Education



The Ultimate Guide to Green Wednesday 2024 at The Source Craft Cannabis

The Ultimate Guide to Green Wednesday 2024 at The Source Craft Cannabis


Opening The Source Early on Green Wednesday at 8am!

As Thanksgiving approaches, cannabis enthusiasts have another reason to be grateful – Green Wednesday! Known as the cannabis industry's answer to Black Friday, this pre-Thanksgiving celebration on Wednesday, November 27th, 2024, is set to be an unforgettable event at The Source Craft Cannabis. We're serving up hot deals that will have you feeling extra thankful this holiday season, and we're opening our doors early at 8AM to help you kick off your holiday shopping!

Early Bird Deals Worth Waking Up For!

Early birds, this one's for you! The first 400 patients through our doors will receive an incredible opportunity to purchase select products for just ONE PENNY with a minimum purchase of $20. Yes, you read that right – $0.01! This doorbuster special is our way of saying "thank you" to our loyal community.

Green Wednesday 2024: Top Shelf Cannabis Products at Prices That Won't Break the Wallet

Cannabis dispensary promotional advertisement showing various deals and discounts, including sales on pre-packaged products, concentrates, and special offers for new customers. Features green and white color scheme with product images and pricing details.

Our Green Wednesday celebration features an array of amazing deals across our entire product line:

- Select pre-pack flower available in 3.5g, 7g, 14g, and 28g options at 20% off;

- All deli flower at 15% off for those who prefer to hand-select their buds;

- TSA Cannabidinoid Rich Gummies: Get 2 for $30;

- TSA 1g Carts: Grab 3 for $100;

- Special "In The Flow" Boutique Cannabis 7g pre-pack little specials for just $24.95;

- Leafology 1g concentrates: 2 for $45;

- Sweet treats and chocolate lovers rejoice with 15% off all candy and chocolate.

Exclusive Green Wednesday Giveaways

Patients who visit us on Green Wednesday will receive special edition Green Wednesday The Source Craft Cannabis giveaway merchandise! Merch giveaways are only while supplies last, so make sure you come see us early!

Giving Back to Our Veterans This Holidaze Season

In the spirit of giving thanks, Green Wednesday will be our special Tip Match day! All tips earned by our dedicated budtenders will be matched by The Source Craft Cannabis and donated to the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3031 in Rogers. Our budtenders keep their well-deserved tips while we double the impact for our local veterans!

A promotional banner for a 'Tip Match' fundraising event benefiting Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3031 in Rogers. The banner features green and gold colors, with the VFW emblem on the left and a 'The Source' logo on the right. The event is scheduled for Green Wednesday, November 27th. The design includes decorative cannabis leaf patterns along the top and bottom borders.

Can't make it on Green Wednesday? You can still help support our veterans! We're hosting a canned food drive benefiting the VFW Post 3031 through December 13th. Stop by any time during regular business hours to drop off your donations and help make the holidays brighter for our local veterans.

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3031 Rogers food drive poster listing needed donations including cereal, soup, pasta, and canned goods. Event runs November 13th to December 13th at The Source. Features VFW emblem and decorative canned food illustrations.

Important Notice About Returns

Due to the high volume of traffic expected on Green Wednesday, we will not be processing any returns on November 27th. If you experience any issues with products purchased during the event, please return to the store on a different day for assistance with returns

How to Prepare for Green Wednesday Cannabis Shopping

Mark your calendars and join us for this one-day-only event. Let's make this Green Wednesday a pre-Thanksgiving celebration to remember at The Source Craft Cannabis – where quality meets gratitude. For more information about our Green Wednesday deals, visit our website or follow us on social media for updates. See you on November 27th!

All deals valid while supplies last. Limits may apply. Must be 21+ with valid ARMMJ ID.

Promotional poster for Green Wednesday sale at The Source Dispensary featuring Art Nouveau-style design in green with decorative flourishes, cannabis leaf motifs, and 'Door Buster Deals' announcement. Event scheduled for November 27th with operating hours 8am-8pm, advertising giveaways in a vintage-inspired psychedelic font style

About The Source Cannabis Dispensary and Apothecary in Northwest Arkansas  

The Source Dispensary and Apothecary is a craft medical marijuana company located in Rogers, Arkansas, just off Exit 85 on Interstate 49. With its own boutique grow, lab, & kitchen, The Source produces & distributes its own unique products, while also stocking all of the highest quality products produced by the great cultivators of Arkansas. We value friendliness, education, quality, & inclusivity. The Source is a destination dispensary - all Arkansas MMJ cardholders welcome!



The Source Team

January 7, 2025

Cannabis and Women's Health: A Natural Approach to Wellness

Cannabis and Women's Health: A Natural Approach to Wellness


In recent years, the medical cannabis industry has seen a surge in interest from women seeking alternative treatments for various health issues. From menstrual cramps to breast cancer, cannabis is proving to be a versatile and effective option for many women. Let's explore how this ancient plant is revolutionizing women's health care.

Taming Those Monthly Cramps

We’ve all been there – curled up with a hot water bottle, wishing the cramps would just go away. Here's how cannabis might help:

  • Cannabis contains natural compounds like THC that have natural pain-fighting and anti-inflammatory properties.

  • Cannabinoids like CBD, CBG, and CBN have soothing properties and can help relax the muscles in your uterus, potentially easing those nasty cramps.

  • Some women may find relief by using cannabis-infused creams or oils directly on their lower belly.

Many women report feeling better after using cannabis for their period pain.

Easing Endometriosis Pain

Endometriosis can be a real pain – literally. This condition, where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside it, affects millions of women. Cannabis might offer some relief:

  • THC and other rare cannabinoids like CBD can help reduce the inflammation that often comes with endometriosis.

  • Cannabis has shown potential in slowing down the growth of the problematic tissue.

  • Recent research suggests that cannabis-derived compounds may benefit endometriosis sufferers by protecting the gut, reducing inflammation, and improving digestive function, which could help alleviate bloating - a common symptom of the condition. Moreover, these natural compounds have been found to dampen pain signals in the body, potentially offering a gentler alternative to traditional painkillers for managing endometriosis discomfort.

  • Many women with endometriosis say cannabis helps them manage pain and other symptoms like nausea and fatigue.

While it is not a cure, cannabis could be a helpful tool in managing endometriosis symptoms for some women.

Brightening the Baby Blues

Having a baby is amazing, but it can also be tough. Some new moms experience postpartum depression, which can really put a damper on what should be a joyful time. While more research is needed, some women are finding that cannabis helps:

  • CBD, a compound in cannabis that does not make you feel "high," has been found to help ease anxiety and lift mood.

  • Small amounts of THC (the part of cannabis that can make you feel "high") may help some women feel more relaxed and positive with its mood-enhancing properties.

  • Cannabis contains CBN, a sedating cannabinoid, which can help with sleep issues, a common issue for new moms.

Remember, it is always important to talk to your doctor about any symptoms of postpartum depression before trying any new treatments, especially if you are breastfeeding.

>>> Shop products with CBD and other alternative cannabinoids here.

Supporting Breast Cancer Patients

As we mentioned in our previous article, "The Healing Properties of Cannabis for Cancer Patients," cannabis is showing potential in supporting breast cancer treatment:

  • Some early research suggests that cannabinoids and terpenes in cannabis might slow down the growth of cancer cells.

  • Research shows that THC can help fight cancer by stopping cancer cells from multiplying and spreading, while also triggering these harmful cells to die off naturally. THC also works with the body's natural receptors to weaken cancer cells and may help cancer treatments such as chemotherapy to work better.

  • Many cancer patients may find that cannabis helps manage the side effects of treatments like chemotherapy, such as nausea and loss of appetite.

  • Cannabis may help improve overall quality of life for some patients during cancer treatments.

Supporting Hormonal Transitions: Perimenopause, Menopause, and Gender-Affirming Care

Hormonal changes can bring challenging symptoms, whether you're going through perimenopause, menopause, or gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT). Cannabis may offer relief for many common symptoms these transitions share:

Microdosing: Your Daily Wellness Ally

Consider incorporating cannabis microdosing into your daily routine:

  • A small dose of tincture can potentially help combat daytime fatigue

  • Topicals have shown potential to work wonders for joint, back, and hip pain

  • Ratio-balanced sleep gummies may help with nighttime rest

Pro tip: Join our loyalty program to save on your regular wellness purchases!

Sleep Issues

Having trouble sleeping? You're not alone. Cannabis, especially products with indica strains or CBN (another helpful compound found in cannabis), might help you get better rest. Many people find that a small dose before bedtime helps them fall asleep more easily and stay asleep longer.

Joint and Hip Pain

That new, unexplained aching in your joints and hips is common during hormonal transitions. Cannabis topicals, like Mary’s transdermal patches and infused creams, can target specific areas of discomfort, while edibles or tinctures might help with overall pain management throughout the day.

Sexual Health and Comfort

Changes in libido and pelvic discomfort are normal but frustrating symptoms. Consider these options:

  • Cannabis-infused lubricants and oils may help increase comfort and pleasure during intimacy;

  • Suppositories designed for vaginal use can be portioned out for microdosing;

  • Try suppositories for solo or partnered therapeutic massage to potentially help with cramps, pelvic pain, or low libido.

Looking for a CBD-only option? CBD & Me by Shake Extractions offers excellent CBD suppositories, available locally at Ozark Natural Foods in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

Body Changes

While cannabis can't prevent hormonal changes in your body, it might help ease some of the discomfort and anxiety that can come with these changes. CBD products, in particular, may help reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being during your transition.

The Power of Plant Smells

Cannabis isn't just about THC and CBD. The plant's unique smell comes from compounds called terpenes, which have their own health benefits:

  • Limonene, which smells like citrus, has shown potential cancer-fighting properties.

  • Linalool, with a lavender-like scent, helps reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

  • Beta-caryophyllene, often found in pepper, helps reduce inflammation in the body.

Choosing Your Cannabis

There are several ways to use cannabis, and the best method depends on what you are using it for:

  • Vaping or smoking: Quick relief, but the effects do not last as long.

NOTE: Due to the harmful nature of combustion, The Source does not support smoking and recommends vaporizing your cannabis instead.

  • Edibles or tinctures (drops): Takes longer to feel the effects, but they last longer.

  • Topicals (creams or oils): Great for targeted relief, like for cramps or endometriosis pain.

  • CBD-only products: For those who want the potential benefits without feeling "high."

Looking to the Future

Researchers are constantly learning more about how cannabis might help with women's health issues. Current studies are looking at how it might help with things like:

  • Hot flashes during menopause

  • Fertility issues

  • Other types of reproductive cancers

Remember, while cannabis shows promise in treating various women's health issues, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen. Everyone's endocannabinoid system is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another.

At The Source Dispensary and Apothecary, we are committed to helping women find the right cannabis products for their unique needs. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff can guide you through our selection of strains and products tailored to women's health concerns.

Embrace the healing power of nature and discover how cannabis can support your journey to wellness.

About The Source cannabis dispensary and Apothecary in Northwest Arkansas   

The Source Dispensary and Apothecary is a craft medical marijuana company located in Rogers, Arkansas, just off Exit 85 on Interstate 49. With its own boutique grow, lab, & kitchen, The Source produces & distributes its own unique products, while also stocking all of the highest quality products produced by the great cultivators of Arkansas. We value friendliness, education, quality, & inclusivity. The Source is a destination dispensary - all Arkansas MMJ cardholders welcome!

Resources:

Disclaimer: Marijuana is for use by qualified patients only. Keep out of reach of children. Marijuana use during pregnancy or breast feeding poses potential harms. Marijuana is not approved by the FDA to treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your physician for medical advice. Do not operate a motor vehicle or machinery under the influence of marijuana.




The Source Team

January 7, 2025

Understanding Your Arkansas Medical Cannabis Allotment: A Patient’s Guide

Understanding Your Arkansas Medical Cannabis Allotment: A Patient Guide


How much allotment do I have?

As a budtender, one of the most common questions we hear is, “How much allotment do I have open?” When you visit our dispensary, The Source Craft Cannabis in Rogers, we can see your current open allotment, but it’s important to understand what this means.

The allotment we see is like a snapshot – it shows the number of grams remaining on your account at that exact moment. We can see your purchase history from our dispensary, but we don’t have access to information about purchases you’ve made elsewhere.

This means we can tell how many grams you’re currently allowed to purchase and what you’ve bought from us, but we can’t provide a complete picture of your cannabis purchases across all dispensaries or precisely when your full allotment will refresh.

Arkansas Medical Cannabis Purchase Limits

The state of Arkansas allows licensed medical cannabis cardholders to purchase up to 2.5 ounces (70.874 grams to be exact) every 14 days.  This operates on a rolling basis, with your allotment updating nightly at midnight.  

Example:

  • If you purchase 10 grams on August 1st, it’s deducted from your 70-gram allotment.  

  • Those 10 grams become available again on August 15th, 14 days after the initial purchase.

The Online Allotment Tracker

Many patients are unaware that there’s an online tool available to help track your allotment. You can find this helpful resource on the same site where medical card applications and renewals are processed: mmj.adh.arkansas.gov

Here’s how to access and use the tracker:

  • Log in with your valid credentials on the website.

Login page for the Arkansas Medical Marijuana System. The page displays the state seal, system title, and a login form with fields for email and password. There are also options for registration and password reset.

  • Navigate to the green battery icon in the upper right corner.

Dashboard of the Arkansas Medical Marijuana System after login. The page shows a welcome message, navigation options, and a table of patient applications with their status and expiration dates. A green arrow points to a battery icon in the top right corner.

  • Click on the green battery icon to see a pop-up of your basic allotment balance.

Limit Meter pop-up window showing the patient's remaining cannabis allotment. A green progress bar indicates 87% of the allotment is left, with 61.550 grams available out of 70.874 grams total. A 'Sales history' button is visible.

  • Click on the sales history button to view a breakdown of all your transactions over the last 14 days.

Limit Meter pop-up window, identical to Image 3, with the 'Sales history' button circled in red to highlight its location.

This tool allows you to forecast your allotment and plan your cannabis purchases accordingly.

Interesting Insight from the ARMMJ Allotment Tracker

Using this tracker, you can learn some interesting details about the medical cannabis program in Arkansas. You’ll notice that different products affect your allotment in various ways. While flower is deducted gram for gram, other products like cartridges, concentrates, topicals, and edibles use up much less of your allotment.  A ten-pack of 80mg gummies, for example, only uses 0.800 grams of your allotment.  

Pro Tip for Maximizing Your Allotment

Here at The Source, we specialize in deli-style flower. This means if you only have a small amount of allotment left – say 1.75 grams – we can help you make the most of it. We’ll gladly weigh out exactly what you need to maximize your remaining allotment.

Remember, staying informed about your allotment helps you make the most of your medical cannabis experience. Use these tools to your advantage and don’t hesitate to ask us questions.

Happy toking!

About The Source Craft Cannabis Dispensary and Apothecary in Northwest Arkansas  

The Source Dispensary and Apothecary is a craft medical marijuana company located in Rogers, Arkansas, just off Exit 85 on Interstate 49. With its own boutique grow, lab, & kitchen, The Source produces & distributes its own unique products, while also stocking all of the highest quality products produced by the great cultivators of Arkansas. We value friendliness, education, quality, & inclusivity. The Source is a destination dispensary - all Arkansas MMJ cardholders welcome!


The Source Team

January 7, 2025

5 Years of Craft Cannabis in Arkansas at The Source

5 Years of Craft Cannabis in Arkansas at The Source


From humble beginnings to a state-of-the-art cannabis destination, The Source has been on an incredible journey over the past five years. As we celebrate this milestone, let's take a moment to look back at where we started and how far we've come.

Born from Local Roots

On August 15, 2019, a group of passionate local Arkansans opened the doors to The Source in Bentonville. Our first home? A modest building that once housed a liquor store. With just three registers and a dream, we set out to serve the burgeoning medical marijuana community in Arkansas.

Side view of The Source's Bentonville location from Walton Rd. The building features a striking geometric mural in shades of green and yellow. A stone-faced entrance with The Source's logo on the door is visible, along with part of the 'Living Wall' plant display on the right.

‍Growth

As the state's medical marijuana program flourished, so did we. Even in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, The Source adapted and expanded. We grew from our initial three registers to a more comprehensive setup:  

  • Four dedicated in-store budtending stations;

  • One station for filling online orders;

  • Two pick-up registers for online orders.

We also renovated our old sales floor, transforming it into a welcoming lobby for our patients.

Exterior view of The Source's new state-of-the-art facility in Rogers, AR. The modern building features a striking white angular facade with colorful square accents, large windows, and The Source logo on top. The entrance is surrounded by a landscaped area with yellow flowers and young trees. A spacious parking lot is visible in the foreground. This multi-purpose facility houses the dispensary, grow operation, lab, kitchen, and Headwaters Provisions lifestyle store.

‍A New Chapter

After three years of steady growth in our original location, it became clear that we had outgrown our humble beginnings. In response, we embarked on an ambitious project: building a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility. This new home for The Source isn't just a dispensary – it's a complete cannabis ecosystem under one roof, featuring:

  • A cutting-edge dispensary;

  • An on-site grow facility;

  • A specialized lab;

  • A kitchen for creating infused products, and

This expansion represents not just our growth as a business, but our commitment to providing a comprehensive, high-quality experience for our patients and customers.

As we look back on these five years, we're filled with gratitude for the community that has supported us and pride in how far we've come. From a small, three-register operation to a multi-faceted cannabis destination, The Source has truly blossomed.

Expanding Our Offerings

At the heart of The Source's growth is our commitment to providing top-quality cannabis products. Our journey in product development has been marked by strategic partnerships and innovative in-house creations.

Boutique Grow Operation and Small-batch Extracts

We're proud of our partnership with In The Flow, a renowned cultivator from Boulder, CO. This collaboration has allowed us to bring premium genetics, like Chemmy Jones, Donny Burger, and Lemon Skunk, to Arkansas, elevating the quality and variety of our flower offerings.

Full-Spectrum Extracts

We've recently launched our own line of The Source In The Flow full spectrum vape cartridges, starting with two popular strains: Danky Kong and Glue. This is just the beginning – we have exciting plans to expand this line to include more of our In The Flow genetics.  

Keifin' it Real at The Source

Additionally, we've introduced our specialty kief products: an indica kief blend crafted from a collection of all ITF indica strains, and a sativa kief blend made from all ITF sativa strains.

Product mockup of In The Flow kief by The Source. Side-by-side comparison of Indica (blue packaging) and Sativa (red packaging) kief products. Each image shows a branded package, an open container of kief, and The Source's logo patch. The products highlight the collaboration between In The Flow and The Source.

To round out our offerings, we're in the process of developing both cured concentrates and live concentrates using our premium boutique flower. These additions will significantly diversify our product range, providing our patients with an even wider selection of high-quality cannabis options.

The Source Apothecary Artisanal Quality Cannabis

Product lineup of The Source Apothecary's signature cannabis-infused gummies. Eight colorful packages showcase various flavors: Watermelon, Blackberry, Mango, Strawberry Colada, Razzle Dazzle Lemonade, Green Apple, Pink Lemonade, and Pineapple. Each package features vibrant fruit imagery and indicates whether it's Indica, Sativa, or Hybrid. The centrally placed Strawberry Colada and Razzle Dazzle Lemonade packages are highlighted as the newest additions to the line.

Cannabinoid Rich Gummies

As we continued to innovate, we created our own brand of gummies called The Source Apothecary. What started with classic THC-infused gummies has grown into a diverse line incorporating rare cannabinoids like CBD, CBG, and CBN.  

Product lineup of The Source Apothecary's Cannabinoid Rich Gummy line. Four colorful packages showcase different flavors and formulas: Blueberry Pancakes (CBG Rich), Key Lime Cake (Cannabinoid Rich), Passionfruit Re-Pear (CBD Rich), and Peach Cobbler (CBN Rich). Each package features vibrant fruit imagery and indicates its specific cannabinoid focus along with THC content. All products are labeled as cannabis-infused edibles with 100mg THC per bag and 10mg THC per dose.

Island Time Gummies

Inspired by our brand ambassador and Hypnotion lead singer, Rochelle Bradshaw, we developed Island Time Cannabinoid Rich gummies. These tropical-flavored edibles pay homage to Rochelle's Jamaican roots, offering a unique and flavorful cannabis experience. Each gummy is a taste of the Caribbean, featuring a blend of guava, mango, banana, pineapple, and coconut flavors.

Product packaging for 'Island Time' by The Source Apothecary. The package features a vibrant tropical sunset scene with palm trees and a hammock. The design includes 'The Source Apothecary' in stylized text, and 'Island Time' prominently displayed. It's labeled as 'Cannabinoid Rich Infused Gummies' containing THC, CBD, and CBG, inspired by Rochelle Bradshaw. The product is described as 'Artisan Quality' and is 'Powered by BOLD Cannabis’.

But Island Time isn't just about great taste – these gummies are crafted for a well-rounded effect. They're infused with a carefully balanced combination of THC, CBD, and CBG. To further enhance the experience, we've incorporated a special terpene blend featuring humulene, limonene, caryophyllene, and myrcene. This thoughtful formulation aims to provide a holistic and enjoyable cannabis experience that captures the essence of island relaxation.

The Future of The Source Apothecary

We're excited about the upcoming launch of The Source Apothecary botanical vape cartridges. This new line will innovate on our original formula, enhancing distillate and botanical terpenes with cannabis-derived terpenes for an elevated user experience.

In a significant move for our brand, The Source Apothecary is going wholesale, allowing us to serve more of the Arkansas medical cannabis community by selling to other dispensaries across the state.

To learn more about our craft cannabis brand, visit The Source Apothecary.

A Destination Dispensary

From our partnerships with established brands to our own innovative creations, The Source continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in Arkansas's cannabis market. Our goal remains constant: to provide our patients with the highest quality, most diverse range of cannabis products available.

Celebrating with Our Patients

As we mark this incredible 5-year milestone, we want to share our celebration with the community that has supported us throughout this journey. Starting Friday, August 9th, we're offering a special anniversary promotion:

Patients can receive $5 off their order by showing us their 5-star written Google review of The Source. If you've already left us a Google review, don't worry – you can still participate by leaving a review on Yelp instead. Simply show your new review to one of our budtenders at checkout to receive your discount.

This is our way of saying thank you for your support and for being a part of The Source family. Your feedback and loyalty have been instrumental in our growth, and we're excited to continue serving you for many years to come.

We look forward to seeing your reviews and to celebrating this milestone with all of you. Here's to five years of craft cannabis in Arkansas, and to many more ahead! We are always growing, always evolving, but no matter what -




The Source Team

January 7, 2025

Roots and Reefer Episode 1: The First Patient with Jeremy Hodges

Roots and Reefer Episode 1: The First Patient with Jeremy Hodges


The First Medical Cannabis Patient of The Source Tells His Story


On this episode of Roots & Reefer... "I got there I think around 6:15 or 6:30 in the morning, it was so dark. I brought a chair with me, I was
camping out basically by the front door..." we are interviewing Jeremy Hodges, Patient #1.

This is Roots & Reefer, your source for education, inspiration, and destigmatization.

I'm Wendy Love Edge, and I am Rochelle Bradshaw.

Joining us now is Jeremy Hodges, patient #1.

Hodges grew up in eastern Arkansas and has lived in Fayetteville for 25 years. Previously a financial aid counselor at the U of A, he has a bachelor's degree from the same institution in communications and a great voice. He also has a certificate in cannabis science and operations from St. Louis University.


Welcome to the show Hodges, thank you so much.

Thank you for having me. It's an honor to be here today.

Thank you for being here, Hodges.

So why cannabis? Why are you in this industry?

Well, I started using cannabis at around 18 when I first went to college for the first time. I avoided it during high school just because my parents were kind of crazy and whatnot. And I didn't like that lifestyle. When I was away from home, someone offered a joint. I remember it was rolled in graph paper and that was fall of 1990, and it was the first time. It just really did something for me. We all struggle with things, and I've had a lot of you know, mood issues and whatnot, and cannabis makes me happy. You know, I can be a grumpy boy sometimes and cannabis just invariably brings me back around and you know, elevates my mood puts a smile on my face.

Oh, wow, that's fabulous. So you are patient number one... How did that happen?


Well, I voted in November of 2016 to legalize medical cannabis in the state. I was a proud voter. And I've always been pretty civically engaged. And, you know, as a lifelong cannabis connoisseur, I was just really excited to see it come into the state. I followed it closely, you know, just reading news and the internet and everything. And about 10 days before The Source grand opening, one of our competitors opened up out in the woods. And I went early to that too. 


I just want to see what it was going to be like, and it was a big crowd there. And I decided, you know, when I heard The Source was going to open in August, whatever day that was 13th, maybe of 2019. I decided I want to be the first person there. Because you know, that's just something to do in life. You want to be the first at something so I got there, I think around 6:15 or 6:30 in the morning, it was still dark, and I brought a chair with me, camping out, basically, by the front door. No one came for the longest time, but the news crews came in, they all wanted to interview me on camera, but I wasn't down with that. Because at the time I worked for the U of A and I didn't want to broadcast my cannabis consumption.

You heard it here, guys. Patient number one, interview number one.

Now that was in Bentonville, right, correct. And I heard a rumor that you also kind of closed that place?

Last July, when we had to shut the store down for a couple of days as we moved to our new facility in Rogers. I worked the last closing shift that night, so that was just kind of thrilling to have been there when it first opened and there when the door locked for the final time. So that was just kind of a full circle type thing. You know, it's just it's just amazing. This journey I've been on.

Yeah, I mean to tie this together for everyone who doesn't realize it...

Hodges also now works for The Source. So he was patient number one, then he became a budtender.


And that's a major life change! Yeah, I would think of it as a big adjustment. It's been quite a change, you know. I've questioned things at times, but looking now, there's been a lot of great changes here recently at The Source, and I'm just really excited about that. But that was one thing I mentioned on my cover letter for my application back then, was that I was you know, the first patient. I think that helped me get put in another pile to follow up on. It's pretty cool.


So have you been to dispensaries in other states?

It was a few months before our Medical program actually rolled out here. It was March of 2019. I went with my family to Las Vegas. I went to Planet 13 out there, and that was my first ever visit to a legal dispensary. And when I got through the door and got checked in, 

I just got down and kissed the ground.

After using for all that time for your own health, right?

To be able to do it legally without fear of legal repercussions or anything was amazing. Because you know so many years you had when you traveled you have to put it in a certain spot. You know I won't go there but… you could never be too careful and too safe. I still have my ticket stub from when I got checked into Planet 13. I still have a couple of empty containers from my first purchase at The Source actually. We actually got some solventless rosin back then from Natural State Medicinals.

You know out of all of the cultivators prior to The Source launching In The Flow, I would say that Natural State Medicinals has consistently been one of my favorites.

I agree as far, as the big boys especially, I think they're consistently one of the best. I think they take it more seriously from a medicinal standpoint


I'm glad you brought up In The Flow! So Hodges, we both work at The Source, and we've been enjoying some delightful craft cannabis lately. Do you agree? 

I was wanting to know, what is your favorite In The Flow strain?

It’s so hard to pick, but I have to say that my favorite is Danky Kong. It just really helps with anxiety for me because I am quite anxious, you know? Well, thanks to cannabis, I've come off of medications for anxiety over the last five years or so. Danky Kong just really helps me with anxiety, it takes away a lot of the tension in my upper shoulders and whatnot. It just kind of melts away. And just once again, it's just mood elevation like no other.

I say Danky Kong is followed closely by Donny Burger and Chemmy Jones.


What about Wavelength Extracts?

I would have to say Purple Punch is my favorite. I love the flower by whoever. But the Wavelength Purple Punch makes me giggly. And I have trouble laughing a lot. You know, I'll get a chuckle once in a while, but I don’t always get a full belly laugh. And Purple Punch Helps with that. 

A product image of a cannabis vape cartridge with a purple W and the words Purple Punch Wavelength extracts on a white background

Is there anything else in the cannabis world that you're really passionate about? 

There's a lot of things I'm passionate about and yes, in the cannabis world. One thing in particular stood out when I did my studies at St. Louis University for my cannabis certificate. I had to do a capstone project. And I did that on the importance of social equity in the medical cannabis industry, in the whole state or in the whole country, and particularly in Missouri and Arkansas. (Missouri, because that's where St. Louis University is, of course.)

It's not a fun topic necessarily for most folks, but it's very important. When cannabis was prohibited 1937, prior to that, it was the immigration of Mexican folks fleeing civil war in Mexico around the turn of the 20th century. They brought with them the custom of smoking cannabis recreationally.


And so it was black people and brown people, black folks in New Orleans and other places, who popularized cannabis use recreationally. Black and brown communities carry the torch for familiarizing American culture with cannabis, and they paid for them they paid the price disproportionately for that. It's important that when states legalize, they make a habit of ensuring that there is some social equity. 

I think it's important for cannabis users just to be aware of the history of the plant in our American society. 

You know, how, why was it illegal? What were the reasons behind all that? It's all about power and money and control. So it's just interesting to see you know, and I never thought I would see the day when we're sitting here with legal cannabis on the table! It still just blows my mind.


I get paid to go do this too.

Crazy. I have a friend who's over 70 now and she'll say, “Well, this is great, but I kind of miss that feeling of it being illegal!” It's just the bad girl in me that is kind of disappointed.

My wife doesn't really consume much, but I wonder if that was one of some of my appeal to her - the bad boy in me, because I was a heavy cannabis user.

So Hodges, what is your hope for where we are going in the state for the cannabis industry? 

Our state is so unique, because we're limited to the eight cultivators. And it's just that there's such limited competition in our state that the market has been so slow to mature compared to other markets. You know, Oklahoma has been around about the same amount of time, but their market has matured more due to competition. It's just it's amazing how that drives down prices.


I hope we can continue to see compassionate care programs grow, anything that we can do to help the patients out. I want the industry to continue to grow to be more patient-centered, where we can help them get the medication they need at a price that they can afford. 


It helps for patients to know the science behind the products. We can take deep dives with new patients sometimes and talk about our endocannabinoid system and how our body interacts with terpenes and cannabinoids. I think it's important to have an educated patient base, so they know what they're getting.

If patients journal and take notes, then they can learn about how they react to different terpenes. Oh, maybe linalool isn't working for you, maybe it just knocks you out all the time. If you’re taking notes, then you will know to avoid that. So I just want to help patients get something for a fair price and help them understand the science and the rationale of why things work the way they do. 


I was going to ask you for a “bud tip,” or a budtender tip? 

But you just mentioned getting more knowledgeable about the terpenes and what they are doing for you. But do you have any more tips? 


When you come to The Source, ask us what is the best deal, because I'm there to help you find the best value that you can possibly get for your money. And if you want to spend $22.50 on 4.2 grams of whatever, I want to help you stretch that dollar. Lean on me. I'll break all of the little stems out and get you the best bang for the buck. 

And you know why you're able to break the stems out? Because we're deli style! 

Yes, only deli style dispensary in Northwest Arkansas.

It makes me want to kiss the floor! It's just amazing being able to look at the buds and smell them, because it's a plant. So we are attracted to different things by looking at the plant and by smelling it. 

Well, yeah, that's the whole aromatherapy industry, which is a billion dollar industry or something like that, I don't know. But that's all based on the same terpenes. It's how our bodies react to smells. And certainly, if I can't have a preview smell of that cannabis, I don't really want to try it. Because I'm really picky. I like dank, cheesy, funky, skunky smelling stuff. I don't really like gassy things and diesel type things. They don't appeal to me. And if I'm not using deli style, I usually can't figure that out. 

A large jar of cannabis in a deli jar is being dumped into a blue, gloved hand

Explain, what is deli style?

So a lot of stores sell prepackaged flower. You know it might be a gram, it might be an eighth a quarter, whatever, but a lot of times it's in a pouch, a mylar pouch that you may or may not be able to see through. We're not allowed to open certain things depending on how they're sealed or whatnot. But there are some that come in jars too.


But deli style is just like the deli at the grocery store. We have a big jar that holds about a pound of cannabis flower in it. We've got a big scale there, like you'd find at a deli, you know, where they slice your meat. And we got tongs, and we take out the buds and we put them in a little canister that's been tared out on that scale, and we can weigh it out. 


The minimum purchase you can do is one gram, but after that your limit is just your allotment or your wallet. We're not beholden to the traditional eight, quarter, whatever. We can do $40 worth of something or whatever it may be, we're happy to do that. 


Also, just because let's face it, the medicine is expensive, right? So if you're not sure if it's going to work for you, you can just buy a gram and try it out. And then you can go back and make a larger purchase. I think that's really important, especially in this current economy, and people are struggling, you know, so we don't want to waste money on something that's not going to work for you. 


Exactly. And there are plenty of folks that will come in and they'll literally buy, you know, 10 one gram samples. It's a little time consuming, but we're happy to do it. Because we know that at the end of the day, the goal of this is for you to find what is going to work for you. And we're happy to do whatever we can to accommodate that. 

So are you happy with your job change? Do you like being behind the counter? 

Yes, I do. I'm a helper, that's what I've been called in life to do, is to assist people. To help them with whatever that may be needed. I used to be in Financial Aid, where I'd have to tell people all about the federal law that governs everything. Why they could or could not have a grant or a loan or whatever it may be. 


And now I'm just here to help guide you through this cannabis journey. You know, I'll tell you as much or as little as you want to know. I will talk to you for an hour if you want to have a deep dive, or you know, I'll get you in just a moment. I haven't worked in a retail setting in about 25 years, so that's been a real change. But it's exciting. I love it. It keeps me a little youthful, except for being on your feet all the time and when your dogs are barking.


So, yeah, I think there's hopefully going to be more opportunities at The Source. We’ve had some exciting things going on lately. New opportunities seem to be presenting themselves as we speak. So, you know, hopefully there'll be an opportunity to do some more things too. 


I can see why you're so passionate about the source. 

Yes. Thank you. It's a pretty cool place to work.

Thank you for making the switch. Thank you to the U of A for letting him go. 

Well, this has been a great conversation. Thank you so much for joining us. 

It's been an absolute honor. I feel really privileged to be here with you all. So thank you so much for including me. 

May The Source be with you!

Listen to the full episode for an awesome strain review of Chemmy Jones! [Spoiler alert: Chemmy Jones gets all 10s in her review!] Read more about Chemmy Jones here!

A large nugget of cannabis flower sits on a circular bamboo top and is surrounded by green foliage.

Chemmy Jones by In The Flow is grown exclusively in Arkansas by The Source Cannabis dispensary and grow in Rogers, Arkansas.


Roots & Reefer is an industry-shifting cannabis podcast, educational platform, & lifestyle brand. Our mission is to educate the public about the benefits & joys of cannabis, ultimately destigmatizing medical marijuana use & making it less taboo & easier for people to talk about. Visit the Roots and Reefer website to learn more!






The Source Team

January 7, 2025

HIGH AS A KITE: Celebrating PRIDE and Cannabis

HIGH AS A KITE: Celebrating PRIDE and Cannabis


What is PRIDE Month?


The month of June has come to be known as PRIDE Month and is a celebration for the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies. The LGBTQIA+ community celebrates PRIDE Month in June in honor of the Stonewall Uprising, an
event that occurred in New York City on June 28th, 1969, where police raided a gay club called the Stonewall Inn, resulting in a riot among bar patrons and neighborhood residents. The Stonewall Uprising was a turning point for the LGBTQIA+ activist movement and sparked the Gay Rights Movement in the United States, with the first PRIDE parade being a march held by gay rights activists on the one-year anniversary of the Stonewall Riots.

The History of Cannabis and the LGBTQIA+ Community

The LGBTQIA+ and cannabis communities have been intertwined for many decades. When it comes to cannabis, the LGBTQ community is a fundamental component of the cannabis movement for cannabis accessibility today. When the AIDS epidemic hit in the 1980s, the majority of people disproportionately affected were gay men, part of the LGBTQ community. The AIDS epidemic played an integral part in the advancement of medical marijuana use. 


When members of the queer community began dying from HIV/AIDS, America’s healthcare system and politicians did little to help offer medical services. Without the care of medical professionals and a lack of treatment options, cannabis use in the LGBTQ community became a leading method for terminally ill patients suffering from wasting syndrome to find relief from their symptoms, making the queer community a strong ally to the cannabis movement. 

Dennis Peron: A gay man's effort for social equity and cannabis accessibility.

During this time, many activists advocated for both HIV/AIDS patients and cannabis. One person who played an essential role in the 80s and 90s was Dennis Peron, an LGBTQ community member, activist, and early medical marijuana advocate. Dennis Peron began advocating to legalize medical marijuana in San Francisco with Proposition P, an initiative demanding the city legalize medical cannabis. In 1991, the proposition passed, allowing for legal cannabis use and medical cannabis possession. 


Over the years, Dennis Peron continued his strong support for cannabis legalization, starting the San Francisco Cannabis Buyers Club, the first public medical dispensary in the United States to help HIV/AIDS patients access medical cannabis. In California, he helped write the first state-wide medical marijuana bill proposing legal access to cannabis. This law, known as California's Compassionate Use Act, became law in 1996, making California the first state to have a legal cannabis industry.

Brownie Mary: the queer-friendly cannabis edibles maker.

Another popular advocate for the LGBT community and medical marijuana and recreational cannabis use movement during the era of the HIV/AIDS epidemic was Mary Jane Rathbun, a waitress who made a side business selling cannabis-infused brownies to the LGBTQ community. After having been arrested multiple times for cannabis possession within a two-year time span, Brownie Mary was sentenced to community service instead of jail time, which brought her to a nonprofit supporting those impacted by AIDS. By 1984, Mary was baking almost 600 cannabis-infused brownies a day for terminally ill patients in need after seeing the many positive benefits of using cannabis in conjunction with HIV/AIDS.


Through the efforts of many LGBTQ people and their active allies like Dennis Peron and Brownie Mary, for cannabis legalization, the cannabis industry today has grown significantly, taking a massive step forward in the social acceptance of medical marijuana and recreational cannabis, and is making an impact on more and more people each day. 

Cannabis and LGBTQIA+ Health and Wellness

Healthcare has become an important issue facing the queer community, with those in the community encountering many challenges due to their sexual orientation and/or gender identity. Many in the LGBTQIA+ community struggle with financial stability and finding equal access to healthcare, as many medical providers pass judgment or refuse to treat them. 


Besides the health-related challenges of HIV/AIDS, many in the LGBTQIA+ community also struggle with gender reconfirmation care, addiction, and mental health issues. With the medical community lacking in its assistance, queer people have been able to find relief from symptoms of pain, depression, anxiety, and more through cannabis use.


As a strong ally of the LGBTQIA+ community, The Source endeavors to help those in the queer community with whatever health-related challenges occur in their lives by providing access to affordable, quality medical cannabis.

Cannabis and LGBTQIA+ Representation

Today, the cannabis and LGBTQIA+ communities continue to advocate for each other by supporting one another’s fight for the destigmatization of queer and cannabis culture, LGBTQIA+ rights, cannabis legalization, and the further decriminalization of cannabis-related offenses. Many cultivations and dispensaries in the cannabis industry are LGBTQIA+ friendly. 


Here at The Source, we value the inclusion of queer culture and are proud of the LGBTQIA+ representation of many of our team members. This year, we’ve shown our support for the queer community in numerous ways, from developing PRIDE-themed cannabis products, donating to the Trevor Project (a nonprofit organization focused on suicide prevention of LGBTQIA+ youth), and participating in the Fayetteville PRIDE event on June 24th.

LGBTQIA+ Inclusivity and Cannabis

Budtender Feature: Max Cram

This year, The Source cannabis dispensary chooses to celebrate PRIDE month with a highlight of one of its longtime employees and the mastermind behind this year’s PRIDE campaign slogan, “High As A Kite,” Max Cram.


Born in Harrison, Arkansas, Max Cram has lived in the Natural State his whole life. 

Cannabis has played a major role in Max’s life, drastically changing it for the better. When Max was 12 years old, he was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. Since his diagnosis, Max has endured many complications, including nerve damage from living with the fluctuations in his blood sugar levels. Along with dealing with the symptoms of three autoimmune diseases and ADHD, Max has been able to find relief using cannabis from many of the symptoms he’s experienced to the point where he is able to function again. His experience with cannabis has changed his perspective, and he is now completely interested in the exploration of plant medicine. 


Max joined the cannabis industry because of his interest in the positive benefits of cannabis. Having been with the company since its doors first opened almost 4 years ago, Max started at The Source go as a budtender before moving to the role of trainer and now keyholder. 


According to Max, cannabis has benefited him in many aspects while also bringing him together with like-minded individuals. When asked about his favorite part of working for The Source, Max responded, “getting to meet all of the people I’ve worked with and helped with as patients.”

“Everybody’s body is different; we don’t all have the same effects from the same products and dosages.”
—Max Cram


If you are new to cannabis, here is one piece of advice Max would give you: “...to gather as much information as you can, ask questions, and be patient with the results as you need to try different consumption methods and dosing. Everybody’s body is different; we don’t all have the same effects from the same products and dosages.”


When it comes to Max’s favorite cannabis products, he says it’s a toss-up between ArkanRAW (a dabbable syringe of concentrated raw full-spectrum cannabis oil) and flower, with his preferred consumption method being joints or blunts. The cannabis strain Max would smoke if he could only smoke one for the rest of his life? Purple Punch because of the “sweet doughy flavor.” He says, “Regardless of the THC percentage, the effects always provide full-body pain relief and relaxation” while also helping with appetite stimulation.


Max is also the brilliant mind behind The Source’s 2023 PRIDE campaign, “High As A Kite.” Of the slogan, Max said he came up with it while he was high (duh). After thinking about the past year and how the LGBTQIA+ community has been dealing with so much negativity, he wanted people to know about the many prideful people in our community since the community is a big part of The Source's values. According to Max, “Fly your pride as high as a kite.”

Resources:



The Source Team

January 7, 2025

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