EVERCANNABIS, February 1, 2019

EVERCANNABIS

FEBRUARY 2019

®

www.evercannabis.com

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Evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, February 1, 2019

Evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, February 1, 2019

february

EVERCANNABIS®

is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review

Proud member of

VOLUME 4

ISSUE 2

EVERCANNABIS

®

www.evercannabis.com Free Digital Archives Online evercannabis@spokesman.com 509.459.5095

ESSENTIALS

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Kathleen Coleman DIRECTOR OF SALES Dan Fritts MANAGING EDITOR Joe Butler CREATIVE DIRECTOR Anne Potter GRAPHIC DESIGNER Trish Merryman SALES LEAD Wes Ward CONTRIBUTORS Sarah Bain Linda Ball Tracy Damon Theresa Tanner Cara Wietstock Tyler Wilson

THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW www.spokesman.com news@spokesman.com 509.459.5400

of the 5 Strain Month

Indica dominant hybrid Presidential Kush offers happy & thoughtful effects

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PARTY TIME

In a city known for oompah music and Oktoberfest, you’d be hard pressed to find cannabis.

Although Washington cities and counties have the ability to control or limit marijuana commerce, its absence in Leavenworth is notable.

10 Recommended Reading Crack open these cannabis books

12 Searching for

Sweet Treats

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The Island of Idaho

Discover why pot is still forbidden in the Gem State and why it’s not likely to change

something special for your loved one?

Check out our top cannabis picks for a Valentine’s Day to remember

Deeper Dive 14 ABlogger Jim MacRae gives a closer look at data

Roundup 18 News Cannabis stories from

Focus 22 ATheNew Cannabis Observer will allow more people to see government in action

around the globe

Blazin’ 19 Trail Grower focuses on healthy conditions

Marijuana and marijuana-infused products are legal for Washington residents 21 years and older. It has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. It can impair concentration, coordination and judgment. There may be health risks associated with consumption.

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Evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, February 1, 2019

EDITOR’S

Words of Wisdom Talking treaties … and spring fun

It’s been interesting to watch how cannabis rules are changing not just locally but internationally.

For quite a few years, our country has shared a consistent message with our peers: “Don’t even think about legalizing cannabis because we’re not going to. Plus doing so would violate all sorts of international treaties.”

Until recently, this threat has kept other countries on the same page as the U.S., with everyone treating cannabis as the same terribly dangerous and addictive substance.

However, just as parts of our country are starting to explore the medical, economic, legal and social benefits of the plant, other countries are following suit in their own ways.

South Africa courts recently affirmed that every citizen has the right to grow and consume their own plants in private. Mexico’s new administration has been advocating for significant law changes to stop punishing low-level possession cases, which they hope will help cut crime and the power of the larger cartels.

Holland has a reputation as being tolerant, and Australia welcomes medical marijuana cultivation and research. Canada had a legal medical marketplace in place as early as 2001, and expanded to “adult-use” last fall.

The United Kingdom recently opened the door for medical use on a caseby-case basis. It also just approved a partnership with Canadian megagrower Canopy Growth to provide imported Canadian cannabis to British pharmacies.

All in all, there are now more than 20 countries where cannabis is more welcome than in the U.S., including relaxed laws or structured marketplaces where the plant is treated as a commodity.

While full legalization in the U.S. might still be years away, we will have plenty of examples to look toward as ways to unwind decades of unified Prohibition.

Speaking of good times ahead, make sure you’ve penciled in June 14-15: it’s our first Evercannafest, and you’re invited! We’re still putting details together, but we’re in the process of organizing educational seminars, a trade show, speakers and plenty of other fun surprises.

Sponsorship opportunities and booth spots are still available. It will be at the Spokane Valley Events Center which will provide us plenty of room for classes, fun and other good times.

Contact our team at Evercannabis@spokesman.com for more details!

Joe Butler, Managing Editor

Interested in being a FREE EVERCANNABIS® distribution location?

Please contact 509.459.5095 or evercannabis@spokesman.com

Evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, February 1, 2019

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Displayed in an inverted clear glass jar, it allows for unhindered 360-degree inspection. It’s truly some of the most beautiful cannabis I have had the pleasure of examining.

Cutting through the label covering the lower third of the jar, I flip the jar — untwisting it with built-up anticipation.

I listen closely as the sound of the inner freshness seal breaks. My nose is instantly overtaken by a complex, swirling combination of sweet passion fruit, the gentle perfume of rose petals and hints of fresh sage. Over and over,

I take in the pleasant aromatic notes foreshadowing the upcoming trials by fire.

TASTE: The taste begins notably smooth on the inhale, allowing a deep draw.

Exhaling, my palate first enjoys the flavor of creamy grapes, followed by a slow transition to a musky sandalwood that lingers on the tongue. The second-hand smoke has a pleasant incense aroma as well.

EFFECTS: Happy and thoughtful, the

effects come on gently. I first noticed muscle tension easing with a bit of warm tingling in the extremities. It seemed as though my thoughts calmed enough to appreciate some of the beauty around me. After much testing, I would also say this strain complements music, almost like the vibration of the music intensified the high, or vice versa.

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Warning: This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Smoking is hazardous to your health. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. Should not be used by women that are pregnant or breast feeding. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of reach of children. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug.

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Evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, February 1, 2019

Leavenworth n w o t n i d n u o f e b o t l i a t e r s i b a No cann

By TRACY DAMON

EVERCANNABIS Correspondent

Leavenworth photo courtesy Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce/Icicle TV

By TRACY DAMON

EVERCANNABIS Correspondent

W

hile many Washington cities and towns are actively encouraging and promoting cannabis tourism and commerce, the tourist town of Leavenworth continues to pass on allowing pot shops or other marijuana businesses within its city limits.

“What we require is that any business, not just marijuana businesses, in order to get a city business license, has to meet federal, state and city regulations,” said Joel Walinski, City Administrator for Leavenworth, the Central Washington city patterned after a Bavarian village. “So we don’t have anything that keeps marijuana businesses in particular from

acquiring a license and operating a business here.”

Control Board-licensed marijuana retailers, producers and/or processors within city limits.

Because cannabis is not considered legal by the federal government, that makes businesses involved in it illegal under Leavenworth’s municipal code.

Following discussions that stretched over two meetings, the council in the end voted to take no action. By doing so, Leavenworth’s current codes for business license applications basically do the same thing as banning I-502 businesses.

While city officials haven’t outright banned marijuana, there was discussion about doing so when recreational weed first became legal in Washington.

In October of 2013, Leavenworth City Council members adopted a six-month moratorium on marijuana cultivation, production and sales, along with any other activities authorized under Washington State Initiative 502.

When that moratorium expired in 2014, council members debated voting to prohibit Liquor

It doesn’t look like that will change anytime soon.

“The Chamber of Commerce and the mayor share the opinion that this is not something on top of the list to promote at this time,” said Walinski, discussing changes to the municipal code.

That’s not to say that no one is using marijuana in Leavenworth. There are two nearby retailers, American Harvest in Peshatin (about 4 miles

Evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, February 1, 2019

from Leavenworth) and the Happy Crop Shoppe in Cashmere (11 miles from Leavenworth).

Walinski says city officials don’t have a problem with this as long as users obey the law.

“The rules on using marijuana are the same as drinking wine or beer out on the streets, which are that you don’t do that.

We do have a security force that is on patrol. We ask that people don’t do it.”

Walinski also acknowledges that businesses are coming to the area that cater to marijuana users, and city officials also aren’t overly concerned about that either.

For instance, Beyoutiful Hot Yoga, which lists its address as being inside the Leavenworth city limits, has hosted a Healing with Ganja yoga class in the past.

Promotional materials for the class read “Learn how to mindfully add marijuana to your practice. … You are welcome to come elevated but do not drive under the influence.”

There are also some other innovative ideas involving marijuana that Walinksi has heard of.

“I was contacted about a company that has the marijuana or pot bus,” he said. “They’re creative. One of the things we do encourage in Leavenworth is to be creative.”

Along with creativity, Walinksi says local officials understand that, being a city that hosts an annual beer festival, there are going to be activities that market to a more mature crowd. He says it’s important though that people take into consideration the demographic of each event they consider attending.

“Most of the events that happen in town, especially around the Christmas Lighting, and other festivals, are very family oriented.

Not to say that there aren’t events

in town that are for another crowd.”

In Leavenworth, children are allowed to be onsite at pretty much any event and venue, even those that serve alcohol, until 9 p.m.

“Then of course, as you get later into the evening, the younger (adult) crowd prevails so the event changes a little,” said Walinksi.

Outside of Leavenworth itself, Chelan County has made it difficult for producers to grow marijuana.

The conditions that make the area great for agricultural products like apples and cereal grains also make it ideal for growing marijuana.

While there was initially a rush to start outdoor grow operations in the area, complaints about increased traffic, security lights and smell caused Chelan County Commissioners to put a moratorium on new pot farms in 2015. They initially said marijuana farming would be banned by 2018. In August 2017 that edict was revised to instead require grow operations to comply with tightened zoning and building requirements.

Under those ordinances, the largest grow and processing operations are now considered industrial, not agricultural. Zoning requires grow operations to move indoors.

Smaller operations, those that use up to 10,000 square feet, can still grow outdoors in rural zones, but require a minimum of four acres and must be 1,000 to 1,500 feet from the parcel boundary, to put space between neighbors and potential odors from cannabis farms.

The Central Washington Growers Association, a trade group representing 36 local cannabis operations, says these new rules present a hardship for marijuana farmers, leading many to shut down their farms and leave the industry.

is b a n n a c o t ” ! n i e N ” , r e e b o t ” ! t s o “Pr

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Evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, February 1, 2019

Idaho remains a pot-free island

By LINDA BALL

EVERCANNABIS Correspondent

B

efore the midterm elections, cannabis advocates met at the Boise Public Library to discuss their desire to see legislative changes regarding both medical and recreational cannabis in Idaho.

Tverg said Utah’s recent approval of medical marijuana may encourage Idaho leaders to take another look, since many southern Idaho residents follow the same religion as many Utahans, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

In Coeur d’Alene, closer to Spokane, law enforcement has to choose its battles.

With Nevada legalizing recreational marijuana in 2017, and Utah just approving medical marijuana last November, Idaho is fully bordered by pot-friendlier states, with the exception of Wyoming.

Coeur d’Alene Police Detective Mario Rios, a public information officer, said marijuana reform is not in the department’s control, but the drug is one of the easier substances to deal with vs. methamphetamine or heroin.

This means, regardless of neighboring state laws, possession of more than 3 ounces of marijuana product is considered a felony.

He said a possible unintended consequence if Idaho ever changes its rules on cannabis is what happens to the K-9 dogs currently trained to sniff out marijuana. Rios said several departments in

The Marijuana Policy Project in Washington D.C., said Idaho, Wyoming and South Dakota were the only states that did not introduce marijuana reform bills in 2018. It’s been 13 years since any proposed marijuana initiative has garnered enough signatures to make an Idaho ballot.

That doesn’t mean that people haven’t tried.

Initiatives in 2012 and 2014 failed to get enough signatures, and a 2016 initiative was withdrawn before signatures could be counted.

Paulette Jordan, who would have been Idaho’s first Native American and female governor, lost the 2018 governor’s race to Republican Brad Little. Part of her campaign platform was looking at cannabis laws.

“If we decriminalize cannabis, we would save $23 million alone. As a conservative myself, especially when it comes to the utilization of taxpayer resources, I want to see Idaho’s citizens be able to benefit from those savings,” she said in October.

Marijuana Policy Project community relations spokesperson Mason Tverg said then-Idaho Gov. Butch Otter vetoed a CBD bill in 2015, and it is his understanding that Little is equally hostile.

(CBD is a natural compound in the cannabis plant that causes pain relief vs. intoxication of THC. It can also be extracted from hemp for a variety of wellness and industrial uses.)

Little’s office didn’t respond to requests for comment on his thoughts on cannabis.

Washington had to replace theirs when that state legalized marijuana. Dogs had to be trained or re-trained to sniff out other substances.

Although policy may not change in the near future, some are looking longer-term.

The current initiative process requires that at least 6 percent of registered voters in at least 18 of the state’s 35 legislative districts be represented by signatures.

Rebecca Schroeder of Coeur d’Alene ran a spirited but unsuccessful campaign for a Idaho Legislature position last fall.

A chemist by profession, and with a son with cystic fibrosis, she wanted to see health care changes, including expanded Medicare coverage and cannabis reform. Voters approved Medicare expansion, but cannabis reform sometimes drew different reactions.

“I got a lot of backlash from some people,” she said. “This is a social justice issue, a health care issue for many. Religious fundamentalists saw legalization as a morally decrepit issue.”

Schroeder said even some Idaho Democrats have difficulty with the issue. After she gave a pro-legalization talk, some donors never

contributed again. She said the same thing happened to Jordan.

She believes revenue from legal cannabis sales could fund education, like in other states, but the Idaho Education Association declined to endorse her or Jordan’s campaign. The association generally leans toward Democratic candidates.

Schroeder speculates that if pharmaceutical companies ever advocated for cannabis reform, more citizens and groups would be supportive.

Instead, some vital endorsements were withheld.

With Canadian legalization, Schroeder hopes to see more interest and legitimate research into the plant’s possible medical benefits.

During her campaign, she met a local veteran who had been shot seven times and had issues with PTSD. Convinced he would die from the opioids and anti-anxiety medicine, he turned to cannabis, which he said has improved his life.

Schroeder said there would be fewer opioid fatalities if Idaho legalized cannabis, something that been observed in several states that have increased legal access.

Evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, February 1, 2019

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Evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, February 1, 2019

Curl up with a good

CANNABIS BOOK

By SARAH BAIN

EVERCANNABIS Correspondent

Ahh, spring! (Or almost). Soon we’ll have rain puddles, crocuses in bloom, opening windows and doors to let the fresh air in, and evenings still cool enough to settle underneath a thick blanket with a cup of possibly-infused tea and a good book.

This time of year is also perfect for planning your garden and educating yourself about cannabis, whether you are interested in growing it for medical purposes (visit the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board to learn local laws before you start), or perhaps you just want to brush up on your knowledge. Either way, here are some books you won’t want to miss.

“Craft Weed: Family Farming and the Future of the Marijuana Industry” F

by Ryan Stoa b

S Stoa argues for an industry dominated by craft marijuana farmers, not big corporations. He s suggests that the industry should be modeled after the craft beer industry and that family farmers need to be protected during this time of intense national growth. As an Associate Professor of Law at Concordia University in Boise, Idaho, Stoa writes with authority, and his book appeals to those who want to armor themselves with information about the different directions the marketplace can go.

“Cannabis and the Art of Infusion: An Elevated Cookbook”

by Ricky Flickenger

This cookbook takes the marijuana out of the pipe and into the kitchen with more than 30 recipes, from appetizers and salads to dinners and desserts. Whether you want to learn to cook with cannabis to impress your friends or relax in the evening with your ‘best bud,’ this book is sure to have a recipe that you’ll fall in love with. Chef Ricky lives, cooks and teaches classes in Seattle. Check out his website Mortar ’n Pestle (mortarnp.com) for more information.

“The Cannabis Spa at Home: How to Make MarijuanaInfused Lotions, Massage Oils, Ointments, Bath Salts, Spa Nosh, and More”

by Sandra Hinchliffe

If you’ve never picked up the hardback version of this book, now is a good time to grab the new paperback version that’s scheduled to be released in March. This is the perfect manual for the DIYer who wants to make his or her own lotions, lip balms, masks and other cannabis-based beauty products. With easy-to-find ingredients free of allergens and preservatives, the book takes you step by step through the process of making your own products along with instructions on storage and use.

“The Medical Marijuana Guide, Cannabis and Your Health”

by Patricia C. Frye, M.D., with Dave Smitherman This book, released in fall 2018, begins with an overview of medical marijuana going all the way back to ancient times, tracing its rise and fall over the centuries. It goes into specific details about cannabis as medicine, and can be an important resource for anybody interested in the use of CBD oil and marijuana for medicinal purposes. This book is targeted at those already in the medical industry, so non-502ers might feel like it’s more of a textbook. But it’s filled with information and knowledge that you don’t often find in other off-theshelf books about weed. If your primary care physician or provider is on the fence about cannabis as medicine, this book can provide them with industry-backed examples of medicinal relief.

Evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, February 1, 2019

A curious journey

“The Little Black Book of Marijuana: The Essential Guide to the World of Cannabis, 3rd Edition”

By JOE BUTLER

EVERCANNABIS Writer

by Steve Elliott

Rob Mejia admits he experimented with pot a little in college. But his cannabis knowledge dramatically increased when his sister was dying of cancer and no one in the medical community ever discussed marijuana options with her.

This tried and true – not to mention brief – guide to cannabis, especially if you love the history and cultural background of its beginnings, is easy to read. With even some recipes thrown in, it’s a fantastic, handy, classic guide to marijuana and its use.

For the last five years, he’s been traveling around the world to learn from other experts, from shop owners to private chefs to farmers in South America. Now he’s ready to share his knowledge with the world.

by Spurs Broken

This beautiful book is perfect for a coffee table or as a gift for friends who appreciate good photography (and perhaps good weed). It is filled with stunning photos that will make you see marijuana differently. Whether you read it cover to cover, want to look more closely at and study particular strains, or just love great pictures, this book will not disappoint.

The explosion of legal cannabis across the country has led to a similar explosion in the cannabis book genre. It’s a great time to learn about the up-and-coming industry and to educate yourself on all things weed so you can help educate others, whether you are just dabbling in marijuana use or are a long-time pro.

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This began a journey of learning about the pros and cons of the plant, and today he has become an expert on how cannabis can help our lives.

“Beauty of Cannabis: 200 Strains of Marijuana, A Visual Guide”

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

Mejia recently published “The Essential Cannabis Book: A Field Guide for the Curious,” a useful resource for the past, present and future of the plant that has been loved or hated for generations, depending on one’s point of view and whatever wellness or political filter is applied.

He examines why cannabis had been accepted as useful medicine for centuries, but over the course of the 20th century, it became classified as being something as deadly and addictive as cocaine, LSD or heroin. It also shows how and why reform efforts are gradually taking effect, and how today, 33 states allow some form of medical or recreational marijuana.

For his research, Mejia visited shops, clinics, oil extractors, tennis clubs and plenty of other diverse locations to learn the hows and whys of a changing industry.

Along with useful history, he shares how cannabis can help people’s lives, whether for specific health conditions or general wellbeing. He also gives practical tips on everything from how to enter a store to how to shop to how to infuse food.

Along with the book, he founded and operates “A Community Harvest,” an online resource for cooking, shopping and legally using cannabis. It also highlights interesting entrepreneurs and fellow knowledge seekers in the industry, plus offers product reviews.

Information: www.ourcommunityharvest.com

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EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to 7KH 6SRNHVPDQ 5HYLHZ f Friday, February 1, 2019

Surprise Your V BATH BLAST

By LINDA BALL

EVERCANNABIS Writer

Whether you consider Valentine’s Day a silly Hallmark holiday, or a day to lavish your loved one with chocolates, flowers and affection, your local cannabis purveyor is here to help you express your adoration.

Sure, you can always just pass a joint or share a romantic infused dinner, but how about something a bit more creative?

Infused bath bombs, bath salts and lotions can anyone relax. Suggested brands include Whol Salts and Green Revolution Body Buzz. Forest in Spokane Valley’s “Nixon” bath bomb is com having a glass of wine at the end of a hard day contains 500 mg. THC and 500 mg. CBD; a sma relaxing 250/250 mix.

E F

Try some of these relaxing and awesome products formulated using your favorite plant, which can be found at many local businesses. Your main squeeze will appreciate them and you may even get to sample them too.

Sa Bo lik 10 Cu ar Fa ch

SUGAR HIGH

You can’t go wrong with chocolate, especially 10 mg. infused Belgian Chocolates by Magic Kitchen. Or add Hot Sugar, a powdered sugar with THC to hot cocoa, coffee or any beverage of choice.

SALVE YOUR PROBLEMS

Cannabliss Organics offers natural, organic hemp oil skincare products, including salve containing mulberry, goji berry and ginseng that soothes skin, eases muscle and joint aches, and is gentle for all skin types. It also offers revitalizing face serum from extracted cannabis oil mixed with herbs like mulberry bark and Panax ginseng, and vegan moisturizing lotion that includes schisandra, goji berry and peony.

EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to 7KH 6SRNHVPDQ 5HYLHZ f Friday, February 1, 2019

Valentine n help e New Spa Pharms mpared to y. A large all offers a

EXPLOSIVE FLAVOR

ativa Sisters sells mint Bon ombs, which are said to taste ke an Andes mint. Each contains 0 mg. of THC, 10 in a box. Magic ups, similar to a brownie bite, re made locally by Ontiveros arms, and are available in hocolate mint or peanut butter.

MAKING WHOOPIE

Apex Cannabis sells two pre-rolled joints and lubricant infused with THC in a package. GreenLight Cannabis offers Velvet Swing, a THC/CBD combo lubricant with a 100 mg. of THC and 33 mg. of CBD, or Intimate Lubricant by Fairwinds, with 140 mg.

BETTER BUZZ

Say good morning to your sweetheart with Catapult, cannabis infused coffee pods suitable for any Keurig coffee maker, with 10 mg. of THC in each of the six pods.

CHEWY SWEETS

If your loved one doesn’t love chocolate but still wants a bite of something sweet, try Uncle Roaner’s Confections. Each chewy piece contains 10 mg of THC, 10 servings per bags.

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Evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, February 1, 2019

JIM MACRAE KNOWS THE NUMBERS ON WASHINGTON’S CANNABIS INDUSTRY

By TYLER WILSON

EVERCANNABIS Correspondent

Information is everything to Jim MacRae. He looks at Washington’s cannabis industry entirely by the numbers, and uses this data to help stores, growers, and even the public.

He’s also using his research to raise the alarm about what he sees as a lack of consumer safety and transparency.

“Right now the lack of traceability is the major issue in our marketplace,” MacRae said.

Washington’s initial commitment to better traceability drew MacRae to work in this state.

His educational background included experimental psychology and substance abuse research at McMaster University and the University of Pennsylvania. He spent much of his career in market research and data mining for the pharmaceutical industry, and then moved to Washington.

“I felt blessed as a data person to be here when (recreational cannabis) launch occurred,” MacRae said. “We had strong legislation that mandates the transparency of government.”

Evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, February 1, 2019

The Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board initially provided public access to information on every transaction, from plant to harvest to lab testing to store, MacRae said.

Dr. Dominic Corva, founder and executive director of the nonprofit Center for the Study of Cannabis and Social Policy, has worked with MacRae on data analysis, and said MacRae’s knowledge base is invaluable.

“It was a virtually complete description of the market in remarkable detail, and I immediately started looking at it,” he said.

“(Jim can) give you the good news or the bad news,” Corva said. “In the absence of any kind of oversight or accountability, Jim’s work gives businesses the opportunity to have integrity and do the things they’re going to have to do in the long run.”

Through his company, Straight Line Analytics, MacRae combined LCB-supplied data with his industry expertise and proprietary metrics to help all levels of industry, plus businesses nationwide that want to learn from Washington’s successes and shortcomings.

“I’ve done a fair bit of work with stores on site selection … I help them understand their market, understand their competitors,” MacRae said.

“It really always comes down to helping them understand their market as it is today relative to the market’s potential.”

He applies similar strategies to help producers/processors get the most out of their business while following sometimes complex laws.

Focusing on these data has led MacRae to become a strong consumer advocate. He’s presented discrepancies to the LCB and has reported on what he sees as major regulatory problems.

In 2015 he began covering various topics regarding Washington’s regulated cannabis market on his blog, HighIntelligence.org.

Much of his recent efforts zero in on changes to the LCB’s data tracking system. The state adopted a new computer system for traceability that had major functionality issues, and the information the LCB previously made public was no longer available.

This included the ability to verify lab testing on any product’s potency and quality.

“Basically, quality assurance is gone from a regulatory standpoint in Washington,” MacRae said.

While MacRae’s views on the LCB’s recent traceability and testing issues may be up for debate (you can read his thoughts at HIBlog), he wants to help consumers be more aware of the quality of available products.

Consumers can always request a copy of a grower’s “certificate of analysis” at a store, but MacRae said that alone isn’t enough of a safety mechanism for anyone concerned about what could be in their cannabis.

He believes the state has the ability to authorize more quality assurance testing for potentially harmful levels of microbes, pesticides and heavy metals.

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they want to ingest products that have tested positive for certain contaminants.”

Businesses also can take their own pro-active approach. For example, MacRae worked with Uncle Ike’s, a series of stores in Seattle, to create a private testing program where inventory is randomly selected and tested for pesticide, heavy metal and microbes.

Results are posted monthly online, and failed product is immediately removed from shelves.

“It’s very encouraging to see the private sector invest in some things that really raise the bar for consumer safety,” MacRae said.

Find more information on Jim MacRae and Straight Line Analytics at www.

StraightLineAnalytics.biz.

Corva said MacRae’s extensive analysis in the field makes him someone who should be listened to.

“His outcomes really are quite relevant for anybody’s business model,” he said. “I think it’s important to start off from a position of transparency, and Jim is sounding the alarm saying that’s not how we’re starting.”

Kevin Oliver is the state director for the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws as well as a grower in Deer Park. While he and MacRae have disagreed occasionally on the LCB’s performance, he said MacRae’s efforts to alert the public have value.

“He’s a great data miner,” Oliver said. “What Jim is doing for consumers is making them aware that the LCB has (safety) protocols they need to enforce that allows the consumer to make a choice of whether or not

Photo courtesy Jim MacRae

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Evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, February 1, 2019

LCB hears cheers, criticisms Crystal Oliver from the Washington SunGrowers Industry Association suggested that the LCB develop a compliance check-list for licensees. If the licensee and the LCB inspector operate from the same worksheet, it will make it easier to make sure both sides know and follow the same rules.

By JOE BUTLER

EVERCANNABIS Writer

Times have changed, so regulations on Washington’s cannabis industry should change as well.

This was a suggestion from Steve Walser, who has been farming for 45 years. He and his friends and family grow a variety of organic products northwest of Spokane along with owning and operating a winery. They also own Buddy Boy Farms, a Tier 3 cannabis farm.

At a January meeting of the Liquor and Cannabis Board in Spokane, Walser shared how cannabis farmers, retailers and the state of Washington all moved slowly and deliberatively in the beginning to properly transition away from what used to be an underground, illegal industry.

“We’re all more comfortable now,” he said.

But five years into the new system, he said the state still treats the whole cannabis sector with more suspicion than he thinks it deserves.

“The LCB agents on the wine side are nothing but helpful,” he said. “They don’t come to talk to us armed and wearing flak jackets. We’re not dangerous people. You don’t need to put the scare into people.”

With about 300 stores and more than 1,000 growers, it’s a challenge for any of them to reach consumers, a factor that is driving down prices and putting farms out of business.

“It’s really a struggle,” Walser said.

Others who spoke offered additional suggestions to improve the system.

Stephanie Lamb from Blue Roots Cannabis, an Airway Heights producer and processor, would like to see the state create an edible advisory board, which could provide more guidance on acceptable ways to infuse cannabis into food, and how to sell it.

“We would sell our wares and other people’s wares at retail prices, and sell food,” he said.

Walser said this arrangement could also help a perceived disparity between too many growers and too few stores statewide.

The state spent most of 2018 trying to improve this process and figuring out where breakdowns were happening, but at the same time increased licensing fees, a fact that added to the pressure already facing growers.

Toni Nersesian, owner of Palouse Farms, requested a refund of her license fee due to all the problems, and said the current situation is a nightmare.

“We need (the LCB) as a partner,” she said.

“Right now we never know what train is going to be coming at us around any corner.”

The LCB board also took the opportunity to approve updated rules for product labeling and the look of edibles so they don’t appeal to children. Board members said this effort started with complaints from citizens, followed by input from industry officials and associations who felt an initial proposed ban was too restrictive.

The LCB meeting was an opportunity for the public to share concerns, compliments and suggestions. The board could only thank people for their public testimony, but their ideas may be considered in future rule-making discussions or recommendations to the Legislature.

One of Walser’s suggestions, for instance, may show up as a bill this session. He and other cannabis farmers would like to provide on-site sales and consumption, similar to a winery with a tasting room. Currently consumers can only buy cannabis from licensed retailers.

There was also continued criticism about integration with Leaf, the software vendor that tracks product traceability. The state changed vendors at the end of 2017, a decision that has created difficulties keeping track of data and proper labeling. Some retailers even had to refuse deliveries from growers due to improper paperwork.

These new rules take effect January 2020, a change from the original proposal that would have required all brightly colored edible products be removed from shelves by this April.

EVERCANNABIS file photo “We want other options and a better way to continue our research,” she said. “But a lot of the state officials I talk to don’t quite know what we’re doing on the edible side, so we need more open conversations.”

Jane Rushford, board chair, encouraged everyone to continue to share their thoughts, either at future meetings or through written comments, which can be submitted at https://lcb.wa.gov/contact.

Evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, February 1, 2019

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Evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, February 1, 2019

CANNABIS NEWS FROM AROUND THE STATE

FEWER TEENS USING POT

KELSO STUDENT SICKENED

RICHLAND INTERESTED IN MORE DISCUSSIONS

INSLEE PUSHES TO CHANGE SENTENCES

SEATTLE – A study published

KELSO – The Kelso School District is investigating after a high school student was hospitalized after having a bad reaction to a cookie possibly laced with THC. The boy’s mother posted on Facebook that she was called to Kelso High School after reports her son was having a seizure. He was convulsing and vomiting when she arrived, and taken to the emergency room by ambulance.

Her post, which was later taken down, said that someone gave her son a chocolate chip cookie, but he didn’t know there were other ingredients.

She wrote that the doctor said THC caused the reaction. Her post didn’t indicate the source of the cookie, but said she had been hearing that the school is seeing more edible products.

Though THC is a common ingredient in most cannabis products, it is known to cause more negative reactions in higher quantities, including panic attacks, shakiness and unresponsiveness.

Michele Larsen, school district spokeswoman, said officials were performing an internal investigation first, but law enforcement may not be initially involved. She couldn’t share more details due to student privacy laws.

Larsen said she didn’t know if there is actually an increase in edible products at schools.

At a national level, hospitals have treated more patients exposed to THC as more states increase access.

RICHLAND – Mayor Bob Thompson and

SEATAC – Gov. Jay Inslee plans to

by the Journal of the American Medical Association shows that fewer Washington teens are using cannabis.

Researchers looked at use between 2014 and 2016, and saw decreases in usage by teens in middle school and high school.

Eighth grade use dropped from 9.8 to 7.3 percent, and 10th grade use dropped from 19.8 percent to 17.8 percent. The use for 12th grade students remained steady at 26.7 percent.

The study involved researchers from the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board, in cooperation with the RAND Corporation.

Data was collected as part of the Washington Healthy Youth Survey, which is given anonymously every two years to students in grades 8, 10 and 12.

One of the expressed concerns of increased access from legalization is that it could lead to higher youth use, but based on current data, the results are encouraging. However, there is still more to learn about teen brains and social conditions.

“Rather than try and draw conclusions immediately, we need to keep looking at different types of youth and communities,” said Julia Dilley, one of the study’s authors and a research scientist/epidemiologist at the Oregon Health Authority. “It’s just far to soon to say what the impact of legalization is on youth.”

Source: The Seattle Times

Source:The Daily News

members of the City Council would like to hear more from citizens about their thoughts on possible changes to a city-wide ban on cannabis farms and shops.

More than 2,700 residents signed a petition last fall requesting that an election be held to overturn the ban.

However, city legal staff said that the citizen initiative process can’t be used for land use and zoning matters, so the council does not plan to officially discuss calling for a special election.

Legalize Richland, which organized the petition, is considering other legal remedies, but in the meantime, city officials said that even if the initiative is ruled invalid, it’s a good time to start holding conversations, especially since so many citizens seem interested in seeking change.

Thompson, who voted against the original ban, said community views may have changed since original opposition in 2012.

“I think the council needs to address (cannabis) in some format,” Thompson said. “Who knows where the community is now?”

Legalize Richland is an arm of the Benton County Libertarian Party. It believes that citizens, not city council members or county commissioners, should have a voice in whether cannabis shops can open. The city also can benefit from additional tax revenue.

The submitted petition included 4,500 signatures, and 2,713 were declared valid.

pardon about 3,500 people with misdemeanor marijuana convictions.

As a keynote speaker at the annual Cannabis Alliance summit, Inslee said removing these penalties will improve access for Washingtonians seeking everything from work to credit to home financing.

“We shouldn’t be punishing people for something that is no longer illegal in Washington,” Inslee said.

“Forgiving these convictions can help lessen their impact and allow people to move on with their lives.”

He said he and the state’s attitude toward cannabis have evolved.

Under the Marijuana Justice Initiative, clemency could be available to any Washington resident with a single adult misdemeanor conviction for marijuana possession under Washington law. It must have been received between Jan. 1, 1998, and Dec. 5, 2012. People seeking pardons also can’t be currently facing any other charges.

Inslee also wants to make sure to focus on populations of color, which proportionally have higher rates of conviction.

If you believe you fall under the criteria, visit www.governor. wa.gov/marijuanajustice. You’ll need the jurisdiction where the crime happened, the court case number and the conviction date.

State staff will review each claim and compare to court data. Requests will be reviewed in the order they’re received.

Source: The Spokesman-Review Source: Tri-City Herald

Evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, February 1, 2019

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TRAIL BLAZIN’ puts consumer health first

By CARA WIETSTOCK

want people to see that consistency from us,” said Danielle Rosellison, COO.

Last fall, Uncle Ike’s, a Seattle cannabis retailer, began random third-party testing of all of its products for pesticides or other contaminants. Right away, one extract was found to have 1.5 times the state legal limit for Myclobutanil, a pesticide considered dangerous when combusted or inhaled.

The pesticide-free precautions begin with the first step into the Trail Blazin’ production offices. To reduce any possibility of outbreaks of mites or thrips, only the cultivation staff is allowed in rooms with live plants.

EVERCANNABIS Correspondent

Beyond providing good service to shoppers, the shop said it tests for pesticides because the State of Washington and many growers aren’t doing so.

This isn’t true for all growers, however. Trail Blazin’, a Tier 2 operation in Bellingham, has made product safety a priority since opening its doors in 2012.

Owners Danielle and Juddy Rosellison originally were a home-based medical garden with four plants in the laundry room, but have expanded the business into a significant enterprise with a focus on every plant being pesticide- and microbial-free.

The growing process includes a variety of safety protocols including regular testing through Confidence Analytics, a lab in Redmond.

“All of our test results are online, we send them to all of our retailers, and they are all public on Confidence Analytics’ website. We are an open book because we

Each member of the cultivation and production teams must wear scrubs, have hair covered, and leave street shoes outside.

After each harvest, a cleaning crew takes apart every apparatus in every room down to the fans for a deep clean before the next plants go in.

The cultivation area also remains closed for tours, unlike many other operations that offer access for budtenders, journalists or other guests. While this could be a let-down for those who love the sights and smells of growing cannabis plants, it does cut down on the introduction of foreign pests.

Trail Blazin’ also exceeds current state standards to ensure that signature flavors like 9# Hammer, Cinex, and Pennywise are free of unwanted compounds.

To be compliant, a company must simply promise they didn’t use any illegal pesticides or any legal pesticides over the action limit. If they do use them, companies need to share this information on

accompanying materials, but not product labels.

they need to be asking for them and keep supporting those companies,” she said.

Trail Blazin’ tests batches from every harvest for each type of 50 pesticides and heavy metals. It’s one of the few Department of Health compliant cannabis producers.

Every lot is also tested for cannabinoid and terpene content.

Now that these protocols have been developed for the cleanest possible product, Rosellison said the next goal for Trail Blazin’ is to be completely organic.

Currently, its growing practices are about 85 percent organic.

Soon, the company will be able to slap a Washingtoncertified organic seal on each package. That seal is important, and unfortunately, a lack of communication between retailers and producers has led to misinformation about what it means.

Many products aren’t tested for pesticides on the shelf but budtenders and labels might lead consumers to believe otherwise.

Rosellison said customers can have an important role in this process in what they buy.

“If people value craft cannabis growers, if they value pesticide-free products,

Bellingham www.trailblazin.net

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Evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, February 1, 2019

CANNABIS NEWS FROM AROUND THE WORLD

MICHIGAN SELLERS LOOK FOR LOOPHOLES

POTENT STRAINS CAN CAUSE MORE CRAVINGS

SOUTH AFRICA CONSIDERING CANNABIS

PENNSYLVANIA CHANGING STANCE

LANSING – While Michigan residents can now legally purchase cannabis, retail operations aren’t supposed to come online until 2020.

That means buyers and entrepreneurs have begun looking for creative ways to connect without returning to the black market or running afoul of state laws.

One solution that has been proposed by some dispensaries is to offer a small amount of marijuana as a “gift” if someone buys other products. This would be in line with the already defined and legally approved personal quantities for those with valid medical marijuana cards.

The stores could sell food, paraphernalia or other merchandise.

One store in Detroit has been creating “munchie bags” for adults that include various candy items.

Once someone purchases one for between $55 and $120, depending on size and weight, the shop owner will gift an amount of cannabis flower, up to 2.5 ounces. Michigan law also allows gifts of up to 15 grams of extracts.

A medical dispensary in Ann Arbor has been trying a similar concept of selling fine chocolate, plus free cannabis as a bonus gift.

The concept has been tried in Washington, D.C., where voters have approved access to recreational cannabis but it legally can’t be sold due to federal restrictions.

DES MOINES – People who begin

PRETORIA – The

country of South Africa’s business community is taking steps to increase commerce in cannabis.

The country’s first legal cannabis expo in December gave attendees information about the possibility of growing and exporting medical-grade cannabis to other countries.

Visitors learned about equipment, products and cultivation methods, along with increasing business opportunities in Europe, Canada, and the U.S., including infused products, hemp products, and extracted oils.

Medical cannabis is legal in some parts of the country, and the Constitutional Court recently said that citizens can’t be prosecuted for private use and cultivation.

There are still laws prohibiting buying and selling cannabis for recreational use, and many trying to get into the industry say there’s an especially rigid and complex licensing system to open a pharmacy or dispensary.

However, there are already some infused products available for purchase, including energy drinks and a certain type of beer. These have high levels of CBD, but low levels of THC. Parliament also is expected to create standards soon to authorize acceptable levels of THC. “Gone are the days of the stigma of the lazy stoner, sitting at home,” said Andrew Lawrie from Schindlers Attorneys, a legal firm that includes a cannabis division. “They are around but now we’re talking about industry, corporations and taxes.”

LANSING – Gov. Tom Wolf seems to be ready to talk about recreational marijuana.

Although he has repeatedly said the state isn’t ready for legalization and last summer he said he’s not ready to sign or promote it, he changed his message in late December, tweeting that the state should learn from the efforts of other states moving forward with legalization, saying it’s time for Pennsylvania to “take a serious and honest look at recreational marijuana.”

He said that these type of policy changes would require legislation, which might be a challenge among some conservative lawmakers. But some legislators are already ready to begin discussions and propose bills, including State Senator Daylin Leach.

“The experience of other states shows that ending Prohibition has no downside,” Leach said. “It will also go a long way of moving the ball forward on criminal justice reform.”

Last July, State Auditor General Eugene DePasquale estimated that legal cannabis could bring in as much as $580 million a year and also reduce the demand on prisons by de-criminalizing marijuana possession.

Other nearby states are also exploring improved cannabis access in 2019, including New York and New Jersey.

Source: Forbes

Source: The Independent

Source: Boston Globe

Source:The GrowthOp

marijuana experiences with higher potency strains are five times more likely to develop strong physical dependence.

A study at the University of Iowa indicated that early use of high-THC cannabis, commonly called “skunk weed,” creates stronger cravings and can even lead to riskier drug use.

The study, published recently in the journal “Drug and Alcohol Dependence,” was conducted by Dr. Brooke Arterberry, an assistant professor of psychology. She and colleagues looked at portions of a community health survey, focusing on ages 11-26 who have family histories of substance abuse.

Their research found that users who started with “skunk,” which contained THC at levels of at least 12.3 percent, were 4.8 times more likely to have at least one symptom of cannabis use disorder, when compared to those who smoked about a 4.9 percent strain.

“Based on the results, states might want to think about the available potency levels of cannabis products, especially with the changing legal landscape of cannabis,” she said.

Current clinical research is limited into the positive and negative effects of THC, but withdrawal for long-term users with physical dependencies can include irritability, sleep disruption and various mental health conditions.

Evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, February 1, 2019

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February EVENTS

CANNACON, SEATTLE. One of the country’s largest cannabis events returns to the Seattle Convention Center featuring activities and resources for more than 2,000 visitors. cannacon.org/seattle/seattle-cannacon-2019

THE GATEWAY SHOW, SEATTLE.

Four comedians tell jokes, use cannabis privately and return to tell more jokes at Bites of Bangkok. facebook.com/gatewayshow

INTERNATIONAL CANNABIS BUSINESS CONFERENCE, SAN FRANCISCO.

The 5th annual gathering discusses federal rules and multi-national opportunities. internationalcbc.com

CANNABIS INFLUENCERS NW, SEATTLE.

Monthly meet-up brings together various professionals from the cannabis industry. www.meetup.com/Cannabis-Culture-Influencers-NW

THE CANNABIS ALLIANCE, SEATTLE.

Monthly meeting of growers, retailers and other supporters of Washington’s cannabis system.

Live feeds available in Bellingham, Arlington, Tri-Cities and Olympia. www.thecannabisalliance.us

SPOKANE/EASTERN WASHINGTON MARIJUANA BUSINESS NETWORKING MEET-UP, SPOKANE. Happy hour 5:30-6:30 p.m., followed by presentation/discussion 6:30-7:30 p.m., Luigi’s.

Planning a cannabis-themed event you want to include in this space? Send us the details at Evercannabis@spokesman.com

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Evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, February 1, 2019

Keeps industry

updated on rules, bills

By THERESA TANNER EVERCANNABIS Writer

I

t wasn’t cannabis that brought Gregory Foster and his family to Olympia one-and-ahalf years ago.

for consumer protection. He also has training in computer science, and a background in advocacy and activism, particularly in the realm of digital privacy.

After two decades in Austin, Texas, Foster was looking for a change, and Washington’s capitol city’s beautiful nature caught his eye.

“I just needed to figure out a way that I could be of service,” Foster said in a December phone interview.

But after relocating and starting a job search, Foster recognized that his previous work experience could be perfect for the everchanging cannabis industry.

With that background in mind, Foster attended a public meeting of the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board in November 2017. He noticed right away that there was low public attendance.

Foster spent nearly a decade working for Consumer Reports, a non-profit organization that provides unbiased product ratings and reviews

“Four out of the five meetings every two weeks were not broadcast or recorded,” Foster said.

“There was no readily accessible way for stakeholders or members of the public to know what was happening.”

To change that, Foster founded Cannabis Observer, which sends independent citizen observers to observe and report on the public meetings of the WSLCB. Observers are contract employees who are cannabis industry professionals, advocates, activists, academics, journalists and technologists.

Evercannabis is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Friday, February 1, 2019

“The cannabis industry is extremely unique, and extremely new,� Foster said. “Because it’s so new, the establishment of law and rule, the adjudication of the cannabis industry, in every jurisdiction – we (regulators and legislators, as well as stakeholders and citizens) are making it up as we go along. The result is a patchwork of different laws and rules, which can result in mistakes and the need to change things over time.

“Rules are changing at a very rapid rate. For stakeholders in the industry, it’s very difficult to stay informed.�

Along with WSLCB public meetings, Cannabis Observer is beginning to observe and report on other legislative and regulatory bodies in the state, such as the Department of Agriculture and Spokane Clean Air Agency, to keep up with ongoing regulatory changes. “Because this looks like it will be a busy session for cannabis, we intend to cover the state legislature as well,� Foster added.

Cannabis Observer also researches public records to provide more background and understanding behind potential regulatory and legislative changes, which can help industry advocates anticipate and influence policy.

In the future, Foster sees Cannabis Data returning to data collection and analysis, as well consulting work. He also believes that the type of regulatory observation the Observer is conducting could be applied to other subjects and industries, as well as other states and communities.

He’d also like to have more people working full time for the organization and to hire observers in other parts of the state to report on regional regulatory meetings.

In order to maintain independence and impartiality, Cannabis Observer needs to be community supported. “It’s a good way for us to be held accountable by stakeholders,�

Foster said. “Journalism is facing a lot of challenges, what with the disruption of traditional business models based on advertising.

It’s a challenge to not have that funding stream, but (community support) is a respectable option.

Ask for us by name at your retailer AB ED

M

IS

Reports are published on its site at cannabis.observer, often with links to audio recordings and WSLCB documents. Links are shared via e-mail newsletter and social media.

founded to collect and analyze data surrounding the cannabis industry, specifically traceability.

Cannabis Data has evolved into an incubator for cannabis industry projects, with Cannabis Observer as the first.

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It allows the community to hold you accountable. It’s a tangible way to vote with your dollars.�

Supporters can become patrons on the crowd funding platform Patreon, or donate via PayPal, Ethereum and Bitcoin; links can be found online at cannabis.observer. com.

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