasant experience rests on the complexity of tasks with which you assign yourself. So, when preparing to enjoy some of the multitudes of Cannabis’ nuances, remember that the outcome is directly parallel to the day’s duties. Be it flying the friendly sativa skies, or indica inertia resulting in an arm bar by your couch, know your roll, like which strains and methods best suit your unique temperament. The Dalai Lama once said that our purpose in life is to seek happiness, or in other words, to out-yang our yin. And there’s an old Irish proverb that states that Cannabis Is Proof That God Loves Us (ok, beer, too). So enjoy the fruits of nature’s labor, but be cognizant of the wondrous varietals that provide the distinctly delicious effects. And by the way, give Mom and Dad their space when they’re feeling frisky. No parent wants to be caught getting busy by their kid.


it's the little things

OPEN DAILY 7AM-11PM

visit :us 2121 Auburn Way S. Auburn, Washington 98002 order online : jointrivers.com

The only shop that opens at 7am!

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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