The Evolution Magazine July 2025

TAKE ONE ● STAY INFORMED

HEALTH, WELLNESS & EDUCATION

Budtender Picks Celebrate Your Freedom with These Goodies

Pruning, and Trimming Cannabis Plants for Maximized Output

July 2025

Blast-Off for the First

Microbusiness Dispensary A Historic Pickle Brand Enters the CBD & Cannabis Space

Canna Friendly Health Care Services

Discounts Inside 1 July 2025

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Adult Use Age 21+. Medical decisions should not be made based on advertising. Consult a physician on the benefits and risks of particular medical Julymarijuana 2025 products.3

In This Issue

Happy 4th of July

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FEATURES

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10 Microbiz News − First Microbusiness Dispensary Opens to the Public 12 Ask Leah −What Are the Best Cannabis Products for Treating Mental and Physical Health Conditions?

14 Out & About Missouri − The Faces of the Missouri Cannabis Industry 16 Budtender Picks − Celebrate Your Freedom with These Goodies

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18 Patient Education − Microdosing Cannabis 20 Cannabiz News − Blue Sage Opens New KC Area Dispensary

− Plume Cannabis Takes Flight Across Missouri

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22 Home Growers Corner − Pruning, and Trimming Cannabis Plants for Maximized Output 24 Health News −Dynamic DNA Laboratories Unlocks Personalized Health Through Genetic Science −Cannabis DNA Test helps achieve optimal experience.

26 New Products − Hot! Hot! Hot! Gummies for July!

28 Feature of Month − A Historic Pickle Brand Enters the CBD & Cannabis Space 30 Spotlight on Products − VIBE Unveils Its New Limited Edition Aficionado Pack 32 Health News − Breakthrough Relief from Anxiety, Depression, and PTSD with the Support You Deserve − Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy

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34 Cannabiz News −“Operation: DOPE – A Blunt History of WWI,” Gets Resounding Accolades 38 Reflections− The Rebirth of Plant Medicine  Plus More Good Stuff Within These Pages — Enjoy!

Helpful Info

36 Cannabis Friendly Health Care Services 46 Crossword or 6-Way Puzzle of the Month 50 Doctors Guide to Missouri Med-ID Certification

Visit www.facebook.com/TheEvolutionMidWest and get the latest news, and much more.

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Resources

42 Dispensaries Guide for KC, Western & Central Missouri 44 Dispensaries Guide for St. Louis & Eastern Missouri 48 CBD Store Guides ― Missouri & Kansas ► Cover: This month’s cover celebrates our freedom, and the blast-off of Missouri’s new microbusinesses with the first microbusiness dispensary now open to the public.

(Cover art by Bill Cromwell)

Adult Use Age 21+. Medical decisions should not be made based on advertising. Consult a physician on the benefits and risks of particular medical Julymarijuana 2025 products.5

From The Editor

Bill Cromwell, Publisher, Editor-in-Chief

We’re FREE. Celebrate!

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t’s July, the month we blast off fireworks and celebrate our freedom. Independence Day commemorates the confirmation of the Declaration of Independence by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, establishing the United States of America. Our Founding Fathers declared that the 13 colonies were no longer subject to the British monarch and were now united, free, and independent states, leading to the creation of the United States as a sovereign nation — a democracy free from monarchy.

Thousands fought and died for nearly a decade during the Revolutionary War to defeat British rule, granting us the freedoms we enjoy today.

Hundreds of years later, battles to preserve our freedom and democracy continue, which seem increasingly in jeopardy in today’s world.

It was April 26, 1777, when John Adams wrote, in a letter to his wife Abigail, “You will never know how much it cost the present generations to preserve your freedom! I hope you will make a good use of it.” Was Adams talking to us? Powerful words to remember as we blast off fireworks this month.

Speaking of history, revolutions, and freedom (to consume), on June 5, history was made in Missouri when The National WWI Museum & Memorial held its first educational cannabis event called “Operation: DOPE – A Blunt History of WWI.” Nearly 100 attendees enjoyed an educational lecture from Dr. Isaac Campos on the history of cannabis prohibition. For many attendees, it helped dispel age-old myths and was a massive step toward destigmatization. See the story on page 34 and the video link at the end to watch the lecture. It’s entertaining and enlightening.

In June, Missouri’s new cannabis microbusinesses made more history when the very first microbusiness dispensary in Platte City opened to the public. See page 10 for a story of second chances, fullcircle transformation, and what’s possible when people are supported, not judged. The journey from incarceration to ownership is not only rare — it’s revolutionary!

Did you know there’s a DNA Test that can help you optimize your cannabis use? Yep, it’s true! On page 24, you’ll learn more about the way your nervous system and body react to cannabis, depending on your genes. Understanding how your genes metabolize cannabis can help you achieve the optimal experience, minimize undesired side effects, and boost cannabis health benefits so you no longer worry about experimenting with strains that could potentially cause unpleasant results. These DNA tests provide you with personalized test results that tell which strains of cannabis are most compatible with your profile.

How amazing is that?

Lastly, enjoy and celebrate your freedoms this month, and remember what John Adams said about the brave men and women who fought to preserve it: “You will never know how much it cost the present generations to preserve your freedom! I hope you will make a good use of it.” Evolutionary words to remember!

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MAGAZINE

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Missouri’s First Educational Medical Cannabis Magazine Published Monthly by Native Kansas City, MO, Advocates, Publishers and Writers. A True Missouri Born Grassroots Effort to Educate and Inform Patients, and to Provide Businesses within The Missouri Cannabis Industry an Economical Forum to Share Their Story. We hope you join and enjoy “The EVOLUTION.” Since 2019 PUBLISHER, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Bill Cromwell News, Articles, Advertisement, & Requests Should Email to: Bill.C@TheEvolutionMag.com Corporate Office 816.886.9017 Kansas City, MO Mail to: P.O. Box 485, Grain Valley, MO 64029 MANAGING EDITOR, VP OF OPERATIONS: Victoria Cromwell

Subscription inquiries/updates to: Victoria.c@theevolutionmag.com DIRECTOR MARKETING and EDITORIAL DEVELOPMENT: Clayton Stallings CREATIVE DESIGNER, GRAPHIC ARTS and EDITORIAL: Bill Cromwell PHOTOGRAPHY by: Clayton Stallings, Chris Smith, and Guests photographers Our Team of Dedicated Cannabis Industry Writers ● Gerry Donovan — Home Growers Corner ● Dolores Halbin, RN — Patient Advocate and Awareness ● Peter Kershaw — Health and Wellness Columnist ● Tim Lawrence ― Product Profiles of The Month ● Leah Maurer — Cannabis Knowledge, Ask Leah Columnist ● Clayton Stallings— Monthly Feature Stories ● Tara Wolf— Wellness Education ● Monthly Guest Writers — Cannabis News & Feature Stories The EVOLUTIONTM Magazine offers a monthly print magazine that is distributed throughout western Missouri, select St. Louis locations, eastern Kansas and the Lake of the Ozarks region. Free printed copies are found at nearly 360 locations including CBD stores, MMJ Dispensaries, Garden and Grow Supply Stores, doctors offices, restaurants, sports bars, resorts, and many other select locations.

In addition, the monthly magazine is offered online in an inter-active E-magazine at www.TheEvolutionMag.com.

NOTICE: The publisher/editor reserves the right to reject whatever Advertising or material that does not fit with the vision or intent of this publication. Advertising is accepted at the discretion of the publisher and do not imply endorsement, nor are we responsible for the products or services advertised. The contributing writers, staff or owners of THE EVOLUTION Magazine LLC cannot be held liable for hardship or losses incurred due to any content associated within this publication or websites. Written views, advertisements and information expressed in this publication belong to the writers or advertisers and do not reflect the sentiments or editorial opinion of the publisher or staff. We cannot be held responsible for; views, opinions, changes to scheduling, prices, rates or the occasional typographical errors.

ADVERTISEMENT NOTICE: Advertisers have the right to terminate promotions or special offers/coupons, change rates or fees without notice. All listed guides, rates, fees and information herein are non-binding reference material only. Always check with listed businesses or advertisers for its latest updates, current prices and/or special offers.

FDA Disclaimer: Any statements/claims made within this magazine have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. No articles, products or Ads featured within these pages are intended to diagnose, treat, cure, prevent any disease, ailment or disorder.

Medical decisions should not be made based on advertisements within these pages. Consult a physician on the benefits and risks of particular medical marijuana products. Products mentioned within are only for use by adults age 21 and older. Keep such products out of reach of children. The information within is a sharing of knowledge and information based on the writers research, opinions and/or educated experience only. © 2019 – 2025 The EVOLUTIONTM Magazine. All Rights Proprietary and Conceptual Designs Reserved. Reproduction of any part of this publication’s contents is strictly prohibited without written permission of the Publisher or Managing Editor.

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Micro Biz News ►

First Microbusiness Dispensary Opens to the Public A Missouri Cannabis Breakthrough

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by Samantha Blum, contributing writer une was a turning point for Missouri’s cannabis landscape, one for the record books. The very first microbusiness dispensary opened to the public, welcoming the community into a space built from the ground up with heart, vision, and local pride.

On June 12, 816 Dispensary in Platte City made history. Its soft opening marked the beginning of a family-owned dispensary and signaled a new chapter for Missouri’s entire microbusiness program. Excited customers lined up outside hours before the doors opened, ready to support this small business owner who’s deeply rooted in the community.

As a fellow micro licensee, I had the honor of being the first microbusiness owner to purchase cannabis from another micro licensee as a customer. On opening day, I walked into 816 Dispensary. I bought Rainbow Cake and Blue Dream — two beautifully cultivated strains by Blüme Cannabis, the first micro cultivator in Missouri to have a product on a microbusiness dispensary shelf. It was a significant moment, not just for me but for all of us building toward something bigger.

A Dispensary Built with Intention

Beyond that cozy entry space, the sales floor becomes even more meaningful. One wall is home to a stunning mural created by an incredibly talented local artist who’s part of the 816 family. The mural is a love letter to Kansas City, filled with landmarks that proudly represent the city they call home. Every detail tells a story and was done intentionally — from the heart, for the community.

At the entry, where you check in, sits something quite powerful: a framed copy of owner Jimi Poe’s former inmate ID card, displayed alongside his personal story. It’s more than a conversation piece — it’s a testament to second chances, full-circle transformation, and the deeper “why” behind the dispensary. For Poe, this space is more than a business. It’s a chance to give back, to lead with love, and to show what’s possible when people are supported, not judged. The journey from incarceration to ownership is not only rare — it’s revolutionary!

That spirit of purpose radiates throughout the space. It’s in how the team works together, how they greet customers, and how they’ve infused their boutique-style shop with thoughtful touches everywhere you look. Even its 816-branded apparel reflects its pride, carrying bold, symbolic designs that honor Kansas City’s culture and the story behind the brand.

Jimi Poe (on left) with containers of Missouri’s FIRST micro cannabis license flower picked up from Blüme by the state’s largest licensed cannabis transport, Big Time Logistics who is also providing discounted delivery rates to help the micro industry get rolling.

(Photo by Clayton Stallings)

The customer reviews say it best: The 816 Dispensary management team (from left to right) Summer Poe, administration; Eve Zimmerman, assistant manager; Josh Jackson, assistant manager, and owner, Jimi Poe.

(Photo by Clayton Stallings)

816 Dispensary is not just a shop — it’s a statement. From the moment you step through the door, you’re greeted not just by the staff but by the spirit of Kansas City, family, and resilience. The entry area is thoughtfully designed to welcome you into the experience with a bold, glowing 816 sign, a rich royal purple velvet couch perfect for selfies, and warm staff members who immediately make you feel like part of something bigger.

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“Customer service was amazing… I even got to chat with the owner and cultivator. This place is family-owned and high-quality.” ~ Luis G. “It’s well put together… better than expected and full of local love.” ~ Jacob K. “It feels like home. You can feel their heart in the space.” ~ Jaime W. During the 816 Dispensary soft opening on June 12, it completed 92 transactions — a significant achievement for a grassroots team just starting. There was a buzz in the air, full of excitement, nervous energy, and deep community support. Even as the staff worked through Continued on page 51 

Scan QR Code – Get Details – Initiate Websites – Learn more.

July 2025

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ask Leah...

Missouri Cannabis Educatio n

What Are the Best Cannabis Products for Treating Mental and Physical Health Conditions?

Some of the best methods and products for addressing common concerns.

Leah

by Leah Maurer, contributing writer

Leah Maurer, a native Missourian, is a canna journalist and activist living in Portland, OR. She is a co-owner of The Weed Blog www.theweedblog.com Co-Owner 420-420 Digital Media Solutions and the text code 420-420. In 2014, Maurer founded Moms for Yes on Measure 91 through grassroots efforts alone, which proved pivotal in adult-use legalization in Oregon. During that time, she also co-founded Show-Me Cannabis to help launch the legalization effort in Missouri. Maurer is a social justice activist at the core and hopes to see the end to the prohibition of cannabis globally.

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t is important to remember that cannabis was first utilized (and legalized) as medicine. While many adults enjoy consuming cannabis for lifestyle enhancement, cannabis has a multitude of therapeutic benefits for several conditions and symptoms. Understanding which consumption methods and product types work best for particular conditions is essential.

Not all cannabis products are the same, and the administration of them can dramatically influence the effect of cannabinoids on the body.

My column in the April 2025 issue was titled, “What Are the Most Common Conditions and Symptoms Treated with Medical Cannabis?” The June issue of The EVOLUTION Magazine featured content about the Missouri cannabis industry’s launch of its initiative called “Bringing Back The ‘Medical’ In Marijuana: A Wellness Consumer & Market Opportunity.” In that issue, we mentioned that The EVOLUTION Magazine will continue to work toward helping “Bringing Back The ‘Medical’ In Marijuana.” We believe cannabis can be an essential part of a day-to-day health routine, and it’s important to know what can help patients.

This month, we expand on the previous April 2025 article with more specific patient uses. Here are some of the best methods and products for addressing common concerns for both physical and mental health that have been shown to provide relief through the use of cannabis, and explanations of why certain approaches with both product choices and consumption methods are more effective than others. Keep in mind that there are many

different cannabinoids available to consumers, with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) being the most prevalent.

Chronic Pain

Relief Cream

For individuals suffering from chronic pain, especially related to inflammation or nerve damage, inhalation and topical applications offer the most relief. Vaping or smoking high-THC flower provides fast-acting analgesic effects, often within minutes, making it suitable for sudden flareups. Topical cannabis balms and creams, particularly those with a balanced THC:CBD ratio (such as 1:1 or 2:1), are ideal for localized pain. These products don’t enter the bloodstream, so they deliver targeted relief without the psychoactive effects of THC. Combining both methods often provides layered, effective pain management.

Insomnia Cannabis can be a powerful tool for sleep, especially when taken in the form of edibles or tinctures formulated for nighttime use.

Edibles infused with THC and CBN (cannabinol) are especially effective, as they offer a slower onset but longer-lasting sedative effect, which is ideal for maintaining sleep

throughout the night. Tinctures with ingredients like melatonin and CBN can also help, especially for those who prefer precise dosing or have trouble metabolizing edibles. These methods not only help users fall asleep faster but also reduce nighttime awakenings and improve overall sleep quality for most consumers.

Seizure Disorders For individuals with epilepsy or other seizure-related conditions, high-CBD sublingual tinctures or oral capsules are the most appropriate option, although the addition of THC to these tinctures has also shown efficacy. Seizure disorders are some of the most studied in the sector of medical cannabis research, and products like Charlotte’s Web strain or pharmaceutical-grade formulations such as Epidiolex are commonly used due to their consistency and reliability. CBD has been shown to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in both children and adults without causing psychoactive effects. These products are typically taken daily as part of a long-term therapeutic regimen that includes other medications and modifications in the individual’s life.

Nausea and Appetite Loss Cannabis is widely recognized for its ability to reduce nausea and stimulate appetite, which is particularly useful for patients undergoing chemotherapy or dealing with gastrointestinal conditions.

Inhalation remains the best choice here, as the effects of THC can be felt within minutes, quickly calming the stomach and increasing hunger. When inhalation isn’t possible because of lung sensitivity or personal preference, sublingual sprays or lozenges with THC offer a fast-acting alternative. Strains known for appetite stimulation, such as Jack Herer or Granddaddy Purple, are commonly recommended in vape form.

Inflammation and Autoimmune Conditions Chronic inflammation caused by conditions such as arthritis, lupus, or Crohn’s disease often responds well to edibles and topicals. Edibles infused with CBD or balanced ratios like 1:1 CBD:THC provide systemic anti-inflammatory benefits that last several hours — ideal for consistent symptom management. Full-spectrum CBD products are especially helpful due to the “entourage effect,” which enhances therapeutic benefits when cannabinoids and terpenes work together. Topicals, on the other hand, can be applied directly to inflamed areas for targeted relief without systemic effects. In that light, transdermal patches have also been shown to be effective for these conditions.

Migraines For migraine sufferers, a combination of inhalation and edible use is often the most effective approach.

Inhalation offers quick relief from both pain and nausea, which is critical during the onset of a migraine. Products like THC vape pens or smoking cannabis flower are common go-tos. To prevent future migraine episodes or for prolonged relief, edibles that combine

THC and CBD (and even other cannabinoids) in balanced ratios can help manage underlying inflammation and stress. Strains high in the terpenes myrcene and beta-caryophyllene may provide extra benefits due to their muscle-relaxing and anti-inflammatory properties.

Anxiety and Stress To manage anxiety and stress, sublingual tinctures and low-THC inhalation methods are often the most effective. Transdermal products can also help with these conditions. High-CBD tinctures with little to no THC (ratios like 20:1 CBD:THC) offer calming effects without causing a high, and their sublingual application means faster absorption and more reliable dosing compared to edibles. For those who need immediate relief during a panic episode, inhaling CBD-dominant vape oils with calming terpenes like linalool and myrcene can provide near-instant relief without triggering paranoia, which high-THC products sometimes do.

Depression and Mood Disorders When treating depression or mood disorders, low-dose edibles and uplifting vape strains can provide gentle mood enhancement without overwhelming the system. Microdosing THC, typically 2.5 to 5mg per serving, can boost dopamine and serotonin levels without causing intoxication. CBD can also help stabilize mood and reduce stress when taken alongside low levels of THC. Sativa-leaning vape strains with limonene (a citrus-scented terpene) are popular for their energizing and uplifting effects and are especially helpful in cases of seasonal affective disorder or mild depressive episodes.

Choosing the right cannabis product isn’t just about strain or potency; it’s about matching the method of consumption and cannabinoid profile to your specific symptoms.

1. Inhalation methods are excellent for fast relief.

2. Edibles and tinctures offer long-lasting effects.

3. Topicals provide localized treatment without affecting the mind.

4. Sublingual options bridge the gap between immediate and extended relief.

5. When in doubt, ask the budtender for help.

6. Always, start low and go slow!

Always consider that using cannabis to treat conditions and symptoms should be part of a whole-body approach to treatment that includes other medicines, good nutrition, and lifestyle choices.

Recognizing the medicinal benefits of the cannabis plant is essential as we move forward in the cannabis legalization and advocacy landscape.

Notice: The information contained herein is not intended as medical diagnosis or treatment advice, but rather a sharing of knowledge and information based on research and experience. The content is for general informational purposes only. As always, check with your doctor first.

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Out & About in Missouri!

The Faces of the Missouri Cannabis Industry Photos by Clayton Stallings, The EVOLUTION Magazine

▲ We visited the 816 Dispensary in Platte City just two days before Missouri’s first micro dispensary opening on June 12. With owner Jimi Poe, front and center, the budtender team of experienced industry agents was preparing to welcome a new era of micro cannabis sales in our state. We encourage you to support these new licensed cannabis microbusiness owners who were disproportionately impacted by the “War on Drugs,” and purchase redemption stories along with your cannabis.

Stay connected with 816 Dispensary on IG @816Dispensary.

▲ The We Are JAINE group held its breakfast meeting on June 7, following the MoCannTrade quarterly meet-up in Independence, sponsored by two valued business members, Smith Patrick CPA and Kansas City Cannabis. We Are JAINE was formed in 2019 with the foresight that as the Missouri cannabis industry evolved, it would be critical to create a professional network to develop and advance women’s leadership. We Are JAINE leads the charge for inclusion in cannabis. Learn more at www.wearejaine.com/get-involved.

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▲ The Hemp for Victory team of veteran cannabis advocates, including the only living Medal of Honor recipient, Col. Doc Ballard, helped sponsor The National WWI Museum & Memorials’ first educational cannabis event last month called “Operation: DOPE – A Blunt History of WWI.” See what Doc had to say about the event on page 34, and find out where you can watch the lecture online. Left to right: Vincent Morales, SFC; Col. Doc Ballard (ret); ARMY Vet., Robert Head; and Chris Wolfenbarger, SGT (ret).

▲ Prairie Band Ag is a tribally owned Ag business that grows and processes hemp materials on the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation in Kansas. We first reported about them in 2023 and the grand opening of their decortication (hemp processing) factory, a first nationally for its size and technological advances. We recently caught up with them as they helped sponsor the recent WWI Museum event (see page 34), where they showcased their new hemp product line called Mnokiwen (meaning “From the Good Earth”), which produces hemp-based drinking straws and dining utensils to replace plastic. Next month, we will feature their new hemp products endeavor. From left: Nizhoni Woodie, Ag Operations Specialist, with Production Manager Zach Gill.

While at dispensaries, grab a copy of The EVOLUTION Magazine for a friend.

Adult Use Age 21+. Medical decisions should not be made based on advertising. Consult a physician on the benefits and risks of particular medical marijuana July 2025products.

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Budtender Picks...

Celebrate Your Freedom with These Goodies

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by Tim Lawrence, AKA Inspector Dank, contributing writer

his year, Independence Day falls on a Friday, creating an extended weekend that offers many individuals the opportunity to engage in celebratory activities and enjoy indulgent experiences, including the consumption of cannabis.

It is important to remember that while many individuals may be seasoned cannabis enthusiasts, there will also be newcomers experiencing cannabis for the first time. Cannabis products have become increasingly potent, and for first-timers, just a few puffs from an infused pre-roll can lead to an overwhelming experience, particularly in environments filled with loud music and vibrant fireworks.

Therefore, it is essential to approach cannabis consumption with mindfulness and caution.

One of the key principles for both new and experienced users is to maintain a “beginner’s mindset.” Know your limits and recognize that your tolerance may differ significantly from that of someone new to cannabis. Reflect on past experiences where you may have overindulged and how that affected your enjoyment of cannabis.

This month, I will highlight some excellent cannabis products and accessories that can enhance your celebratory experience while ensuring that you avoid any unpleasant situations. Have fun, stay safe, and enjoy your cannabis consumption responsibly.

Green Spark is infused with 25mg of THC, 25mg of CBG, and paired with 100mg of caffeine for an energizing effect. Does that seem like a substantial amount to absorb in one sitting? Rest assured, the can is designed with a resealable feature that effectively preserves carbonation for multiple uses. During my first round of sampling Green Spark, I consumed half of the drink. I felt the effects of the caffeine first, followed by the onset of the CBG and THC effects that lasted for over an hour. The sometimes unpleasant taste of water-soluble cannabinoids is well masked as the citrus flavor stands out and is quite appealing. Once I felt the effects start to wear off, I consumed the remainder of the drink and was sailing quite nicely for the next hour plus. I can see where gamers might want to add this to their mini fridge stash. This would also be a great item for summertime cookouts as a perfect alternative to alcoholic beverages. Green Spark is now available at Greenlight and other cannabis dispensaries and retails for $12. Learn more at www.greenlightdispensary.com.

California Raisins #1 Rosin - Indica-Hybrid — THC: 71.55% CBD: 0.2% - 1g

by Robust

Green Spark Citrus Energy Drink — 1:1 THC:CBG (25mg)

by Greenlight

Greenlights’ description of this product says, “Spark Citrus Energy Drink is a sugar-free, citrus-flavored cannabis beverage crafted with nano-emulsified, water-soluble distillate. Green Spark delivers a rapid onset with reliable absorption — making it ideal for daytime productivity, creative sessions, gaming or social connection.”

If you are experiencing energy drink burnout and are seeking an alternative, Green Spark may be precisely what you desire. For some, the effects of consuming cannabis may result in feeling lethargic and uninspired. So, how does one maintain a blissful euphoria while remaining alert and focused? Greenlights’ latest THC-infused Green Spark Citrus Energy Drink is the answer.

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When working in the cannabis industry, it seems that most everyone graduates to the consumption of concentrates. Enthusiasts often transform into connoisseurs, and many have shared with me that Robust consistently delivers high-quality concentrates time and again. With that kind of recommendation, I researched Robust and was encouraged to find that it places a high priority on the quality and integrity of its source materials. Robust says, “We never use pesticides, harsh chemicals, or unnecessary additives — just clean, premium flower and solventless extraction done right. Focused on consistency, potency, and flavor, every Robust product offers a reliable and elevated experience you can feel good about — every time.”

I decided to sample Robust’s California Raisins #1 Rosin, which is described as an uplifting yet calming blend of Cookies Biscotti and Compound’s Grape Gasoline. Upon removing the cap from the container, I was immediately greeted by a delightful bouquet of aromas.

The prominent notes of vanilla, complemented by a hint of fruitiness

and a subtle undertone reminiscent of diesel, created an inviting and intriguing olfactory experience. One of my primary concerns when consuming cannabis concentrates is the potency of the THC content.

This batch of California Raisins exhibited a THC potency of 71%. As a result, I was able to enjoy several dabs while remaining comfortably within my personal limits. I quite enjoyed being able to savor each dab, as the effects were not too taxing on my state of mind.

tional steps and accessories required for proper concentrate storage and handling. I feel that the Puffco Pivot is superior in style and performance, and prefer it to other methods of portable devices, while cartridges and all-in-ones will remain the choice for those who want no-fuss convenience. To learn more about the Puffco Pivot’s features and what is included with your $130 purchase, visit www.puffco.com.

Additionally, I experienced a remarkable body bliss that enhanced the overall experience. This Robust concentrate earned a place on my repeat list, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking to explore concentrates for the first time. The terpenes from my batch are listed as follows: Beta-caryophyllene 3.51%, limonene 1.52%, linalool 0.81%, humulene 0.56%, nerolidol 0.46%, beta-myrcene 0.36%, beta-pinene 0.2%, and alpha-pinene 0.11%. Retail price is $65. Discover more about Robust’s offerings at www.robustmo.com.

Two softgels per packet

Pivot - Mobile Vaporizer

by Puffco The right vaping device can significantly enhance the enjoyment of cannabis, making it a highly personal experience. While many at-home users gravitate towards more elaborate dab rigs for their effectiveness, others prefer a more compact option that offers the versatility of a mobile device. The Puffco Pivot is an innovative device that effectively encapsulates the complete Puffco experience in a compact form.

I have been utilizing the Puffco Pivot as my primary dab rig, both at home and while traveling, and this little unit does not disappoint in either setting. Puffco states, “The Puffco Pivot is a powerful and portable dab vaporizer designed for concentrate enthusiasts. Its aluminum-alloy chassis and stick-style design make it both durable and discreet, while its integrated rechargeable battery offers up to 15 dabs per charge. Featuring a 3D chamber, real-time temperature control, and four customizable heat settings, this device ensures a precise and enjoyable session every time. It also includes a light bar for clear feedback, a single-button operation for ease of use, and a convenient USB Type-C charging port. Ideal for on-the-go mobile use, the Puffco Pivot combines cutting-edge technology with sleek portability to enhance your vaping experience.”

When considering the logistics of taking dabs on the go, there are several important factors to keep in mind. Utilizing an insulated carrier can significantly help maintain the consistency of the concentrate you intend to use. Additionally, the process of transferring the concentrate from its container to the Pivot’s chamber requires careful attention. While many users opt for a small dab tool made of stainless steel or glass, I have found that a hot knife offers superior convenience and efficiency. Ultimately, one must weigh the convenience of a battery and cartridge or an all-in-one device against the addi-

Undoo - Relief - Olivetol 120mg — We all have a story of overconsumption, those moments when we indulged a bit too much, whether through smoking, drinking, or dabbing THC products.

In the past, individuals who overindulged often experienced waves of overwhelming anxiety and dread that consumed their thoughts.

Before the advent of Undoo, the only assistance one could offer to someone in distress from too much THC was a bottle of water, a reassuring pat on the back, and the words, “You may feel like you’re going to die, but you won’t. Just sit in a dark room, and in a few hours, this too shall pass.”

Undoo has been available for quite some time; however, many individuals remain unaware of its usefulness. Undoo has multiple product offerings, but none are as significant as Undoo Relief, which features two softgels per packet containing the key ingredient, Olivtol, a natural phenol found in lichens and produced by certain insects, acting as a competitive inhibitor of the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, acting as a THC disruptor.

I decided to put Undoo Relief to the test for this month’s article. I invited a few fellow budtenders to consume beyond our normal limits of THC. The participants reported a range of elevated THC consumption, between 100mg and 1,000mg. Upon experiencing any discomfort, they took Undoo Relief as recommended by the manufacturer. The consensus among everyone is that while the single packet of Undoo Relief does do an adequate job of lessening the effects of THC, we all agreed that taking two servings would be much more effective and is also stated as a dosing option by the manufacturer. Ask for Undoo at your dispensary. It’s a great addition to your emergency medical kit, so it is readily available when needed — especially for novice consumers and patients. Retail price is $10 for a two-pack. For more information, visit the Undoo website. www.undoo.com.

Note: Products mentioned may or may not be in stock, depending on demand and available inventory. Product images may vary.

Notice: The information contained herein is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, but rather a sharing of knowledge and information based on research and experience. The content is for general informational purposes only.

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Patient Education ►► Patient Education

Microdosing Cannabis

by Peter Kershaw, contributing writer

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icrodosing is a relatively recent field of research, most commonly associated with consuming small doses of psychedelic hallucinogens (e.g., LSD, psilocybin, MDMA, Ketamine, etc.) for the purpose of receiving psychotherapeutic benefits.1 To microdose with a psychedelic drug is to take a dose small enough that it provides no intoxication or significant alteration of consciousness. Microdosing hallucinogens may be thought of as an entry-level version of “guided hallucinogenic therapy.” This involves the administration of a psychedelic dose of a hallucinogenic drug, such as Ketamine, by a licensed mental health practitioner (in states where it’s legal) to jumpstart a patient suffering from severe emotional disorders, such as PTSD and chronic depression in veterans.2 Not everyone, however, is entirely comfortable with taking a “psychedelic journey.” Rather, microdosing is subtle, with benefits taking longer to perceive, but in the long term, it is still highly beneficial.

is technically classified as hallucinogenic, unless consumed in outrageously high doses, it doesn’t even begin to approach the intense mind-bending experiences induced by the other hallucinogens mentioned above. Nevertheless, there are millions of suffering Americans who could greatly benefit from cannabis but don’t want the “high” commonly associated with it. For them, there is microdosing.

Due to psychedelics being classified as Schedule 1 drugs, human trials have long been hampered by the feds (much at the urging of Big Pharma). Nevertheless, there have been some clinical microdosing studies of various psychedelic drugs.3 Benefits are usually demonstrated when dosing at 5-10% of an “active” dose and sometimes as little as 1%.

A Few of the Benefits of Microdosing Cannabis

Improvements to various conditions may include, but are not limited to: ; Sleep disorders ; PTSD ; Anxiety and social anxiety disorders ; Chronic depression ; Drug and alcohol addiction ; Chronic pain Studies show that microdosing hallucinogens is, in most cases, psychologically and physiologically safe, even when consumed several times per week. What makes them unsafe is that they aren’t legal federally “for personal use” (though as of this date, neither is cannabis), nor are they legal in most states, with the exception of Colorado, where psychedelics and licensed psilocybin medical treatment centers are legal.4 A number of states have passed legislation to create task forces to study the psychotherapeutic benefits of certain hallucinogens. However, widespread state legalization is likely only in the distant future. As such, the most glaring problem with microdosing hallucinogens is their illegality and the serious criminal penalties imposed.

Microdosing Cannabis Thankfully, the practice of microdosing can also include other psychoactive, yet far tamer drugs, such as cannabis. Though THC 18

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Microdosing affords the opportunity of receiving the physical and emotional benefits of cannabis while maintaining complete mental acuity. It involves consuming small doses of THC, too small to produce strong, noticeable psychoactive effects, while still having a positive effect on emotions, cognitive function, and physiological functions. Another benefit is a significantly reduced risk of dependence.

Microdosers find that they can comfortably stop consuming (if needed) with no discomfort while maintaining the benefits achieved for days and sometimes weeks thereafter. ; ; ; ; ; ; ;

Sounder sleep Pain management Inflammatory relief Headache relief Anxiety reduction Overcoming depression Improved cognitive function

Among other things, microdosing cannabis holds great promise for the elderly and aging, not to mention lessening the load on their caregivers. Cannabis can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and even reverse its effects. One study found: “Symptom amelioration was rapid, robust, and not limited to mnemonic. We tried to titrate the dose up to 1mg THC, but the most frequent dose was 500 µg [0.5 mg] THC. The period when the patient was treated with this dose seemed to be the period with higher symptom suppression.”5 The patient himself reported: “I used to feel forgetful, not once after the treatment.

Sometimes, I did not know where I was, it has not happened to me anymore. I used to find myself lost on the streets, I could not leave home unassisted; today, I took the bus by myself to perform my clinical evaluation. Shortly after the beginning of the treatment, I already felt more alert and excited during daily activities, and I have noticed I have been sleeping much better.”

Dosing and Consumption Methods Opinions differ on what constitutes a cannabis “microdose.”

Dispensaries and online retailers generally suggest between 2.5mg and 5mg, which, in this author’s opinion, hardly constitutes “micro.”

Based on what we see from the above study, an effective dose for

treating even a very serious condition such as Alzheimer’s might be as low as 500µg (0.5mg). As such, this author recommends starting at 1mg per day for a week. Monitor for symptoms to improve. If they don’t abate, increase the dosage by 500µg (0.5mg) weekly until symptoms abate.

Calculating the dose is reasonably straightforward with tinctures, at least for those that specify concentration on the label (e.g., 5mg THC per ml). Edibles, such as gummies, might prove less convenient, as they’ll need to be cut down to size. More challenging still are smoking and vaping, but even these are doable, particularly for the experienced patient.

In all cases, it comes down to titration: Start at a low dose and go up slowly until you feel the issue is resolving.

Microdosing isn’t a be-all-end-all and may not be adequate for the hard cases. For severe physiological maladies, such as cancer and chronic pain, microdosing may not deliver the needed punch. But for the many for whom it works, it’s a God-send.

Delivery Method Onset (typically) Duration Topical 5 minutes- 2 hours 1-12 hours Transdermal Patch* 1-2 hours 4-12 hours Edible 30 minutes-2 hours 4-12 hours Capsule 1-2 hours 4-12 hours Tincture/Oil 10-45 minutes 2-8 hours Smoke Inhalation 1-5 minutes 1-6 hours Vapor Inhalation 1-5 minutes 1-6 hours Suppository 15-60 minutes 4-8 hours Concentrate Immediately 2-8 hours *A transdermal patch may last up to 48 hours if it is still in place.

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https://bit.ly/3HKcVoo https://bit.ly/4e5OhKS https://bit.ly/440oFuo https://bit.ly/45ZhVPR https://bit.ly/4kPk45x

Peter Kershaw is a medical cannabis consultant.

Contact him at pkershaw.email@gmail.com As with all writers within these pages, if you’ve benefited from Peter’s articles, please let him and all writers know.

They appreciate your thoughts.

Notice: The information contained herein is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, but rather a sharing of knowledge and information based on research, experience and the opinion of the writer. The content is for general informational purposes only. As always, check with your doctor first.

Adult Use Age 21+. Medical decisions should not be made based on advertising.

Consult a physician on the benefits and risks of particular medical marijuana products.

July 2025

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Cannabiz News ►

Plume Cannabis Takes Flight Across Missouri

Blue Sage Opens New KC Area Dispensary Deli-style cannabis comes to Belton

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ansas City cannabis shoppers can now experience a true deli-style dispensary, as Blue Sage opened its fifth location in Belton on May 29. The soft opening welcomed customers for a sneak peek ahead of its grand opening celebration on June 6. The new Belton location is at 17011 Bel-Ray Boulevard and will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

“I was raised in a small town not far from Belton,” said Boston Dickerson, CEO of Show-Me Organics, which owns and operates Blue Sage dispensaries. “Opening our fifth dispensary here feels like coming full circle, and we can’t wait to welcome customers to our new location.”

Show-Me Organics’ house of brands features Vivid — Missouri’s leading brand of flower and concentrates, Blue Sage Cannabis Deli, and the award-winning Buoyant Bob and Missouri’s Own brands.

Blue Sage is known for its wide selection of deli-style flower and is home to the best offerings from Vivid — Show-Me Organics’ flagship brand and Missouri’s best-selling top-shelf flower brand.

Blue Sage Belton also aims to be the go-to store for cannabis industry employees, with a 30% discount when you show a valid Missouri agent ID. Blue Sage dispensaries combine the friendliness of a neighborhood deli with pharmacy-grade service and flower served deli-style for the optimal cannabis shopping experience.

The Belton location marks the company’s first in the Kansas City Metro. Show-Me Organics is no stranger to the region, as it employs more than 250 people in an 80,000-square-foot cultivation and manufacturing facility in Grandview. The company was recently recognized on “Ingram’s 2025 Best Companies to Work For” list.

“The support from this community means a lot,” said Dickerson.

“We’re proud to bring trusted products and jobs to a place that feels like home.”

Learn more about the new Belton store and all five Blue Sage locations at www.bluesagecanna.com.

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by Jessica Frank, Contributing Writer

fter landing in 2023, Plume Cannabis has taken flight, steadily gaining altitude in Missouri’s cannabis scene.

Known for its precision potency, bold flavors, and effects, Plume is designed to deliver a higher-caliber cannabis experience. Plume customers become family, “and the family is growing.” Extending its reach in Missouri with its ever-expanding dispensary clientele, the Plume cannabis brand is now easily available to all Missouri consumers. From fifty dispensaries to 136, customers feel the love, find the Plume flavors, and take flight with every puff.

Plume’s infused pre-rolls have become a fan favorite over the past two years, crafted with house-made distillate and hand-selected flower for a smooth and rich flavor profile. These premium pre-rolls come in an array of mouthwatering flavors — from sweet and tangy to playful and bold. Plume infused pre-rolls are guaranteed to satisfy. Plume infused pre-rolls deliver a slow, even burn for a smooth, long-lasting experience.

Packed with potent blends, they guarantee a powerful, high-quality effect every time. Here are just a few of the Plume pre-roll offerings.

New to Plume’s lineup of offerings is RSO (Rick Simpson Oil).

Known for its potent therapeutic properties, RSO is a staple for medical patients — and a truly welcome addition to Plume’s catalog of high-potency products.

Catch Plume this summer at various industry events in the coming months. Recent appearances include the Weed Olympics hosted by Vibe, The Nuthera Jam Sesh, and the Riverside Wellness 4th Anniversary & Verticals “Smoke Signals” event in St. Joseph. It’s just the start to a smoking hot Plume summer.

The Plume brand story is one of unwavering dedication to cultivating the finest cannabis products that cater to the discerning connoisseur.

To redefine expectations and set a new standard of excellence in Missouri cannabis. Learn more at www.plumetakeflight.com.

Find Plume products at dispensaries statewide. While visiting the Lake of the Ozarks area, visit the Latitude Dispensaries at 6396 Osage Beach Parkway, Osage Beach, MO, Open daily 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. (drive-thru 24 hours), and in Eldon, MO, at 1812 Hwy 52, Open daily 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. Learn more at www.latitudedispensary.com.

July 2025

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Home Growers Corner

Pruning, Trimming, and Manipulating

Cannabis Plants for Maximized Output No Fimming Required

by Gerry Donovan, contributing writer

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irst, I must address one of my Pet Peeves of the modern era of know-it-all online growers — Fimming is not a thing!

Please stay off Reddit when trying to grow cannabis. The acronym (FIM) stands for F**k I Missed when trimming. If you are trying to cut a specific part of the plant and your scissors slip, or you’re not paying attention, and you cut the wrong(unintended) part of the plant, one might exclaim, “F***, I missed,” hence the phrase, I Fimmed that!

OK, cool, understood. However, if you are intentionally trimming or pruning your plants, you are not missing; in fact, you have a game plan for what you are about to do, so the idea that you are ever going to intentionally “FIM” a plant is, in and of itself, a fallacy!

Now, let’s get back to things! You will address your plant’s pruning needs throughout its whole life if you wish. Remember that all my suggestions are just that, suggestions; there is no “correct” way to grow a plant.

It is very tempting to let a plant grow naturally when you first start home growing.

The plant generally grows straight upward, with a main Cola Bud leading the pack. Below that are the secondary bud sites and branches, and below those are the tertiary buds and branches. This resembles a Christmas tree in stature. It is very beautiful and quite picturesque. When you have a new, awesome-looking plant with healthy growth, getting in there and thinning out branches can almost feel like you are chopping off your child’s arm; don’t worry, once you see the benefits that you reap from pruning, you will never hesitate to do it again.

You can grow “all” natural, but I would not recommend it because you will not get maximum output from your plants. Our main goal in pruning is to refocus the plants’ energy and get it more evenly distributed across the bud sites. The main Cola Bud tends to get quite big, and inside very large buds are where botrytis (bud rot) likes to form. The tiny bud sites (tertiary, little annoying energy sucker popcorn buds) rarely get to full maturity because they do not get full sunlight, are generally of lesser quality, and use up lots of good energy and nutrients that the plant could have focused on the other main bud sites.

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I like to employ a process that I call Topping, Chopping, and Pruning, although it also includes some bending, breaking, tying, and supporting as well. To achieve energy focus and balanced light distribution, the goal is an even, flat-topped or rounded canopy of uniform buds without lower bud sites. We are essentially transforming a Christmas Tree of different-sized buds into an octopus of like-sized medium buds by way of bud site removal, bending, and branch thinning. It is a good idea to start doing this to your plant when it is young so you can decide how it grows before it stretches too tall.

Three often overlooked benefits of uniform bud size are: 1.

Easy Trimming ● Trimming Hint: It is only fun the first time you do it! When you trim buds, every plant presents itself differently and requires adjustments to how you handle and cut the buds. ● Once you get into a rhythm, it is far easier to handle and trim buds of the same size than those of many different sizes.

2. Ease of Drying ● Getting your bud site to form an even canopy allows all the buds to develop to a similar size. ● Tiny buds dry very quickly, while large buds take a longer time (mold alert).

3. Consistency in Potency ● Main Colas have the most THC concentration, and the popcorn buds have the least. ● Our canopy turns every bud into a main bud.

The best way to see the difference between an “all-natural” and a pruned plant is to grow a plant from seed: Take two cuttings (clones), grow those clones in the same type of soil, using the same nutrients, and in the same room. Let one grow and flower “naturally” while you top, prune, and bend the other into a nice, manicured canopy — then compare the ease of trimming during harvest. Observe the overall bud maturity, meaning all are fully mature, not just the top ones, leaving lesser quality “bottom buds.” Also, notice when drying if all the buds finish at the same time. This technique is called “sideby-side” growing — it is the best way to determine how changes to the environment, nutrients, etc., might affect a plant.

Top plant when it is young: cut the main top bud site off. This allows the other branches to grow into a wide bush. As that bush grows taller, you can bend, break, or tie down branches to make a wide canopy.

Hard Break

Hard Break: Different plants have differing characteristics. Some will be very bendy (flexible), while others will be snappy. Be careful!

Although the lower bud sites have been removed, I like to leave as much healthy foliage as possible!

Branches are being pulled and supported, also illustrating no bud sites beneath the canopy.

The light reaches all bud sites evenly. They are all the same height and of similar size.

What the stem looks like post-harvest: Over 495 grams of dried flower came off this plant.

Note: I never know exactly how I will trim, bend, or prune a plant until I get in there and do it. I examine the plant as a whole, spend some time with it, and let it tell me what it wants me to do. I observe how it grows naturally as well as consider its recovery and repair. I let the plant guide me in how it wants to be trimmed. This is one reason why mothers and clones are so important. If the plant you are growing is a cutting of a mother plant, all the subsequent clones will grow nearly identically, so you can form a game plan for your future grows.

The best way to explain how to make a canopy is visually. Look closely at the photos or scan the QR code to see my pruning videos. All the photos shown and my videos are from the same plant. All these methods can be used on Autoflower plants. Never let anyone tell you that it cannot be done.

Scan QR Code – Get Details – Initiate Websites – Learn more.

Gerry Donovan (on left), the owner of Emerald Garden Grow Supply, Raytown, MO, says, “I am not a plant Biologist nor a Chemist. I do not have any formal cannabis plant education, as that was a non-existent thing before today’s world. I do, however, have a passion for cannabis, which words fail to describe. I’ve traveled throughout Europe, including Amsterdam, Spain, and Canada, where I not only ventured into the world of seeds and genetics but also continued my quest to learn as much as I could about Growing the Plant, the many ways to utilize the plant, and observed the industry blossom as we know it today. I continue to expand my knowledge via grow seminars and cultivators’ conferences and, most importantly, through simple discussions with other growers. Over the last 22 years, I’ve developed my own Grow Methodology through trial and error with love and passion. I hope to guide you on the pathway to enjoying the best cannabis you have ever consumed — your own homegrown!” Cannabis – Education – Wellness.

July 2025

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Cannabis Friendly Health Care Services The EVOLUTION Magazine Newsroom

Dynamic DNA Laboratories Unlocks

Personalized Health Through Genetic Science

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Cannabis DNA test examines genetic traits related to the endocannabinoid system.

ynamic DNA Laboratories, a cutting-edge biotechnology company based in Springfield, MO, is redefining personalized health and wellness through advanced DNA testing. Founded in 2015 by forensic analyst and research scientist Austin O’Reilly, the lab is committed to helping people understand their bodies better through science, starting with their DNA.

grade assessment provides absolute and relative risk estimates, empowering individuals and healthcare providers to make informed decisions about early detection and preventive strategies.

Dynamic DNA Laboratories is a fully certified, state-of-the-art genetics lab offering an array of DNA testing services designed to promote healthier, more informed lifestyles. With CLIA certification and CAP accreditation, it upholds the highest standards in laboratory science and testing while keeping services affordable, accurate, and confidential.

The Dynamic DNA Laboratories’ Cannabis DNA test examines genetic traits related to the endocannabinoid system, providing insights into THC and CBD metabolism, personalized terpene recommendations, and personalized dosing guidelines.

Personalized Medicine (Pharmacogenomics)

Pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing analyzes how an individual’s genetic makeup affects their response to over 200 medications. This information aids healthcare professionals in tailoring medication choices and dosages, reducing the risk of adverse reactions, and enhancing treatment efficacy.

Epigenetic Testing Dynamic DNA Laboratories (from left) Josh Wahba, VP of Client Relations and Sales; Karen Leeka, Director of Operations; Austin O’Reilly, Founder and CEO; Jennifer Denson, Senior Scientist; Rhy Norton, Lab Manager and Senior Scientist.

Unlike many providers, Dynamic DNA Laboratories conducts all testing in-house, ensuring faster turnaround times, lower costs, and complete quality control. Every test is simple and noninvasive and starts with a cheek swab, making advanced science accessible to everyone.

Epigenetic testing to assess how lifestyle and environmental factors influence gene expression. This analysis provides insights into biological aging and the impact of behaviors such as diet, stress, and exposure to toxins. By understanding these epigenetic markers, individuals can make informed decisions to support long-term wellness strategies.

Substance Response Genetics

Dynamic DNA Laboratories’ comprehensive suite of offerings includes the following.

Specialized testing to understand how genes influence the metabolism of substances such as alcohol, caffeine, cannabis, nicotine, opiates, and psychedelics. For instance, the Cannabis DNA test examines genetic traits related to the endocannabinoid system, providing insights into THC and CBD metabolism, personalized terpene recommendations, and personalized dosing guidelines. The Psychedelic DNA test helps you understand the way your body metabolizes and reacts to a wide variety of psychedelic substances.

Disease Predisposition Screening

Proactive Health Testing

(Polygenic Risk Score Testing) Polygenic Risk Score (PRS) testing evaluates genetic predispositions to various health conditions, including breast and prostate cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular diseases, and more. This clinical24

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Proactive Health panels encompass DNA-based insights into nutrition, fitness, and skincare. These tests analyze genetic traits to provide personalized recommendations, enabling clients to make informed decisions about their daily health and wellness routines.

Familial Relationship Testing

Confidential and accurate testing services include paternity, siblingship, and other familial assessments, helping individuals confirm biological relationships with confidence.

Make Better Choices for Your Body

Whether managing a health condition or optimizing your fitness routine, Dynamic DNA Laboratories provides the tools and knowledge to support your journey. Its testing has helped thousands take proactive control of their health, improve treatment outcomes, and build stronger family connections. Its services empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health and wellness.

One satisfied client shared, “After changing my nutrition and exercise plan based on my DNA results, I lost eight pounds in just one month. It’s been a game-changer.”

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Take the guesswork out of dosing and pick the right cannabis products for you the first time. It doesn’t matter if you are just starting to use cannabis or are an experienced user. Dynamic DNA Laboratories’ Cannabis DNA Test will help you achieve the optimal experience, minimize undesired side effects, and boost cannabis health benefits. All it takes is a cheek swab from the comfort of your own home. Cannabis DNA test mailing kits are available. Simply take a cheek swab, mail it back in the pre-paid package, and Dynamic DNA will do the rest. For most tests, you’ll get an email notification that your results are ready within three weeks of the day the lab receives your sample.

To learn more or order your mailing kit, visit www.dynamicdnalabs.com or call 417-3191047. Stay updated on the latest in genetic testing and personalized health by following Dynamic DNA Laboratories on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and TikTok @ dynamicdnalabs.

Notice: The information contained herein is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, but rather a sharing of knowledge and information based on research and experience.

The content is for general informational purposes only. As always, check with your doctor first.

See more Cannabis Friendly Health Care Services on page 36 

July 2025

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New Products ►

Hot! Hot! Hot!

Gummies for July!

by Tara Wolf, contributing writer

T

his July, Grön is turning up the heat with something cool, clean, and completely fresh! Say hello to the brand new 100% Rosin edibles, created in collaboration with HeadChange! This is the new edible world meets the concentrate world, birthing a new galaxy, and I want to take you there! Widely respected for its quality, transparency, and authenticity, HeadChange was a natural partner for Grön’s 100% Solventless Rosin Pearls and MEGAs. This collaboration unites best-in-class hash-making with Grön’s award-winning edible craftsmanship, offering Missouri connoisseurs a new way to experience true cannabis flavor through rich terpenes and vibrant fruit pairings.

Crafted for the cannabis connoisseur who craves purity, potency, and flavor in every bite. Say hello to Grön’s Rosin Pearls and MEGAS — they are the most elevated edibles yet.

With the launch of Rosin Pearls and MEGA gummies, Grön brings 100% solventless hash rosin to the forefront of the edible conversation. Pressed with nothing but heat and pressure, this fullspectrum rosin preserves the flower’s original terpene and cannabinoid profile, giving you a clean, rich, and deeply layered experience, sending your tastebuds to another planet!

Dragon Punch — Relaxed

One bite and boom — ­ you’re down for the count (in the best way). Dragon Punch Pearls serve up tropical dragon fruit with a bold punch of chill. Sweet, a little wild, and perfect for tapping out after a long day.

100% Rosin MEGA Gummies

Whether you’re deep into extraction methods or just looking for something that hits right, this one’s for you. Each MEGA edible is crafted with intention, flavor integrity, and full-spectrum efficacy in every bite. True to the plant. Crafted for Those Who Know. ● MEGA’s: 100mg Per Package – 100mg Per MEGA – 1 MEGA Per Package (also available in 10 packs).

The new Rosin Pearls gummies launch includes six new flavors.

Here are three favorites. ● Pearls: 100mg Per Package – 10mg Per Pearl – 10 Pearls Per Package ● Made with Real Fruit Flavors ● All natural colors ● Solventless

Orange Yuzu — Elevated

With a big, bold flavor and a tangy twist, these Pearls will wake your taste buds and help you seize the day.

Electric Honeydew — Balanced

Brace yourself for a jolt of melon that’s anything but mellow! Electrifyingly sweet, these Pearls are like biting into a melon plucked straight from the vine — bold, bright, and buzzing with flavor!

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Baja Blaze MEGA — ­ Elevated

Ride a wave of flavor with a sun-kissed splash of sour and sweet. It’s the taste of paradise turned all the way up! Pair with tacos or chips and salsa for a taste sensation reminiscent of late-night munchie missions.

Peach Mango MEGA — Balanced

Let this one teleport your tastebuds. Peach Mango MEGA bursts with sun-drenched peach and lush mango, finished with a tart snap that

A G E M

keeps coming back. Smooth, bright, and built for a feel-good escape, whether you’re on a beach or just pretending to be.

Cherry Cola MEGA — Relaxed

Pop the top on classic soda fountain vibes! Cherry Cola MEGA brings that rich, fizzy flavor with a deep cherry finish and notes of nostalgia. Smooth, sweet, and perfect for winding down, this one’s got main character energy in a chill way.

This lineup is made with 100% solventless hash rosin–pure, potent, and bursting with flavor! Grön is raising the bar for cannabis edibles — no distillates, no shortcuts, just full-spectrum flavor and effect in every bite. Grön’s new line delivers a true-to-flower experience made for connoisseurs and newcomers alike!

The edible game is going to new heights! Missouri’s edibles market has grown rapidly, especially since adult-use sales began in February 2023. Gummies dominate the edible space, followed by chocolates and beverages.

Demands for live rosin, strain-specific, and ratio products keep the Missouri market fresh and growing.

Want to try something different and bold? Head to your local dispensary and grab a new Grön Pearls flavor today! Don’t just take my word for it. Experience the journey for yourself! Learn more about Grön product offerings at https://eatgron.com.

Stay present, beautiful humans!

Love and Light, Tara Tara Wolf, a Reiki Master, healer, and educator with over 20 years in the health and wellness field, began her journey in the cannabis industry in 2021. She bridges ancient energy work with modern plant medicine, guiding others to heal from the inside out. Through compassionate care, education, and empowerment, Tara helps beautiful humans reconnect with their bodies, purpose, and power! She is also the Grön KC Account Manager.

Notice: The information herein is not intended as medical advice. Always check with your doctor first for medical advise.

Scan QR Code – Get Details – Initiate Websites – Learn more.

July 2025

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Feature Story

A Historic Pickle Brand Enters the CBD & Cannabis Space The Vlasic Torch Gets Passed to the Next Generation

by Clayton Stallings, The EVOLUTION Magazine

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rom the family that brought you America’s favorite pickles, the Vlasic name now lends itself to premium THC cannabis flower that recently hit dispensary shelves in Missouri late last month.

“In the 1930s, he bought a sweet, crunchy pickle recipe from a guy in New York for $4,000 [today’s worth would be nearly $100,000], which was his life savings of over 10 years. Everyone told him he was insane,” recalled Willy.

“I like to tell people we went from flipping pickle bags to nickel bags,” CEO Willy Vlasic said, jokingly. “My dad doesn’t love that line.” Willy’s dad and former Vlasic CBD CEO Rick Vlasic, AKA Pickle Rick, never originally intended to bring the Vlasic name into the cannabis space when he and his son first entered the cannabis industry over 10 years ago in Michigan and started their first patient caregiver grow. Soon after, they became minority shareholders in a licensed cultivation operation under construction in Michigan, where Willy would later serve as the director of cultivation.

“My grandfather, Robert Vlasic, then took the Vlasic name global and built it to be the #1 pickle in the world, with 90 million Americans still eating them today. They later sold the company to Campbell’s Soup, but Campbell’s kept the family name because the brand was so strong, and the product was so well-known — thanks to the store and the TV ads in the 70s.”

Like many other licensed grows, it took longer than expected to get up and going. “I was itching to start a cannabis company,” recounted Willy. “So I dove headfirst into starting a CBD extraction company at the same time. I built the lab out, sourced the hemp, and with the help of my partner Adam Rosenberg (now chairman of the board for NCIA, National Cannabis Industry Association), started extracting thousands of pounds of hemp. Unfortunately, the CBD market tanked at the same time our lab became operational, and CBD oil went from selling for $4,000 a kilo to $400 a kilo.”

With the saturation of CBD crude oil crashing the market, the only way for CBD companies to survive was by creating great finished products for the consumer. What better name to do that with than Vlasic? At least, this was Rosenberg’s thinking when he first pitched the idea to Rick and Willy. The father-son duo went back and forth for a week on whether to carry the legacy name into such a challenging market situation. After all, those were big shoes to fill.

The Vlasic name all started with Willy’s great-grandpa, Joseph Vlasic, a poor immigrant from Croatia who moved to Detroit in the 1920s as a child with his family. When his dad passed away when he was 15 years old, he started hustling milk, cheese, and later sauerkraut and pickles, delivering by horse and carriage to corner stores across the neighborhood to support his family. Over time, his operation expanded to more delivery guys, more carriages, and then his own factories manufacturing sauerkraut and pickles.

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The Vlasic team (left to right): Jack, Rick (AKA Pickle Rick), and Willy.

Those are BIG shoes to fill, indeed, but eventually, Pickle Rick decided they would proceed on two conditions.

1. Rick leading the company as CEO. 2. Getting his father’s blessing to use the Vlasic name.

The family would end up having eight separate conversations with Robert Vlasic explaining the health and wellness world of CBD along with their intentions of using the family name for this new family business, and “every time he said yes, and was excited to see the family name passed down to a new generation of products,” said Willy.

“Now that we are putting Vlasic on this CBD lab that was essentially on the verge of failing, we doubled, if not tripled, down on it. Then we started converting CBD into CBN about five years ago and launched our first product, a CBD/CBN Sleep Spray, into dispensaries across the country.”

Vlasic CBD launched its “The Best Bang For Your Pups” campaign in June to help pets relax during the 4th of July. Its CBD products, including dog treats, USDA organic pet peanut butter, can be found at dispensaries throughout Missouri.

Since then, Willy invested in a vertical in Missouri during the early years of medical marijuana and was the sales director for a couple of years, achieving the highest price per pound in the early days of the state’s program. Willy and the Vlasic family went on to achieve a profitable exit from this vertical.

my original patient caregiver genetic search,” explained Willy. “I’m honored to finally bring those flower strains to Missouri through the Show Me Organics cultivation facility.”

The first two Vlasic THC strains below are now available, with the other 12 expected to drop gradually over the following year. ● Screwdriver – A Mimosa and Point Break Cross is a lovely Sativa-leaning Hybrid with incredibly orange tangerine terps. ● Divorce Cake – A White Widow/Wedding Cake Cross with a gassy hit and potent punch.

While searching for the right partner for his THC flower, Willy focused on Missouri as the best market in the country for his innovative CBD products, including dog treats, USDA organic pet peanut butter, bath bombs, tinctures, gummies, and other CBD, CBN, and CBG products.

Their CBD line is now on 170 dispensary shelves across the state of Missouri.

Willy also launched the Vlasic Classic Charity Golf Tournament in the Missouri Ozarks in 2023, later spreading to Vegas and Michigan. He will host his third charity golf tournament in Missouri this August.

So far, they have raised nearly $100,000 for the Last Prisoner Project.

Willy Vlasic sampling Vlasic THC Flower.

“I also started a licensed cultivation in Vegas a couple of years ago and finally launched Vlasic THC Flower with 14 strains that I’ve been cultivating across the country, and some I bred myself from

Vlasic THC Flower strains are now available at dispensaries throughout Missouri. Grown at Show Me Organics cultivation facility, 12 Vlasic strains will be introduced to consumers soon.

For more information about future Vlasic THC strains drops, follow Vlasic on IG at @vlasicflower.

For more information about Vlasic CBD products and the Vlasic Classic golf tournament, visit www.vlasiclabs.com or IG @vlasiclabs.

Clayton Stallings is the Director of Sales & Marketing for The EVOLUTION Magazine July 2025

29

Spotlight on Products

E B I V

Unveils Its New Limited Edition

Aficionado Hash Hole Collector’s Pack

V

IBE created its new VIBE Aficionado Hash Hole Collector’s Pack for the connoisseur — a limited edition for the select. The collection pack intersects design and craftsmanship with the enthusiast in mind. A curated experience limited to just 99 individually serial numbered packs, each box offers premium hand-rolled hash holes and is inscribed by the VIBE creators, making this the most personalized product ever for the Missouri patient.

Each Aficionado Hash Hole Collector’s Pack is made in collaboration with Woodchuck USA, an American manufacturer known for sustainable, small-batch craftsmanship. The most recent VENI VIDI VICI VIBE edition by VIBE features a white wood frame, marblepressed design, and gold hardware with embossed detailing in the art — a conversation piece to be displayed, admired, and cherished.

The VENI VIDI VICI pack conquered this most recent flavor lineup: ● Fizzleberry – Red Berries [Flower] and Gastro Pop [Rosin] ● Creamscicle – RKO [Flower] and Liquid Sunshine [Rosin] ● Diesel Dreams – Blue Dream [Flower] and GG#4 [Resin] ● Sun-Dried Grapes – Cherry Deathstar [Flower] and Grape Sunkist [Resin] VIBE’s handcrafted Hash Holes are finished with a wooden filter tip and sealed for freshness. The rosin being in the center of the joint creates a pocket for the hash to melt into the flower, giving a unique experience like no other!

Hash Holes deliver smooth, flavorful, and potent hits.

Use Tips: ● Start Slow, Enjoy Slow: It’s not a race to the filter tip! ● Favorite Ways to Smoke: A scenic view or a chill playlist! ● Pro-Tip: Hash Holes hit smoother when lit with a torch lighter, some ash hang off the cherry. ● On-the-Go: A 0.5g pre-roll is ideal for quick breaks or outdoor adventures.

Included in each Aficionado collector’s pack are: ● Four exclusive hash holes.* Each hash hole is hand-rolled and composed of 1.5g of A-grade flower and 0.5g of live rosin or live resin. ● A collectible VIBE Zippo torch lighter engraved and pre-filled with butane. ● A precision hash hole cutter for clean, consistent cuts between smokes. ● A commitment to one tree planted for each box in partnership with Woodchuck USA’s “Buy One, Plant One” initiative.

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July 2025

*Note: Purchasers of the collector’s pack can purchase exclusive VIBE hash holes separately at a discounted price at participating dispensary locations. In accordance with Missouri cannabis regulations, the Collector’s Pack is sold as an accessory and will not contain any cannabis products inside the box at the time of purchase.

Reservations for the next VIBE Aficionado drop are open for a limited time at www.vibecanna.com/product/high-roller.com. Reservations will be on a first-come, first-serve basis. Hurry, claim yours first!

Find VIBE products at dispensaries statewide. If you don’t see it, ask for it! Learn more about VIBE products at www.vibecanna.com.

July 2025

31

Cannabis Friendly Health Care Services The EVOLUTION Magazine Newsroom

Breakthrough Relief from Anxiety, Depression, and PTSD with the Support You Deserve Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy

D

iscover how Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy and a compassionate care team can help you build new habits, heal deeply, and experience lasting wellness. Thrive & Be Well, in collaboration with Real Holistic Doc, offers a state-wide, remote program to support all Missouri citizens in the comfort of their homes.

If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve already tried different paths to feel better. Maybe you’ve lived with anxiety, depression, or the effects of trauma for years. Maybe you’ve done your best with talk therapy, medications, or self-help, and you’re still waiting for real relief. A new approach is helping thousands of people just like you experience deep psychological healing and long-term emotional wellness. It’s called Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, and when delivered by a trained, multidisciplinary care team, it can not only relieve distressful symptoms but can also support lasting positive change in your quality of life.

Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) is an innovative treatment that uses low-dose Ketamine to support deep psychological processing and healing. Unlike conventional medications, Ketamine has the ability to create a relaxed, trance-like state while providing pain relief and disrupting typical thought patterns, offering a unique therapeutic advantage to accelerate personal transformation in a gentle and supportive way. Ketamine’s medicinal effects last about 90 minutes and are utilized in carefully structured, restorative sessions designed to teach you best practices. This is paired with support as you learn how to integrate changes in your perspective and new insights for wellness into your lifestyle; this process assists you in feeling more present and joyful in your life. Ketamine doesn’t mask symptoms.

Instead, it can unlock the brain’s capacity to form new connections and shift away from deeply ingrained patterns. With the guidance of expert therapeutic support, you can expect lasting improvements in functioning.

32

July 2025

Clients who have completed Thrive & Be Well’s four-week program report improved moods, an ability to take on new challenges, form new healthy habits, and increase communication, resulting in improved quality of their relationships. Additionally, they experience a reduction in compulsive thoughts and behaviors, which boosts resilience and the capacity to adopt new strategies for living, ultimately leading to a lasting, positive transformation in various facets of their lives.

Why the Right Team Makes All the Difference One of the most powerful aspects of the approach is the seasoned, Missouri-based, multidisciplinary team that has been working together for seven years. It will support you throughout the process. Healing doesn’t happen in isolation—it happens with healthy relationships.

Meet the Team:

Amanda DiMartini, MA, LPC, has specialized in wellness-focused psychotherapy for 17 years, helping clients use personal strengths to overcome challenges. She offers support throughout KAP treatments by coaching clients through best practices and positive habit formation for ongoing wellness.

Dr. Sergey Shealy-Sorin, MD, a Board-Certified Medical Doctor of 25 years, specializes in functional and regenerative medicine. He will medically screen you for Ketamine treatment suitability, customize your medication administration route (Nasal Spray and Troche), and provide an administration schedule tailored to optimize results in line with your lifestyle. Together, this team has provided KAP services to Missouri clients for three and a half years. Recognizing that each Amanda DiMartini, MA, person has unique attributes and LPC, of Thrive & Be Well, goals, the team honors this by and Dr. Sergey Shealy-Sorin, being client-centered and responMD, of Real Holistic Doc. sive to each client’s unique needs and lifestyle preferences, assuring the program works for you. The team wants to support your ongoing, lasting, and improved quality of life and offers multiple KAP Programs tailored to the patient.

Continued on page 36 

July 2025

33

Cannabiz News ►

Operation: DOPE – A Blunt History of WWI Gets Resounding Accolades

by Clayton Stallings, The EVOLUTION Magazine

Dr. Isaac Campos (Photos courtesy of The National WWI Museum & Memorial team.)

cannabis,” said John Kreicbergs, Vivid/Show Me Organics director of marketing. “Over the years, the educational staff has dedicated itself to not only preserving history but helping it find new relevance in our current times. Their creative and open-minded approach to handling such topics as this is what makes the museum not only unique but a vital voice.”

I

Kreicbergs added, “I’ll readily admit that Dr. Isaac Campos set me straight on a few of the myths I had long subscribed to about the history of cannabis prohibition in the U.S. Not only did he bring a firm historical point of view to the conversation, but he also delivered it in a highly entertaining way.”

n a world where it seems the truth is hard to come by, we are proud to have a prominent local museum dedicated not only to preserving that truth and presenting it to the public through educational and informational events but also brave enough to do the same for our cannabis community.

“It was a great opportunity for networking and a very educational lecture. I’m glad the WWI Museum acknowledges the significance of cannabis in history.” ~ Dan Viets KC NORML

On June 5, 2025, history was set in Missouri when The National WWI Museum & Memorial held its first educational cannabis event called “Operation: DOPE – A Blunt History of WWI.” The event began with a happy hour of thoughtfully curated food, music, and drinks for nearly 100 attendees, followed by an entertaining and educational lecture from Dr. Isaac Campos on the history of cannabis prohibition. Here’s what a few attendees had to say about the event and lecture.

“I was pleasantly surprised that our National WWI Museum & Memorial has the integrity to put on such an event to better our understanding of the true history behind cannabis.” ~ Col. Doc Ballard – The Only living Medal of Honor recipient in Missouri.

“It was by far the best cannabis event The EVOLUTION Magazine has ever been a part of.” ~ Clayton Stallings, Director of Marketing & Content Development, The EVOLUTION Magazine “It was a 10/10 presentation and event. Best cannabis event I’ve ever attended.” ~ Karla Deel, Author/Historian “Being able to attend a cannabis event at a museum felt like a huge step toward destigmatization. As we continue to educate the public on the history of cannabis, we can heal those who have felt the legal side effects of prohibition and prevent it from happening again. We can never give those years back to those who served time for a plant, but we can help validate their use of medicine that’s been around for thousands of years.” ~ Molly Kopczynski HR, GreenLight “I’ve been a supporter of the museum for a number of years now, but I never thought I would find myself setting up a display that featured 34

July 2025

A banner of soldiers smoking cannabis was at the entry area. It comes from a painting found in the museum.

A big thank you to Lora Vogt and Haley Sheriff of The National WWI Museum & Memorial for hosting this historic event and allowing us to be a part of it. It was a resounding success among all who attended!

If you missed Dr. Isaac Campos lecture at the The National WWI Museum & Memorial’s Operation: Dope – A Blunt History of WWI, visit https://youtu.be/0prfbDYBjKc or scan the QR.

Adult Use Age 21+. Medical decisions should not be made based on advertising. Consult a physician on the benefits and risks of particular medical marijuana products.

www.DosdEdibles.com Scan QR Code – Get Details – Initiate Websites – Learn more.

July 2025

35

CANNABIS FRIENDLY HEALTH CARE SERVICES  Continued from page 32

Breakthrough Relief from Anxiety, Depression, and PTSD with the Support You Deserve

Structured for Real Change, Not Just a Moment of Relief Who can benefit? This program may be right for you if you have tried traditional therapy or medications without the desired results, you want to understand yourself more deeply, you wish to experience lasting symptom relief, you feel stuck in negative thought loops or emotionally overwhelmed, and you’re ready to invest in your longterm wellness with skilled support.

Springfield, MO.

Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy

● Relief from Depression, Anxiety, and PTSD ● Customized Programs for Personal Wellness ● State-Wide, Remote Programs

No prior experience with Ketamine or Psychedelic Therapy is required. The team thoroughly prepares you and assists you every step of the way.

Amanda DiMartini, MA, LPC, and Sergey Sorin, MD.

Call 417.595.0166 Today For a Free Consultation

To learn more about our state-wide Ketamine programs available, visit

www.ThriveAndBeWell.com or email: ask@ThriveAndBeWell.com

As a Chiropractic Physician, Dr. Casey is committed to promoting the health and wellbeing of his patients. Sports medicine, chiropractic, laser, and physiotherapy.

Primary Care Physician for Spinal Health and Well-being

Healing is possible, and you don’t have to do it alone. The approach is grounded in science, compassion, and personalized care. We’ve seen firsthand how this treatment helps people reconnect with themselves, their loved ones, and their purpose. If you’re ready to break old cycles, heal in a new way, and take the first step toward meaningful, supported change, then we invite you to reach out.

Dr. Sergey Shealy-Sorin To schedule a free consultation or speak with a member of the care team to learn if KAP is right for you, call 417.595.0166 today, email ask@ThriveAndBeWell.com, or visit www.ThriveAndBeWell.com.

Visit our website for specific treatment and therapies. www.kcwellnessphysiotherapy.com or Call 913-424-2410.

1815 Grand Blvd. Kansas City, MO, 64108

The Most Affordable Marketing for Your Health & Wellness Business

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Read in print and online reaching a circulation of over 30,000 — monthly with a pass-along readership of over 55,000 and growing rapidly. Printed copies distributed at over 360 locations throughout Missouri and Kansas.

Contact Clayton at clay.s@theevolutionmag.com 36

July 2025

NOTE: Thrive & Be Well will present its KAP program at the Psychedelic Freedom Conference on August 9, 2025, at Oasis Inn & Convention Center, Paradise Ballrooms, Springfield, MO. You are invited to attend. Purchase $35 tickets and learn more at https:// psychedelicsoto.org. A vendor market will feature conscious goods and community offerings. This is an education, discussion, and connection conference—no consumption is allowed.

See Current and Past Issues, Print Coupons, Read Articles Online at www.TheEvolutionMag.com. Scan QR Codes to see websites

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July 2025

37

Reflections ►

The Rebirth of Plant Medicine

by Dolores Halbin, contributing writer

W

ith every day gone by, I am awed by what I didn’t know at daybreak but have learned by bedtime!

Coming into my 7th decade on this third rock from the sun, as the saying goes, “We don’t know what we don’t know, that we don’t know.” Thus, often, what I learn surprises me. In addition to learning, we are also unlearning nearly a century of falsehoods that began in the late 1920s.

Katie Thomas of Blue Key CBD, also a master forager and, for the time being, my neighbor here by the river, arranged the walk. I’m pretty hard of hearing, and Bo is quite soft-spoken, so I bailed halfway through. Asking the person next to you, “What kind of plant did he say that was?” must be annoying, so I bought Bo’s book and added it to my mother’s book collection on foraging. I have all summer to learn. Books do the hard work for us. All we have to do is read to learn. In this way, history is saved.

As it turns out, our beloved cannabis plant was not the only plant hijacked in this decade. While Big Oil was injecting lies about cannabis, Big Pharma was hijacking the rest of the plants used since time began. Medicinal plants became weeds and were replaced by pills, leading to the current practice of spraying toxic carcinogens to kill the medicinal “weeds,” leading to cancer, leading to more pills.

As chemists got better at replicating the plants growing around us, albuterol replaced mullein; Valium replaced valerian root; aspirin replaced willow bark; eye drops for glaucoma replaced cannabis; and on and on and on. Over time, the knowledge passed down through generations, the knowledge of “the weeds,” was lost to modern medicine.

Grazing Mother Years ago, I was standing on my little brother’s front porch, celebrating our mother’s 75th birthday, when my brother yelled, “Mom! Quit grazing.”

Our mother was raised in a log cabin in the rolling hills of Missouri’s Ozark Mountains.

She was the second child of her then 18-year-old parents.

By the time she and her older brother Carl were nine and ten, if there wasn’t a chicken to butcher or meat available, my grandmother would send the kids out to shoot squirrels.

Gathering greens was a daily affair. Every part of the spring dandelions yielded a new delicacy. Thus, our mother was a grazer. Being raised by a grazer, I was honored to join my EVOLUTION team on a spring foraging walk with a master grazer, author, forager, and recently recognized National Treasure, Bo Brown.

38

July July2025 2025

Seeing the practice of foraging for medicinal plants, not just cannabis, grow around the country is encouraging. Food is getting too expensive to overlook the free, nutrient-rich salads each season provides.

Mom and Weed “I just don’t understand why you would elect to have your eye plucked out over smoking marijuana,” my mother admonished my husband. Mom was a born storyteller, so she continued to speak while my husband and I tried to wrap our heads around her declaration. It was February 2011, and we had brought lunch to Mom after being kicked out of the surgical suite at Truman Medical Center in downtown KCMO. “I know you kids smoked marijuana when you were teenagers. I smelled it on you.” Gene and I got together when I was 15 and he was 16. And yes, back in the late 60s and early 70s, we were around for Acapulco Gold and Thai Sticks. And yes, we smoked a lot of weed.

But time passed, we married, had kids, and DARE infiltrated the classrooms. Our kids had a mission to seek and destroy. There was no hiddy-hole in the house they wouldn’t find and pitch our stash.

Alcohol was cheap and legal. We quit smoking.

Aromatherapy Mom was born in 1927, the birth year of fossil fuels. Harry Arnslinger was leading his maniacal but successful campaign to replace hemp with oil, instilling “Refer Madness” into a gullible population.

“I love the smell of it,” Mom continued. “I always have. The first time I smelled cannabis was when my Uncle John came to stay at the log cabin. I was nine. He and Dad would sit by the fireplace and smoke their pipes. I told my dad he should get some of Uncle John’s tobacco.

It smelled better. Dad told me Uncle John’s tobacco was cannabis.

Uncle John had glaucoma, and the cannabis was his medicine.”

It still breaks my heart that we can’t use the aromatherapy. After my husband began using cannabis for his glaucoma, the younger children in the family always told him how good he smelled. To designate such a lovely aroma as evil is sad.

Barbarism Historically, to unlock the secrets of healing, we have done unbelievable things to the body. Things like bleeding people, using heavy metals for infections, and other things I would just as soon not commit to long-term memory. For the record, of all these things, I find plucking out a man’s eyeball over smoking a joint to be among the most barbaric acts in medical history.

The Rebirth

Calm Down Honey After two months of prep work, my husband was admitted to TMC for eye removal surgery. We checked in at 8 a.m. He was in his gown, his IV started, and his eye numbed, so he wasn’t in pain. The clock read noon, and we were both hungry when they came for him. As they began to wheel Gene into surgery, a lady from accounting stepped in the way.

Gene had been a patient of the amazing doctors at the Truman Eye Foundation since a stroke in 2007 left him with acute neovascular glaucoma. After four years, the clinic had exhausted all treatments; his eye was blind, but his eye pressure remained a painful 60 psi, with normal being 11 psi. Think of an overinflated tire exploding over and over, causing him to have teardrops of blood. The only treatment left was to remove his eye and replace it with a glass eyeball, a procedure that would require three surgeries over the next three months. The lady was here to tell us that the grant had expired and wasn’t renewed; thus, we needed approximately $36,000 to proceed.

My husband chased after me as I slammed the door of the surgical suite.

“Calm down, Honey. It’s okay!” he said.

“Oh hell no, it’s not okay,” I responded loudly. “And calm down, Honey is my line!”

“Maybe it’s for the best,” he said softly.

Our primary care doc of nearly 20 years was concerned that Gene would not live through the surgery. The possibility of another stroke, worse than the first one that led to the bleed in his eye, was high. I, too, had the deepest fear that this would not go well. My diabetic husband had too many risk factors. Still, the man had no quality of life and lived in constant pain. To get kicked out with both his eyes did not seem like a blessing at the time. I was pissed. All that buried emotional grief for nothing!

One hour later, in a life-changing conversation, we sat there as Mom told us about the lost remedy for glaucoma — cannabis. The rest is history. We had a pretty good run from 2011 to 2014 when the raid came down.

Jim and Katie Thomas.

Katie Thomas and Bo Brown making a salad from edibles found in nature during a May foraging event in southern, MO.

Thanks to Master Foragers like my mom, Bo Brown, and Katie Thomas of Blue Key CBD (above), the lost knowledge of all the plants has been found and is being shared exponentially. It turns out people like the idea of a free salad.

Katie Thomas will host foraging events all summer along the Bourbeuse River. For the schedule, check her social media or visit her Forage Way page.

Come on down to the river, and let’s all graze together!

Dolores Montgomery Halbin, RN, BSN, and Ordained Nurse Minister, resides in SW Missouri. After her husband passed in 2015, she retired from nursing. She worked with the 20142018 Missouri campaigns for legalized medical marijuana. She continues as a cannabis reform activist volunteering with Canna Convict Project and working toward Federal decriminalization through educational speaking and freelance journalism. Dolores Halbin, doloreshalbin@ gmail.com.

July 2025 July 2025

39

HEALTH BENEFITS OF

Cannabidiol (CBD) & Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

Benefits Wheel for CBD, THC and More.

Medical decisions should not be made based on advertising. Consult a physician on the benefits and risks of particular medical marijuana products.

40

July 2025

See Current and Past Issues, Print Coupons, Read Articles Online at www.TheEvolutionMag.com. Scan QR Codes to see websites

July 2025

41

Finding a NOW OPEN Dispensary in Western Missouri Starts Here...

NOW

Company Name

Dispensaries listed here (alphabetically by city) Western Missouri and St. Louis regions. Watch for updates, changes and new openings monthly. (Subject to change).

Dispensary Updates. Please Note: Please email all updated info as listed here one month prior to upcoming issues.

Email to Bill.C@TheEvolutionMag.com.

NOW With 5 Locations Blue Springs, Excelsior Springs, Kearney, Lake Lotawana, and its newest KC location at I-29 & Barry Rd.

July 2025

Subscribe to:

Don’t Miss a Single Issue

FOR ONLY $16, GET 12 MONTHLY ISSUES DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR.

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© 2025 The Evolution Magazine. All Conceptual Designs Are Proprietary & Reprint Rights Reserved.

When you seeand BLUE color — Looks for the Ads within these pages.

Address

City

State

ZIP

Good Day Farms

17211 S Highway

Belton

MO

64012

KEY Dispensary

225 N Cedar Dr.

Belton

MO

64012

Stairway Cannabis

490 SW MO-7 HWY

Blue Springs

MO

64015

Kansas City Cannabis

1117 N 7 Hwy. (New Location JAN.2024)

Blue Springs

MO

64014

Greenlight

201 S WILDWOOD DR

Branson

MO

65616

3Fifteen Primo Cannabis

18031 BUSINESS 13

Branson West

MO

65737

Flora Farms

165 Hollister Parkway

Hollister

MO

65672

KEY Dispensary

18490 BUSINESS 13

Branson West

MO

65737

Good Day Farms

513 S. Ash Street

Buffalo

MO

65622

KEY Dispensary

121 S. Walnut Street,

Cameron

MO

64429

The Dispensary

460 State Hwy 76

Cassville

MO

65625

Blue Sage Cannabis Co.

429 Peachtree Dr.

Carthage

MO

64836

CODES Dispensary

941 WASHINGTON ST

Chillicothe

MO

64601

Sunrise Dispensary

280 MO-7,

Clinton

MO

64735

Green Releaf Dispensary

204 E BROADWAY

Columbia

MO

65203

Shangri-La Super Store

1401 CREEKWOOD PKWY

Columbia

MO

65202

Shangri-La

3919 PEACHTREE DR

Columbia

MO

65203

3Fifteen Primo

4003 PONDEROSA ST

Columbia

MO

65201

High Profile Cannabis

1500 INTERSTATE 70 DR SW

Columbia

MO

65203

Good Day Farms

1400 FORUM BLVD Suite 12

Columbia

MO

65203

Hippos Dispensary

2500 Broadway Bluffs Dr. Ste 102

Columbia

MO

65201

Kansas City Cannabis

149 CROWN HILL RD

Excelsior Springs

MO

64024

Nature Med Dispensary

207 NE 72ND ST

Gladstone

MO

64118

Releaf Resources

13836 S US HIGHWAY 71

Grandview

MO

64030

Greenlight

1408 N STATE ROUTE 291

Harrisonville

MO

64701

Flora Farms

68 E 300th Road

Humansville

MO

65674

Good Day Farms

16820 E US Highway 24

Independence

MO

64056

Nature Med Dispensary

15823 E US HIGHWAY 24

Independence

MO

64050

Greenlight

3721 S Noland Rd

Independence

MO

64055

FROM THE EARTH

19341 E US HIGHWAY 40

Independence

MO

64058

Missouri Health & Wellness

1404 MISSOURI BLVD

Jefferson City

MO

65109

Shangri-La Jefferson, LLC

2118 MISSOURI BLVD

Jefferson City

MO

65109

Flora Farms

4027 Richard Joseph Blvd

Joplin

MO

64084

Good Day Farms

2918 E 20th St.

Joplin

MO

64804

Greenlight

1729 E 7TH ST

Joplin

MO

64801

Missouri Made Dispensary

1502 S Rangeline Rd

Joplin

MO

64804

Verts Neighborhood Dispensary

25733 Fir Rd.

Joplin

MO

64801

SWADE Dispensary

5901 NW Barry Rd,

Kansas City

MO

64154

Verts Neighborhood Dispensary

8606 N Church Rd

Kansas City

MO

64157

FROM THE EARTH

6200 TROOST AVE

Kansas City

MO

64110

FROM THE EARTH

1222 McGee

Kansas City

MO

64106

FROM THE EARTH

2918 SOUTHWEST BLVD

Kansas City

MO

64124

FROM THE EARTH (Stateline)

1221 A W. 103rd St.

Kansas City

MO

64114

KEY Dispensary

7025 PROSPECT AVE

Kansas City

MO

64132

Good Day Farms

10420 Blue Ridge Blvd

Kansas City

MO

64134

Proper Dispensary

1421 WABASH AVE

Kansas City

MO

64127

FRESH GREEN Dispensary

7130 WORNALL RD

Kansas City

MO

64114

Greenlight

4900 EAST BANNISTER Rd.

Kansas City

MO

64132

The Forest Dispensary

706 Westport Rd

Kansas City

MO

64111

Fresh Karma Dispensary

240 E LINWOOD BLVD

Kansas City

MO

64111

Nature Med Dispensary

2631 NE VIVION RD

Kansas City

MO

64119

KEY Dispensary

4716 NE VIVION RD

Kansas City

MO

64119

Local Cannabis Company

1004 W. 45th Street

Kansas City

MO

64111

When you seeand BLUE color — Looks for the Ads within these pages.

Continued

Dispensaries list alphabetically by city. Subject to Change!

Dispensary — Eastern Missouri See Page 44

Sunrise Dispensary

6510 NW Prairie View Rd.

Kansas City

MO

64151

Kansas City Cannabis Co.

8170 NW Prairie View Rd

Kansas City

MO

64151

SWADE Dispensary

1041 BURLINGTON St.

N Kansas City

MO

64116

Kansas City Cannabis Co.

310 S PLATTE CLAY WAY

Kearney

MO

64060

Blue Sage Cannabis Co.

1210 DEADRA DR

Lebanon

MO

65536

FROM THE EARTH

1041 NE SAM WALTON LN

Lee’s Summit

MO

64086

Flora Farms

510 SW 3RD ST

Lee’s Summit

MO

64063

Green Releaf Dispensary

201 SE Missouri 291 Hwy

Lee’s Summit

MO

64063

Kansas City Cannabis

9324 MO-7 HWY

Lee’s Summit

MO

64064

SWADE Dispensary

5918 SOUTHWEST DR

Liberty

MO

64068

Green Releaf Dispensary

824 S. 291 Hwy Suite A

Liberty

MO

64068

Sunrise Dispensary

2316 S Main St,

Maryville

MO

64468

CODES Dispensary

3848 S CLARK ST

Mexico

MO

65265

CODES Dispensary

106 N CLARK ST

Moberly

MO

65270

Green Releaf Dispensary

412 W COATES ST Suite 101

Moberly

MO

65270

Green ReLeaf Dispensary

2220 E AUSTIN BLVD

Nevada

MO

64772

KEY Dispensary

202 WEST ST

Nixa

MO

65714

Flora Farms Dispensary

1421 West Highway J

Ozark

MO

65721

Flora Farms Dispensary

70 Missouri Lane

Pineville

MO

64856

High Profile Cannabis

35 Macadoodle Lane

Pineville

MO

64856

Heya Dispensary

100 STRAUSS DR

Park Hills

MO

63601

Fresh Karma Dispensary

10915 NW 45 HWY

Parkville

MO

64152

Greenlight

2200 S WESTWOOD BLVD

Poplar Bluff

MO

63901

CODES Dispensary

1905 W FOXWOOD DR

Raymore

MO

64083

FROM THE EARTH

9010 E State Rd. 350 Hwy

Raytown

MO

64133

Easy Mountain Dispensary

7827 W Farm Road 174

Republic

MO

65738

Riverside Wellness

4403 NW GATEWAY AVE

Riverside

MO

64150

Good Day Farms

11031 Kingshighway

Rolla

MO

65401

Trinity Dispensary

1421 FORUM DR

Rolla

MO

65401

Trinity Dispensary

803 W SCENIC RIVERS BLVD STE A

Salem

MO

65560

Missouri Health & Wellness

1801 S LIMIT AVE

Sedalia

MO

65301

CODES Dispensary

4401 WISCONSIN Ave, Suite 400

Sedalia

MO

65301

BesaMe Wellness

13500 N HWY169

Smithville

MO

64089

Good Day Farms

3903 S CAMPBELL AVE

Springfield

MO

65807

Revival 98 Dispensary

2782 W Republic Rd.

Springfield

MO

65807

Greenlight

218 N National Ave

Springfield

MO

65802

Hippos Dispensary

2868 S. Glenstone Ave

Springfield

MO

65804

Flora Farms

2823 N GLENSTONE AVE

Springfield

MO

65803

Good Day Farms

1868 S GLENSTONE AVE

Springfield

MO

65804

Good Day Farms

3800 W SUNSHINE ST

Springfield

MO

65807

KEY Dispensary

751 S Glenstone Ave.

Springfield

MO

65802

Terrabis Dispensary

850 E KEARNEY ST

Springfield

MO

65803

Vertical Dispensary

908 N BELT HWY

St. Joseph

MO

64506

Fresh Karma Dispensary

2221 N BELT HWY

St. Joseph

MO

64506

Sunny Daze Dispensary

4225 Commonwealth Court

St. Joseph

MO

64503

High Profile Cannabis

231 SAINT ROBERT BLVD

St. Robert

MO

65584

SWADE Dispensary

219 W YOUNG AVE

Warrensburg

MO

64093

CODES Dispensary

1391 Mitchell Rd

West Plains

MO

65775

(Lake Lotawana)

© 2025 The Evolution Magazine. All Conceptual Designs Are Proprietary & Reprint Rights Reserved.

Find The EVOLUTION™ Magazine at most open locations listed here and many more.

Lake of the Ozarks area

▼ Lake of the Ozarks area ▼ BUDD Dispensary CODES Dispensary

12077 N STATE HIGHWAY 5

Sunrise Beach

MO

65079 65065

4805 Osage Beach Pkwy

Osage Beach

MO

Latitude Dispensary

1812 HIGHWAY 54

Eldon

MO

65026

Latitude Dispensary

6396 Osage Beach Pkwy.

Osage Beach

MO

65065

Sunrise Dispensary

23 Spring Cove Road

Sunrise Beach

MO

65079

Square Grouper Dispensary

28744 Highway 5 (Lake of Ozarks area)

Gravois Mills

MO

65037

NOTE: St, Louis Region DISPENSARIES CONTINUED ON PAGE 44 

 See page 25 for more information.

July 2025

43

Dispensaries ― Continued from page 43 Eastern MO and St. Louis Region Dispensaries Find The EVOLUTION™ Magazine at most open locations listed here and many more.

Greenlight Dispensary

www.NatureMedMO.com

 See page 19 for more information.

© 2024 The Evolution Magazine. All Conceptual Designs Are Proprietary & Reprint Rights Reserved.

For More Information Visit

63134

Terrabis Dispensary

11062 Olive Blvd.

Creve Coeur

63141

Hippos Dispensary

17409 Chesterfield Airport Rd

Chesterfield

63005 63021

Proper Dispensary

314.627.2699

15396 Manchester Rd.

Ellisville

Swade Dispensary

314.924.6501

16075 Manchester Rd.

Ellisville

63011

Kind Goods Dispensary

636.492.6400

180 Gravois Bluffs Cir.

Fenton

63026

Greenlight Dispensary

844.785.9333

517 S Florissant Rd.

Ferguson

63135

N’Bliss Dispensary

314.627.2599

2285 Highway 67 South

Festus

63028

Proper Dispensary

1168 W Gannon Dr.

Festus

63028

Cookies Dispensary

11088 New Halls Ferry Road

Florissant

63033

2000 US-61 Suite A

Hannibal

63401

7766 N. Lindbergh

Hazelwood

63042

573.719.3252

Proper Dispensary / N’Bliss

314.627.2566

3 Walters Place

House Springs

63051

North Dispensary

636.310.1061

929 Peachtree Plaza Dr.

Hillsboro

63050

Good Day Farms

636.467.2323

1229 Imperial Main

Imperial

63052

120 S. Main St.

Kirksville

63601

CODES Dispensary

Please email all updated info as listed here one month prior to upcoming issues.

Email to Bill.C@TheEvolutionMag.com.

Kansas City, Gladstone, Independence, St. Louis, and O’Fallon, MO

Berkeley

Terrabis Dispensary

Dispensary Updates. Please Note:

Discover More at www.FloraFarmsMO.com

4451 Brown Rd.

COCO Dispensary

Dispensaries listed here (alphabetically by city) Western Missouri and St. Louis regions. Watch for updates, changes and new openings monthly. (Subject to change).

844.785.9333

Missouri Health & Wellness

660.956.0560

215 East Charles St.

Kirksville

63501

N’Bliss Dispensary

314.627.2499

1266 Old Orchard Center

Manchester

63021

Kind Goods Dispensary

636.484.9400

14173 Manchester Rd, Suite M

Manchester

63011

The Heights Cannabis

314-850-6060

2024 McKelvey Rd,

Maryland Heights

63043

Good Day Farms

636-317-1184

1140 Technology Dr.

O’Fallon

63366

Nature Med Dispensary

314.939.1076

1193 Bryan Rd

O’Fallon

63366

1172 W Terra Ln.

O’Fallon

63366

10417A St Charles Rock Road

St. Ann

63042

Terrabis Dispensary Heya Wellness

KEY Dispensary

636.270.2600

6700 Hwy N

St. Charles

63304

High Profile

636.224-6033

1416 Harvestowne Industrial Dr.

St. Charles

63304

Root 66 Dispensary

636.373.8329

3004 S St Peters Pkwy.

St. Charles

63303

Greenlight Dispensary

844.785-9333

9800 Manchester Rd, Suite C

St. Louis

63119

10425 Watson Rd.

St. Louis

63127

High Profile (Sunset Hills) Nature Med Dispensary

314.939.1076

234 Kingston Dr

St. Louis

63125

Proper Cannabis

314.328.0446

7417 S Lindbergh Blvd.

St. Louis

63125

11420 Concord Village Ave

St. Louis

63123

5519 S. Lindbergh

St. Louis

63123

314.282.7978

6660 Manchester Ave.

St. Louis

63139

2316 Cherokee Street

St. Louis

63118

314.924.6503

4108 Manchester Ave.

St. Louis

63110

1463 South Vandeventer Ave.

St. Louis

63110

1631 S. Broadway

St. Louis

63104

5501 Chippewa Street

St. Louis

63109

6407 Michigan Ave,

St. Louis

63111

636. 355.9333

859 Robert Raymond Drive

Lake St. Louis

63367

4300 North Service Road

St Peters

63376

636.626.2300

3899 Veterans Memorial, Suite J

St. Peters

63376

CODES Dispensary Good Day Farms Root 66 Dispensary

SWADE Dispensary - Cherokee SWADE - The Grove Luxury Leaf Dispensary Kind Goods Dispensary — Soulard 3Fifteen Primo Cannabis

314.226.7326

Sunrise Dispensary The Source Heya Wellness Kind Goods Dispensary Mint Dispensary

150 Mid Rivers Mall Cir.

St. Peters

63376

SWADE - St. Peters

314.924.6500

146 Jungermann Rd.

St. Peters

63376

Green Releaf Dispensary

636.775.2708

109 N Lincoln Dr.

Troy

63379

3Fifteen Primo Cannabis

314.924.0101

839 Meramec Station Rd.

Valley Park

63088

Good Day Farms

314.464.4420

6662 Delmar Blvd.

University City

63130

Proper Dispensary

314.635.7168

7555 Olive Blvd.

University City

63130

6166 Delmar Boulevard

University City

63130

SWADE Dispensary

 See page 25 for more information.

Proper Cannabis

636.255.8943

711 State Hwy 47

Warrenton

63383

Missouri Health & Wellness

636.266.0055

901 E 1st St.

Washington

63090

1330 Broadway St. Suite 101

Cape Girardeau

63701

Good Day Farms

© 2025 The Evolution Magazine. All Conceptual Designs Are Proprietary & Reprint Rights Reserved.

DISPENSARIES: Please email all updated info to Bill.C@TheEvolutionMag.com.

44

July 2025

Continued

Eastern MO and St. Louis Region Dispensaries Those Listed inBlue ― Find Ads Within These Pages. Greenlight Dispensary

573.519.5035

High Profile

1001 Broadway

Cape Girardeau

63701

772 S Kingshighway Ste 101

Cape Girardeau

63703

25 S. Kingshighway

Cape Girardeau

63703

KEY Dispensary

573.373.4200

The Valley, Dispensary

573.760.0200

800 Valley Creek Drive

Farmington

63640

Greenlight Dispensary

888.995.0420

903 E. Washington Street

Hayti

63851

North Dispensary

636. 224.2885

1709 State Hwy Z

Pevely

63070

VERTS Dispensary

573.554.3765

1803 W Business U.S. 60,

Dexter

63841

VERTS Dispensary

636.896.5202

1340 Thornton St.

Pacific

63069

100 Strauss Drive

Park Hills

63601

1435 N Westwood Blvd.

Poplar Bluff

63901

1817 E Malone Ave.

Sikeston

63801

1909 N Service Rd. W.

St Clair,

63077

High Profile

231 Saint Robert Blvd.

St. Robert

65584

Trinity Dispensary

205 State Rte B

St. James

65559

Heya Wellness

Greenlight Dispensary

573.507.3562

Greenlight Dispensary Good Day Farms

636.888.0381

CODES Dispensary

417. 419.9333

1636 Bruce Smith Pkwy

West Plains

65775

High Profile

417.512.9111

1391 Mitchell Rd

West Plains

65775

The EVOLUTION Magazine is available at Dispensaries, CBD Stores and More locations Throughout MO. Found in over 360 Locations.

Look for these magazine racks at locations near you. Grab Your Free Copy!



Ask Us About Wholesaling Our Products

See the full line of our amazing products at www.aliceCBD.com Fill your store shelves with these and many other quality CBD products.

Contact us today for full details.

Call 417.310.6052 or email to, Debbie.aliceCBD@gmail.com

Scan to view aliceCBD products

Visit www.aliceCBD.com Wholesale Inquiries: Debbie.aliceCBD@gmail.com │Visit us in Joplin or Webb City!

Scan QR Code – Get Details – Initiate Websites – Learn more.

Need More Customers?

Contact: Bill.C@TheEvolutionMag.com

July 2025

45

Test Your Cannabis Knowledge

I Like Cannabis and Then... 

A Custom Crossword by Gail Marie Beckman, Happenings Media



46

July 2025

See Answers posted near the 15th of the month at www.TheEvolutionMag.com

July 2025

47

Medical CBD Stores Western Missouri Find The EVOLUTION™ Magazine at locations on these pages and many more.

Missouri CBD Stores Stores Listed Alphabetically CBD American Shaman See complete list of store locations by scanning the QR Code ►

Emerald Garden

816.506.4284 9500 E 55th St, Raytown. MO Emerald Garden Grow Supply 816-506-9742 6532 Blue Ridge Blvd. Raytown. MO Emerald Garden 816.977.8848 110 E. MO Avenue, Kansas City, MO Exotic KC and Vape 3919 Broadway Blvd., Kansas City, MO It’s a Dream Smoke Shop ... 816.753.5733 3942 Broadway Ave, Kansas City, MO It’s A Dream #2 Smoke Shop 1223 W 103rd, Kansas City, MO 64114 OG Smoke Shop .................... 816-298.7390 3527 Main St, Kansas City, MO 64111 Rustic Oils CBD .................... 816.434.5284 618 SW 3rd St Ste J, Lee’s Summit, MO

Columbia Missouri CBD Stores CBD American Shaman 1400 Forum Blvd #40, Columbia, MO 65203 Hemp Hemp Hooray …........ 573-355-1285 Broadway, Columbia, MO 65201

Eastern Missouri CBD Stores South Point Hemp ................. 636.388.8565 50 Hi-Line Dr, Union, MO 63084

Joplin & Springfield Region CBD Stores

Earth Flower Wellness ........... 417.501.7826 3205 S. Campbell Ave. Springfield, 65807 Pass That Smoking Accessories 417.385-5547 808 E 15th St., Joplin, MO 64804

Groovy Gardens Glassworks .. 417. 838.4138 1400 W Sunshine St., Springfield, MO 65807

Smoke Hut 11902 Blue Ridge Ext., Grandview, MO

Kaleidoscope …….................. 417.883.9636 1430 E Sunshine St., Springfield, MO 65804

The Hub Smoke Shop ............ 816.701.6267 500 Delaware St, Kansas City, MO The Hub Smoke Shop ............ 816.420.0404 6410 N Oak Trafficway, Kansas City, MO The Hub Smoke Shop ............. 816.321.2398 4027 N Oak Trafficway, Kansas City, MO The Hub Smoke Shop ............. 816.492.5466 2631 NE Vivion Rd, Kansas City, MO 48

July 2025

Into the Mistic......................... 913.766.9906 5727 Johnson Dr, Mission, KS Phoenix Natural Wellness ....... 913.730.8520 9627 W 87 St, Overland Park, KS Vape Attic .............................. 913.440.9334 1323 E. Santa Fe Rd. ,Olathe, KS

When you seeand BLUE color — Look for the Ads within these pages.

Bodegas Botanicals ................ 417.825.4414 515 S. Main St., Joplin, MO 64801

Slappie’s Glass ....................... 816.325.3190 10516 Grandview Rd., Grandview, MO

Vape Tokz ................................ 816.631.5151 1259 W 103rd St., KCMO 64114

Gifts & Decor KC .................... 913.782.4244 123 S Mur-Len Rd, Olathe, KS 66062

5399 State Hwy 43 #D, Joplin, MO 64804

Pinnacle Hemp/Vapor .............. 417.553.2887 424 W. Fir Rd, Carthage, MO 64836

Smoke Tokz 431 SW Ward Rd., Lee’s Summit, MO 64081

Angels Orginix .......................... 913 636 7194 11965 Johnson Dr., Shawnee, KS 66216

 aliceCBD ...................... 417.310.6052

7th Heaven …........................ 816.229.8006 600 MO-7, Blue Springs, MO 64014

Smoke Tokz 1263 W. 103rd, Kansas City, MO 64114

Kansas CBD Stores

NOW With 5 Locations Blue Springs, Excelsior Springs, Kearney, Lake Lotawana, and its newest KC location at I-29 & Barry Rd.

2 Chicks and a Head Shop ..... 417.768.7899 1503 W State Hwy, J, Ozark, MO 65721

Lake of the Ozarks CBD Stores CannaBiz Depot – Osage Beach 573.693.9995 4398 Osage Beach Parkway, Osage Beach, MO 65065 CBD American Shaman Lake of the Ozarks 573.317.9131 www.cbdloz.com 89 McCrory Ave., Camdenton, MO (Off Hwy-54) Hemp Hemp Hooray CBD 573.355.813 3797 Osage Beach Pkwy Suite F-1, Osage Beach, MO 65065

Ready To Advertise?

Reach nearly 55,000 people each month who want to learn more about your business and services.

Contact Bill Cromwell Bill.C@TheEvolutionMag.com

© 2025 The Evolution Magazine. All Conceptual Designs Are Proprietary & Reprint Rights Reserved.

July 2025

49

Most Doctors Now Offer TELEHEALTH

Missouri Medical Cannabis Certification Doctors NOTICE: Any Missouri state licensed medical Physician (M.D. / D.O.) and Nurse Practitioner that chooses to participate can write a certification for a Missouri Medical Marijuana Card. The following list of Missouri doctors are now serving patients near you.

Kansas City MO, Area

Springfield, MO Area

Blue Bird Wellness Center …... 816.944.3654 656 SE Bayberry Ln. Ste 102, Lee’s Summit, MO.

The Higher Care Clinic (THC 2….417.413.3899 2424 South Campbell Avenue, Springfield, MO.

Green Health Docs ........................877.242.0362 5748 N Broadway KC, MO 64118

Southern MO

Green Flower Clinics .................... 816.615.8690 Dr. Name: Dimitri Golfinopoulos, D.O. 401 S. Platte Clay Way, Kearney, MO 64060 Green Sage Doctors ...................... 816.820.3004 Offering TELEHEALTH

James McEntire D.O. (DocMac) 816.237.8583 www.TheGreenPotClinic.com Progressive Osteopathic Therapies Kind Remedy Cannabis Clinic .... 816.379.6557 170 NW Burdett Crossing, Blue Springs, MO www.kindremedykc.com Midwest Health & Wellness Center ......................

816.836.2200 Dr. Marc K. Taormina MD Offering TELEHEALTH www.midwesthealthandwellnesscenter.com 3601 NE Ralph Powell Rd, Suite A, Lee’s Summit, MO 64064 Missouri Cannabis Clinic ........... 816.353.0420 Offering TELEHEALTH Location in Wesport, KCMO. Dr. Laura Voss, DO …...................... 816.600.4132 1505 NE Parvin Rd, Suite 1517C Kansas City, MO 64116

Columbia, MO Marijuana Card Clinic ................. 573.326.4496 3919 Peachtree Drive, Suite 102, Columbia, 65203 Marijuana Card Clinic ................. 573.326.4496 1401 Creekwood Pkwy. St.102, Columbia, 65202

Springfield, MO Nature’s Green Health & Wellness Clinic ..........

417.771.5737 3328 S National, Springfield MO 65180 Real Holistic DOC .... 417.351-5221 2840 E Chestnut Expressway, Springfield, MO. © 2025 The Evolution Magazine.. All Conceptual Designs Are Proprietary & Reprint Rights Reserved.

50

July 2025

Roark Family Health & Medical Spa . 417.847.1111 Dr. Lisa Roark ● 1101 N. Main St., Cassville, MO.

MO Medical Marijuana Qualifying Conditions All Medical Marijuana Patients must have one of the following chronic or debilitating health conditions:

What Conditions Qualify?

Any terminal medical illness Alzheimer’s (Agitation) Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

St. Louis MO, Area

Autism

Kathmandu Clinic ….................... 918.814.3996 111 Prospect Ave Suite 20 2D, Kirkwood, MO.

Cancer

Green Cert MD ........................... 314. 596.9955 2325 Dougherty Ferry Rd., Ste. 206 St. Louis, MO 63122 Medical Cannabis Outreach .........636.466.3871 Dr. Nassar: 7721 Clayton Rd. Clayton, MO 63117 Vo Medical Clinic - Dr. Thanh Vo ... 314.776.1467 3334 South Grand Ave., St. Louis, MO 63118

TRY TELEHEALTH TO BECOME A

“QUALIFIED PATIENT”

TELEHEALTH — ONLY

Cachexia Chronic medical condition that is normally treated with a prescription medication that could lead to dependence.

Chronic medical condition that is debilitating or causes severe persistent pain or muscle spasms.

Crohn’s Disease Epilepsy/seizures Glaucoma Hepatitis C HIV/AIDS

Pay Less Sales Tax with a Med Card

Elevate Holistics MO... 660.205.2215

Huntington’s Disease

Lotalivin .................... 816.305.2169

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

My KC Green Wellness ................... ......................................816.301.5598

Intractable migraines

How to Get Listed Here as a Missouri Marijuana Med-ID Doctor.

To be listed here as an active Medical Marijuana certification Doctor (Licensed Missouri Doctors Only. Assistant Physicians, PA and NP, Chiropractic Doctors cannot certify.) Please submit your full business name, doctor name, phone, address, website and verifiable contact info to Bill.C@TheEvolutionMag.com.

Get the latest news, videos and more, visit www.facebook.com/TheEvolutionMidWest Share your copy of The EVOLUTION Magazine.

Multiple Sclerosis Neuropathies Parkinson’s Disease Psychiatric disorders including, but not limited to, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) if diagnosed by a state-licensed psychiatrist.

Sickle cell anemia Wasting syndrome Contact a Medical Cannabis certification doctor to see if you qualify for a medical marijuana ID card in the state of Missouri. https://health.mo.gov/safety/cannabis/.

 Continued from page 10

First Microbusiness Dispensary Opens to the Public the flow of a brand-new operation, they did it with smiles, support for each other, and pride in every transaction. The entire team navigated opening day with grace, teamwork, and joy.

Microbusinesses Moving Forward In June, the state updated its microbusinesses Approved to Operate (ATO) list, signaling steady progress for the program. With each new approval, more locally grown products make their way onto dispensary shelves, bringing fresh momentum, new options for consumers, and a continued push toward a more community-rooted cannabis industry. The Ozark Mountain Gypsy brand will soon be hitting shelves at 816 Dispensary.

Micro cultivators with ATO status as of June include: ● Blüme Cannabis ● Smugglers Din LLC ● Ozark Mountain Gypsy, LLC ● LL Wirtz LLC

aliceCBD Presents Tea Talks & Sound Baths!

We’re excited to offer you a traditional English tea service, featuring our signature aliceTEA blends— carefully curated to elevate your mind and body.

Enjoy afternoon tea while we will dive into a variety of thought-proving topics designed to inspire, refresh, and empower your wellness journey.

Tea Time’s are monthly usually the 3rd Tuesday of the month.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Lead by Alice Mangan, RN. Tea Talk starts at 6 p.m. Join Us!

Learn more about aliceCBD Tea Talks & Sound Baths and RSVP at www.goaskalicern.com.

Scan to Learn More

Visit www.aliceCBD.com │ Visit our store in Joplin

Approved micro dispensaries: ● 816 Dispensary – Platte City ● Kush21 Dispensary – Poplar Bluff Monsta Farms cultivation planned to open by the last week of June, launching with a strong start of 200 plants. Monsta brings bold design, generational cultivation knowledge, and cultural pride to the Missouri market, adding even more depth and diversity to the local cannabis landscape.

Two to four new micro cultivators are looking to come online in July, bringing fresh, small-batch flowers into dispensaries across the state. It’s an exciting time, and momentum is finally building.

Save the Date: 816 Day Grand Opening

While the soft opening brought in a wave of support and excitement, the official 816 Dispensary Grand Opening celebration will take place on August 16 — “816 Day.” A celebration of Kansas City pride and independent cannabis, this event will showcase not just a dispensary but a movement built on authenticity, equity, and connection. Expect community engagement, local brands, fellow micro licensees, and plenty of opportunities to celebrate what’s growing in Missouri.

DON’T MISS AN ISSUE! FOR ONLY $16, GET 12 ISSUES DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR. Order Online at www.TheEvolutionMag.com.

Stay tuned for next month’s issue with more exciting microbusiness updates.

Samantha Blum is the Chairwoman of the Missouri Microbusiness Association (MMBA) and the Founder of Bud Wizard, a round one microbusiness winner, a women-owned cannabis cultivation facility specializing in indoor aeroponic cultivation. Her dedication to craft cannabis, sustainability, and entrepreneurial-driven growth continues to shape the evolving landscape of the state’s cannabis industry.

All information is held confidential

 Include Your $16 Check

P.O. BOX 485, Grain Valley, MO. 64055 July 2025

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