Dec. 2022 - Alaska Leaf

Marijuana has intoxicating effects and may be habit-forming and addictive. Marijuana impairs concentration, coordination, and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under its influence. There are health risks associated with the consumption of marijuana. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of the reach of children. Marijuana should not be used by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. #10008

Great Northern Manufacturing Pure Plant • Great Northern Cannabis

WES ABNEY CEO & FOUNDER wes@leafmagazines.com

MIKE RICKER OPERATING PARTNER + AD SALES ricker@leafmagazines.com

TOM BOWERS CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER tom@leafmagazines.com

DANIEL BERMAN CREATIVE DIRECTOR daniel@leafmagazines.com

O'HARA SHIPE CONTENT DIRECTOR + WEB ohara@leafmagazines.com

MEGHAN RIDLEY COPY EDITOR meghan@leafmagazines.com

THE ENLIGHTENED VOICE

ABOUT THE COVER

As Cannabis edibles continue to emerge as one of the industry’s fastest growing markets, Leaf Nation sought to showcase how that acceptance and embrace could yield a new twist on the holiday party scene. Our heads dancing with visions of Norman Rockwell and other nostalgic artists, Creative Director Daniel Berman worked with Brooklyn-based illustrator Kiki Kita to bring the concept to life.

Kita grew up in Nagoya, Japan and Dallas, Texas, and counts Smithsonian Magazine and Hilton among her diverse clientele.

Kita’s work has also been recognized by the prestigious American Illustration competition and the Society of Illustrators of Los Angeles.

KIKI KITA for LEAF NATION FOLLOW @_KITAKIKI

CONTRIBUTORS

OSCAR AVELLANEDA-CRUZ, PHOTOS

DANIEL BERMAN, PHOTOS

BOBBY BLACK, DESIGN + FEATURES

JOSHUA BOULET, ILLUSTRATION

TOM BOWERS, FEATURES

EARLY, PRODUCTION

STEVE ELLIOTT, NATIONAL NEWS

MATT JACKSON, FEATURES

KIKI KITA, ILLUSTRATION

MIKE RICKER, FE ATURES

MEGHAN RIDLEY, EDITING

Editor’s Note WES ABNEY

Thanks for picking up the Edibles Issue of the Leaf!

The holidays are here and there’s no better time to fill up on tasty treats that will put a real sparkle in the Christmas lights this year. December is a huge month for edibles, and no wonder, with so many family gatherings and white elephant parties to attend. And there’s nothing more satisfying than quietly crunching an infused peppermint bark chocolate bar as the kids go on a sugar bender and half the adults on a booze-fueled festivus, while the rest of the family casts their all-to sober and judgemental looks from across the room.

No wonder Santa has an eating disorder – he has to change his final list constantly to accommodate all the end of the year drama, and people don’t even give him weed cookies! Is it true that kids in states with legal weed have cooler presents and happier holidays than in places where ganja is illegal? I digress, as my own edibles and coffee must really be kicking in…

But here’s the thing: I personally love edibles so much that some days I don’t smoke weed. Nonetheless, I have a constant layer of cannabinoids kicking around in my bloodstream – with specific dosages and blended options including CBD for pain relief and anxiety, Delta 8 THC for less psychoactivity, CBG for the giggles or CBN for sleepy time. You really can dial in your experience one milligram or serving at a time. We live in a glorious era for edibles, and I never take that for granted.

O’HARA SHIPE, FEATURES

We are creators of targeted, independent Cannabis journalism. Please email us to discuss advertising in the next issue of Alaska Leaf Magazine. We do not sell stories or coverage. We can offer design services and guidance on promoting your company’s medicinal, recreational, commercial or industrial Cannabis business, product or event within our magazine and on our website, LeafMagazines.com. Email ricker@leafmagazines.com to start advertising with Alaska Leaf!

CONNECT WITH ALASKA LEAF

When I started the Leaf in 2010, testing for THC percentages in bud wasn’t available and we had little to no idea about other cannabinoids, terpenes or the entourage effect. Edibles came in dosages like XXX and were wildly inconsistent – to the extent that I didn’t eat them for many years. It only takes one bad trip to teach most users to read the label, and it wasn’t until testing for Cannabis potency at Analytical 360 in Seattle became available that I started sampling infused treats.

The daze of ziplock brownies are long gone, and most people don’t have time for homemade edible adventures – but thankfully we have the option to head to the store and enjoy a selection of infused drinks, mints, treats and even chips in some markets. For my full advice on edible do’s and don’ts, check out my piece later in the magazine, but here is my core advice: Always read the label and think twice before eating more. Edibles take a long time to kick in, but once you’re on the journey, the train doesn’t stop until you wake up the next morning.

And remember, no matter what, you will wake up – so don’t waste a trip in an ambulance. The only way edibles could kill you is if a giant tote bin full of them fell on your head.

Abney

NORTHWEST LEAF / OREGON LEAF / ALASKA LEAF / MARYLAND LEAF / CALIFORNIA LEAF / NORTHEAST LEAF

“WE LIVE IN A GLORIOUS ERA FOR EDIBLES, AND I NEVER TAKE THAT FOR GRANTED.”

SEAN COMBS GETS INTO THE WEED BUSINESS

Hip-hop mogul and entrepreneur Sean “Diddy” Combs is venturing into the world of Cannabis.

Combs has agreed to acquire licensed Cannabis operations in New York, Massachusetts and Illinois, in a deal worth up to $185 million. The transaction marks Combs’ first investment in marijuana and will reportedly create the country’s first minority-owned, vertically-integrated, multi-state Cannabis company. It will also reportedly be the world’s largest Blackowned marijuana operation, according to a release from Combs and the companies.

The transaction comes after Cresco Labs earlier this year agreed to purchase rival Columbia Care in a $2 billion deal. The acquisition makes Cresco the top U.S. marijuana producer. It was one of the biggest deals in the Cannabis industry, and required Cresco to divest assets in limited-license markets including New York state.

The deal includes four retail stores and one production facility in the Empire State; three retail stores and one production facility in Massachusetts; and two retail stores and one production facility in Illinois.

“My mission has always been to create opportunities for Black entrepreneurs in industries where we’ve traditionally been denied access,” Combs said. “And this acquisition provides the immediate scale and impact needed to create a more equitable future in Cannabis.”

GERMANY ENABLES CONTROLLED CANNABIS CULTIVATION & DISTRO

ermany will permit adults to purchase and possess up to 30 grams (a little over an ounce) of Cannabis for adult use, reports Bloomberg. The ruling coalition is fulfilling its promise to legalize weed, as Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s cabinet approved a proposal allowing controlled cultivation and distribution of marijuana. Germany, with Europe’s biggest economy, wants to discourage the illegal (and untaxed) market for the herb.

The coalition government last year struck an agreement to introduce legislation allowing distribution of Cannabis in licensed shops.

The plan would also allow home cultivation of three marijuana plants per adult, reports the BBC.

MARYLAND AND MISSOURI LEGALIZE ADULT-USE CANNABIS

MARYLAND VOTERS in November overwhelmingly passed a measure making the state the twentieth to legalize marijuana for adult use. Meanwhile, 53% of Missouri residents approved a legalization measure of their own.

Under Maryland legalization, possessing amounts between 1.5 ounces and 2.5 ounces will be subject to civil fines. Possession of greater amounts will remain subject to existing criminal penalties. Adults can grow up to two marijuana plants.

Missouri’s new law allows adults to possess up to three ounces of marijuana. Adults can home-cultivate up to six flowering plants, six immature plants, and six plants under 14 inches for personal use.

FIVE TEXAS CITIES PASS DECRIM LAWS

VOTERS IN five Texas cities in November decided in favor of municipal ballot initiatives eliminating local enforcement of low-level marijuana offenses.

Voters in the cities of Denton, Killeen, San Marcos, Elgin and Harker Heights decided ‘yes’ on the measures. Specifically, the ordinances limit local law enforcement from making arrests or issuing citations for most marijuana-related violations. It also prohibits police in most circumstances from considering the odor of Cannabis as probable cause of a crime.

“Texans have shown that they want major Cannabis law reforms in Texas via polling, legislative engagement, and now at the local ballot box,” Texas NORML Executive Director Jax James said. “This will have a positive impact on the almost half a million people living in these cities.”

MINNESOTA GOVERNOR PROMISES LEGALIZATION

INCUMBENT Governor Tim Walz (DFL) is planning for Cannabis legalization with Democrats newly in control of the Minnesota Legislature. Spark ‘em if you got them!

The governor promised it will be “one of the first” bills to pass in 2023, according to former governor Jesse Ventura. Walz called him to chat about the implications of November’s midterm election results, Ventura said.

Walz extended an invitation to former wrestling star Ventura – a longtime Cannabis activist – to the anticipated signing ceremony once lawmakers deliver a legalization bill to the governor’s desk.

MISSOURI GROUP PLANS POT-FRIENDLY ENTERTAINMENT AREA

states – Maryland and Missouri – legalized adult-use Cannabis in November’s election.

years have passed since Colorado and Washington became the first two states to legalize adult-use marijuana.

states have legalized adult-use Cannabis, with two more added after the Nov. 2022 elections.

of voters in Elgin, Tex. approved a city ordinance that will officially decriminalize marijuana.

W

ell, that didn’t take long. Just a day after Missouri voters legalized adult-use marijuana, developers were already rolling out plans for an entertainment district allowing people to consume marijuana onsite.

It will be known as the Smokey River Entertainment District. Planners want to build it in the small village of River Bend, along the Missouri River, north of Independence.

“You go to any music venue throughout the United States, Cannabis has been a part of it whether you know it or not. Whether it was legal or illegal,” said Besa Hospitality Group Marketing VP Joey Pintozzi.

He envisions wedding venues, an amphitheater, clubs, restaurants and spots for adults to consume marijuana. “It’s normalizing Cannabis in everyday life,” Pintozzi said.

ON CANNABIS DESIGNER WINS AIGA AK AWARDS

Saturday, November 19, UAA

graduate Jenna! Fleur took home some major awards for the Cannabis community at the 2022 American Institute of Graphic Artists' Alaska Chapter Awards. The young designer won first place for her Smoked Salmon Pre-Roll Pack design and second place for her Beluga Joint branding -- both created for Great Northern Cannabis. Great Northern was also awarded an Honorable Mention for their Pure Plant’s Valentine’s Glow Ad which debuted in Alaska Leaf.

Cannabis retailers are now open in Massachusetts’ legal adult-use market.

in

STORIES by STEVE ELLIOTT, AUTHOR OF THE LITTLE BLACK BOOK

revenue was brought in by Colorado’s legal Cannabis market in 2021, making it the 2nd largest in the country behind California at $5.2 billion.

alaska

“It will be known as the Smokey River Entertainment District.”

ANCHORAGE TO HOMER

June 1st-Aug 31st

Monday – Friday

Departs Anchorage

Arctic & International – 724 W.

International - Garrett’s Tesoro

Cooper Landing Wild- man’s 300pm

Soldotna Chamber of Commerce 500pm

All times are approx. Stage Line Summer Schedule

HOMER TO ANCHORAGE

June 1st-Aug 31st

Monday – Friday Departs Homer 830am

1242 Ocean Dr

Soldotna Chamber of Commerce 1015am

Cooper Landing Wildman’s 1115am

VISITING ALASKA

Locally owned and operated by a lifelong Alaskan, Stage Line offers passenger transportation, freight, parcel, and courier service, between Anchorage and the Kenai Peninsula. Our schedule includes, Anchorage to Homer, Cooper Landing, Soldotna, Kasilof, Ninilchik, Anchor Point. Homer to Seward, Soldotna, Cooper Landing. And any points in between! MP flag stops available! Private party charters available! Reasonable rates, saves time and money for travelling or your shipping needs. One of the top 10 most scenic highways.

SEWARD TO

HOMER

June 1st – August 31st

Mon Wed Fri

Departs Seward 100pm call ahead for pick up point

Cooper Landing Wild- man’s 200pm Soldotna 300pm

All times are approx

HOMER TO SEWARD

June 1st - August 31st

Mon Wed Fri

Departs Homer 1242 Ocean Dr 900am

Soldotna Chamber of Commerce 1030am

Cooper Landing Wildman’s 1130

Sights seen from the road

The Stage Line PO Box 353 Anchor Point, AK

The Stage Line 1242 Ocean Dr Homer, Ak 724 W International Anchorage, Ak Staging points only 907-868-3914 907-235-2252

E-mail: stage.line@yahoo.com www.stagelineinhomer.com

“Why fly? When you can enjoy the most beautiful ride on earth”

ENLIGHTEN ALASKA

So, we heard that donuts hold a special place in your heart… Yes! I used to bring non-infused donuts to Enlighten's First Fridays and people loved them. I would make like 20 different flavors like maple bacon, Fruity Pebbles, and apple cider. They ended up kind of being my edible resume when Enlighten opened the kitchen. We’re a little disappointed that we weren't invited to stuff our faces with donuts. Admittedly, they were really good!

As an edible chef, we’re assuming that you’ve loved the plant for some time. I definitely smoked in high school and as an adult, but I didn’t really get into edibles until later in life – it was actually after an injury. I slipped on the ice when I was carrying my kid and I fell on my outstretched arm. It was really bad. Then I found out that I have Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome – it's a connective tissue disorder – in the worst way possible. I wasn’t healing and ended up having to do five surgeries because of all of the complications. It was around then that I started

playing with edibles because I didn’t want to take pain pills. I met some other women with EDS and we formed this support group with edibles and they encouraged my baking – Chef Bombshell was one of those women.

Having a group of strong women surrounding you always makes a difference! How did the group influence your approach to creating edibles? Yeah, I think when you see what edibles can do to help people in pain, you un derstand how important what you put in them is. It’s really important to all of us that we use naturally sourced ingredi ents and organic products that are environmentally friendly as much as we can. We make everything here with love and with the intention of making it the best it can be.

You took over as Head Chef in February 2022 and things have been moving pretty quickly! Our first launch was the Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Cookie on 4/20. Then it was the Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter and S’mores Cookies. Now we have gummies and CannaCaps, and even more cookie varieties. But I still have a ton of ideas and recipes!

"I think when you see what edibles can do to help people in pain, you understand how important what you put in them is."

TOVAH MILLER was born in Texas, but grew up in Maryland where her love for cooking blossomed. Inspired by her Southern roots, Miller began cooking dumplings, cornbread, and mac and cheese by the time she was five years old. A move to Alaska and a shift towards all things sweet saw Miller open a successful artisan cake business. But Miller’s career as a chef has taken another turn and you can now find her running Enlighten Alaska’s kitchen.

Advice for optimizing the edible experience.

For the first timer…

THE edibles ISSUE THIS INFUSED LIFE

Go slow! You can always eat more, but never less. Start with a single serving of 5-10mg, wait a couple hours, and enjoy the feeling. Pay at tention to how your body reacts and remember: One plus one, doesn’t equal two. Everybody reacts differently to servings, and you might feel great at 10mg and feel sick and out of control at 20mg. So take it easy, start slow, and build a tolerance and dosage range that works for you over time.

What’s a serving size? How do I decide dosage?

Looking at the label on an edible might seem confusing, but there are a few simple tricks to figuring it all out. The two most important things to note are the serving size and total cannabi noids/potency. Most states define a serving as either 5mg or 10mg of THC. Potency will always be based on milligrams. The total potency could be 50mg or 100mg, depending on regulations, but it could also be as high as 1,000+ milli grams if it’s a tincture or high-strength option. Reading this and knowing your dosage is the difference between a fun time and a neverend ing rollercoaster of THC.

For most people, eating a single serving is going to be perfect. People with low tolerances might find medicinal relief at just two or three milligrams, but a sweet space seems to be 10mg. Once you feel comfortable there, explore by adding a serving per edible experience so you can expand your comfortability zone.

It’s also common to have a personal range when it comes to dosing. For this writer, 1020mg is a daily relaxer and anti-anxiety tool, 50mg does the trick for pain but makes it hard to focus, and 100mg is a full-blown, drooly edi ble trip. But this is just me – I’ve seen people eat 250mg and reach for the next cookie. So take it slow and find your sweet spot when it comes to dosage … you’ll have fun and feel great!

Can I overdose on edibles?

Here’s the good news about eating too much THC: You can’t die! The only way edibles could kill you is if a loaded crate of them fell on your head in a tragic weed warehouse accident. But that’s where the good news ends.

Do you remember the first time you got too drunk? Most of us have at least a few col lege-age, puking-in-random-places memories that we’d like to forget. That said, consuming too much THC or other cannabinoids can result in serious discomfort similar to alcohol over consumption, with symptoms including nausea/ puking, paranoia and the spins. In extreme

This holiday season, get ready to fly as high as a reindeer with our annual Edibles Issue! To avoid crashing and burning like Rudolph after a long night of whatever keeps his nose so red, check out our edibles advice for living your best infused life. While most of this information is for new consumers, it’s always great to get a refresher course – and to keep sharing with friends and family before embarking on a journey into the holidaze.

situations, the high level of psychoactive effects can lead to crazed behavior.

The only cure for over consumption is time and water, which is why you should avoid wast ing a medical professional’s time at a hospital getting fluids and a large bill. If you or a friend end up too high, grab the Gatorade and a weighted blanket, and plan to sit it out. This might mean silence and darkness or putting on a favorite movie – but rest assured that it will pass and once you fall asleep, you’ll be on your way to a fresh start the next day.

The Edible Hangover

While edibles are much safer than alcohol, they can still cause a hangover that can be incred ibly unpleasant. Imagine being stuck in a sort of mental quicksand and having every move ment slowed down 30%, while feeling like the dehydrated SpongeBob that tried to hang out in Sandy’s air environment. Like a fish out of water, eating too much can leave you gasping … and

there’s not a lot to help but coffee and fluids. Our best advice to prevent a hangover is to go slow, and make sure to eat edibles with enough time to activate and have effects before sleep. And if your goal is sleep, don’t wait until your bedtime to pop the CBN. Giving the cannabinoids time to kick in will help with either fun or sleep, and allow for a restful night without effects clouding your mind the next day.

In Budtenders We Trust

Last but certainly not least, trust your budtender when you have questions, concerns or expe riences to share. Don’t be shy: They’ve heard it all and probably love helping with advice!

If they don’t, pick a more enthusiastic bud tender and dive in. Getting trusted info from the source is always clutch, especially before dropping money on a new product or trying something different. And for the best advice possible, always tip your budtender for good service. It will definitely pay off!

PHOTO BY ADOBE STOCK

As the great Bruno Mars sang in 2014, “This hit, that ice cold, Michelle Pfeiffer, that white gold. This one for them hood girls, them good girls, straight masterpieces. Stylin', wilin', livin' it up in the city.” Unfortunately, Secret Garden’s White Gold doesn’t come with a pair of Chucks or a Saint Laurent suit, but it does guarantee a fun night out on the town.

The first thing you’ll notice about White Gold is how densely packed the buds are. One of the tightest structures we’ve seen, it took a little bit of effort to pack our bowls, but we see that as a positive. The extra time we spent breaking down the buds and grinding them gave us more time to enjoy the complex scent profile that has notes of citrus, pine and pepper. Not a super trichome-y bud, we didn’t end up with any sticky residue on our fingers but the powerful scent still filled the room.

Our first tokes were super earthy – like walking through a heavily-wooded pine forest. However, as the smoke dissipated and we filled another bowl, we started picking up on some subtle spice and sugary notes. The smoke itself was wicked smooth and left us wanting to keep refilling our bowl.

The high we experienced is equally as hard to pin down as the flavor profile, but as we found out, that’s because this flower is a really, really slow creeper. By the time we realized we were baked, we had already DoorDashed three Denny’s Grand Slams, way too many chocolate milkshakes, and collapsed into numerous laughing fits.

Bottom line: If you’re looking to celebrate the end of another work week, turn up the Bruno and jump head first into a big bowl of White Gold.

23.12% THC | 0.10% CBD | HYBRID

REVIEW by ALASKA LEAF STAFF | PHOTO by O'HARA SHIPE

THE EDIBLES HALL of FAME

This feisty medical marijuana legend moved to the Bay Area during World War II to embark on a career in social activism. In the early 1980s, she volunteered at San Francisco General Hospital and became known for baking and distributing Cannabis brownies to AIDS patients suffering from wasting syndrome. After several high-profile arrests, the city eventually gave Rathbun permission to provide brownies to people with AIDS. She also helped establish Dennis Peron’s San Francisco Cannabis Buyers Club – the first medical Cannabis dispensary in the U.S. For more on Brownie Mary check out Bobby Black’s Cannthopology column this month.

“...the city eventually gave Rathbun permis sion to provide brownies to peo ple with AIDS.”

“He later soured on the practice of eating weed

An author, journalist and explorer, Fitz Hugh Ludlow started eating Cannabis extracts during college at Princeton in the mid1800s – in particular a tetanus remedy called Tilden’s extract – during the time that marijuana-infused medicines were a part of the medical pharmacopeia. He wrote his autobiographical book “The Hasheesh Eater” in 1857, extolling the ability of Cannabis to enlighten and boost creativity. He later soured on the practice of eating weed after becoming addicted to opium, and unfortunately ended up expressing racist and bigoted remarks in his later works, but his influence in introducing edibles to many in the the public remains.

Way ahead of her time, Alice B. Toklas was born in San Francisco but later moved to Paris to join the emerging avant-garde movement. She had a four-decade relationship with writer Gertrude Stein and the couple hosted legendary parties for American expats, budding intellectuals and French painters. She published her “Alice B. Toklas Cook Book” in 1954 with a recipe from her artist friend in Morocco, Brion Gysin, for “Haschich Fudge” for brownies infused with Cannabis and featuring dates and figs. The original edible was later immortalized in “I Love You, Alice B. Toklas” – the 1968 film starring Peter Sellers.

“She published her “Alice B. Toklas Cook Book” in 1954.”

Born and raised in Illinois, Jim Wilson Jr. — aka Chef Ra — excelled in academics and athletics but also endured racial abuse. He soon joined the counterculture, traveling to Woodstock and Jamaica before becoming a fixture of Ann Arbor’s Hash Bash and Grateful Dead tours with his Rasta Pasta Pesto. His friend, High Times Editorin-Chief Steven Hager, hired him as an edible columnist and put him on the November 1987 cover. Ra’s ebullient personality and recipes – such as Springtime Ganja Nachos and Ultimate Hash Brownies – were also featured in the videos “Chef Ra Escapes Babylon” (1989) and “Ganja Gourmet” (2003). Sadly, Jim passed away on December 26, 2006.

“He soon joined the counterculture, traveling to Woodstock and Jamaica...”

We are pleased to be Introducing the first 10 inaugural inductees into our Leaf Magazine Cannabis Edibles Hall of Fame honoring lasting contributions to the world of marijuanainfused foods. These pioneers and legends changed the way we consume weed, from brownies to beverages and beyond.

“Mickey continued to produce weed candy while becoming more active in pot politics.”

Mickey Martin co-founded Tainted Inc. and Compassion Medicinal Edibles in Oakland after the passing of Prop 215 to provide patients with Cannabis-infused chocolate bars with names and labels mimicking established brands. After parting ways with partner Chris Bliss, Mickey continued to produce weed candy while becoming more active in pot politics. He eventually “grew into a large marijuana-candy maker that bought chocolate by the ton” – according to the DEA, which raided Tainted Inc. in 2007, resulting in Mickey’s arrest on Federal charges. He remained defiant, co-authoring “Medical Marijuana 101” in 2012 and founding Parents 4 Pot, a nonprofit that provided support and Christmas presents for families of pot prisoners. He passed away in 2017.

In the early 1990s, activist, entertainer and model Mary Jane Dunsdon made a name for herself on Vancouver’s Wreck Beach –selling cold slices of watermelon along with weed cookies to locals in-the-know. She was arrested several times, sometimes while topless, adding to her notoriety and bringing attention to the need for a legal framework for Cannabis in Canada. “Watermelon” was featured on multiple covers of High Times and also in the video “High Times presents Watermelon’s Baked and Baking” in 2003. She’s now the founder and operator of the Commercial Drive Licorice Parlour.

“Watermelon” was featured on multiple covers of High Times.”

Elise McDonough began her career at High Times in 2002 as a talented art designer, but quickly discovered her prowess as an edible writer and editor. Having judged the infused food category of multiple Cannabis Cups (over 500 edibles!), she created a new lane for herself as a food critic and author who introduced an element of fine dining to Cannabisinfused cuisine, becoming the first-ever Edibles Editor at HT. Elise is the author of “The Official High Times Cannabis Cookbook,” “Marijuana for Everybody!” and Vice’s “Bong Appetit.” Elise has experience as a PR specialist and brand builder and is currently the Director of Marketing at multi-state Cannabis brand binske.

“McDonough wrote ‘The Official High Times Cannabis Cookbook,’ ‘Mar ijuana for Every body!’ and Vice’s ‘Bong Appetit.’ ”

Cheri got her start as a circus performer and magician, eventually pivoting into a career as a professional food writer and recipe developer. After discovering medical marijuana and graduating from Oaksterdam University, Cheri set out to turn her foodie credentials into a career in Cannabis cuisine. Since then, she’s engaged in activism – organizing multiple rallies and fundraisers – and is also the author of “The Cannabis Gourmet Cookbook” (2012), “Mary Jane: The Complete Marijuana Handbook for Women” (2015) and “The Easy Cannabis Cookbook” (2018). She also teaches live classes, as well as online Cannabis cooking courses on her website cannabischeri.com.

“Sicard is known for her activism, organizing rallies and fundraisers.”

As a co-founder of Tainted, Chris Bliss was the chef and chocolatier who created the recipes, logos and branding for their chocolates and truffles – long before any of it was remotely allowed. He also prepared some of the first multi-course marijuana laden meals ever served. Trained in all aspects of cooking, from the busiest diner kitchens to the impeccable restaurants of Wolfgang Puck, his experience helped pioneer the manufacturing, labeling and packaging we see in the current edible industry. Many of today’s legal brands owe Chris a huge debt of gratitude, as he taught and trained the founders in the alchemical arts of infusion.

“Bliss helped pioneer the manu facturing, labeling and packaging we see in the current edible industry.”

“Bobrow introduced the main stream public to Cannabis cocktails and mocktails.”

Author, chef, mixologist and “Cannabis Alchemist” Warren Bobrow got his start in the alcohol industry, having studied food writing at New School University and the French Culinary Institute. He’s also written multiple books, including “Apothecary Cocktails, Whiskey Cocktails, Bitters and Shrub Syrup Cocktails” and “The Craft Cocktail Compendium.” His 2016 book, “Cannabis Cocktails, Mocktails & Tonics: The Art of Spirited Drinks & Buzz-Worthy Libations,” introduced the mainstream to marijuana-infused liquid beverages – now an entire segment of the legal weed industry. In fact, he’s also the co-founder and CEO of Klaus (@drinkklaus), creating terpene-forward craft Cannabis cocktails for the marijuana marketplace.

LADY GRAY CHOCOLATE BARS

Lady Gray chocolate bars are some of the best on the market for several reasons, starting with the company’s commitment to high-quality ingredients. The bars are made with ethically sourced and fairly traded products with a special focus on organic, and you can taste the difference! Currently, there are six mouth-watering flavors, but our absolute favorites are orange chocolate, mint chocolate, and peanut butter chocolate. Also, make sure to keep an eye out for seasonal and limited edition varieties.

10MG THC/SERVING 100MG THC/BAR

ALMOND JOYFULS

Made with delicious dates, Cannabis coconut oil, raw almonds and organic unsweetened coconut flakes, Almond Joyfuls are nicknamed “energy balls” by the Lady Gray crew. Soft with a mild crunch from the almonds and coconut flakes, the little delights will bring a smile to even the most stoic Scrooge. At 5mg THC per treat, these are perfect for those stoners with a low edible tolerance.

5MG THC/SERVING 20MG THC/CONTAINER

1:1 BUTTERMINTS

One of the most unique edible products on the market, Buttermints are a nod to Lady Gray’s southern roots. Crafted with milk, confectioner’s sugar, butter and flavoring, the simplicity of this product is also what makes it so ingenious. The original mint flavor packs a heavy dose of peppermint, making it perfect for an after-dinner snack. Lady Gray’s other two flavors, Tangerine Dream and Cinnamon Roll, are best enjoyed with a cleansed palate so you can indulge in their perfectly-balanced flavor. But the best part of Buttermints is that they allow you to microdose until you reach your perfect high – each treat has roughly 1mg of THC.

10MG THC/SIX BUTTERMINTS 100MG THC/PACKAGE

LADY GRAY MEDIBLES

CBD / SATIVA/INDICA TINCTURES

If you’re looking to get a good night’s sleep, nothing hits like a Lady Gray Indica Tincture. A drop or two ingested sublingually will be enough to send you to dreamland. But, if you’re not a fan of the distinctly weedy taste, you can also put a few drops in a drink of your choice to mask the flavor. The CBD and Sativa varieties likely won’t get you baked, but they will leave you with a relaxing body high.

50MG THC OR CBD/TINCTURE

MOCHA CHOCOLATE CHUNK COOKIES

What goes together better than chocolate and coffee? OK, maybe a lot of things, but that doesn’t negate how delicious these cookies are. They have a slightly hardened exterior and a sinfully soft, decadent interior. The mocha flavor is potent but doesn’t overpower the chocolate, so even non-coffee drinkers will likely love these perfectly balanced cookies.

5MG THC/COOKIE | 20MG THC/PACKAGE

SNICKERING DOODLE COOKIES

Snickering Doodle Cookies were the winner of Best Baked Edible at the 2021 Alaska Leaf Bowl, and for good reason. A play on the classic snickerdoodle, Lady Gray’s version got an upgrade with less refined organic sugar and organic coconut flour. The result is a crunchy exterior and a melt-in-your-mouth interior that leaves a hint of cinnamon on your tongue. If that wasn’t enough, these cookies are also seasonably sold as cookie dough to bake yourself – so go ahead and tell your friends you made them from scratch – we won’t tell.

5MG THC/COOKIE | 20MG THC/PACKAGE

ALASKAN BIRCH SYRUP

Birch syrup is a unique but also very versatile product with uses including glazes, marinades and dressings, as well as giving an immensely rich and hearty flavor to stews and pies. With the holiday season upon us, this syrup can help infuse both savory and sweet dishes. A quick Google search will yield hundreds of recipes to try, or you can create your own. The possibilities are truly endless.

30MG THC/PACKAGE

HIGH MARGARITA

If your idea of a great Tuesday night is tacos and margaritas, this edible is the one for you. Teeming with lime and salt, High Margarita is exactly like drinking a non-alcoholic version of its namesake. Like its cousin, High Tea, High Margarita packs a heavy punch, and you will find yourself enjoying the sedating effects of the drink within 20 minutes of consumption.

10MG THC/SERVING 100MG THC/BOTTLE

ORIGINAL/RASPBERRY HIGH TEA

When High Tea was released a couple of years ago, it introduced nanoemulsion. Created in conjunction with Herban Extracts, High Tea uses a beautiful and full spectrum CO2 oil made with fast-acting nanotech THC. The result is a heavy-hitting product that will have you feeling the effects within 15 minutes. The raspberry variety smacks you in the face with berry flavor, but it quickly dissipates into a weedy aftertaste. So, if you don’t love the earthiness of Cannabis, stick to the original variety, which expertly masks the unwanted flavor. 0MG THC/SERVING 100MG THC/BOTTLE

VANILLA / PERUVIAN CHOCOLATE / STRAWBERRY ICE CREAM

The only THC-infused ice cream on the market, Lady Gray’s ice cream is the uncontested best of the best when it comes to frozen treats. Produced in the vein of Häagen Dazs’ premium ice cream, each of the three available flavors are scrumptious! However, our favorite flavor remains Peruvian chocolate because of its insanely decadent flavor and rich, creamy texture. Add a scoop a la mode to any of your holiday desserts and enjoy a low-key body high that will take all the stress out of being with your in-laws. 5MG THC/SERVING 50MG THC/PACKAGE

ORANGE CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

Nothing is quite as iconic as chocolate chip cookies, except maybe, Lady Gray’s Orange Chocolate Chip Cookies. Slightly underbaked to help preserve their softness, these 5mg cookies are heavenly when dipped in a glass of cold milk.

Chocolate is definitely the dominant flavor, but subtle notes of orange pop through to tantalize your taste buds.

5MG THC/COOKIE 20MG THC/ PACKAGE

REVIEWS by ALASKA LEAF STAFF @AKLEAFMAG | PHOTO by O'HARA SHIPE

"THE BARS ARE MADE WITH ETHICALLY SOURCED AND FAIRLY TRADED PRODUCTS WITH A SPECIAL FOCUS ON ORGANIC, AND YOU CAN TASTE THE DIFFERENCE!"

ENLIGHTEN ALASKA

CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

PEANUT BUTTER, S’MORES, SALTED CARAMEL, AND ALASKAN RASPBERRY CHEESECAKE VARIETIES

All of Enlighten’s cookies have a similar muffin-like base making them puffy and indulgent. The Chocolate Chip and Peanut Butter cookies are made with Reese’s Pieces and chocolate chunks that taste amazing when dipped in a cup of hot chocolate. The Salted Caramel leaned more toward the sweet side rather than the salty, but when you get a kernel of sea salt with a bite of chocolate, it's heaven. Gooey pieces of marshmallow meld with chocolate chips in the S’mores variety and pops of freeze-dried raspberry add brightness to the Chocolate Chip with Alaskan Cheesecake cookie.

10MG THC/COOKIE

CANNACAPS SATIVA/INDICA VARIETIES

Made with three simple ingredients and enclosed in a vegan capsule that’s coated to survive the highly-acidic stomach environment, these deliver THC with increased bioavailability that gets the CO2 processed oil to peak absorption within the body. This process carries the cannabinoids further into the digestive system, which results in a stronger and longerlasting high – and positive benefits for anyone looking to treat stomach or GI issues. Best taken with food or after a meal, these capsules break down in the stomach and send waves of relief that move outward from the gut to the extremities and the mind.

10MG THC/SERVING | 100MG THC/PACKAGE

GUMMIES

MARIONBERRY AND BLOOD ORANGE VARIETIES

Easily the softest, most pillowy gummies we’ve ever had, Enlighten hits these out of the park. From the time you pop the gummy in your mouth, it starts to melt into a flavorful goo that sticks on your tongue. The Blood Orange is bright, happy and citrusy, with a slight bitterness that comes in towards the end of your bite. Similarly, the Marionberry is a complex, fruit-based flavor that has to be sampled to be understood.

10MG THC/SERVING | 100MG THC/PACKAGE

JANE’S GINGAZ

Denser and a bit thicker than Englighten’s other cookies, these Gingaz snap, uh, slap. Packed with nutmeg, clove, molasses and ginger, the cookies have all the ingredients that you’d expect, plus a secret weapon – cayenne pepper. Yes, you read that correctly: There is indeed cayenne and it makes this cookie absolute fire (literally). Admittedly, we have the palate of a child, but the spice did leave our mouths with a little bit of a burning sensation. If spicy isn’t your thing, proceed with caution.

10MG THC/COOKIE

"BEST TAKEN WITH FOOD OR AFTER A MEAL, THESE CAPSULES BREAK DOWN IN THE STOMACH AND SEND WAVES OF RELIEF THAT MOVE OUTWARD FROM THE GUT TO THE EXTREMITIES AND THE MIND."

GUMMIES MANGO MAI TAI, WATERMELON MOJITO, LEMON DROP AND BOURBON CHERRY VANILLA VARIETIES

These small, sugar-coated gummies burst with boozy flavor! The Lemon Drop starts with tropical fruit notes and ends with a sharp, vodka-heavy punch. Vanilla and bourbon are the stars of the Bourbon Cherry Vanilla and wow, do these taste just like sipping bourbon on a cold winter day. Bright and sunny, the Mango Mai Tai is packed with fruity, mango-ey goodness. As expected, the Watermelon Mojito was spearmint-forward with a fruity aftertaste. However, the robust flavor is only one part of the one-two punch you get from Stoney Moose’s gummies. Made with full-spectrum CO2 extract, we got to reap the full benefits of these head-high-inducing gummies. But beware, even a single 10mg serving can hit way harder than you might expect. 10MG THC/SERVING | 100MG THC/PACKAGE

STRAWBERRY FIELDS GANJACRISP

Ganjacrisps were already amazing, but they have received a killer update. Stoney Moose has blended pieces of organic strawberry and natural strawberry extract with puffed rice and chocolate that eat like a Pocky Stick. Because Stoney uses coconut oil instead of butter, the rice base of the cookie is hydrated and soft with a little bit of crunch. We also loved that the cookie was only half dipped in chocolate, as it gave us a second way to enjoy an already awesome edible.

10MG THC/SERVING 20MG THC/PACKAGE

"VANILLA AND BOURBON ARE THE STARS OF THE BOURBON CHERRY VANILLA AND WOW, DO THESE TASTE JUST LIKE SIPPING BOURBON ON A COLD WINTER DAY."

STONEY MOOSE KITCHENS

CLASSIC POT BROWNIE

Incredibly moist and almost cakey in texture, the Classic Pot Brownie was a delight – and how could it not be with butter listed as the first ingredient?! The cacao used is fair-trade and insanely decadent. Luckily, the brownies only have 20mg THC – as you will likely find not eating the whole thing an impossible task.

10MG THC/SERVING 20MG THC/PACKAGE

MOOSE CHIP COOKIES

Stoney Moose Kitchens has never shied away from embracing the natural flavor of weed and their Moose Chip Cookies are no exception. Cannabis is the dominant flavor and scent, so this is the lightly sweet treat purists will love. More crunchy than chewy, the texture decidedly Nabisco, not Tollhouse. But if you want a softer cookie, pop it in the microwave for 10 seconds.

10MG THC/SERVING 20MG THC/PACKAGE

MOUNTAIN MAN OATMEAL RAISIN COOKIES

On the back of the package, Stoney Moose Kitchens claims that they have made the “perfect” oatmeal raisin cookie, and we have to agree. When we opened the package, we were hit by the scent of brown sugar and hints of weed. Our roommate who was sitting next to us begged for a bite and had this to say, “Nom-nom-nom-nom. My mouth is literally telling me to keep eating.” Soft, chewy, flavorful … and weedy? We’ll take a dozen. 10MG THC/SERVING 20MG THC/PACKAGE

MOOSE MILK EGGNOG, SALTED CARAMEL LATTE, CHOCOLATE AND STRAWBERRY VARIETIES

Moose Milk is crafted with four simple ingredients: organic whole milk, organic cane sugar, organic cocoa powder, and THC-infused MCT oil. You might be wondering why the ingredient list is important. Well, run-of-the-mill flavored milk contains lactase enzyme, dipotassium phosphate, salt, acesulfame potassium, carrageenan, sucralose, and a whole host of other unpronounceable ingredients. But the real litmus test is the taste, not the label – and Stoney Moose’s flavors are amazing. The eggnog is rich, creamy and most importantly, eggy, while the Salted Caramel Latte will make a coffee lover out of anyone. The classic Strawberry and Chocolate varieties are just that, classic. 10MG THC/SERVING | 100MG THC/PACKAGE

MOOSE NUGZ

As a kid, we learned that good things came wrapped in foil – Ding-Dongs, Hershey Kisses and York Peppermint Patties. So, when we saw that Moose Nugz are wrapped in foil, we knew he had stumbled on something great. The holy triad of creamy peanut butter, crispy rice, and dark chocolate come together in this truffle-inspired treat. Equal parts creamy and crunchy, there’s something for everyone to love in this edible. 10MG THC/SERVING 30MG THC/PACKAGE

GUMMIES KEY LIME, BLUEBERRY, STRAWBERRY BANANA AND CITRUS VARIETIES

Like their boozy cousins, these fruity gummies are teeming with flavor. The Blueberry variety is made with organic blueberry juice which permeates a fresh scent and flavor. Not quite as sharp as actual key limes, the Key Lime gummy is more lemonlime flavored – but delicious nonetheless. A difficult combo to do well, the Strawberry Banana is perfectly balanced. The Citrus version starts orangey but ends with a heavy weedy aftertaste, so this one might not be ideal for those who like the weed masked in their edibles.

10MG THC/SERVING | 100MG THC/PACKAGE

REVIEWS by ALASKA LEAF STAFF @AKLEAFMAG | PHOTO by O'HARA SHIPE @SHIPESHOTS

DOSED AND PEAK

PEAK GUMMIES

STRAWBERRY, GRAPE, BLUE RASPBERRY, ORANGE AND LIME

A branch of Dosed Edibles, Peak Gummies are the new soft candy on the scene. Crafted with weed grown by Third State and distillate from Will’s World, the gummies come in five flavors – strawberry, orange, lime, blue raspberry and grape. The texture is slightly firm but still springy and light. We enjoyed all of the flavors, but the orange and lime hold a special place in our hearts. Equal parts bitter and sugary, they were reminiscent of eating a bag of Sour Patch Kids. The strawberry and blueberry gummies were the mildest in terms of flavor, but still did a great job of masking any residual taste of distillate. 10MG THC/SERVING | 100MG THC/PACKAGE

DOSED F#@%*N SOUR GUMMIES

The holidays are like a mixed bag of candy, or maybe like Bertie Bott’s every flavor beans from Harry Potter – where one is bound to be earwax. Fear not though when picking up a mixed bag of F#@%*n Sour gummies from Dosed, as each flavor is tasty and brings a feeling that could easily be described as magical – especially after eating a whole 100mg bag. Featuring distillate from x-tracted, these gummies always hit perfectly.

10MG THC/SERVING | 100MG THC/PACKAGE

"CRAFTED WITH WEED GROWN BY THIRD STATE AND DISTILLATE FROM WILL’S WORLD, THE GUMMIES COME IN FIVE FLAVORS – STRAWBERRY, ORANGE, LIME, BLUE RASPBERRY AND GRAPE."

WARNING Marijuana has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming and addictive. Marijuana impairs concentration, coordination, and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under its influence. There are health risks associated with consumption of marijuana. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of the reach of children. Marijuana should not be used by women who are pregnant or breast feeding.

NORTH INFUSIONS 1:1 DARK CHOCOLATE AND MILK CHOCOLATE BARS

Have you ever tried using one of North Infusions’ chocolate bars to make a campfire s’more? Well, we did and it was a transcendent experience. The decadent chocolate held its form against the hot marshmallows – which not only made downing a sloppy treat slightly less messy – but also made the chocolate the star of the show.

Another pro tip: Finely grate one of these into chocolate swirls and serve on top of vanilla ice cream for a heady, sweet treat. 10MG THC/ SERVING | 100MG THC/BAR

GARDEN OF DELIGHTS PASSION FRUIT, RASPBERRY AND WHITE GRAPE GUMMIES

If you’re wondering whether these behemoths are “enlarged to show texture,” we can promise that they really are the biggest gummies we’ve had the chance to try. In a state where bigger is better, Garden of Delights’ gummies physically tower over the competition. Because of their size, the gummies have a surprisingly soft, gooey inside that melts in the mouth. But their size isn’t their only strength – they are also bursting with flavor. At the risk of sounding like Willy Wonka, we can say that the passion fruit actually tastes like passion fruit and the raspberry tastes like raspberry (IYKYK). And don’t get us started on the white grape variety. A rarely found gummy flavor, it is equal parts refreshing, unexpected and effervescent. 10MG THC/ GUMMY | 100MG THC/PACKAGE

GARDEN OF DELIGHTS

1:1

LEMON LOZENGES

We received these samples at the height of flu season and boy, did they make a major difference with our sore throat. A 1:1 hard candy, the Lemon Lozenges coated our sore throats and helped alleviate some of the pain. We also popped one before shoveling our driveway and it helped satiate our thirst with its long dissolve time. Although the lozenges are lemon flavored, they didn’t smack us in the face with mouth-puckering sour. On the contrary, they were subtly lemon and refreshing. 10MG THC/SERVING 30MG THC/PACKAGE

NORTH INFUSIONS

DARK CHOCOLATE CARAMELS WITH SEA SALT

North Infusions, a branch of Great Northern Cannabis, handcrafts its chocolate in small batches by artisan chocolatiers in Alaska. These caramels are a prime example of what an amazing pairing gourmet chocolate and craft Cannabis can make. Each morsel is coated in delicious dark chocolate and topped with flaked sea salt that adds a fantastic bitter note to a super sweet treat.

5MG THC/SERVING 20MG THC/PACKAGE

"THESE CARAMELS ARE A PRIME EXAMPLE OF WHAT AN AMAZING PAIRING GOURMET CHOCOLATE AND CRAFT CANNABIS CAN MAKE."

GOOD CANNABIS

SWISS MILK CHOCOLATE MINIS & BELGIAN CHOCOLATE MINIS

Your favorite infused-chocolate bars just got a whole lot better! Now the same deliciously sweet and creamy milk chocolate and bitter, decadent dark chocolate have been shrunk down into minis. Each mini chocolate has 1mg of THC, making them a delicious way to accurately microdose. If you’re new to edibles, these little lovelies will let you experiment until you find your ideal dose. But if you’re anything like us and love a good high, the whole package contains 50 morsels, so you can slowly snack your way to a chill body high.

1MG THC/SERVING | 50MG THC/PACKAGE

GRAPE GUMMIES

These gummies are super soft, even out of the fridge – but they miraculously don’t melt or lose their shape after spending a night in your purse. Another amazing attribute of GOOD’s gummies is how fast the high hits. Within 20 minutes, a single 10mg serving left us with a super heady, energized high that lasted for hours. Whatsmore, GOOD continually delivers consistent quality in each batch.

10MG THC/SERVING 100MG THC/PACKAGE

"EACH MINI CHOCOLATE HAS 1MG OF THC, MAKING THEM A DELICIOUS WAY TO ACCURATELY MICRODOSE. IF YOU’RE NEW TO EDIBLES, THESE LITTLE LOVELIES WILL LET YOU EXPERIMENT UNTIL YOU FIND YOUR IDEAL DOSE."

SECRET GARDEN CANNABIS

BLUEBERRY, LIME, LEMON, ORANGE & STRAWBERRY

GARDEN GUMMIES

There are a lot of gummies on the market, so it can be hard to stand out. However, Secret Garden has created a gummy with a unique texture that has a lot of chew, allowing the flavor to sit on your tongue longer. We found the blueberry and strawberry flavors to be the most delicate and therefore, there was a lot of weedy goodness that popped through. The orange had the strongest punch and was reminiscent of drinking Tang. The lemon and lime varieties held their flavor the longest and didn’t leave the same residual weedy flavor we found with the other flavors. Additionally, the lemon was a great palate cleanser. We’d recommend picking up the variety pack to try all the flavors before settling on your favorites.

10MG THC/ SERVING | 100MG THC/PACKAGE

CHRONIC CRISPS

Rice Krispie Treats and weed are a classic pairing for a reason and these little guys are a perfect demonstration of why. The overlysweet marshmallow is tempered by the earthiness of the CO2 oil, keeping the treat well balanced. Secret Garden’s version is a little less crunchy than some others on the market but personally, we loved how soft, buttery, melt-in-themouth these were.

5MG THC/SERVING 20MG THC/PACKAGE

For those who choose to stand out, be di erent, and create their own path

ANYONE WHO’S EVER worked in a restaurant knows that when you have two half-empty bottles of the world’s most popular condiment, you pour one into the other to make one of them appear fresh and new while the other gets tossed. It’s called marrying the ketchup. That’s a figurative term.

But what if we made it literal? Because let’s face it, there are a lot of people on this planet who are unhappily married. And if they could run off with a bottle of ketchup to a tropical island for a glorious honeymoon without the rough repercussions of divorce, most would probably drop everything and go. Think about it … a plush balcony overlooking the crashing waves of a majestic coastline with your culinary love. Where’s the sign-up sheet?

If I could marry a bottle of ketchup, I probably would. We already share bottley fluids, so why not consummate what you consume? I mean, talk about compatibility: I want succulent tomato flavor and the sauce’s only objective is to be eaten.

In no time, we’ll have a small family of packets.

And it will never guilt you for inviting other tasty items into the relationship. Like a greasy burger beckons to be dipping in the dripping. And French fries are lacking the jazz with no sauce to give them pizzazz.

Ketchup is good on just about everything. In fact, I’m pretty sure that if you look up the food pyramid from the year 1955, it will tell you that man can survive off ketchup alone. Because we’re not just talking about tomatoes and sugar – but onions, cloves, garlic and other healthy items that put the zing in amazing.

I understand that there are some cultures that prefer soy sauce or chili sauce, but I don’t get it. You could smother a piece of plywood with ketchup, and it would probably still taste good.

By the way, is ketchup really the world’s most popular condiment?

For me it’s bubble hash.

CHOCOLATE BAR