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Steve Shapiro of Superior Organics
Steve Shapiro was inspired to get into the medical marijuana business when his close friend died. His friend actually died cancer free but the the fight to cure the cancer is what ended his life. The complications from the treatments weakened his body and eventually he could not fight anymore. As the legalization of medical marijuana was approved throughout the country, Shapiro began investigating how he could operate a dispensary in Arizona.
When Arizona legalized the sale of medical marijuana he began the process to enter the lottery to open a dispensary. That required him to select places that he would like to be considered to open a dispensary and the state selected the locations where each dispensary could open at based on the regulations within the law.
Superior Organics
He was pleased to have received Superior as the location for his dispensary. “Superior is a great town. It’s the best kept secret in the state of Arizona. We have enjoyed becoming part of the community,” he said.
Currently the dispensary has a staff of four employees that are from Superior, Kearny and San Tan Valley. All of the employees are well versed on the subject of medical marijuana and can answer any questions that may arise. “I like to call this “weeducation,”” explained Shapiro.
The dispensary has been open for about three years and they can fill the prescriptions that have been written by a medical doctor. The dispensary also has a medical doctor who will visit to meet with patients and potential patients. They also sell a variety of smoking devices, lighters, medicinal salves, t-shirts, and books that you do not need a medical marijuana card to purchase. Superior Organics has a variety of medical marijuana strains along with edible products. There is a variety of edible marijuana products from cookies and brownies, salad dressings, candies, granola and other edible goods.
Superior Organics also grows their own strain, at a grow location in Phoenix. They also bake their own edibles, Shapiro explained. “We are focussed on making items that are vegan and gluten free as well, he said. “Many of our patients don’t need the extra sugars and preservatives so we strive to make things as natural as possible.” Shapiro also explained that many patients who use medical marijuana are able to get off of their other prescriptions.
His advice to his fellow entrepreneurs and future business owners: “Get involved with the community you have a business in. I appreciate the work of local groups like the Chamber and Optimist,” he said.
The “In Your Biz” column is sponsored weekly by the Superior Chamber of Commerce in an effort to further promote their business members. To learn more about the Superior Chamber of Commerce you can visit their website www.superiorarizonachamber.org or call them at 520-689-0200. The Chamber meets the third Wednesday of every month at their building 165 Main St. in Superior, Arizona. Those planning on attending the Chamber luncheons do need to RSVP prior to the meeting, please call Deb McKee to RSVP at 520-827-1773.
Article compiled by Mila Besich-Lira for Superior Sun – Copper Area News Publishers.
Mila Besich is a resident of Superior with two children. She volunteers for many local organizations. She is an experienced fundraiser and event planner for Copper Corridor Economic Development Coalition. She covers some of the area town councils and schools.
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