Apr. 2020 - Alaska Leaf

THE ENLIGHTENED VOICE

#48 | APRIL 2020

the glass issue

ART BY OBIE OG X ADAM REETZ FREE /AKLEAF.COM

INDEPENDENT CANNABIS JOURNALISM SINCE 2010

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the glass issue

FEATURES 11 EDITOR NOTE 12 NATIONAL NEWS 14 CORONAVIRUS 16 HIGHLY LIKELY 18 REHASHED 20 WOMEN IN WEED 22 BUDTENDER OTM 24 STRAIN OTM 28 NATHAN N8 MIERS 30-33 GLASS GALLERY 36 RECIPES FOR ONE 38 EDIBLE OTM 40 CONCENTRATE OTM 42 COFFEE & CANNABIS 44 STONEY BALONEY ISSUU.COM/NWLEAF

APR. 2020

28 LEARN HOW NATHAN “N8 MIERS GOT HIS START IN THE GLASSBLOWING WORLD AND BECAME KNOWN FOR HIS INCREDIBLE GLASS ART.

PHOTO by SAMUEL FARLEY @THC_SAMUEL

Educational speakers and panels Growers and breeders Processing brands and technology Retailers from around Alaska

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T he Ala ska n C an n abi s E xp o i s r e t u r n i n g s o o n !

The only F R EE E xp o i n A l as ka t o c o n n e c t c o n s u me r s a nd the i nd u s t r y. C ome e xp e r i e n c e a n e w l i n e u p o f sp ea ke r a n d e duc at i on al c l as s e s w i t h a h u g e v a r i e t y o f Ca nn a b i s c omp an i e s as w e c e l e b r a t e t h e ne w de c ade w i t h l e ga l C a n n a b i s !

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E S TA B L I S H E D 2 0 1 0

T H E E N L I G H T E N E D VO I C E

ABOUT THE COVER

Functional, beautiful glass creations are truly a sight to behold. When one sees the craft and utter dedication required to make these pieces, you realize that this really is art — worthy of sitting in a museum or fine gallery.

And just like the best artwork, these glass creations inspire us to enjoy life, and be grateful for human creativity.

Photo by Boom Media for AKLeaf ART BY OBIE OG X ADAM REETZ

WES

ABNEY

Editor’s Note Th a nks f o r pi c k i ng u p Th e G l ass Issu e of A lask a Le af !

Happy 4/20/20! My infatuation with glass art and culture began during my first trip to Piece of Mind in Seattle around 11 2006. Walking through display cases of custom pieces in a time of prohibition was mind blowing. The beautiful colors, styles and technologies fascinated my young stoner mind - and since the Leaf began in 2010 - we have published an A BELOVED annual Glass Issue to honor the culture and love for this RIG OR PIPE IS LIKE AN unique art form.

OLD FRIEND, TRUSTWORTHY

CONTRIBUTORS

PUBLISHER

Boom Media Photos Tom Bowers Features Steve Elliott National News Samuel Farley Features Simone Fischer Features Brandon Palma Illustration Jeff Porterfield Design Meghan Ridley Editing Pacer Stacktrain Features Laurie & Bruce Wolf Recipes

WES ABNEY | founder & editor-in-chief Wes@nwleaf.com 206-235-6721

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Daniel bermaN | photography & design daniel@bermanphotos.com

STATE DIRECTOR AND ADVERTISING joshua stahle | ADVERTISING SALES Josh@AKLeaf.com | 907-317-2536

We do not sell stories or coverage. We are happy to offer design services and guidance on promoting your company’s recreational, commercial or industrial Cannabis product or upcoming event. We are targeted and independent Cannabis journalism. Email or call to discuss advertising.

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Today, glass culture has blown up into an accepted form of mainstream art that’s rapidly exploding in awareness and value.

Custom pieces fetch hundreds of thousands of dollars and get millions of views on social media - transfixing the heady community with continuous displays of art that will get you high just looking at them.

There are so many amazing artists in the region and beyond, that selecting pieces to share is both a fun and difficult process.

We have some beautiful pieces spotlighted in all editions of our magazines - with different artists in each - and I hope you take a look at nwleaf.com to see our complete gallery!

Remember to buy American glass whenever possible, to support your local headshop, and to always smoke from clean glass!

-Wes Abney APr. 2020

AKLEAF.COM

AL AS KA L E A F / N O RT H W E S T L E A F / O R EG O N L E A F / M A RY L AN D L E A F

AND COMFY Perhaps the most important aspect in glass art is the AS IT DELIVERS relationship it offers between the user and the plant.

THAT SWEET Each piece is an expression of personal taste and vibes, SENSIMILLIA. while delivering a unique consumption experience.

A beloved rig or pipe is like an old friend, trustworthy and comfortable as it delivers that sweet sensimillia. The only true functional art in the world, I love sharing the hard work of those who craft borosilicate with flame and kiln.

NORTHWEST

national news

economy

SALES SPIKE DURING CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC Legal Cannabis sales are spiking nationally as folks stock up on weed amid the coronavirus pandemic, according to March sales data. Sales are up in California, Colorado, Nevada, Oregon and Washington, according to Headset, a Cannabis data company.

Recreational marijuana is legal in all five of those states. Sales were a whopping 75 percent higher than average in Oregon, with the spike registered on March 16, reports The Hill.

Headset also found the average “basket size” SALES ARE UP - that is the amount of weed people were IN CALIFORNIA, COLORADO, buying at one time - was 29 percent higher NEVADA, OREGON in Colorado, as many states began closing AND WASHINGTON. businesses and asking people to stay in their homes to lower rates of COVID-19 transmission. Several cities, including New York, San Francisco and Palm Springs, California, have wisely labeled Cannabis businesses “essential,” according to the Associated Press. This means pot shops can remain open despite orders locking down the area.

midwest

A M A J O R S H O R T AG E O F L E G A L W E E D

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he limited supply of legal recreational FOR CANNABIS TO MOVE BETWEEN Cannabis in Illinois’ adult-use marijuana STATES, IT WOULD market, while not surprising, is nonetheless NEED EITHER frustrating for consumers. Weed smokers in the state A CHANGE IN THE LAW, OR have complained to local dispensaries, but cultivaA FRIENDLY tors can only grow more product so fast, reports the OFFICIAL STANCE Quad City Times.

FROM THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF Interstate commerce in weed would help the problem, especially with states like JUSTICE. Oregon experiencing an oversupply. For Cannabis to move between states, it would need either a change in the law, or a friendly official stance from the U.S. Department of Justice to allow such trade. Since the railways are under federal jurisdiction, marijuana could be transported via train through states where recreational Cannabis is illegal, according to proponents of interstate pot commerce.

But that is unlikely to happen under a Trump administration, according to Matt Stern, the owner and CEO of Nature’s Treatment of Illinois, a Cannabis dispensary in Milan.

EAST COAST

BILL TO SHIELD 200K CANNABIS CONVICTIONS HEADS TO MARYLAND GOVERNOR’S DESK

aklEAF.COM

CONVICTIONS FOR MARIJUANA POSSESSION THAT OCCURRED BEFORE OCT. 1, 2014, WOULD NOT BE VIEWABLE ON THE MARYLAND JUDICIARY CASE SEARCH.

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hour waits were experienced by PA MMJ patients as sales surged due to the possibility of a pandemic related shutdown.

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The Maryland Legislature approved a bill on March 18 that would prevent almost 200,000 prior marijuana convictions from being viewed on a public database, reports Marijuana Moment. The legislation, sponsored by Democratic Del. David Moon, now heads to the desk of Republican Gov. Larry Hogan. If he signs it, the bill would make it so that convictions for marijuana possession that occurred before Oct. 1, 2014, would not be viewable on the Maryland Judiciary Case Search. Reform advocates celebrated the development, and said automatic expungements of such convictions would be included in legalization legislation they’ll be pushing for in the upcoming legislative session.\

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percent of seniors 65 and older reported using Cannabis products over the past year in a 2018 survey.

pounds of Cannabis were seized in a Bakersfield, California traffic stop in March.

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pending applications to grow Cannabis for research are currently being reviewed by the Drug Enforcement Agency.

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of Ohio’s 88 counties are required to submit signatures to qualify a marijuana legalization bill for the November ballot.

WASHINGTON STATE RELAXES CANNABIS RULES DURING PANDEMIC

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anic buying includes Cannabis, in Washington, and that has moved the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board to announce changes to marijuana regulations on March 17, reports the Tacoma News Tribune.

Changes include curbside pickup for medical marijuana cardholders, limits on the number of customers inside a pot shop at once, and stricter standards on sanitation to curb the spread of coronavirus and to protect medical users, MANY SHOPS according to Brian ARE REPORTEDLY Smith, LCB spokesman.

STRICTLY ENFORCING THE The Board had CAPACITY LIMIT already reminded some AND SANITIZING vendors to support ALL SURFACES AT LEAST EVERY HOUR. social distancing by limiting their customer capacity to 50 people.

Many shops are reportedly strictly enforcing the capacity limit and sanitizing all surfaces at least every hour.

Seattle weed retailers are also encouraging customers to use their online ordering systems more often, according to Aaron Varner, director of Dockside Cannabis, reports Cannabis Business Daily.

WASHINGTON STATE TO ALLOW SOCIAL EQUITY APPLICANTS EXCLUSIVE ACCESS TO REVOKED CANNABIS LICENSES

T

he right to apply exclusively for a number of revoked Cannabis licenses was granted to social equity applicants for marijuana businesses in Washington state by the legislature on March 17, reports Marijuana Business Daily.

The bill is aimed at increasing participation of minorities in the Cannabis industry.

A total of 34 such licenses will become available to members of the minority community, according to the Washington Liquor and Cannabis Board. Minorities have been disproportionately impacted by “the enforcement of Cannabis-related laws” during marijuana prohibition in Washington, according to the bill.

Gov. Jay Inslee was planning to sign the bill into law at press time.

75 130k

percent was the amount by which Cannabis sales rose in Oregon during a spike related to the coronavirus pandemic.

signatures would be required to get a Nebraska medical Cannabis initiative on the November ballot.

By STEVE ELLIOTT, AUTHOR OF THE LITTLE BLACK BOOK OF MARIJUANA

SMALL BATCH CRAFT CANNABIS

AVAILABLE IN SELECT STORES IN FAIRBANKS AND ANCHORAGE

health & science

STORY by ZANE VORENBERG for LEAF NATION

Coronavirus and Cannabis Washington Cannabis activists Grandma Cat Jeter and Jim MacRae are holed up in their respective homes.

They’re not taking visitors for the foreseeable future.

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It’s not that they hate company, but as medical Cannabis patients in the high risk group, they’re well aware that the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak that has been growing around the Seattle area could kill them.

Both have decided it’s safer to stock up on necessities and shelter in place for the time being, rather than risk exposure. But the spread of the disease is not just a risk to them. And those in the Cannabis industry are also warily watching cases spread, worried about the larger impacts.

“I’m in the 10 percent kill rate,” said Jeter, a medical Cannabis provider and activist in Washington who has rheumatoid arthritis and other complications. “I have my Analytical 360 pick up box outside, and people can get what they need there and leave the money for me - although I’m going to have to go to Paypal I think because money can also spread disease.”

The all-cash nature of the Cannabis industry is putting dispensaries on high alert. Cash is dirty stuff - often containing fecal matter and even cocaine in small amounts - and it’s just as easy for something like COVID-19 to hitch a ride on it and spread.

That’s why High End Market Place, a dispensary in Vancouver, Washington, has hand sanitizer by every register and a new policy of wiping every surface down several times a day with cleaner, according to Gareth Kautz, one of the owners of the store.

“We are spending a lot of time wiping down surfaces all over - and the menus as well,” Kautz said. “Good thing we stocked up on cleaning products before this all started to heat up.”

He’s also telling employees that are sick to stay home, even if it means short-staffing. But he’s worried that if the virus spreads rapidly, he may not have enough staff available to keep the shop open.

“If you get an outbreak, a small shop like this, we’re in trouble,” he said.

His cash counting machine has also become a scary device, because when it counts it blows dust and germs from the cash into the air.

In Seattle, the effect of spreading cases has had a greater impact on Cannabis dispensaries.

Bob Ramstad, owner of OZ. dispensary in the Fremont district, said as schools and businesses started to shut down, so did traffic to his shop.

But in the last day or two things shifted a bit, and now he’s seeing some people come in to stock up in case they get locked in their homes.

“It’s been weird,” Ramstad said Friday. “In general our sales during this outbreak have been down quite a bit - 20 to 30 percent. But then I think we saw some panic buying “Don’t pass joints, yesterday. Some delivery services don’t pass bowls. for food aren’t functioning right now, and I think people are noticUse common sense.” ing that and wondering ‘what if I’m stuck in my house for three weeks Cat Jeter | Cannabis Activist with no weed?’”

apr. 2020

Ramstad is also disinfecting everything in his shop as often as possible - including ATMs and door handles. He has a solid supply of Cannabis products as well, but there’s a potential looming packaging shortage coming on the grower side because of the economic shutdown in China, where much of that packaging is made, Ramstad noted.

“We have vendors that haven’t been able to get their packaging because of the situation in China,” he said. “In some cases, where the laws in Washington changed on packaging at the start of January, some companies designed new packaging for the new year - but now with the China shutdown, they’re still waiting for that to come in.”

Chris Bell of Doghouse Cannabis in Vancouver said his grow has seen some shipments slowed from China, but he worked things out with the company’s packaging supplier overseas to limit the delays.

“I was worried out of the gate that any products coming from outside the U.S. might be shut down,” Bell said. “Packaging could be a major hold up for other growers as well. Many of them get packaging from China because the same materials are cost prohibitive in the United States.”

China is one of the largest global suppliers of lighting supplies used in the Cannabis industry, and while that shortage won’t have a huge impact on already existing grows, it could impact grows across the country trying to set up.

“A ton of stuff comes from China,” Bell said.

“Even if a particular brand is selling a product in the U.S., a lot of companies have switched to outsourcing components to China.”

Doghouse is also changing the way it allows sick time, making it easier for workers to call in sick during the outbreak, because if the disease spreads among his workers like High End Market Place, he would also have to shut down completely.

“I just don’t want anybody coming in sick right now,” Bell said.

MacRae, who owns the data analysis firm Straight Line Analytics, which has worked on Cannabis testing issues in Washington, said he has been carefully looking at coronavirus statistics out of China and across the globe.

This disease scares him, he said, because the lack of available testing in the U.S. means it has likely already spread. And as cases grow, health systems in various areas are likely to be overwhelmed.

“One problem is that mild cases are actually pretty dangerous because they go out and spread the disease instead of staying home,” MacRae said. “That has me worried. Even with SARS I didn’t lock myself in the house for a week, but this one - Washington is going to be the guinea pig of this outbreak for the rest of the country.”

MacRae lives in between the two major outbreak spots in the Seattle area, and he said many of the other medical Cannabis patients he knows are also planning to hunker down and hope this threat passes. Most of the industry events in the next two months in his area have also already been cancelled.

Jeter suggested that Cannabis patients looking to stock up and shelter in place might want to consider stocking up on edibles or FECO drops, because they can relieve body aches and give you a health boost.

“My advice if you catch this thing - don’t smoke, don’t vaporize. You shouldn’t do any of that,” Jeter said. “If you microdose with whole plant medicine, though, it can boost your immune system. Also, don’t pass joints, don’t pass bowls. Use common sense. Huge numbers of us are going to catch this, but many people will be just fine. The danger with this is for those of us who are elderly, immunocompromised or have lung problems. For us, this could really go south quickly.”

highly likely

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H i g h l y L i ke l y h i g h l i g h t s Ca n n a b i s p i o n e e rs w h o p a ve d t h e wa y t o g re a t e r h e r b a l a c c e p ta n ce .

OLIVER STONE

going on to talk about legalization. “It can be done. It can be done legally, safely, healthily - and it can be Oliver Stone is one of the most famous directors, screenwriters taxed and the government can pay for education and and authors of the 20th century. We’ve all seen his famous films stuff like that. Also, you can like “Platoon,” “The Doors,” “Born on the Fourth of July” and save a fortune by not putting kids in jail.”

“Natural Born Killers.” The vast majority of Stone’s screenplays At the time, Stone held a remarkably forward-thinking and films involve his love of history, which is often used to retell mentality about legalization, which wouldn’t take hold in Colorado or Washington stories in a compelling fashion for modern audiences. for two years after the interview..

Talking about legalization, he said, “As a politiStone has been a controversial figure in tone was born in New York City in 1946, cian, I would fight for decriminalization first, because the media for a variety of reasons. and was eventually admitted to Yale. But that is the immediate by-product of this mess that we For one, he has made many statements shortly after he started, Stone dropped out got ourselves into. It’s very hard to pull out of a $40 related to his leftist political views, and has of Yale and went to teach English in Vietnam. billion-a-year industry, which is the prison industry. supported - or seemed to support - conFrom there, he worked on a Merchant Marine It’s probably more than $40 billion. But they will troversial world leaders and governments. ship that traveled from Asia to Oregon frequentfight you tooth and nail to keep these prisons as big Stone has also been outspoken on his own ly. Stone also had quite a career in the military as they are,” Stone said. personal views of human liberty in the 20th with the United States Army, where he served in “It’s worse than slavery, per capita. In the black and 21st centuries. That includes the use of Vietnam. There he earned many military service community, it is a form of slavery, this drug war, beillicit substances and Cannabis. awards for valor. cause it imprisons a huge portion of people, destroys In 2012, as part of major press junkets In the early 1970s, Stone graduated from New their lives, coarsens our culture. And why? Marijuana for the movie “Savages” (which chronicles York University with a bachelor’s degree in film is much less harmful than tobacco and prescription the US-led drug war with Mexican and and started writing screenplays. His 1978 screendrugs in many cases, and certainly alcohol. This puColombian cartels), Stone play for the film “Midnight Express” won him his ritanical strain got started with Nixon.

“MARIJUANA IS laid out his feelings on first Oscar. Afterwards, he wrote another screenIt was a political issue for him, and MUCH LESS HARMFUL Cannabis - which he said play - this time based on his own addiction to it’s gotten worse. It’s like the PentaTHAN TOBACCO AND he has smoked all around cocaine, called “Scarface.” Stone says he kicked gon. You can’t stop it.”

PRESCRIPTION DRUGS the world. his addiction to the substance while writing it.

While Stone has been relatively IN MANY CASES, AND “There’s good weed In 1986, he started directing films, beginning mum on the subject recently, these CERTAINLY ALCOHOL. everywhere in the world, but with what many consider to be his masterpiece: quotes provide perspective into a THIS PURITANICAL my God, these Americans “Platoon.” From there, Stone became the directodirector who has helped shape our STRAIN GOT STARTED are brilliant,” he said, then rial wunderkind we all know today.

WITH NIXON.” culture over the past five decades.

aklEAF.COM

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apr. 2020

By PACER STACKTRAIN for LEAF NATION

SPARKING YOUR INTEREST EVERY MONTH! Advertising starting at $300 per month

email Wes@NWleaf.com or Josh@AKLeaf.com for details on including your brand & company in the May June or July 2020 Alaska Leaf!

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rehashed

FEB. 7-9 | BLAISDELL EXHIBITION HALL | HONOLULU

HAWAII CANNABIS EXPO

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It

is said that there is a positive vortex that exists on the islands of Hawaii, so we here at The Leaf decided to be proactive to make sure this claim can be backed up. And telling by the aloha vibes emitted by the attendees at this gleeful exposition, the proof is in the poi.

The colorful oasis of Oahu offers something for every nature lover and makes an idyllic setting for industry insiders, as well as public browsers looking to immerse themselves in this exciting modern movement of legal Cannabis.

Seed companies were plentiful, as well as living soil, nutrients, and even a fabulous publication aptly named Hawaii Cannabis Magazine showed a significant presence. With Cannabis having been a staple of Hawaiian culture for decades, it quickly became evident to us that the heavy attendance was indicative of these beautifully tan islanders being hungry for normalization.

There are myths and stories that resonate out of Hawaii that have become the lure of fascination for millions of visitors over the years, but until your eyes witness the abundant beauty in person, you will never truly understand its resonance on the human psyche. It can change you and make you forget the stress you left behind. And like the red lava that gave birth to this magnificent haven, we share the rich color in the blood that flows through our veins. There is a heartbeat, too, and with enough time immersed into the lushness of the indigenous plant life and fresh air, you begin to sense a soulful synchronicity that falls into time like the tribal drums at the spectacular luau.

Be cautious, because this is the perilous point at which you begin to question your current living situation, and consider making sweeping changes like selling everything to relocate to this unique habitat. But alas, there are new horizons to see and advocacy to push forward with this media empire that we are building, so we came home with a keen eye to the next gathering of positive minded Cannabis lovers.

In the end, one is left with gratitude for this sacred place, and ultimately the feeling of great fortune for the ability to relish in the bounty of Cannabis that it provides.

There are myths and stories that resonate out of Hawaii that have become the lure of fascination for millions of visitors over the years. apr. 2020

STORY by MIKE RICKER @RICKERDJ | PHOTOS by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS

Listen to Leaf Life Podcast Show #55, Hawaii Cannabis Show #57, Cannabis & Surfing

PROFILE

women in weed

SIBELLE YUKSEK

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L A G LA S S B LOW E R EXTRAORDINAIRE

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SIBELLE AND I met at a Cannabis industry event in Santa Rosa while I was working for a Humboldt County based farm in mid-2019. When I saw her, I honestly couldn’t take my eyes off her. She was the most badass woman I had seen all evening, effortlessly twisting tubes of glass in the darkness of the night. I could tell immediately \ by the beauty of her work and her skill in unexpected conditions that she was awe-inspiring, and I would have to share her story.

Walking into her new studio I was greeted by the warm glow of the morning LA sun, as well as her personal art display with sketches of Sailor Moon and other original characters, not to mention the glass creations made using her signature networking technique.

“I feel like I meet a lot of glassblowers who were pursuing one path and glass just came out and was like - pay attention to me now.”

Congratulations on your new space!

It’s been a long time coming, yeah?

It has. Well, I’ve been working at Neptune Glassworks for the past five years. So, I’ve been doing production glassblowing there. It’s right down the street from here, which kind of sealed us in, because there are a few studios on that block. It’s safe over here, but I still have my distance and I can be a little bit more creative and allow my feminine energy to blossom. The space over there is so masculine, it’s basically like walking into a Mad Max warehouse. Motorcycles, steel, wood, all heavy materials. Me being the only glassblower there for so long, I sort of adapted to the space.

I’ve been in Uri’s (her employer) footprint this whole time. He’s been very generous in sharing his equipment with me and allowing me to grow within that space. It just got to a point now where my interests are too much. When clients come to see me, I want to be able to say, “Everything you see in here is my work,” - and it’s total ownership. I’m still over there three days a week, which is awesome.

As much as I want to be fully on my own, financially it’s a little bit difficult, especially in LA. How did you get started in the industry?

I was a cashier at Pacific Art Glass after recently moving to LA. I knew I needed to meet glass people somehow, so I was handing my cards out to everyone. I had my studio set up in my bedroom at the time, with my box fan in the window (not recommended) and I was flameworking little jewelry. It was really crazy. Uri came in to buy glass and I gave him my card, and ended up checking out his studio. When I showed him how similar our work was, he realized he needed to hire me. He didn’t know exactly what my experience levels were, but he knew I could do the networking technique.

It was a risk to join the team, but I was like, “Yeah!

Let’s do it!”

So, with your degree in Illustration Design, it’s safe to say you have a very strong background in art and creation. Was glass your first medium? No. It’s always by accident. I feel like I meet a lot of glassblowers who were pursuing one path and glass just came out and was like pay attention to me now! For instance, Uri was in engineering before, and was feeling unsure about his path. Someone eventually invited him to help them blow glass. All of a sudden, his brain flipped and he had to do it. For myself, I just had to take a class in college that was outside of my major and it had to be an art class. I thought, “Oh, Glass Casting 101, it should be easy enough.” The instructor who was teaching the class, Sayaka Suziki, eventually became my first mentor. She really pushed

me hard, and I was really interested in investigating this material. I didn’t start out blowing glass at all, the first couple years of my glass career were all sculptural casting. So I would just make molds, put cold glass in a mold, and melt it into the mold to be solid glass - strictly sculptural. It wasn’t until within my degree, that I wanted to major in glass as well as illustration. I was lucky enough to take classes from some really amazing flameworkers, like Emilio Santini, who was an Italian maestro his last semester, and Christopher McElroy - who goes by 2-Stroke - who is a very big pipemaker. I didn’t realize at the time how lucky I was to have these instructors. Virginia Commonwealth University doesn’t even have a flameworking department anymore.

What was the big push for you to move into your own studio? With the encouragement from social media, I have such a positive following and people are so welcoming. I’ve actually never felt any discrimination for being a woman in the industry. I don’t know if it’s because of my attitude or dedication, or that I just know how to deal with guys after being in this manly warehouse for five years. Who knows, but I also just don’t think about it. I just want to put my shit on the walls or draw anime pictures. I just want to be alone and play. I missed the creativity. Here I have all my colors and my patterns. Now I can really make it personal.

Do you make mostly functional pieces or do you still make jewelry? I want to more!

Because of necessity, people who hit me up want smoking goods, so I keep making those. With more time and space, I want to make more prototypes.

We first met when you were doing a glassblowing performance – do you travel frequently to show off your skills? I’m down to do it for whomever. I did a demo for the first year of Glass Vegas. We do demos at the big studio whenever we have parties. That trained me to not be afraid to perform in front of other people.

In a way, [Neptune Glassworks] was sort of a big training camp for me. How heavy can you work, how much can you endure, how much pressure can you perform under? I’m super grateful for this whole experience. I’m taking everything that I learned from that and applying it to my own.

What is your biggest influence in terms of style or external sources of inspiration?

I gather my inspiration from fantasy, comic books, video games and anime. Anything cute or ethereal.

I vibe with ancient cultures and mythology.

There’s so many deities. I have such a huge library of inspiration. I made an Isis piece recently, as well as a Shiva pipe. All of my influences are either other illustrators - James Jean is huge for me, [Alphonse] Mucha, and [Gustav] Klimt - or anything that’s swirly and out of this world. This might seem a bit abstract, but I am very inspired by movement and intention. You might see this in anime - there’s always this very fluid movement happening with characters. There’s a lot of buildup in action and tension. It’s the moment before the marble rolls off the table - the tension where it’s not on one or the other surface. Embodying that feeling. I want to learn how to implement that into my work.”

Do you ever come up with ideas for your art while you’re high? Totally! I don’t smoke a lot, but when I do it’s usually before bed.

And also waking up in the morning. Well, I love working out while I’m high, or taking a shower when I’m high. And then I’ll lay in bed and look through books, read comics, pet my cat. All of this together. Especially depending on the type of weed I’m smoking. I actually thrive on indicas, and I’ll think about body movement a lot.

Sometimes I’ll get high and pull out the yoga mat, doing weird stretches. I’ll try to learn poses that I see on Instagram - that’s usually how I roll when I’m in the zone.

Is there a favorite piece that you’ve created?

Yes! It’s a tiger and it has six boobs. It has a huge halo. I wanted to play with not just the female form - but wanted it to have that power of motherly, feminine energy. It’s a sculpture. I wanted to make it like a deity, so it has the holy halo, and it’s just epic. I put so much gold on it, she’s mother goddess. That piece right now is my favorite. I would secretly be sad if someone bought it.

If you could collaborate with any glass artist, who would you choose right now? It’s so hard to pick! I really want to collaborate with this guy - he goes by Avatar (@avatarglass). I don’t know if it’s going to happen. I don’t usually collaborate with other artists, but he is ridiculous in his skill level. He does this similar thing that I do. Building universes or worlds in this fantasy realm. I photoshopped one of my characters into a space-scape, and then I saw he photoshopped a spaceship that he made into space. I feel like it would be super cool.

See more of the artist’s work at Sibelley.com Follow her on Instagram @Sibelley

STORY & PHOTOS by DANIELLE HALLE @SWEET.DEEZY for LEAF NATION

interview

W H O ’ S YOU R FAVO R I T E B U D T E N D E R ? T E L L U S W H Y ! E M A I L N O M I N AT I O N S T O J O S H @ A K L E A F . CO M

ALASKA LEAF BUDTENDER OF THE MONTH

Dan Lankford DE NAL I DI S P E N SARI E S 225 E 5 T H AV E , AN C HO RAG E / (907) 646-4200

DE NAL I DI S P E N SARI E S . CO M

WHEN DID CANNABIS FIRST COME INTO YOUR LIFE?

Cannabis first came into my life when I was 19-years-old, recreationally - early 30s medically.

I always enjoyed smoking Cannabis just for the pure enjoyment, then later found out how much better it made me feel instead of prescription pills for my chronic back pain.

Guest Services - Lemon Ice Pucker, Tanana Herb Company - Mandarin Cookies, Frontier Farmers - Lemon Harambee and Hammerhead. I am also a huge fan of our cultivation’s products as well. Denali Dispensaries Odins’s Beard, Tangerine Dream, Lime Time and many more new ones to come.

HOW DID YOU BECOME A BUDTENDER? I became a

HOW DO YOU FIND THE RIGHT CANNABIS FOR A CUSTOMER?

By interacting with them, asking budtender thanks to my friend who what they have planned for was about to go into business with the day, what the owner of Denali preferences they Dispensaries. I was “THE STAFF have, how they like originally going to HAS A NICE to smoke. Great work in the cultivation, interaction usually FAMILY VIBE but instead I gave gets good feedback budtending and retail AND WORKS on what the a shot and fell in love.

TOGETHER individual needs or I like interaction with TO MAKE is looking for. Our people, so it was the EVERYONE’S slogan says it all: perfect fit.

EXPERIENCE Find your high.

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WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF BEING A BUDTENDER?

THE BEST WE CAN.”

My favorite part of the job is the people. I like hearing their stories and experiences - not just with marijuana, but life in general. It is satisfying to know that sometimes those stories or their venting can help brighten their day, even before they get home and consume.

aklEAF.COM

FAVORITE WAY TO CONSUME?

DAN LANKFORD is a familiar face to many customers in downtown Anchorage at Denali Dispensaries. The other half to the fabulous Chef Bombshell, the two make a power couple within the Alaskan Cannabis market that is hard to top. Having been involved at the store for over a year, Dan knows his products well - and their own flower even better.

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When it comes to consuming I am a total joint, preroll, blunt type of guy.

The convenience of hands free is a bonus when I smoke. I don’t have the lungs for bong hits or dab rigs, and pipes I’ll smoke out of if I run out of papers.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE STRAINS AND PRODUCERS?

I have a few favorites when it comes to cultivators and strains.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT BEING AT DENALI?

I like working for Denali Dispensaries because of the people I work for and with.

Branden (owner) has a great young mind full of knowledge and means for success. The staff has a nice family vibe and works together to make everyone’s experience the best we can.

H O B B I E S O F F T H E C LOC K ?

My hobbies when I’m not budtending are simple - I spend time at home with my amazing soon to be wife Chef Bombshell Michelle and her daughter. I also hang with friends and make frequent trips to Alyeska. Other than that I am a quiet homebody who loves trying new strains and living life with the ones I love.

INTERVIEW by JOSHUA STAHLE/ALASKA LEAF | PHOTO by BOOM MEDIA

STRAIN OF THE MONTH

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aklEAF.COM

CARAMEL KONA

COFFEEKUSH GROWN BY PAKALOLO SUPPLY CO.

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There is no sweeter combination than coffee and weed, and this strain delivers a serious cup of aloha vibes that your mind and body will thank you for smoking.

A TRUE FEEL GOOD STRAIN, THIS IS A WONDERFUL WAY TO START OR END THE DAY NO BAD VIBES ALLOWED!

Popping open a jar releases sultrysweet caramel flavors that ooze into the background of slightly acidic coffee, bringing a distinctly herbaceous kush finish. Layered with smells that will confuse the stomach as the mind wonders if this weed is meant for eating or smoking, after taking a nibble, we decided to pack it into a pipe.

The flower is cured and trimmed with obvious attention, dropping a sprinkling of trichomes when a bud is snapped open - revealing a kushier, slightly sour coffee note with a hint of citrus and sugar on the inside. Smoking a bowl starts with an exceptionally clean inhale, exiting smoothly with a sweet syrupy caramel flavor in the finish.

Effects rush to the mind quickly, alleviating stress and imparting a sense of contentment and general happiness.

After several big tokes and a 20 minute settling period, the body begins to relax and unwind, leaving one with a loosening up of the mind and body that kicks tension to the curb.

A true feel good strain, this is a wonderful way to start or end the day with no bad vibes allowed!

The family behind Pakalolo Supply Co does an excellent job in the garden, which is the key to their success as a vertically integrated dispensary.

Using Korean natural farming methods to feed nutrients without pesticides, their plants are grown in living soil beds and have personal attention on the daily.

Like everything in life, the more love you give the more you receive, and their plants can be found dripping with lovely THC and terpenes that only come from natural gardening methods.

Smoking Pakalolo flower certainly delivers a sense of love and aloha, which is needed at all times of year, but especially now.

Treat yourself with a taste of the islands by choosing the Caramel Kona Coffee Kush, and remember that as delicious as it smells, this bud’s for smoking!

PakaloloSupplyCo.com @PakaloloSupplyCoAK

REVIEW by ALASKA LEAF STAFF | PHOTO by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS

@greenjar.ak

/greenjarak

Check out our April Deals!

Sundays - 10% off Edibles Mondays - 20% off Glass Tuesdays - 10% off Cartridges Wednesdays - 10% off Accessories

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Open 7 days a Week , Current Hours 12p-7p Until Further Notice www.GreenJarAK.com 4901 E. Blue Lupine Dr. Ste. E Wasilla, Alaska 99654

MARIJUANA HAS INTOXICATING EFFECTS AND MY BE HABIT FORMING. MARIJUANA IMPAIRS CONCENTRATION COORDINATION, AND JUDGEMENT. DO NOT OPERATE A VEHICLE OR MACHINERY UNDER ITS INFLUENCE.FOR USE BY ADULTS TWENTY-ONE AND OLDER. KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN. THERE ARE HEALTH RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH THE CONSUMPTION OF MARIJUANA. MARIJUANA SHOULD NOT BE USED BY WOMEN WHO ARE PREGNANT OR BREASTFEEDING.

the GLASS issue

EXTRA-GALACTIC

The Story of

nathan miers The world of glass art has continued to evolve and grow in popularity as Cannabis legalization has swept across most of the nation. Artists from around the world have found unique lanes and levels of complexity within the glass art spectrum. Here, American made glass pipes range in price from the hundreds to the tens of thousands of dollars, truly entering the world of fine art.

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athan Miers - better known as ‘N8’ - has positioned himself in the fine art category of functional glass art. N8 grew up in Washington state surrounded by creatives and he found Cannabis at an early age living on the West Coast.

The community and friendships built through Cannabis happened quickly for N8. When he first tried Cannabis around his junior year in high school, Miers remembers getting the severe munchies and downing a whole bag of frozen strawberries, recalling the experience with a grin.

Nathan was an energetic kid and found that Cannabis helped to reduce his anxiety and allowed him to focus more, leading him to do well in school. He ended up going to college for graphic design, and actually began acquiring college credits while still in high school. Breaking the old school

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traditional Cannabis consumer stereotype, N8 went to college and that’s where he acquired his first real piece of heady glass - when he ordered himself a custom pipe.

Nathan remembered paying around $60 for the custom bowl and when he received it, he thought to himself, “This is cool, I think I can do this and bet I could do it even better.”

And so began the journey into his adventures in glass blowing.

N8 began blowing glass in 2002 after a local artist who had a garage studio setup asked him if he wanted to give it a try. He began to make pendants and small items, listening to electronic music and teaching himself to blow glass while the studio owner was on vacation. Around that time is also when N8 started to keep a journal of his future goals. He had an early desire to one day have a shared creative studio space with like-minded creatives.

That dream would later come to complete fruition in the form of the now legendary Everdream Studio in Evergreen, Colorado.

Soon after, within six months of blowing glass, he decided to leave college and was working as a glass blower full-time, selling pipes to local shops. 2006 marked the time period where he became more interested in

the heady market - marbles, jewelry and other things non-bong related that were made from glass. “Being creative was and still is the main goal,” said Miers.

The ability to create and make a living as an artist was another early goal for Nathan that he has stayed true to during his career.

In 2010, Miers decided to make the move from California to Colorado full-time to work at the Shackmansion in Denver. During this time he worked with now legendary artists and partners in Everdream Studio, including Adam G and others. 2010 was also the year he decided to devote his creative work exclusively to the space work and galaxy glass designs he had begun working on in Oregon.

In addition, this is when he began to expand his thinking of what might be possible for a glass pipe, its acceptability to the mainstream and overall cultural acceptance. Instead of the glass pipe being a negative clandestine item, to N8 it was a beautiful piece of art meant to be shared, enjoyed and smoked.

He remembers showing his grandmother one of his pipes, and even being a non-smoker, she immediately took to the artwork. It’s a moment in N8’s career he remembers fondly.

When asked about the current state of Cannabis legalization and its impact on

SPACE DRAGON CLAW n8 x mike luna

Sakana bottle n8 x eusheen

N8 x Buck x WJC x Darby

N8 x sagan

“I like to think of myself as a painter. Some glass artists create these complex sculptures, while I view my work as more of a canvas to create the depth and space scenes I include in my work.”

the culture and community of glass art, N8 mentioned, “Legalization paved the way for the entire functional glass art community to come out of the shadows after Operation Pipedreams. Combine legalization with social media and it has allowed the community to flourish and advance at a much more rapid rate than ever before.”

N8 moved to Colorado in 2010 and by 2015 he was well known across the country as one of the best glass artists in the world - making insane space scenes, taking his collectors on a deep voyage into his glass universe. Asked about how he views his own style and work, he mentioned, “I like to think of myself as a painter. Some glass artists create these complex sculptures, while I view my work as more of a canvas to create the depth and space scenes I include in my work.”

Miers made his first space pipe in 2006 in Oregon. Others had made spacey glass before, but in 2008 Miers - while looking over his outdoor grow in California - thought to himself after a day on the production grind, “I don’t want to keep making what everyone else is making.”

He gazed up at the stars overlooking his California grow and remembered the space pipe in Oregon, and decided to start experimenting with his now world famous space techniques and IG murrine series.

When it comes to remaining creative and finding new inspiration nearly 20 years into his glass blowing career, N8 is “striving to evolve as an artist and as a craftsman. My brain is always seeking out new ways to creatively express myself.”

N8 and the fellow artists that now operate Everdream Studio have become well known for throwing some of the largest and most elegant functional glass art shows in the world.

The annually ‘canceled’ Wook Show, Heaterz and Heazter90210 that wrapped up last year in Beverly Hills are all examples of how the glass art community is thriving, with the artwork and attitude of Nathan Miers being a large part of that culture. N8 recently had a new showcase of work on the East Coast at the well known StokedCT Gallery in Connecticut, and will be having another major show in 2020 in California later this year.

Work by Nathan Miers can be seen on his Instagram at @Nathan_Miers and at galleries around the country.

STORY & PHOTOS by SAMUEL FARLEY @THC_SAMUEL for LEAF NATION

the GLASS issue

30 Pot Medic @Matt_Donofrio_glassart Available from Gathering Glass Bellingham

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PHOTOS by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS/LEAF NATION

the GLASS issue

galaxy @DosaGlass Available from Dank Czar Gallery

aklEAF.COM

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pink and purple murrine retti starburst @DosaGlass DankCzarGlass.com @DankCzarGlass

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Hammâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; s Encalmo Windowpane Set 2017 @hammswaterworks

Breathing Ball UV Reactive Mini Ball Rig Available from Gathering Glass Bellingham

@JakeCGlass x @MothershipGlass

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PHOTOS by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS/LEAF NATION

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AN

Marijuana has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming and addictive. Marijuana impairs concentration, coordination, and judgement. Do not operate vehicle or machinery under its influence. There are health risks associated with consumption of marijuana. For use only by adults 21 and older. Keep out of reach of children. Marijuana should not be used by women who are pregnant or breast feeding. License #11638

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RECIPES

I INTENDED APRIL’S RECIPES, A WHOLE MONTH OF 4/20 THIS YEAR, TO BE CELEBRATORY. P a r t y f ood , t o ho no r o u r f a v o r i t e p l a n t . H o w e v e r , t h i s A p r i l , p r e t t y m u c h a l l a r o u n d t h e w o r l d , i t l o ok s l i k e w e w i l l b e hu nk e r i n g d o w n a nd e n j o y i n g o u r o w n c o m p a n y . T h e r e ’ s a l o t g o i n g o n a n d a l ot t o t h i n k a b o u t . S o m e v e r y i m p o r t a n t d e c i s i o n s t o m a k e . I f y o u a r e h e a l t h y b e h e l p f u l , a n d t a k e g o o d c a r e o f y o ur s e l f , t o o . T h ese recipes make one serving, but they can be doubled or tripled easily. # D on t f e a r t h e e d i b l e

Ramen noodles are pure comfort. I was introduced to them by my son Nick when he was in college. Clearly a simple package of ramen needs no directions, but I have ramped up the ingredients and added a little canna-love. When you mix the cannaoil with sesame oil, a totally awesome flavor combination emerges. Check your fridge - there is bound to be something there to add to your soup.

I like to get the packages of ramen noodles that don’t have MSG in the ingredients. It makes me feel weird and it’s pretty simple to avoid. If you feel the same way and can’t find the noodles without it, don’t use the flavor packet and add some tamari sauce, and use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water. Make it a bigger meal by adding tofu, shrimp or chicken.

SUPER RAMEN FOR ONE 1 PACKAGE RAMEN NOODLES

HUNKER DOWN AND EAT WELL

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CRUNCHY CHICKEN WITH SALSA ½ ROMA TOMATO, CHOPPED ¼ YELLOW PEPPER, CHOPPED 2 TBS THINLY SLICED SCALLION 1 TBS CHOPPED FLAT LEAF PARSLEY AND WHOLE LEAF 1 MEDIUM RADISH, CHOPPED 2 TBS AVOCADO, TOSSED WITH ½ LEMON 2 TBS OLIVE OIL 1 TEASPOON CANNA-OLIVE OIL SALT AND PEPPER TO TASTE JUICE OF ½ LEMON 1 EGG, LIGHTLY BEATEN 1 POUND BONELESS CHICKEN BREAST ½ CUP PANKO BREAD CRUMBS ¼ CUP PARMESAN 1 TBS CHOPPED PARSLEY 2 TBS CANOLA OIL

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6 SNAP PEAS, HALVED ¼ CUP SHREDDED CARROTS 1 SOFT BOILED EGG, PEELED/HALVED ¼ CUP SPROUTS CILANTRO LEAVES 2 TEASPOONS SESAME OIL 1 TEASPOON CANNA-OIL INSTRUCTIONS Open the package of ramen and remove the flavor packet. Add two cups of water or stock to a medium size saucepot and bring to a boil.

Add the watercress, scallion and noodles to the pot and simmer 3-4 minutes. Add the peas and carrots along with the flavor packet from your package of ramen, and cook an additional minute.

Pour the soup into a bowl, add the egg, sprouts, cilantro and the oils and serve.

GARLICKY BUCATINI 2 TABLESPOONS OLIVE OIL 1 TEASPOON CANNA-OLIVE OIL 2 GARLIC CLOVES, PEELED AND SLICED 4 CHERRY TOMATOES, HALVED IF LARGE 1 CUP FRESH SPINACH, PACKED PINCH CRUSHED RED PEPPER SALT AND PEPPER, TO TASTE PARMESAN, OPTIONAL

In a small bowl combine the tomato, pepper, scallion, parsley, radish and avocado.

Add the oils, salt and pepper and lemon juice and toss well. Chill.

INSTRUCTIONS In a small skillet over medium-low heat, heat the oils. Add the garlic and cherry tomatoes and sauté for three to four minutes.

Add the spinach and sauté until wilted, three to four minutes. Stir in the crushed pepper, and add salt and pepper to taste.

Place beaten egg in a shallow bowl.

On a plate combine the breadcrumbs, parmesan and parsley.

Be sure to make the salsa before you cook the chicken. You can even make it the night before, just add the avocado as close to dinner as possible.

You want the contrast of the hot chicken and the cool vegetable topping.

1 SCALLION, SLICED

3 OUNCES BUCATINI PASTA

INSTRUCTIONS

In a medium skillet heat the canola oil.

Dip chicken breast in the egg then into the breadcrumb mixture and place carefully in the skillet.

Cook the chicken breast in the oil until crisp, about four minutes/side.

Transfer to a plate and top with the vegetable mixture.

¼ CUP PACKED, RAW WATERCRESS

Bring a large pot of water to a boil.

Cook the pasta according to the package directions. When tender, drain and place in a bowl.

Bucatini is a thick spaghetti-like pasta that is extremely satisfying.

If it’s not your cup of tea, feel free to use any other shape.

In summertime an angel hair would be delightful. Again the ingredients can be changed to suit your taste. Adding shrimp or chicken could be a nice way to go.

Add the sauce to the pasta and sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan, or add a couple of tablespoons of goat cheese and some fresh or frozen peas. Awesome flavor combination.

RECIPES by LAURIE WOLF | PHOTOS by BRUCE WOLF

(1) "Marijuana has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming and addictive;” (2) "Marijuana impairs concentration, coordination, and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under its influence;” (3) "There are health risks associated with consumption of marijuana” (4) "For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of the reach of children;” and (5) "Marijuana should not be used by women who are pregnant or breast feeding;”

edible OF THE MONTH

BY STONEY MOOSE KITCHENS

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RAW

ENERGY BITES aklEAF.COM

IN A WORLD FULL OF MANY CHOCOLATES, COOKIES, GUMMIES AND MORE, THE OPTION OF HEALTHIER SNACK CHOICES MAY SEEM SLIM.

THE FIRST BITE WILL WELCOME YOUR TASTE BUDS TO THE NATURAL SWEETNESS AND CHEWINESS

H

owever, Stoney Moose Kitchens located in Ketchikan has put together fresh, natural and organic ingredients to create Raw Energy Bites!

These Raw Energy Bites hold so much nutrition that you can’t feel guilty when you snack on the delicious treats! The first bite will welcome your taste buds to the natural sweetness and chewiness from the deglet dates, coconut flakes and cacao nibs. With the crunch and bold flavors from the toasted almonds and chia seeds, you don’t even taste the Cannabis infused coconut oil!

Raw Energy Bites are a perfect and flavorful chewy snack that can be enjoyed in the morning to give you that boost of nutrition and motivation, or in the afternoon to give you that push to get through the rest of your day - all the while satisfying your sweet tooth!

StoneyMooseKitchens.com

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REVIEW by BRANDI WIESE for ALASKA LEAF | PHOTOS by STONEY MOOSE KITCHENS

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

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VISITING ALASKA

Sights seen from the road

SEWARD TO HOMER June 1st – August 31st Mon Wed Fri

Locally owned and operated by a Departs Seward 100pm lifelong Alaskan, Stage Line offers call ahead for pick up point passenger transportation, freight, parcel, and courier service, between Cooper Landing Wild- man’s 200pm Anchorage and the Kenai Soldotna 300pm Peninsula. Our schedule includes, All times are approx Anchorage to Homer, Cooper Landing, Soldotna, Kasilof, Ninilchik, HOMER TO SEWARD Anchor Point. Homer to Seward, June 1st - August 31st Soldotna, Cooper Landing. And any The Stage Line PO Box 353 Anchor Point, Mon Wed Fri points in between! MP flag stops AK available! Private party charters Departs Homer 1242 Ocean Dr 900am The Stage Line 1242 Ocean Dr Homer, Ak available! Reasonable rates, saves 724 W International Anchorage, Ak of Commerce time and money for travelling or your Soldotna Chamber Staging points only 1030am 907-868-3914 907-235-2252 shipping needs.

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concentrate OF THE MONTH

PROCESSED BY FIREWEED EXTRACTS | CULTIVATED BY CATALYST CANNABIS COMPANY

CAST A HEADY SPELL AND EMBRACE THE ENCHANTMENT OF DABBING WITH THE BLISSFUL WIZARD, WHERE POTENT LIVE RESIN DELIVERS A HIGH WORTHY OF THE TERM MAGICAL.

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BLISSFUL WIZARD

LIVE RESIN

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W

71.2% THC 4.74% TERPS apr. 2020

hile the name doesn’t tell you much about the genetics of the strain, the genetics tell a full story. The Blissful Wizard is a cross of Captain’s Cookies with the original Girl Scout Cookies, for a storybook combination. Together the pair creates a powerful force, with deep and rich Cookies notes accented by bright, energetic bursts of lemon and lime that melt into a creamy finish.

Following the ritual of a low temperature dab, the true flavor potential of this live resin sauce reveals itself - transforming to vapor with sweet and bright lemon lime kush flavor - exhaling easily while leaving behind a heavy high. Effects settle in quickly, slowing thoughts and imparting a blissful and content state to overtake the mind. The body quickly follows with an unclenching of the jaw and deep breaths that drive tension out of the body.

While wizards and magic potions might only exist in stories, this elixir of live resin is both real and beneficial for aches, pain and nausea. But it’s equally perfect for a stressful moment or simply spicing up an average afternoon.

And with hours of bliss from a single dab, who’s to say that there isn’t a little magic in our choice of spiritual plants to smoke?

THE BLISSFUL WIZARD IS A CROSS OF CAPTAIN’S COOKIES WITH THE ORIGINAL GIRL SCOUT COOKIES, FOR A STORYBOOK COMBINATION.

REVIEW by ALASKA LEAF STAFF | PHOTOS by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS

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coffee & cannabis

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Brewed by The Reef

MACCHIATO & LIMONCELLO HAZE In life, it is essential to find a balance between the old and the new. There’s always a reason that something becomes a classic; whether that be its status as a staple, its timeless appeal or perhaps just its lack of comparable replacement.

NOW, THAT ISN’T TO SAY that new doesn’t hold its own.

A mesh of old-world charm and modernity - this is the beautiful principle on which the pairing of Information Retrieval’s Limoncello Haze and a macchiato is based.

A macchiato is a tradition and Limoncello Haze is posed to yank it into the 21st century. To begin with, it should be noted that you’d be forgiven for thinking that a macchiato is a caramel laden coffee beverage with tons of steamed milk. In fact, that couldn’t be much further from the truth.

A macchiato (Italian for ‘marked’ or ‘spotted’) is in actuality a shot of espresso with just a dollop of foamed cream. The intention here is to balance, not engulf, the coffee and add just a touch of sweetness.

This is not a drink one clutches for warmth while running morning errands. A macchiato is light and contemplative, though brief. It is enjoyed with purpose and poise.

The delicateness of that macchiato pairs with the tart, herbaceous aromas that proliferate from Limoncello Haze.

As the name suggests, Limoncello Haze teems with a definite citrus taste, but it is far more complex than your daily lemon strains. It truly is like its namesake - Limoncello - further complementing the Italian heritage of the companion macchiato. Likewise, the genetics of this strain echo that blend of standard meets unique.

Limoncello Haze is a cross of the lesser known Lemon Ice and time tested Super Silver Haze. As a flower, it is deep green, drenched with substantial trichomes and heavily spotted with cafe colored pistils.

The high is distracting and euphoric. Positivity radiates from deep within after toking on this strain. The consumer might find themselves forgetting that they were in the middle of getting high, as they waft aimlessly on a bubble of uplifted spirits.

Let your mind wander and give in to your creativity as you wash down the sour, sweet smoke with small sips of macchiato.

One could find Limoncello Haze and a macchiato a nice complement to inventive and stimulating endeavors. Take some time to appreciate the merging of traditional craft and new school excellence.

Pick up some of Information Retrieval’s Limoncello Haze next time you’re on the way to grab your morning coffee and give it a try with a macchiato (or two). Or roll some up in the afternoon with a glass of actual Limoncello. Either way, with this strain pleasure abounds.

aklEAF.COM

“The delicateness of that macchiato pairs with the tart, herbaceous aromas that proliferate from Limoncello Haze.”

apr. 2020

LIMONCELLO HAZE

BY INFORMATION RETRIEVAL

STORY by TJ GAGNIER | PHOTO by JESSE CODLING | MARKETING

& CREATIVE DIRECTOR, THE REEF SEATTLE

44

by Mike Ricker A Fungus Among Us

leafnationmd.com leafnationmd.com

Try to share your beer with just about anyone these days and they’ll thanklessly grimace at your unsanitary gesture.

You may as well have just mauled a garlic seasoned smelt melt and then offered them a French Kiss. “Germs are microscopic,” they think to themselves. “How can I be certain I won’t catch a cold sore?”

Or perpetuate a pandemic.

If it’s a fancy cocktail in a martini glass, a polite person may reach for the nearest straw to dip and taste from, or maybe even find an untouched side of the rim to sip, but someone would have to be pretty hammered to plant their lips onto the open-ended bottle of brewski that’s still glistening from your last tug. And to be quite honest, the person who impulsively follows your swallow is not necessarily someone you want to be sharing DNA with, either.

It’s a hyper-prudent social climate we live in. These are tenuous times. The rules have changed.

Offer up a dab, however, and no one blinks an eye.

Or a bong hit, or a spliff, or a pipe, or a jay, or a gravity rip - it just doesn’t matter so long as it’s marijuana.

And I believe that it has nothing to do with the fact that Cannabis is medicine, because I’ve never returned home with a bottle of Nyquil that didn’t come with a washable plastic measuring cup attached to the lid. But the last time I bought a vape cart, there was no removable sanitary rubber for the tip.

So, why is it that when offering someone your drink, people get grossed out? Yet when it’s a puff, they respond with delight?

I think I know the answer.

Because we inherently trust Cannabis. So, it makes sense that we also trust the user.

With booze it is the complete opposite.

APR. 2020 Apr.2020

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