[UPDATED] Calling all potential pot reviewers: Westword wants you!
Update: Thanks for your interest, everyone. We've received well over 100 applications and will be culling through them shortly in search of the best candidate(s). Unfortunately, we can't accept any more essays/resumes.
Aaron Thackeray Do you know what this is? Then we want you!
Original post: Do you have a medical condition that necessitates marijuana? Do you have a way with words? If so, Westword wants you to join the ranks as our freelance marijuana-dispensary reviewer.
To provide an objective resource on the state's burgeoning medical marijuana scene, Westword has launched "Mile Highs and Lows," a weekly review of Colorado marijuana dispensaries. Now we're looking for just the right person to take the reins.
The job is simple: Visit a different dispensary each week (without revealing you're working for Westword) and pen concise, impartial and snappy accounts of your experiences. Keep in mind this isn't about assessing the quality of the medicine on site; it's about evaluating the quality of the establishment. After all, we can't have our reviewer be stoned all the time.
The perfect candidate will be a talented writer who's not about to play favorites -- and, of course, someone who has a state medical marijuana ID (or the ability and need to obtain one). Compensation will be meager -- and no, we can't expense your purchases, although that would be pretty cool.
Think you've got what it takes? Send a resume (informal is okay; handwritten on rolling papers isn't) and a one-paragraph essay on "What Marijuana Means to Me" to
(Fair warning: Because we think it might be really funny, we reserve the right to publish any samples we receive, though we won't use any full names without permission).
79 comment(s) / Post a Comment
In order to visit a dispensary, a patient must have an individual at that specific dispensary registered as their caregiver.
Since patients can only register one caregiver at a time, it would seem rather difficult for a patient to visit a different dispensary each week.
Posted On: Tuesday, Sep. 29 2009 @ 2:16PMnot true, you can use any dispensary! I have sort of made it a activity to go to different dispeneries around denver and one north. Some have a rule that you can only use them once with out becoming a member but,I have not found anyone decline my request for meds. I guess you could call me a kind of collector of some of the finer strains and mixing some of the various strains looking for a good balance of mind and body. with some of the LARGE selections of new and old genetics some of the dispensaries have I have found many ways of releaving both pains in body and mind. Some people go antiquing I go dispensering!
As Tam said you can visit any place you like. Many offer a wide selection, but few offer true high quality meds. Some are set up like Doctors offices while others are more focused towards the rec center atmosphere. I have a site that shows some places with high quality meds @ Kindreviews.com.
Posted On: Wednesday, Sep. 30 2009 @ 12:38PMCrowdsourcing pot reviews?! I can't fucking wait to read this copy.
Posted On: Wednesday, Sep. 30 2009 @ 12:53PMi already review weed on my blog. but i live in a country where med pot is legal at the federal level Canada. sounds like a fun gig.
Posted On: Thursday, Oct. 1 2009 @ 11:00AMThat's actually not true. You do NOT have to make the dispensary your caregiver in order to enter it. At least not ALL dispensaries. Most places will have you come in, check out their product and then offer you a membership agreement to designate them as your caregivers. The ones that make you sign before you try? Who wants to do that anyway? It's like the adult personals, without pics. You want to have at least an idea of what you're getting in to. No pun intended. Well, kind of....
Posted On: Thursday, Oct. 1 2009 @ 12:22PMWow man, I can do that job.
But you got to give me a limo and a driver...
and the limo has to be a psychedelic VW micro bus with a kick-ass eight track...
and a waterbed...
and the driver has to be a "red headed dancing wench".
Can I start tomorrow?
Posted On: Thursday, Oct. 1 2009 @ 5:03PMHey, I know all about that shit. More than anyone could ever know. I could MOST DEFINATLEY DO THAT!
Posted On: Friday, Oct. 2 2009 @ 12:37AMWhen I walk into any dispensery with a pound of premium grade medicine I am always welcome. In fact, they call and call and ask me to return and I am not registered there. Hmmm, hmmmm?
haa!
Posted On: Friday, Oct. 2 2009 @ 9:12AMReally Amanda? What does OG stand for in the name OG Bubba Kush? Go ahead and google it and give me your answer. If you get it right I will hire you.
Posted On: Friday, Oct. 2 2009 @ 9:14AMIsn't Westword aware that in order to enter a medical marijuana dispensary, a person needs to present a state-issued medical marijuana card -- or a doctor's signed recommendation, at least? That pretty much blows any anonymity you're requiring. Unless the reviewer writes under a pseudonym -- and why would a writer want to write under a pseudonym unless -- instead of clips, credit -- they're getting something greater? Like money, which Westword obviously lacks, given the pittance that you state you're offering. Let me guess: you're not even offering access to an attorney -- and yet you're asking a freelance writer to violate federal law. Little wonder you can't expense purchases: not only because, let me guess, you don't have the money; but also because the publication would be violating federal law, as well.
A medical marijuana dispensary is not a restaurant. In a way, I find what you're asking offensive.
Will you be reviewing pharmacies next? "I like the chairs in the waiting room at my local Walgreens just fine!"
OG, in OG Bubba Kush is the nickname for the San Fernando Valley cut of OG Kush. 'OG' is also often referred to as being 'original gangsta'.
Can anyone tell me what the Fire stands for in Fire x OG?
Or what the Evil stands for, in evil bubba kush?
Too bad I don't live in Denver. :/
SoCal has better meds, anyways.
Posted On: Friday, Oct. 2 2009 @ 10:05AMHello I'd love to do reviews. I am opening my own dispensary, DrReefer.com located in the heart of little Amsterdam opening next week.
Pierre Werner
Posted On: Friday, Oct. 2 2009 @ 10:29AMWe are a new dispensary that just opened in Boulder, CO. We are located off of Broadway and Walnut by the Pearl Street Mall. Our address is:
Boulder MMJ
1909 Broadway St., Ste. 100LL
Boulder, CO 80302
I can personally tell you guys that we do not require you to change your caregivership over to us in order to get THE BEST medicine in the state. We do offer a price of $13.99 a gram if you do designate us as your caregiver but if not its $17.99 a gram. Our goal is to help people not add to the stress they are already under. Boulder MMJ-Better Buds, Better Location, Better Service!!
Posted On: Friday, Oct. 2 2009 @ 11:48AMActually you guys, OG stands for "Outdoor Grown"--something you apparently can still do in Cali.
Posted On: Friday, Oct. 2 2009 @ 1:42PMOG stands for Organic Grown u minutely endowed morons.
Posted On: Friday, Oct. 2 2009 @ 2:41PMreplied to :WAIT &THC....
why do you have to be a dick about it?? weed is guna be legal everywhere soon.
so get over it! and either way, there are ways around the law honey.
KIA ORA Hemi here all the way from the southern hemisphere New Zealand yup. I would like the oportunity to visit the states and really show you Americans how to smoke this fine plant, as we here in NZ have the most skunky non modified non hydro out door bush weed in the world today.I have been all over the world and nothing is more powerful than what i have in my garden out bak, Affgani Multi mixed with the worlds best bud known to man/woman kind Sensamellia .My new strain is very very good you only need a cone and your stoned yup better then hashish and oils it is all natural.This job will be ideal for me because i have a degree in horticulture and a long history of family smokers and users.Mariijuana has been in my familys generation for over 100 years in which i have proof. So hire me please i can be very useful thanks
Yours sinsearly
Hemi. (Jamie mccann.)
Hello, I am licensed, and willing to apply for the job. please contact me.
Posted On: Friday, Oct. 2 2009 @ 3:40PMI guess you are looking for articles researching the facilities themselves, correct?
Such as:
When walking into "the Medical Dispensary's name", you'll find a sweet aroma of the finest medical medicine available. The decor is a remembrance of an old fashion candy shoppe, but with a twist. The decorated mirrors behind the counters, of glass and chrome, give the illusion of a much larger shop. Large glass jars of aromatic herbs, The delicious samples of Herb infused snacks and friendly staff members are eager to help you in your selections.( Just watch out for the guy in the purple dinosaur outfit, I'd swear he was just a plastic toy when I walked in)
With swag lights, chrome and glass tables with school house chairs, beaded window dressings, tyedyed t's and classic rock music playing in the background, this shop takes you back to the good old days of your youth.( Cheech and Chong look-a-like contest on Friday nights.)
This dispensary is located in the old town district and blends in well with the looks of the other shops around. Excellent outside lighting and parking makes this shop a favorite of the classical connoisseur."
I do not live in Colorado, and this intro is purely fiction. I was just trying to see
if this is the type of reporting you are really looking for?
I think this is a great idea and definately helpful to a lot of people
who are new to this or who are out to try something different. I wish you the best of luck.
Tinkerbell
Wait & THC, we already have pharmacy reviews, one of the largest is called yelp.com, which reviews all sorts of services.
I agree with your concerns about the job applicant exposing herself to federal prosecution, although that is less likely under Obama's administration.
As an attorney and THC user (legally in California), I wouldn't risk it, but then that's me.
Posted On: Friday, Oct. 2 2009 @ 4:08PM~I Seen your article on the MSN page. I'm from Arkansas & have never smoked maryjane in my life except when I was younger & tryed it several times.
I did work for the US Army Corp of Engineers!
But had to retire due to being diagnosed with severe PTSD.
My family helped me find an oz. And nothing I've been prescribed by my Doctors comes close to what this herb does to relax you.
I'm not smoking it at this time due to medical test I have upcoming.
I'd be honored to be able to be hired for this job: Someone who is not a pothead & does not have a bias opinion about the subject.
I'm planning on running for the US Senate in 2012 & think it should be legalized & taxed accordingly. I think more good would be done by legalizing it than bad! I also think the savings from inmates sent to prison over it
and the tax it would generate would knock a big dent in our budget deficit!
Sincerely,
Guy Brinker
Wait and THC, obviously you did not read the job post above, where it states:
"The perfect candidate will be a talented writer who's not about to play favorites -- and, of course, someone who has a state medical marijuana ID (or the ability and need to obtain one)."
Maybe you should actually read the article before jumping to incorrect conclusions.
Posted On: Friday, Oct. 2 2009 @ 4:20PMBy all means sign me up. I'm not only interested but most likely over qualified.
I have fibromyalgia and my psychiatrist is aware that my own home remedy of marijuana has done more for me than all the pills he has given me. He said I would hear no complaints from him. (Did I mention he has a ponytail and looks like he should be down in his basement making his own pills - then eating any mistakes)
Unfortunatly I live in the Bible Belt. Good old South Carolina, a place where moon shine is still made, but you can't get marijuana for medicinal purposes. Heck, we just got rid of the blue laws not too long ago.
Anyone who has not tried a good grade of marijuana for fibromyalgia is missing out on a great deal of relief. Herbal Vaporizers are the best way to dispense it.
Posted On: Friday, Oct. 2 2009 @ 4:31PMOG Outdoor Grown.... Sounds like a kick. FINALLY SOMETHING WORTH REVIEWING! I'm a bit biased seems I grow hydro the organic sweet buds way. For anyone who has dealt with cancer and truly knows the importance of pure goodness they get it.
MS
Posted On: Friday, Oct. 2 2009 @ 5:23PMI wish Florida would "grow" up and realize the benefits of medical marijuana.
I have spinal sclerosis, and after several prescription meds with adverse side effects(loss of appetite and a severe loss of weight, loss of sleep and the inability to work), my marijuana has been a godsend.
with it I can work a full day, cook and enjoy a good meal and maintain a respectful weight and actually sleep all night.
If President Obama legalized it, Our tax dollars could go down, and allow for more money to be spent where it will do the most good.
In response to smokin' shay: Weed is gonna be legal soon everywhere, eh? I'd very much like to see that happen. But methinks perhaps you subscribe to the Judy Tenuta School of Political Activism: "It Could Happen!!!" It takes more than saying it's gonna happen, to make it happen.
In response to Jen: OK, let me rephrase, for you, what I wrote: Isn't Westword aware that a state-issued medical marijuana card or a doctor's recommendation contains the patient's name? So how is the writer going to do the job "without revealing you're working for Westword" -- unless the writer is required to use a pseudonym (which is not explicitly stated by Westword within this job posting)? There, that's not too hard to follow, I don't think.
In response to rileysmom: Seemingly good legal advice for any finalists for the job.
Posted On: Friday, Oct. 2 2009 @ 6:24PMIf they can deliver pizza, why not this?
Posted On: Friday, Oct. 2 2009 @ 7:21PMi've grown the bestbeen in sales of it for 15 yearsi got greedy got caught made high timeshave pictures and reporortsthe best they ever seen first encounter was 15 i'm 35 now i know how to grow to sale to smokeknow a lot about it with the last name stoner most of ny life if you could forward this to proper people something like stoners secretsthanks
Posted On: Friday, Oct. 2 2009 @ 7:27PMI find it amusing this fried time for pay. Unabashedly preimpted as programming has taken a back seat to reveal the front street of the grind. What it actually is to buy a drug in its potent infancy. As alcohol was once ingrained into the cultered mind slowly thru speak easys and turmoil we are now here at the precipice of falling in love from the high that exists for medical purpose. A purpose relivant and true to the patients it serves it is a purpose that is binding. It binds the pain and it binds the mind to weather the storm of debilitation and fatigue. For in its apptitude the store best, by far is my own.
Posted On: Friday, Oct. 2 2009 @ 7:47PMIn reading all the comments, its easy to see the effects of mj when it is used medicinally as opposed to the effects it has on people who use it recreationally.
Posted On: Friday, Oct. 2 2009 @ 8:21PMI can do this.
I can do this.
I can do this!!!
How do I apply? I will hit every dispensary in the state!!! Do they buy the weed too?
Posted On: Friday, Oct. 2 2009 @ 11:42PMLots of rookies all around. It is a shame really. The most unfortunate thing is the fact that people seem to think that smoking pot is the only requirement. Spelling? Grammer? Maybe someone who has traveled further than a few dorm rooms. Any of you youngins' know the skunk brothers? And I don't mean 2, 3, and 6. Maybe we should do some research before we type...and look up the definitions of all these big words which we've heard used but do not know how to use ourselves. The nose, appearance, and quality of the medicine is what is important. People's health is at stake. Anyone who says they have the best is mistaken and knows they are wrong, as a 10 is a 10. That's pride, f$#@%n' with ya.
I don't need a cocky caregiver. A good shop speaks for itself, and doesn't need a spokesperson. Braggards need not apply. Colorado's marijuana history is special. Our clients are special. Our medicine is special. We don't need some silver spooned dred-hed from boulder with that pompus attitude reviewing our medicine thank you. I'd be dissapointed to see anyone under thirty in the position actually, as it would take someone who has watched the changes in propigation, sales and distribution over more than their college career to write an article that I (or anyone I know) would take much stock in. G3.
to the friend from new zelland ..
u ve been all over i do accept but you have notbeen i my land man..
i am from TURKEY.. i respect your country but u should try my grass man :=)
Sir I would buy what you are selling if, and the if is big, one, I was a college student, two if I did not know what the word’s I used meant because I do, and three if I was unable to spell. My point was in the undercurrent of the mind as the article states a word or two about a high writer. Many are in the running for the best of the best and many do not even carry a license to carry. Some believe the best is obtainable some believe it has been obtained but to truly grasp greatness you must first be comfortable in your own self without offense and complexity to cloud the thought. If you see age as a hindrance I feel for your soul and I am sure your bias serves you well. Good thing I am over 30.
Posted On: Saturday, Oct. 3 2009 @ 9:59AMBy the way it may serve you well to know I am not yet a caregiver as such I am however going to be obtaining soon my license. I have an interest being from a hole in the wall no bigger then the next crack breaking ground to stand tall among giants and gates. Greeley is now standing at the cusp, the cusp of weather to piece together a natural care a natural medicine as it were or to keep freedom from patients to hold choice for themselves as leaders are unable to lead. I feel it to be well within reach to visit dispensaries for this blog or for myself as it has been a mere dream until now to describe freely a drug that has been stigmatized for so long, If one has a 10 then call me eleven because my mind has been opened and bias is far from me.
Posted On: Saturday, Oct. 3 2009 @ 10:11AMInstead of everyone competing on who is best qualified for the position, why not work for the common good of getting medical marijuana legal and available in all 50 states. For all you yahoos out there that think this is funny it is not! Cannabis is an important drug that helps many people to function as normally as possible when either all other drugs have failed or the side effects of other drugs are just too toxic!!! Marijuana is a lifesaver for many people; it is our duty as Americans to get the message out and UNDERSTOOD that MJ is beneficial and not addictive!!! What happened to compassionate care in this country?
Posted On: Saturday, Oct. 3 2009 @ 9:42PMPerhaps you may be interested in giving me a try? Poet, journalist, photographer, therapist and arthritis, lupus and fibromyalgia patient. In my fifties, I have decent knowledge of the growing trends from the 60's to today. I use THC to control the muscle pain, nausea, headaches, joint pain and general, feeling like I've been run over by a truck. I'm much happier, hurt less, and can function much better than when I have to rely on narcotics.
I have been a medical marijuana patient for a year now and thoroughly believe that a reliable review service of local dispensaries is a great service to the community. I'd be proud to write for Westword.
It would seem Westword is screwing up more and more these days.
While I find it hard to believe Westword has fallen on unrecoverable times. I think they're just being cheap and wanting to exploit Denver's "pot heads" for monetary gain while making us look stupid on a national level! Hey?! Don't it sound like fun to you!? It does to them...
Westword should not do this out of fear of a boycott of sponsors! Sponsors should worry about a boycott and "pot Heads" all over should oppose this from them!!!
I ain't even gonna tell you what I think they should do with the posting of reply letters idea!!!
Westword seems to have become rather evil as of late, wouldn't you say?
Should we continue to read???
Mike,
Englewood
tam says:
not true, you can use any dispensary!... I have not found anyone decline my request for meds.
You are supposed to be able to use any dispensary. The law doesn't state anything definitive about it, therefore it is legal. But there are two dispensaries in Colorado Springs who told me they could not help me because they "have to be your caregiver," and they blamed it on the law.
Of course, this is a complete falsehood, and they are hoping people will not know the law. They want people to sign over their caregiver rights for a bag of medicine.
What exactly does one look for when reviewing the dispensary? How quickly they fill up your little plastic vial?
Posted On: Sunday, Oct. 4 2009 @ 9:49AM46 yr old southern boy.....who knows the true value of some good ASS DANK!30+YRS.experience..........some growing..lots of smoking...YEE-HAA
CARPENTER BY TRADE"""""""""""""""""""""
so would KNOW what to be looking 4 as far
maitenance on operations...and if the light
is right........usually after one toke of
the sweet mary-jane....i feel better about well just everything.....let me help you help me help youuuuuuuuuuuuuuu........
I ay that I am QUALIFIED 4 THIS........FOR ALL MEDICAL REASONS I HAVE.....AND FACE IT
i KNOW WHAT 2 LOOK 4 ....THE EFFECTS........LMAO blahblahblahblahblah---blahhhhhhhh.......and am un-employed so i need the job............will re-LOCATE close to these dispencers.........if needed
4 SHIZZZLE MY NIZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZLESSSSSSSS
G3, since you're going to hold this to your high standard of professionalism, I need to point out that the word is "Grammar" not "Grammer".
But then again, I am not stoned.
Thank you.
Posted On: Monday, Oct. 5 2009 @ 7:41AMI believe the three most important things in live is . God , Family and pot. If you have all three of these in your life. Life is good.I have smoked for 25 years reg. I do enjoy it but in my state you can go to jail or prison for pot. Need to move to Col. or another state but my family is here.
Just want to say pot natural I had much rather smoke than take a anti-depressent med. but I not depressed cause I smoke. ha.
Posted On: Monday, Oct. 5 2009 @ 8:53AMI would be happy to do this but I am in California.
Posted On: Monday, Oct. 5 2009 @ 10:30AMYOU NEED ME AND I AM HERE FOR YOU!
i will give you an unbiased and completely understandable opinion on any weed you hand me.
i am 51 with over 30 years experience in this field. i am well traveled and have many people skills as well as a very deeprooted expertise in the arts of "buddery". i have my own tools.
i will require a quiet area to work in as i will take my responsiblities to heart.
after all, i'm only in it to aid and assist those of my fellow humans who are suffering. and since i believe in recycling and a "no waste" society i will be happy to take any leftovers and expired comsumables away to be burned.
also, i do not have to work, and since this is a cause i really believe in, i will donate my time and travel (and use it as a tax right off...)
this is the greatest secret shopper job yet!
The email for the submission of resumes and your paragraph is not correct! I am unable to send my info. Please let me know the correct email address. And to all of the people that think that this is a horrible idea I would like to disagree with you. Like myself there are many people who suffer from chronic pain that need the chronic to alleviate their pain!
Posted On: Monday, Oct. 5 2009 @ 11:45AMJust sent my submission. To the people who would like to be a freelance writer period, you might want to invest in some college courses because a lot of the post on here are grammatically incorrect. Just because you know how to smoke does not make you eligible!!!
Posted On: Monday, Oct. 5 2009 @ 11:51AMOK, so Westword can't provide expense money for samples. But is it going to provide expense money for bribes?
As seen in today's New York Times article concerning Westword's job listing:
“We want to see what kind of place it is, how well they care for you and also how sketchy the place is,” said Patricia Calhoun, editor of Westword. “Do they actually look at your medical marijuana card? Do they let you slip some cash under the counter and bypass the rules?”
Posted On: Monday, Oct. 5 2009 @ 2:26PMHonestly Nikki G, it is people like you who blow a high in more ways than one. Why attack the dreamers who dream of being taken seriously by denouncing their aspirations and treading on there self esteem? I am immune to those of your ilk but feel for those who are not. I will leave you with this knowledge. You need not bring others down to raise your own expectations. It makes you less than.
Posted On: Monday, Oct. 5 2009 @ 4:17PMNikki G
I am like you. I do need my meds too for my back pain. I am not debating that. My concern is that Westword NOT exploit the Denver MMJ community. That is my only concern.
On the outside, Westword doesn't appear to really care about you as a person as long as they get their story and make us all look bad in the national media because it’s “funny”. “Funny” don’t win struggles like ours. Hard work and honesty does.
As Ms. Calhoun is well aware of, that is my issue with this. Whoever gets this MUST get, AT LEAST, a living wage, an expense account, and access to counsel such as Brian over at SensiCo, Rob Corry, Warren Edson, or Sean McAllister; paid for by the paper, of course. If Ms. Calhoun is as in the loop as she believes herself to be; I'm sure she can figure out how to contact them and arrange a retainer.
I want to see a "No pot head was harmed in the making of this piece" disclaimer ;) LOL
Mike
Hi there, Westworld!
"Do you have a medical condition that necessitates marijuana? Do you have a way with words? If so, Westword wants you to join the ranks as our freelance marijuana-dispensary reviewer."
Well, the job of my dreams! Made for me. I'm a psychedelic musician, artist, poet, writer and gonzo jornalist in Brazil, and I suppose I have the necessary knowledge, but the only "problem" is that I'm from Brazil. But I could go anywhere, no problem. Heh. And obviously I wrote better than here, trust me. Your problem is solved, there's a Hunter Thompson in me.
Well, I'm available if you want me so. (My work, of course! I ain't that bitch yet, huh?! Laughter)
Green greetings from Brazil!
Samuel Pelegrini aka Samuel Skelter
Posted On: Tuesday, Oct. 6 2009 @ 7:14AMSounds like a great marketing gimmick! One of our clients did something similar with their website, here:
http://www.MedicinalMarijuanaSanDiego.com
Check out the "strain information" sub page, feel free to use any of the reviews as we wrote them for MMSD. We ask that you credit MMSD with a link for any reviews you use.
Posted On: Tuesday, Oct. 6 2009 @ 9:32AMim on my way out from mendocino right now...
Posted On: Tuesday, Oct. 6 2009 @ 10:58AMI am a chronic pain sufferer. I have tried every sort of legal painkiller, including those they took off the market. Marijuana works and it is the only thing that works now. You can't overdose on it and there are few side effects.
You can tincture it (soak it in alcohol for at least two weeks) and take it under the tongue for nausea and pain.
Before you decide that marijuana is too dangerous (although no one has died of an overdose when people die of overdoses of alcohol all the time), take a hammer and bash your foot every 5 minutes for 2 hours. Then realize that you just banned the only substance that will relieve the pain.
Posted On: Tuesday, Oct. 6 2009 @ 8:19PMI cannot believe how many comments I am reading that show some people that, if they actually did apply, have no idea what they're actually going to be reviewing & will be cast aside quickly once their essay has been read.
Pity I got here too late, but I do look forward to reading the column. Any idea as to when it will start running?
Posted On: Thursday, Oct. 8 2009 @ 2:42AMRight now. I shall begin now. in a minute.
So here it goes. Soon.
Alright then, ... Hmm, hmm. Now then.
Hold up.
On the importance of freedom to wellness let me just say I thank no one for this most basic human right.
What does marijuana mean to me? Or perhaps the question could be better phrased as what does the removal of an invisible line barring individuals the freedom and privacy to own, control, and stake claim over their own medical care and condition mean to us as a nation? What does it mean to my husband to sleep pain-free through the night? What is that worth?
I will tell you it is worth fighting the fight and championing the cause. It is worth every painstaking effort that equates to baby steps in the direction of taking power from the insurance companies and pharmaceutical giants who trap us like flies on roadkill - loathsome but clinging to survive- and putting it in the green thumbs of the people.
As to my credentials, with out going into too many incriminating details, I have over ten years "gardening" experience. I have a keen eye for plant history including nitrogen deficiency, chemical residue (bug bombs, etc), care and maintenance, and nutrient over/underdose. Though, perhaps my most qualifying attribute is my attention to detail. From recognizing whether or not all legal documents are displayed in plain view like sales tax licenses, notification of surveillance, etc. to how many H.I.P.P.A forms are required, to the cleanliness of the bathroom, I can surmise the overall feel, legitimacy, and quality of our dispensary community. In addition, as a caregiver, I am in the position to remain relatively neutral in ascertaining the potency, taste, and effect of different forms of medicine. I would perhaps have three different test groups:high, medium, and low tolerance to give readers a more accurate critique depending on their use and experience
Also, I would like to think that I have a certain style and resonance in my writing that people enjoy and can relate to. In closing, I would like to mention that ten years ago when I had just moved to this town and was working on the hill, the Westword chose me as bartender of the month. It has been a favorite paper to me ever since. Never before have I enjoyed such a warm welcome. It would be an honor and a pleasure to work with the fine folks at your publication.
Have we opened a can of worms? I sure as hell hope so because for those of us in the system, we are being swallowed up in a feeding frenzy of greed and corruption.
Thank you for your consideration,
Brooke
720-434-5110
First off no one should be required to sign away rights to simply visit a dispense. Many quality dispenseries onlydo not, they absolutely offer perks for doing so tho. Next you have the right to change care giver every ten days. Patients know your rights and visit many locations before deciding who shouldn't be the vendor you trust to provide you with safe quality consistent medicine. I am a patient and now emloyee of HIGHLAND HEALTH. I associate with them based on the level of professionalism and amazing meds and Wellness services they provide. Please visit highlandhealthdenver.com.
Be well, peace
Kendra
That is the job I have waited for my whole life !!!I am fully qualified ..
Hows the pay ????
When will they be choosing a candidate??
Posted On: Friday, Oct. 16 2009 @ 11:09PMWhat??? They only wanna know if it's a swanky place or not...
Sir Walter said, "the proof is in the puffin'" - 1600s sometime
Shout out to Montezuma's great pro-pot-taganist Henry (JT) - he passed away 10/2/09 - peace to him and big fatty's burning perpetually for him. Spent many a miles waiting for him to pass it, only to find he'd passed out.
Posted On: Monday, Oct. 19 2009 @ 9:50AMI think this is an awesome idea, however I do agree with some of the ney sayers on the complications of the gig. I have had my medical card for a little over 6 months now and live up in a small mountain town where dispensarys have not been as accept as well as the Big D, however when we travel down to Denver I have had quite a few bad experiences with a few "Caregivers" very unwilling to help someone who does not care to designate them as my "Caregiver" because I live over a 100 miles away. One particularly bad occurance was at the dispensary at 8th and Kalamath (Canabis Medical LLC) by far the rudest people I have ever delt with... no kind about it. I was even asked to leave when I questioned why we were meeting in the lobby of the graphics shop that he also owns?
Good luck to the person who gets this GIG, it is an awesome job, but I don't think it will be as easy as it seems...
Pick me! Pick me! I am just what you need. I earned a double Bachelor's degree in Literature and Philosophy from Colorado State University. I worked at the national award-winning Collegian newspaper before working as a writer and editor at the Coloradoan. I have been retired for several years due to illness. I have such a rare stomach disorder that there is not a name for it. This lead me to be a medical marijuana patient. I am also now suffering from a Parkinson's-like disease most likely caused by the drug Reglan (metoclopromide) that doctor after doctor prescribed to me for my stomach for years. I have the experience, expertise and the insight you need.
Posted On: Wednesday, Oct. 21 2009 @ 9:17PMHello.
First of all I am very bummed out that you quit accepting submissions and essays for this position. The first I heard about it was on 9 news Tuesday night. It's too bad they didn't mention no more applicants would be accepted. When i saw this I knew it was one of those too good to be true ideas. I was ecstatic. I updated my resume, talked to my references, to make sure this was something they would be willing to be associated with. I asked three people too review my submission too make sure that I had a chance if I would be competing against professional journalists.
It's been a couple of weeks since I have perused the Westword site so It wasn't until about 5 minutes ago that I realized the perfect job was just a 'pipe-dream', pun intended. I have a couple of issues that make a traditional job very difficult if not impossible. I often start sweating from little exertion and I seem unable to control my internal temperature. I use the heating and air conditioning over a hundred times a day in both my home and if I am driving my car. If you have ever seen a women going through severe menopause you can paint a picture. I'm not claiming it's the same, just similar. I walk with a cane and have chronic pain. I have spasms, I lose time (I loving refer to this as a brain farts), sometimes it's Friday and I think it is Thursday. Spasms, spasms, spasms. I have fatigue, similar to the 'runner's wall; the only difference is that it occurs about twenty times a day and it doesn't take a marathon to make it happen. Sometimes I do a simple chore like folding the laundry and it takes me an hour and a half to recover, some days only an hour. I'm emotional, evidently I care deeply for the fictional heroes in the movie Armageddon, and their fantastical sacrifice. If I have to go, I have to go. At most I have a minute of control, which is better than no control, and much improved from ten seconds One thing you quickly learn, is as ill as you are; someone else has it worse.
First I glanced at the bookmark of a review of Fusion by Jason Sheenan. I'm still in awe. That there is such a word as 'fuckery', that Mr Sheenan used it so eloquently, and that the editor did not censor it. I enjoyed the way he explained his hate for the genre of the restaurant leading into his, at first begrudgingly, like of the food to outright enjoyment of the establishment . After chuckling over reminiscing the critique I went to your homepage and trid to find out how to make a submission, Not finding any information I went to Backpage and tied to find the post in the employment section. Finding nothing promising I returned to the Westword page, enabled scripting, and searched for "marijuana critic". After reading the article about all of the national attention the position is getting, seeing a sample of the submissions, and seeing that the post was closed. Again, bummer.
Perfect. A job you already doing conversationally with other patients, that does not require conventional time restrictions or a binding location. The ability to stay somewhat anonymous but to educate a larger audience. I was going to mention that I initiated my journey with MM began in March of 09 after seeing an enormous amount of ads in the last page of the paper Westword magazine; this was crazy because the week before there was like three. I was leery and began searching the Westword website and carefully deleted my browser history. I found a couple of ads and made some phone calls. I was given many different prices and requirements and little consistent information. I ended up calling one of the organizations that had a $50 offer for "one week only!". I was told to bring valid Colorado identification and Medical records confirming my condition. Luckily the place I was going was a non-profit and had a Doctor on staff so I would get a recommendation there.
After getting my medical records I rescheduled some appointments and blocked an hour and a half for my MM application. I went to the location in an eastern Denver suburb and was greeted by a daunting obstacle of a 20 foot concrete staircase. At the time I was dependent on a four wheel walker. I called the organization and the security staff and staff helped me into a light green office with an odd assortment of men of all ages, a daunting security guard and a staff that looked more suited to a tattoo parlor than the doctor's office atmosphere they were in. After many questions I filled out the most comprehensive medical history of my life, just my luck I hear the form is now one or two pages. When I asked about the 50 dollar price I was told that it was conditional on financial aid and that it was in small print in the article. Sure enough, come on guys really what is that like a 2 pt font? I waited for about twenty minutes and then had a consultation with a female doctor. After thanking her for providing a valuable service to sick people I was led to a exit room where I filled out another enormous amount of paperwork. I was told that I would get my card in eight to ten weeks and that I would have a certificate that is generally recognized but not a legal document.. There was a dispensary about a block away and I was given a caregiver in my area. The staff was very helpful and professional, even though the location is sketchy.
I was escorted to the dispensary by a different security guard to the dispensary. It was kind of like a 90's adult arcade vibe. I was in a small hall and gave a somewhat bitchy girl my ID and certificate. I was led to a small room and was offered a beverage. When I was there it had a under construction feel but looked like it would soon have more amenities. It is one patient at a time so I waited my turn and was asked to turn off my cell phone. "Huh"? "Security." Evidently robbery is the number one concern for dispensaries. When my turn came I was met by a hipster in a lab-coat. Since it was the end of the week the stock was kind of low so I was limited in my selection. Overall I noticed that the prices were equal to or greater than those of a more illicit nature. The guy was cool but I'm a guy living on a budget. I bought a gram of White widow out of curiosity more than anything. I paid about a 25 % markup of what I normally would, I feel like a teenager trying to score for the first time. Luckily someone slipped me a number of a dispensary in south Denver with much kinder prices. Ring-ring-ring Hello. “This is Sarah with_______. Would you like to make an appointment?” But that is a different dispensary and another step in my education into the world of MM.
I was going to play that I'm a Coloradan native. I've been a head since he late 80's and I am down with the “Keep it Colorado” movement. I have a card, I have two Bachelor's degrees, and genuinely use Cannabis to provide relief for my medical conditions. I don't think it is the solution to solve the world's ills. It isn't going to be our alternative energy source, it is not going to replace synthetic fibers, it is not going to solve government budget crises, but it will help people like me live a better life and at the same time enrich the local and national economy. The green economy within the green economy..
I'm somewhat of a sore loser but I'm far more pleased that this position was created There is a lot of disinformation and this is a wonderful public service. I'm sure the staff at West word thought of all of this but I have some suggestions. Either provide the information about amendment twenty or provide links to the States website. Provide people with information about the documents and how to access them. Most of the forms are available as pdf documents , and can be read by downloading Adobe acrobat for free from Adobe's website, I actually think they encourage people to link to them. Provide other information, realtors, lawyers, horticulture supplies, how the law is implemented locally, statewide and the dance with Federal policy the other 13 states which have similar laws, A location guide of relevant site for MM patients and care givers. Does my card work in other states? Why can I grow my own medicine but I can be my own caretaker? Also other things that you might think should be common knowledge. Remember you are dealing with a bunch of burners. I'm not happy that I couldn't try for the job but I'm grateful and I think it is cool that the Westword is providing this service
Also you might want to put strains and anecdotal advice and the conditions they help with. For example I read an article that a woman with an autistic child has great success with the White Widow strain. The article is, Why I give marijuana to my autistic child.
DAMN!!!There are ALOT of "Know it all" type mf-ers Professing complete knowledge of EVERYTHING marijuana related!!!
All of this extra bulls**t about what OG means, or whether one can tour dispenseries, autistic children and whether or not to let them smoke or not...
STOP IT ALREADY!!!! You people have managed to Overthink, Overdiscuss, Overbrag and Beat your gums so damn much that I NEED A JOINT to get rid of the HEADACHE YOU FOOLS Have given me!!! Just BACK OFF ALREADY!!! The whole reason I started to smoke marijuana in the first place was to DE-Stress and to cope with people LIKE YOU!!!
This Job is going to be so controversial. You will have to fight off the DEA, FBI, ATF, AMA, Dupont, All the pharmaceutical companies, and The DRUG CARTEL.
513-ANY-WEED
I inhale you should too!
Smokin Louie, Obviously you don't follow the news in the medical marijuana community.
The DoJ *Department of Justice* said this past Monday, that they will no longer be using federal resources and manpower to go after anyone who is following their state laws.
So, the writer who is chosen for this position will have nothing to worry about in that aspect, so long as they obey CO state laws.
Now, I am a little lost on how or why the writer is going to be fighting off anyone due to this position.
Please, feel free to explain your reasoning.
This is going to be a LEGAL and LEGITIMATE job, just like writers who review Pharmacies or restaurants or retail stores.
People are over-thinking this position to the fullest extent.
And I am hearing an enormous amount of pointless bull sh*t from some of the comments here.
If you are worried you won't be chosen for the position, then you have already proven you don't deserve it.
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Posted On: Saturday, Oct. 24 2009 @ 12:20AMThis sounds like the ultimate job. Paying someone to drive to different dispenceries and "evaluate their services" sounds like something i could do all day! Since they are hiring a person for pot evaluation they better make sure that there are dedlines for these reviews! we all know potheads like to push due dates!lol if you dont find someone let me know cuz i smoke like a chimney on a cold sunday!!
Posted On: Wednesday, Oct. 28 2009 @ 11:01PMOG = Ocean Grown as in : "no it's not MG (mountain grown) it's "OG"
the cat is from the coast fellas.
yeah i'm w/ the crowdsourcing comment..
it's not like you cant find empirical examples of qualified reviewers in the most established forums... Hell, most the "spend-series" that a worth a crap have been already evaluated in WT or ICmag.
What is needed, are folks that are better suited to judge the medicinal effectiveness of all the different medical strains. Quality of medicine beats quality of service every effing day.
Service levels don't and will not drive the market.
Wow...can't believe the amount of interest and discussion. Denver is turning in to Oakland's little brother. This is a step in the right direction for medical marijuana reform and I hope legalization one day. Look forward to seeing the review of the establishments.
Posted On: Sunday, Nov. 8 2009 @ 9:13PMI still say try em all. That's strains and dispensaries. The proof is still in the puffin'.
Been lit for 30 years and have always understood OG to equal Ocean Grown... Course what would I know - I've been inhaling for real proof.
Posted On: Wednesday, Nov. 11 2009 @ 6:20PMDid you apply for this job? ABCNews.com wants to talk to you.......Call me at 212-456-4875.
Susan James
susan.james@abcnews.com
Where do we send our resumes and cover letters?
Posted On: Thursday, Nov. 12 2009 @ 11:53AMTo Senator Chris Romer,
I do realize how difficult this Whole MMJ or Cannabis as Medicine movement is. I have been a Cannabis Medical Therapeutics Consultant for 3 years. I have benefited from cannabis most of my life, a doctor severed my nervous system in my back when I was 13 years of age. I am writing you now because I feel you are on the right track and need some guidance on how to regulate and who should be on that Review Board. I do feel I should be considered to be on that board, because I am one of the Most Educated Cannabis Medical Therapeutics Consultants in the state of Colorado. I have my Accreditation from the San Francisco School of Medicine on Cannabis Medical Therapeutics. This CME activity is approved for maximum of 10 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits. I have been working with the Englewood City Council on just how to regulate this medicine and all the caregivers. YES there needs to be a governing agency over seeing all aspects of this therapy! Just like all forms of medicine or alcohol. There is a big difference when someone is a caregiver cultivator for a patient collective and a dispensary owner as well. They should not be required by Law to provide other forms of therapy as well. They have enough to deal with don’t add to their costs which brings up the cost of medicine to the patients. The Safety of Patients and Caregivers IS the biggest concern. I know that is what You are concerned about as well. Please call me ASAP we need to discus what solutions I have worked up with lots of help. I sent this newest update on the AMA Vote in Houston, TX last week.
Erin Marcove C.M.T.C.
www.cannabismedicaltherapeutics.com
# 303-880-1563
The AMA just last week voted Houston, TX -- The American Medical Association (AMA) voted today to reverse its long-held position that marijuana be retained as a Schedule I substance with no medical value. The AMA adopted a report drafted by its Council on Science and Public Health (CSAPH) entitled, "Use of Cannabis for Medicinal Purposes," which affirmed the therapeutic benefits of marijuana and called for further research. The CSAPH report concluded that, "short term controlled trials indicate that smoked cannabis reduces naturopathic pain, improves appetite and caloric intake especially in patients with reduced muscle mass, and may relieve spasticity and pain in patients with multiple sclerosis." Furthermore, the report urges that "the Schedule I status of marijuana be reviewed with the goal of facilitating clinical research and development of Cannabinoids-based medicines, and alternate delivery methods."
The change of position by the largest physician-based group in the country was precipitated in part by a resolution adopted in June of 2008 by the Medical Student Section (MSS) of the AMA in support of the reclassification of marijuana's status as a Schedule I substance. In the past year, the AMA has considered three resolutions dealing with medical marijuana, which also helped to influence the report and its recommendations. The AMA vote on the report took place in Houston, Texas during the organization's annual Interim Meeting of the House of Delegates. The last AMA position, adopted 8 years ago, called for maintaining marijuana as a Schedule I substance, with no medical value.
"It's been 72 years since the AMA has officially recognized that marijuana has both already-demonstrated and future-promising medical utility," said Sunil Aggarwal, Ph.D., the medical student who spearheaded the passage of the June 2008 resolution by the MSS and was one of the CSAPH report's designated expert reviewers. "The AMA has written an extensive, well-documented, evidence-based report that they are seeking to publish in a peer-reviewed journal that will help to educate the medical community about the scientific basis of botanical cannabis-based medicines." Aggarwal is also on the Medical & Scientific Advisory Board of Americans for Safe Access (ASA), the largest medical marijuana advocacy organization in the U.S.
The AMA's about face on medical marijuana follows an announcement by the Obama Administration in October discouraging U.S. Attorneys from taking enforcement actions in medical marijuana states. In February 2008, a similar resolution was adopted by the American College of Physicians (ACP), the country's second largest physician group and the largest organization of doctors of internal medicine. The ACP resolution called for an evidence-based review of marijuana's status as a Schedule I controlled substance to determine whether it should be reclassified to a different schedule. "The two largest physician groups in the U.S. have established medical marijuana as a health care issue that must be addressed," said ASA Government Affairs Director Caren Woodson. "Both organizations have underscored the need for change by placing patients above politics."
Though the CSAPH report has not been officially released to the public, AMA documentation indicates that it: "(1) provides a brief historical perspective on the use of cannabis as medicine; (2) examines the current federal and
State-based legal envelope relevant to the medical use of cannabis; (3) provides a brief overview of our current understanding of the pharmacology and physiology of the endocannabinoid system; (4) reviews clinical trials on the relative safety and efficacy of smoked cannabis and botanical-based products; and (5) places this information in perspective with respect to the current drug regulatory framework."
I hope to hear from you soon!!
Erin Marcove C.M.T.C.
i have a degree in horticulture n have been growing n tasting for yrs kn all there is to kn n would love to do this
Posted On: Tuesday, Nov. 17 2009 @ 9:44PMYou need to check out the nicest dispensaey that I have seen to date. Green Leaf Farmacy in Boulder is the bomb. They have 21 varities iof MMJ and hash and a nice library of MMJ books and vaporizers. This one should be added to your dispensary list.
Posted On: Friday, Nov. 20 2009 @ 2:12PM
