Evolve

2312 E. Michigan Ave., Lansing Hours: M-Sat 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

Posted

Like a fortress of solitude, Evolve Medical Marijuana Services is located on Michigan Avenue between Lansing Art Glass and Alternative Choice Clinic on Lansing’s east side. Parking is available on the street in front and also in the back of this business. I paid a visit on a recent Thursday around 5:30 p.m. and attempted to enter through the front door next to Evolve’s neon "Open" sign. But the entrance was locked and all of the windows and doors were covered with what looked like contact paper. I knocked without response, then walked to the back entrance and spotted a door with a roof awning labeled “Entrance.” When I knocked at this locked door, I was greeted with a muffled, “Yeah?” When I explained I was trying to find the entrance, I was directed back to the front door. An employee opened the door a smidge and checked my identification. He then asked for my state medical marijuana registry card, which I don’t have yet because of the state’s backlog. Patients are supposed to take their application copies with completed certifications and proof of payment as legitimate documents to demonstrate program eligibility. 

The employee indicated the application had to be “stamped” by the state Department of Community Health in order to be valid. One would only possess a stamped application copy if one hand-carried paperwork to the state office and requested a copy. I tried to argue this point, but the employee was unflappable. I was able to crane my neck to see that there was a lobby and service counter with medicines. Reportedly, this business sells medicine, medibles and clones. 

I tried to follow-up by telephone and discovered the number listed in City Pulse’s online directory was not working. I paid a second visit to Evolve at 7 p.m. on a Monday and found the business closed with the lights and the neon sign turned off. I knocked loudly to no response. There was a 3-1-3 area code number on a help wanted sign in the window. I called and spoke with the proprietor, who informed me that Evolve only accepts valid cards and applications that are stamped. When I indicated this would only cover individuals who applied in person to the state registry, he confirmed this was their policy. I asked about business hours and he indicated they were open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Saturday. I stated they were closed at the time of my visit and he indicated they must have been open. I told him I was standing outside the business and they were definitely closed, to which he replied: “They should be open.”

While other dispensaries in town have a well-organized staff and operation, Evolve looks like it needs more time to … evolve.

Comments

No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here




Connect with us