FLOWER ISSUE
SOOTHING SUNDAY
30% off all Redbird, Bodhi High and 30% off all CBD
PANDAMONIUM MONDAY
40% off all Panda flower and joints
30% off all other Panda, Snicklefritz, Dabstract, Sticky Frog, and Hot Sugar
BEST BUDS TUESDAY
30% off all flower and glass
CONCENTRATION WEDNESDAY
30% off all dabs & cartridges, and 30% off batteries
MUNCHIES THURSDAY
30% off all edibles & beverages
FLOWER POWER FRIDAY
30% off flower and joints when you buy 7g or more and 30% off Blue Roots
SAFETY MEETING SATURDAY
30% off flower and joints when you buy 7g or more
EVERYDAY DEALS
10% off - Wisdom Discount to Guests over 65
30% off - All CBD topicals, tinctures, and capsules
30% off - Daily rotating deals in every category
infused with authentic cannabis terpenes expertly extracted from artizen's premium flower. each pen is strain-specific!
WES ABNEY CEO & FOUNDER
wes@leafmagazines.com
MIKE RICKER OPERATING PARTNER ricker@leafmagazines.com | advertising sales
TOM BOWERS CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER tom@leafmagazines.com
DANIEL BERMAN CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER daniel@leafmagazines.com
BOBBY BLACK LEAF BOWL DIRECTOR & HISTORIAN bobbyblack@leafmagazines.com
KAYL WOHL COPY EDITOR kayl@leafmagazines.com
ASHLEY HIRCHERT SOCIAL MEDIA LEAD ashley@leafmagazines.com
ABOUT THE COVER
We always feel incredibly fortunate for the amazing opportunities we have here at the Leaf. This month is no exception. We had 20 of the best strains in the state all in one room — talk about stinky and sticky! Borophoto came in and captured the images all in one day. From there it’s “Raining buds, hallelujah, it’s raining buds!” Huge ups to the talented Daniel Berman for another one of his amazing designs. Thanks for joining us this month, and enjoy our roundup of the tastiest and stankiest strains in Washington!
PHOTOS BY REX
CONTRIBUTORS
WES ABNEY, FEATURES + NEWS
ANGELA-JORDAN AGUILAR, FEATURES
DANIEL BERMAN, PHOTOS + DESIGNS
BOBBY BLACK, FEATURES + DESIGNS
JOSHUA BOULET, ILLUSTRATION
JEFF DIMARCO, PHOTOS
MICHAEL GREENMAN, VIDEO REX HILSINGER, FEATURES + PHOTOS
MATT JACKSON, FEATURES + ART
TAY LOTUS, PHOTOS
TODD MCCORMICK, PHOTOS
JOSH MONTHEI, PHOTOS
JESSE RAMIREZ, DESIGN
MIKE RICKER, FEATURES
KELSEY STEVENS, PRODUCTION
TERPENE TRANSIT, DISTRIBUTION
TERPODACTYL MEDIA, FEATURES + PHOTOS
LENA B. WHITE, AD S ALES + PRODUCTION BRUCE & LAURIE WOLF, RECIPES
We are creators of targeted, independent Cannabis journalism. Please email us to discuss advertising in the next issue of Northwest Leaf Magazine. We do not sell stories or coverage. Email ricker@leafmagazines.com to start advertising!
Exclusive Cannabis Journalism CONNECT WITH NORTHWEST LEAF!
Thanks for picking up The Flower Issue of Northwest Leaf!
This is our ode to weed: the buds, the nugs, the plant that fil ls our minds and lungs with healing and happy smoke! Frosty trichome-covered flower is the input for every product we find on a dispensary s helf, processed into concentrates and then into edibles and topicals. It all starts as a plant, and that’s why we’ve picked the best buds to share with you!
I vividly remember the first time I picked up a High Times magazine, in the early 2000s, and saw a fully flowered plant covered in trichomes, red hairs and edgy leaves under a blue light filter. It looked almost alien! This illegal exotic plant could put you in jail, yet it looked so crummy in the dime bags and e ighths of BC bud around Seattle at that time. I was stunned and intrigued. I wanted to see the plant in the dirt, sending my roots into the weeds that day.
In my youthful era, Cannabis was illegal, and I was told that the Devil’s Lettuce would give me testicular cancer, ruin my brain like a fried egg, and steal my motivation. If only the warnings about alcohol had been equally as serious. It might seem trite, but seeing a weed plant in that magazine changed my entire view on Cannabis as a drug. How could all this fear be about something similar to an orchid or a tulip?
The first time I held a pot plant, in a red Solo cup, I was again struck by the juxtaposition between the reputation of the plant and the r eality of a little green seedling. I was reminded of the Parable of the Mustard Seed — how faith is like a tiny seed that can grow into a large tree that provides food, an environment for other animals and a safe space for birds and critters. What better example than the humble pot seed, which provides food, fuel and fiber as hemp and delivers medici ne and a safe recreational high as Cannabis? Surely the plant that can do it all is a gift from God, and definitely not comparable to lettuce!
“SEEING A WEED PLANT IN THAT MAGAZINE CHANGED MY ENTIRE VIEW ON CANNABIS AS A DRUG.”
I’ve been to the Portland Rose Garden, tripped in the Seattle A rboretum at the peak of blooming season, and yet no plant I’ve ever seen or sme lled compares to the beauty of Cannabis. Our favorite plant can share the same scent and flavor of a sugary strawberry patch in bloom, have the creamy-cheesy-garlicky funk of ripe durian fruit, and even share the same chemical compounds as the spray from a skunk! All of nature is represented in the spectrum of flavors, from the swee t to the cat piss.
Cannabis is the only plant that can send us to the sky in euphoria, help us rest peacefully and get us totally ripped while healing the body. I believe that all use of Cannabis is medicinal, because even on a rainy spring day, if the only reason for smoking is to feel better, then the act is one of healing. How many people turn to alcohol, pharmaceuticals or the ever-present sugar to feel bett er while harming their bodies?
There’s only one plant we can smoke or vaporize to feel better, which is why we celebrate all the beautiful colors, shapes and flavors in our annual Flower Issue!
BY THE NUMBERS
In Massachusetts, this is the percentage of dispensary retail products out of 100 that failed mold testing requirements. According to Christopher Hudalla, Ph.D., founder and CSO of testing laboratory ProVerde, the results of the tests are alarming. He said, “Well over half of the samples submitted do not pass the state’s own criteria for safety.” Who knows what blend of respiratory, allergy and fungal infections and reactions could result from using these products?
£400,000
The value of a Cannabis farm dismantled by police in North Yorkshire, England. The grow was discovered by an electrical company that discovered an irregular amount of power being used on the property during a power outage inspection. According to BBC News, officers described the operation as “sophisticated,” even though only two people were on scene during the raid. The police caught the two 30ish-year-old men, who are believed to be linked to an organized crime group.
55% 20 lbs. $100m
The amount of Cannabis found along with a handgun in a traffic stop by the Florida Highway Patrol. The 27-year-old driver was stopped for illegal window tint when the officer noticed a heavy smell of fresh Cannabis. When asked, the driver admitted to smoking but could not provide a license or medical Cannabis card. The gun wasn’t loaded, but having random cash throughout the car and several large bags of different quantities of Cannabis didn’t help.
The Michigan Department of Treasury is distributing nearly $100 million among 302 local entities and tribes, according to a mid-February announcement. Detroit will receive $3 million in Cannabis tax revenue, the most of any community in Michigan. Of the counties, Wayne County rings the bell again this year with the most in tax revenue, around $5 million. The 10% sales tax provides counties with a little more than $58,000 per licensed Cannabis business in their jurisdiction.
$300
New York’s Cannabis Control Board issued 74 new adult-use geared licenses in February spread out across six distributors, 10 microbusinesses, 39 processors and 16 retailers. As of late February, the state has 307 legal Cannabis retail stores in operation. Many more licensed Cannabis businesses in New York have yet to open, but the market should see an exciting uptick in mid to late 2025.
In early February the Idaho State Senate voted 27-8 to approve a bill creating a mandatory minimum fine of $300 for simple Cannabis possession. Individuals 18 and older will receive this fine when caught with up to 3 ounces of Cannabis. With the amount of neighboring states that have lax Cannabis systems, this is only a small step in the right direction. This was almost the final hurdle after the House passed the bill just days earlier with a 54-14 vote. Now it goes on to Gov. Brad Little for consideration. If signed into law, it would take effect on July 1 of this year.
Since the first six months of Ohio’s recreational Cannabis program, state sales went to nearly $320 million. This number is eye-opening considering the medical program in Ohio did less than $15 million in revenue during its first six months. The state’s Division of Cannabis Control reports more than $2 billion in the medical market since 2019 across 37 cultivators, 46 processors, nine testing labs and 131 retailers.
The number of Cannabis stores in Seattle that were hit with a smash-and-grab burglary on the same day in late February. The Reef Cannabis in Capitol Hill and Cannazone in SoDo had vehicles driven through their doors after hours, costing the owners tens of thousands of dollars in repairs. This isn’t the first time thieves have targeted these stores, with each store having $15,000 to $20,000 in merchandise stolen in previous years in the same style of burglary.
CASSIE YOUNT
ARE YOU AN ISLAND GIRL? I grew up in Lake Stevens, then joined the Navy and was stationed in Oak Harbor.
WERE YOU USING CANNABIS AS MEDICINE IN THE NAVY? No, no, no. I actually never even used Cannabis until I got out of the Navy. I had a very, very strict mom who I didn’t want to piss off. But when I got out, I had some significant mental issues I was using it for, and the plant helped to balance me out.
HOW IMPORTANT IS THAT ENTIRE PROCESS OF GOING THROUGH A STINT IN THE MILITARY AND THEN COMING OUT WITH THE FREEDOM TO CHOOSE A NEW PATH TO YOUR APPROACH AS A BUDTENDER? It’s really important to me. I try to provide everyone with a safe space to find what they are looking for. Here on the south end of Whidbey Island, we have an older demographic who think that Cannabis is still taboo, so when they come in looking for relief for their joints or their mental health, I’m grateful that I have my own experience to draw from to better help them with theirs.
Cassie finds peace on the coast rockhounding for agate when she’s not in her studio creating wonderful oil paintings. But when she’s ready to make some noise, you’ll catch her jammin’ on the guitar, ukulele or violin. Follow her on Instagram @artbycassandrakay
“I’M GRATEFUL THAT I HAVE MY OWN EXPERIENCE TO DRAW FROM TO BETTER HELP THEM WITH THEIRS.”
WHAT MUSIC ARE YOU INTO? Ooh, I’m primarily a punk kid — grew up on Bad Religion. HAVE YOU EVER MOSHED? I’ve moshed once. I’ve got a bad knee and a bad Achilles, so it’s a bit out of my safety zone. I’ve gone into the pit at Lamb of God, and that was a month after knee surgery, so I probably shouldn’t have been at a show. (Laughs)
21 GUN SALUTE
THE GENERAL
The commander in chief is Dave Moore, who was a career guy at the Department of Labor and Industries until 1996 when he decided to open a hemp store as a side hustle in Olympia. The venture lasted two whole years, but the seeds were planted. He took his state job back for 14 years, but in 2012, he and his wife, Ruth, threw their hat in the ring, and they got picked in the lottery; “A privilege and responsibility,” Dave says. Can you believe they’ve lasted 10 years? Well, this is what happens when you do things the right way.
AT EASE
With a good crew, you can battle against Goliath when your name is Dave. He considers customer service feedback a real bonus when people tell him they’ve been treated respectfully. When searching for a name, they went to the “Duck Dynasty” show where they use rank-and-file names, hence Bud Commander. Inside, you’ll see some cool Cannabis posters of iconic photography because they want to make a bold statement. And now here in 2025, where Tumwater used to be all about Olympia Beer, it’s now all about growing and selling weed. Even the mayor asked for a field trip to the store back in 2015 just after opening the doors.
GUERRILLA WARFARE
At times, they’ve gotten brazen by having banners hanging over the Renton parking structure at Interchange trade show. And this is cool: they also sponsor an IMCA Modified race car at Grays Harbor Raceway, driven by Tyson Blood, Washington State Champion, because you’ve gotta get creative when you’re on the Cannabis battlefield. And lastly, their annual holiday donation drive has provided over $20,000 directly to the Tumwater community (Rotary, Lion’s Club, Tumwater Family Services).
STAFF PICKS
FLOWER
Dewey Cannabis Co. Pink Drink - Aelin
Canasmith NYC Housewives - Ruth
Western Cultured Lumpy Space Princess - Dave
JOINTS
Fire Bros. Lemon Slushee - Garrett
Seattle Bubble Works Hash Cannon Blue Dream - Jackie
Lish Rosin Joints GMO - Kammy
CARTS
Mfused Super Fog All-in-One Cereal Milk - Nick
1937 Farms Live Resin Carts Sour Chem - John
Buddies BBrand All-in-One Melon Gum - Taryn
CONCENTRATES
Ooowee Truffle Butter - Tyler
Suspended Brands Iceberg GG#4 - John
Cannasol Hash Ball Hindu Kush - Jackie
EDIBLES
THC Supreme Peanutbutter Balls - Jake
Mary Jones Root Beer - Tyler
Ray’s Lemonade Solventless Mango Shot - Taryn
SKUNK PROCESSORS smell of success
Skunk Processors, a standout in Washington’s ever-growing Cannabis scene, is a labor of love run by Josie Gebhardt and her wife Sarah.
The duo, who own and operate this state-of-the-art facility, have poured years of dedication into perfecting their craft. Located down by the bay, about a mile south of the US-Canada Peace Arch crossing, Skunk Processors combine passion, efficiency and a fierce commitment to quality in everything they do. As the company’s motto goes: “Quality sticks and BS walks.” And they certainly live up to it.
Sarah & Josie
Animal Cookies x XJ13 for Hash Skunk Clusters
THE FACILITY is brand new, but don’t let that fool you — it’s a testament to the years of experience the couple and their team have amassed. Everyone working at Skunk Processors seems genuinely happy and proud to be part of such an innovative and close-knit operation. The focus here is all about efficiency and high-quality standards, ensuring that every batch of solventless hash rosin produced is top-tier.
One of the keys to their success is their commitment to using fresh-frozen flowers from some of the best local gardens around. This careful attention to sourcing ensures the creation of beautiful solventless rosin, created at the hands of Lab Manager Chris Cummins. But the magic doesn’t stop there — Skunk Processors has developed a proprietary method of suspension, which is used to craft their signature line of products, each one delivering a delightful experience for consumers.
Among the company’s standout products is the Nano Chillz, a 1:1 THC/CBD ice pop that’s perfect for those looking to unwind in a fun and refreshing way. These freeze-yourself pops come in several vibrant flavors, such as Pineapple, Fruit Punch and Grape, with each offering 100 mg of a balanced THC/CBD blend. Whether you’re cooling down on a hot day or simply looking for a new way to experience Cannabis, these pops are a
must-try. Also a great way to implement Cannabis into your mocktails!
In addition, Skunk Processors is known for pushing boundaries with innovative products.
Leaf Editor Wes Abney, The Bearded Lorax, known for his discerning taste, recently had the opportunity to try their soon-to-be-released Skunk Clusters, a Nerds-covered gummy. His feedback? “These are delicious, with just the right amount of this and that. A perfect chew and melt!” If that’s not a glowing recommendation, I’m not sure what is.
But perhaps what’s most sought after from Skunk Processors is their solventless hash rosin. For those looking to enjoy some of the finest concentrates around, their solventless batter, solventless jam, and top-selling solventless sap stix are the way to go. These products can be found at local retailers under the Skunk Processors label. Each product is meticulously crafted to deliver exceptional flavor and potency. The sap stix, in particular, is a fan favorite. Its rechargeable pen is of the highest quality, offering consistent hits with no leaks — a rarity in the vape world. On the medical side of things, their dedication to always distribute high-quality RSO at the Phoenix Tears level is a blessing for medical patients and a tribute to this team’s level of commitment to the healing powers of Cannabis.
It’s no surprise that Skunk Processors has garnered attention from other Cannabis companies, eager to collaborate. Their expertise in processing and packaging has led to private label opportunities for other brands in Washington. One of the newest partnerships is with Belushi’s Farm, the farm founded by actor Jim Belushi. As a long-time fan of both the actor and his refined taste, the partnership is exciting. By teaming up with Skunk Processors, Belushi’s Farm ensures that their products meet the high standards that Washington consumers expect. This partnership is also poised to create a level of distribution density that all Cannabis brands yearn for, ensuring that Belushi’s products will be available to a wider audience.
With the combination of expert craftsmanship, a focus on quality and strategic partnerships, Skunk Processors is positioning itself as one of the top processors in Washington and beyond. Whether you’re a connoisseur or a casual user, Skunk Processors offers something for everyone, all while maintaining a level of excellence that’s tough to beat.
If you’re in the market for some of the finest Cannabis products, look no further than Skunk Processors. You’ll find a wide range of products to suit every need, all backed by a passionate team that truly understands their craft.
“..Skunk Processors is positioning itself as one of the top processors in Washington and beyond.”
Chris Cummins
The Team
Lab Manager
We Grow Sticky
This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of the reach of children. FIND A
SACRED SESH
THE RASTAFARIAN, HOLISTIC ART OF STEAMING
ASa cherished gift from Jah, ganja isn’t used recreationally but sacramentally, integrated into rituals, meditations and communal gatherings known as “reasoning sessions.” In these spaces, the steam chalice is a focal point, its vapor facilitating clarity of mind, spiritual elevation and communal bonding. In the Rastafarian lineage of ancient wisdom, the steam chalice — or steam rolla — stands as a powerful and sacred way to commune with the herb in its purest form.
THE SESH is more than a ritual; it’s a communion with the earth, a bridge between the physical and the divine. In the Rastafarian tradition, the sacramental herb of Cannabis, or ganja, is honored as a vessel of healing and enlightenment. Rooted in a spiritual framework, ganja is revered as the “Tree of Life,” a sacred herb that offers healing, elevated insight and a pathway to divine connection.
THE ART OF STEAMING
Unlike traditional combustion, steamrolling activates the medicinal properties of the plant without the burn. This process involves placing whole Cannabis flower and other herbs into a ceramic bowl, which is then heated indirectly with natural coconut shell charcoal. As the herbs warm slowly, they release a fragrant and potent vapor free from the harmful byproducts of direct combustion.
This technique, deeply rooted in Rastafarian culture, preserves the integrity of the herb, offering a cleaner, smoother and more intentional experience. Through the gentle release of terpenes and cannabinoids, steaming allows the true spirit of the plant to unfold — expanding the mind, uplifting the soul and nurturing the body.
Beyond providing these sacred tools to the community, JahSteamaz offers personal and group steam chalice ceremonies, both virtually and in person. These immersive ceremonies guide participants through the mindful practice of steaming, fostering a deeper connection to the herbs and oneself. Under TaiJah’s guidance, individuals learn to cultivate a respectful and holistic relationship with Cannabis, viewing it not just as a substance but as a sacrament.
A RITUAL OF HEALING AND CONNECTION
“Through the gentle release of terpenes and cannabinoids, steaming allows the true spirit of the plant to unfold — expanding the mind, uplifting the soul and nurturing the body.”
JahSteamaz, a collective dedicated to the art of herbal healing, embodies this ancestral knowledge through its line of products and educational offerings.
Founder TaiJah Mills, a devoted plant medicine advocate and medicine woman, embraced her calling to craft these sacred tools and share the wisdom of steaming with the world following a journey back to her ancestral homeland of Jamaica.
JahSteamaz offers handcrafted steam chalices made in Jamaica. Crafted from natural materials like coconut shells, bamboo and clay, each piece is a testament to the island’s rich cultural heritage and the Rastafarian commitment to natural living. These chalices are not merely products but vessels of tradition designed to facilitate a conscious and intentional relationship with plant medicine.
The steam chalice is not just a typical consumption device — it is an intentional sacramental chalice. Before engaging in the ritual, take a moment to ground yourself. Set an intention for your sesh — whether it’s clarity, healing, creativity or a deeper spiritual connection. As you inhale the sacred steam, visualize the medicine permeating your being, filling you with light, wisdom and Jah’s eternal love. Positive vibrations such as music, chanting or even silent meditation can further enhance the experience.
ALIGNING WITH THE ELEMENTS
To truly elevate your sesh, it’s essential to work in harmony with the elements. Fire represents transformation, the spark that awakens the spirit of the plant. Whether using a natural charcoal or an ember, approaching the flame with reverence ensures a respectful activation of the herb’s healing properties.
Air is the breath of life, carrying the essence of the herb into the lungs, where it merges with
our own life force. Conscious breathing — deep, intentional inhales and slow, meditative exhales — enhances the absorption of its wisdom.
Water cools and purifies, filtering the vapor through the chalice’s natural reservoir. Like the sacred rivers that cleanse the soul, water in the steam chalice allows for a smoother and more hydrating intake of the medicine.
Earth is the foundation, the source from which the herb is born. Honoring the soil, respecting the cultivation process and choosing ethically grown, pesticide-free herbs ensures that we are in alignment with the highest vibrational plant medicine.
SACRAMENT, NOT RECREATION
In the eyes of true herbalists and spiritual seekers, Cannabis is not a recreational drug — it is a sacrament, a teacher, a bridge between worlds. JahSteamaz is keeping this ancient wisdom alive, reminding us that how we engage with the herb matters. The way we prepare it, the energy we bring to the sesh and the tools we use all contribute to the vibrational quality of the experience.
By adopting the practice of steaming with the chalice, individuals can experience the holistic benefits of Cannabis, accessing its therapeutic properties while aligning with a tradition that promotes mindfulness, respect and spiritual growth. For those seeking to deepen their connection to plant medicine, steaming offers a path of purity, reverence and holistic healing. Whether new to the practice or already walking the path, JahSteamaz provides the tools and wisdom needed to elevate your sesh to a truly sacred experience.
The next time you get ready to burn one down or light one up, remember OGs: This is more than a moment of relaxation — it is an act of devotion.
Pause before your sesh, set an intention and give thanks to the four elements, Mama Ganja and the Ancestors who protected our sacred plant medicines. As the steam rises, let it carry your prayers of gratitude into the cosmos, to infinity and beyond. Until next time, One Love OGs!
2025
CHECK OUT OUR NEW DESIGN!
YOUR FAVORITE CANNABIS BRAND HAS A NEW LOOK!
NEW STRAINS IN SIGNATURE AND LUXURY LINE!
Zach Gates
In a world filled with limitless creative possibilities, some artists find their niche in the most unexpected places.
Zach Gates is one such artist, whose journey into glassblowing began in Baltimore and led him to Philadelphia. From being a collector to a creator of stunning borosilicate glass designs, he continues to allure with his incredible works and techniques.
A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME AND GLASS
When asked what he would do first with a time machine, Gates’ answer was simple: “I’m going back to the dinosaurs!” This playful remark reflects the sense of wonder fueling his artistic vision.
Born and raised in Baltimore, Gates’ interest in the medium started as a collector’s hobby. In 2017, he purchased his first glass art piece, created by Andy G, which ignited his passion and led him to explore what borosilicate glass could offer. That same year he had the opportunity to view live glass blowing by Scooby Meow Glass.
In 2019 Gates relocated to Philadelphia, where his journey as a glass artist began. He came with no prior experience, simply drawn to the material’s possibilities. His dedication culminated in his graduation from the renowned Salem School of Glass in 2021. Since then he has enjoyed the amazing artists’ community in the Philadelphia area.
“In 2019 Gates relocated to Philadelphia, where his journey as a glass artist began.”
FUMING: THE HEART OF THE CRAFT
When asked about his favorite aspect of glassblowing, the answer was simple — fuming.
Silver striking, a fuming technique, is especially fascinating to him. It involves metal vapor to color glass, and silver produces vibrant hues.
Achieving the entire rainbow spectrum through fuming is a key element that adds depth and complexity to his creations.
But fuming isn’t the only technique that draws his attention. Faceting, the process of cutting and shaping the glass to create intricate patterns, complements fuming perfectly. The interplay between the colors from fuming and reflective patterns from faceting gives a stunning, multidimensional quality that’s become his signature style.
One of Gates’ current favorite designs is the “Bloopcycler,” which stands out for its unique, fluid structure.
He said that he prefers to select a combination of colors from Molten Aura Labs and Greasy Glass, and enjoys showcasing their rich colors that make the art truly pop. The vibrancy of Royal Jelly, Magenta and Pink are particularly striking, allowing techniques like sleeving and ghosting to come to life.
These elements — rich color, intricate technique and fluid design — are central to his work. With each new piece, he blends creativity with technical mastery, and his love for the material deepens.
“With every new piece, his love for the material deepens, and his craft continues to evolve.”
WHAT’S NEXT?
Looking to the future, Gates has several exciting projects on the horizon. One of the most anticipated is a drop at Ignite Glass and Gifts, where fans can get a chance to see new creations firsthand. An innovative project is also in the works: “Gemception,” a captivating piece that features a gem within a gem. This unique idea promises to push the boundaries of glassblowing even further, combining the natural beauty of gemstones with the skill and intricacy of glass art. With exciting projects on the way, the world of glassblowing surely will see more of his captivating creations in the years to come. @GATEZGLASS | GATEZGLASS.BIGCARTEL.COM
THE ARTIST’S EVOLUTION
“THE
FLOWER IS DENSE AND STICKY, BREAKING UP WITH A RUSH OF SCENT AND LEAVING THE FINGERS LIGHTLY STICKY AND SMELLING OF DANKNESS.”
CULTIVATED BY MAMA J’S
BUBBLEGUM
BEING AN ADULT MEANS WE CAN CHEW BUBBLEGUM AND GET HIGH AT THE SAME TIME, AND WHILE A “THEY LIVE” REFERENCE MIGHT BE A TAD CLICHE, THIS TASTY PURPLE FLOWER TRULY KICKS ASS!
THE 1988 MOVIE “THEY LIVE” features a main character who finds a pair of glasses that allow him to see through the simulation of life and the underlying messages from alien overlords, like “obey,” “consume” and “conform.” There’s a famous scene in this epic classic where the main character Nada says, “I have come here to chew bubblegum and kick ass. And I’m all out of bubblegum!” Lucky for us stoners, we’re stocked up on both and ready to get higher than John Carpenter was when he came up with the script pitch. Mama J’s slogan is “Mama Grows Best,” and from the looks of these frosty purple, trichome-covered buds, she’s right. Opening a jar and breaking a bud releases a sour, fruity funk that’s thick and full of ripe, earthy gas, teasing the senses as a bowl is loaded. The Gelato parentage is clearly represented in the smell and looks, with the Pink 2.0 adding a pungent, pink tropical flourish that’s truly mouthwatering.
The flower is dense and sticky, breaking up with a rush of scent and leaving the fingers lightly sticky and smelling of dankness. First hits rush to the frontal lobes, covering the mind in a heady fog that slows thoughts down to a simple base function. Further rips reveal a high heavy enough to be called a gum dropper, as the mouth hangs slightly open and the mind is lost to waves of stoney, heavier-than-normal Gelato effects. Each toke burns smoothly, thanks to a pesticide-free grow environment, with dizzying exhales leaving an earthy funk on the palate that’s truly delicious.
Within minutes and a few bowls, we soon found our minds focused on simple tasks; consume snacks, watch TV, smoke another bowl. Perhaps the movie marketing worked, but one thing is certain. This Bubblegum Gelato is ready for your next stoned adventure to the kitchen or to fight an intergalactic oppressive regime.
UV Protective Coating (no light bleaching!)
100% Post Consumer Recycled Plastic
Persevering Lid
Child Resistant (pinch me!)
sugary gas sends the mind into outer orbit
Sour citrus meets berry Sharpie
Mad Mark Farms Cosmic 22
Baker’s Dozen x Falcon 9
Bred by Archive Seed Bank
As the terpenes cascade over my palate, this fierce, ready-to-bake-you bud from Mad Mark starts to feel like a punch in the face. Completely coated in a blizzard of trichomes with huge druzy quartz-like calyces, this bud glistens with notes of sweet baked cherries and a sour-lemon-gas frosting finish that is drool-worthy in the jar and even better in action. A fat rip of sugary gas sends the mind into outer orbit in a euphoric, stargazing high. madmarkfarms.com @madmarkfarms archiveseedbank.com | @archiveseeds
Review by Rex Hilsinger @borophoto and Wes Abney @beardedlorax
leaves a sweet flavor on the lips
Plaid Jacket Zero Gravity
GMO x Oreo’s
Fuel — that’s what this is. Straight gas as soon as you open the jar. The taste experience comes across as really smooth and super creamy but with a clean finish. The piney exhale almost leaves a sweet flavor on the lips with no juicy jaws and definitely no cotton mouth. The high is video game weed for me. Enjoy these relaxing tones and rich flavors. plaidjacket.com @plaidjacket.wa
Review by Rex Hilsinger @borophoto
Freddy’s Fuego Black Trop Cherry
Black Cherry Ice Cream x Trop Cherry
Bred by Relentless Genetics
Yarr, there’s nothing like a pirate to take a strain and turn it black, and that’s exactly what the pheno-hunting team behind Freddy’s Fuego did with this Relentless Genetics twist. Lighter in color, thickly dense and frosty as a stolen diamond necklace, this cut is all dark fermented cherries with a garlic gas. Sour citrus meets rubbery berry Sharpie for an aroma that ties the mind into a perfect monkey’s fist knot. The smoke is whisper smooth, tastes like a ripe gassy cherry and brings a heavier, sedated version of the classic Trop Cherry high. freddysfuego.com | @freddys.fuego | relentless-genetics.com @relentless__genetics | Review by Wes Abney @beardedlorax
a bright, funky dutchy haze
Artizen dutchberry
Dutch Treat x DJ Short Blueberry
Bred by Artizen
The infamous Dutchberry started in Washington’s legal pot market as a top-10 strain by sales volume and has remained in this position for over a decade, showing that consumers value consistent fire as much as they do new strains to try. The Dutchberry has large, medium-density, light green buds with curvaceous foxtails and a bright, funky dutchy haze with a creamy blueberry, vanilla gas that’s mouthwateringly delicious. First tokes are full of berries and haze, sending a chillaxed body buzz and a floaty, happy head high that’s ready for PNW adventures. artizencannabis.com @artizencannabis | Review by Wes Abney @beardedlorax
funky
red and blue berry flavors
honey, citrus and rose petals
1937 Farms
Truffle & Flow #24
Trufflealoha #11 x Chimera #3
Pheno Bred by 1937 Farms
Visible trichomes glisten proudly from thick green nugs with purpled tips and a light layer of red hairs in a stunning display of color and frost that has us feeling wintery despite a sunny start to spring. First notes are bright and creamy-fizzy, with funky red and blue berry flavors that amplify when smoked, sending a smooth flow of earthy, fruity bliss to the mind with a push of energetic stoniness that’s ready to power your grind. | 1937farms.com @1937farms | Review by Wes Abney @beardedlorax
Heavenly Buds Grapple Pie
Grape Stomper x Mr. Nice
Bred by Compound Genetics
Dark purple buds glisten with prominent trichomes, reminding us of a delicious berry pie covered in shiny sugar crystals. Opening a jar is like popping a cork on a rich, grape-and-redberry-heavy wine, with creamy notes of vanilla, honey, citrus and rose petals that melt into a fuelly, funky finish. Both uplifting and time warping, we found sounds and sensations heightened as a melty, dancey buzz took over mind and body movements. | heavenlybuds.com @heavenlybuds | compound-genetics.com | @compoundgeneticsofficial
Review by Wes Abney @beardedlorax
lightly sweet and fermented tangy garlic
Lifted Cannabis Racing Burnout #33
Garlic Snake Breath x Garlic Butter x Garlic Icing | Bred by Lifted Cannabis
This strain is pure garlic gas, in your face like the stench of drifting burnout. The triple cross brings all the forms of weed garlic to the party, with the sour, creamy garlic, the lightly sweet and fermented tangy garlic, and the sharp, breathy garlic that grips the lungs with a potent bite. liftedcannabisco.com | Review by Wes Abney @beardedlorax
hits deliver a fresh rush of citrus
washington
bud company mimosa
Purple Punch x Clementine
Bred by Symbiotic Genetics
Sip and savor this bright, beautiful, citrus-forward flower from the legacy team at Washington Bud Co. This DOH-compliant flower is light green and super crystally and oozes terps like a freshly squeezed glass of orange juice with a garnish of hazy, skunky vanilla that sets our mouth to watering while loading a bowl. First hits deliver a fresh rush of citrus that hits the frontal lobes with a burst of energy and euphoria that’s ready to start a day with a blaze. wabudco.com @washingtonbudcompany2012
@symbioticgenetics | Review by Wes Abney @beardedlorax
sherbet bouquet and mental clarity
High End Farms Lemon Skunk
Las Vegas Lemon Skunk
x Unknown Skunk
While a skunk is something we never want to meet in the wild, it’s always a joy to find in a jar of tasty weed. This Lemon Skunk is bright and in-yourface with sharp citrus gas that melts into a tantalizingly complex, creamy and earthy skunk aroma. Softer and lighter in density, yet still totally sticky, the first inhales taste like candied lemons with a funky exhale, sending a rush of stoned energy to the mind and body, perfect for a dance at the desk workday. highendfarms.com | @420_hef
Review by Wes Abney @beardedlorax
Sundae Driver
Fruity Pebbles OG x Grape Pie
Bred by Cannarado Genetics
Bold and robust notes of citrus and tropical fruit crash into a greasy, creamy sundae finish that’s all cake and gas. These big, soft, sticky buds burn with a rich sweetness and a funk that lingers on the palate, sending a relaxing, content high that’s ready for couch-based adventures while the weed takes the mind on a glorious, dazey trip. @potofgold502 | radogear.com @cannarado | Review by Wes Abney @beardedlorax
Momma Chan Farms Magic Marker
RS11 x Permanent Marker
Bred by Seed Junky Genetics
Big, thick purple buds look like frosted boulders of dank and ooze with sharp, powerful notes of funky marker and citrus gas. Complex and bold yet enticing, this strain adds a sweeter tune of vanilla and citrus to the harsh funk of the Permanent Marker. The RS11 brings a sherbet bouquet and mental clarity to a powerful high that wraps the body and mind in a calming hug — perfect for escaping stress and enjoying the very stoned moment. | mommachanfarms.com
@mommachanfarms | seedjunky.com | @seedjunky.hq
Review by Wes Abney @beardedlorax
fades into a warming, honeyed funk
Dewey Cannabis Co. Durban Inferno
African Durban x Citrus Sun
Bred by Dewey Cannabis Co.
Big, foxtailed buds contrast shiny trichomes with purple and dark green notes in a modern twist on the classic Durban Poison. Thick and dense, the buds release a sharp, rich rush that melts into a citrusy, gassy bite that fades into a warming, honeyed funk. The Durban Inferno burns with a clean and bright smoke that exhales in a rush of energy, reducing cerebral pressure and allowing thoughts and energy to flow freely in a creative, euphoric and centered high. deweycannabis.com
@deweycannabis | Review by Wes Abney @beardedlorax
The crisp flavors of pine and nutmeg
frosted like a shiny new bar of soap
Plaid Jacket Animal Tsunami
Caramel Tsunami x Animal Cookies
These nugs have a really nice structure and beautiful violet undertones, dense but not too much, and grind up great. I found it to be a little spicy in the nose right off the hit, then the immediate taste reminds me of those Christmas snowball cookies. The crisp flavors of pine and nutmeg come next to the palate, then the almost almond butter finish is very satisfying and smooth. The high comes in immediately, with a very calming mental and physical feeling. I’d use this one for headaches, chronic pain or just to relax after a long day. plaidjacket.com | @plaidjacket.wa
Review by Rex Hilsinger @borophoto
Artizen Apple Banana Zoap
Bred by LIT Farms
This is one soap you’ll want to wash your mouth out with! Full of rich soapy funk and gas with creamy banana and a crisp green apple spice finish, these beautiful purple and dark green buds are frosted like a shiny new bar of soap. First hits are smooth and warming, with a creamy banana gas exhale, sending a flowing high that is energetic, uplifting and just the right amount of stoned for daytime activities. | @artizencannabis litfarms.com | @litfarmsflower
Review by Wes Abney @beardedlorax
1937 Farms
White Truffle BX1
White Truffle x Chimera 3
Bred by 1937 Farms
It’s easy to see why this gorgeous, frosty flower won the ’24 NW Leaf Bowl Sweets & Dreams category, but it’s even better in a bowl. Full of sweet, creamy tropical fruit with an iced-lemon-sherbet-vanilla finish, this flower is ready for daydream adventures. First tokes are rich and full of warming fruit, and it exhales with a gassy floral flourish, sending a warming wave of happy euphoria for the mind and body to splash around in. | 1937farms.com @1937farms | Review by Wes Abney @beardedlorax a warming wave of happy euphoria
calming and classic stoned buzz
Lazy Bee Gardens DJ Short Blueberry
Blueberry x HTAF | Bred by DJ Short
This PNW classic shines in the Eastern WA greenhouses of Lazy Bee, where sustainable growing meets craft Cannabis to produce flower with robust terpene expressions and major flavor. The DJ Short Blueberry smells like a basket of freshly picked blueberries that are so ripe they’re oozing with gassy, vanilla-blue tinted juices. Sweet and smooth burning, this flower leaves with a kiss of berries and sends a happy, calming and classic stoned buzz that’s ready for the kitchen and Netflix after a long day. | lazybeegardens.com @lazybeegardens | djgenetics.com
Review by Wes Abney @beardedlorax
heavy enough to send us flying into space
Buddy Boy Farm
Rainbow Guava #5
Rainbow Belts x Strawberry Guava
Tasting the rainbow is easy with this gushing, greenhouse-grown flower. Opening the jar releases a dazzling rush of tropical fruits and bright, ripe berries, with a creamy, gassy cake-frosting finish. Supremely sweet, with rich strawberry flavors and a fuelly exhale, this flower is euphoric enough to risk a run down Rainbow Road with confidence, but heavy enough to send us flying into space with each sharp turn. buddyboyfarm.com | @buddy_boy_farms
Review by Wes Abney @beardedlorax
smooth, fruity hits fill the lungs and mind
Mama J’s Trop Cherry
Tropicana Cookies x Cherry Cookies
Bred by Relentless Genetics
Deep purple colors contrast with the super-soaked coating of trichomes for stunningly beautiful buds. Mama J’s Trop Cherry blends sour orange rind gas with a tropical, fruity earthiness that’s intoxicating and sends the mind on a mental vacay with each sniff. Smooth, fruity hits fill the lungs and mind with a calming, stress-free buzz that lightens each step, leaving us imagining flip-flop-and-tank-top adventures. | mamajs.com @mamajs2.0 | relentless-genetics.com @relentless__genetics | Review by Wes Abney @beardedlorax
a freshly baked pastry vibe
Redbird Strawberries & Cream
Bred by Exotic Genetix
I’d fancy a scone and a cup of lovely Darjeeling tea with my Strawberries & Cream! This brunch-worthy strain delivers a freshly baked strawberry pastry vibe with sugary, earthy dough notes that melt into a creamy, fizzy strawberry finish dripping from dense, foxtailed buds. First tokes are smooth, bright and sweet, with a distinctly delicious strawberry exhale and a rush of floaty, stoned energy that’s ready for after-brunch shenanigans. redbird-cannabis.com | @redbird_wa | exoticgenetix.com | @exoticgenetix_official
Review by Wes Abney @beardedlorax
has an exotic look and powerful flavor
Dank Czar Blue Zushi
Zkittlez x Kush Mints
Bred By The TenCo
Beautifully light blue- and purpletinted, this flower has an exotic look and powerful flavor that rocks the senses with a heady hit of kushy Z terps and an undeniably blue-fruited mint garnish. These dense, cluster-sized nugs are so heavily frosted with trichomes that they alter the flower’s color. With an ace cure, the thick, still-sticky buds break up to deliver first notes of the blue color and flavor that are both yummy and hard to describe, along with a sedating euphoria that melts the mind into a puddled body perfect for the sushi buffet. dankczar.com | @dankczargardens | thetenco.com @theten.co | Review by Wes Abney @beardedlorax
Award
Photography by Bryan Penix Design by Afro_Yeti
Indica
Winning Cannabis
HERB ' N' LEGENDS
Welcome to another case of examining some of Cannabis’ most enduring superstitions.
This month we look at one that, to this day, gets brought up at smoke sessions and livestreams all over the world. Some people will tell you irrefutably and with religious conviction that not only do you need to hold in your Cannabis hit but that you aren’t getting as high if you don’t. And while half of that statement is true, which half and why might just surprise you.
THERE’S NO DOUBT a minigame involved in trying not to immediately exhale after taking a puff. Contests are often held around a rotation to see who exhales before the joint gets back to them or who explodes into a coughing fit from trying. The phrase “if you don’t cough, you don’t get off” seems directly tied to the idea of holding in a hit. So, considering the firm belief, we have to ask: Is there merit to this idea? The Cannabis world often suffers from a lack of scientific studies to properly determine whether myths like this are fact or fiction. However, this is one of those instances where the science isn’t just available — it’s been there for years. Between the YouTube videos and brand-written articles on the subject, the National Institutes of Health website outlines a 1989 study in which Cannabis smokers were asked to hold their hits for zero, 10 and 20 seconds. Researchers then monitored them to determine whether breath-holding affected function or efficacy. Even back then, they found no conclusive evidence to support the idea that purposely holding your breath results in a
greater absorption of THC into the lungs.
From that breadcrumb, you might find a 1992 study published in the Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, which concluded that there was more evidence for cumulative exposure (i.e., how many puffs you take) rather than prolonged exposure. Though the study was a weeklong trial with a small sample size, most of the same team reunited in 1995 to create a second study examining volume versus duration, published in the same journal.
"...there’s a reason you might feel more lightheaded after holding your breath for 30 seconds or coughing your guts out."
From both these studies, the team was able to report that their findings “support the notion that cumulative puff volume systematically influences biological exposure and subjective effects, but cast doubt on the common belief that prolonged breath-holding of marijuana smoke enhances classical subjective effects associated with its reinforcing value in humans.”
Despite all this, there’s still some mystery in the situation. That 1989 study is also quick to point out that “the actual influence on breath-hold duration
in response to marijuana smoke” wasn’t what was being studied, but rather the use of “systematic manipulation of breath-hold duration on the physiological, cognitive and subjective response to marijuana smoke.”
The 1992/1995 research team also saw a slight uptick in results when smoke was held in for three to 10 seconds, but that’s not how this myth gained such a lasting legacy that people on social media will constantly bring it up.
For one thing, there’s a reason you might feel more lightheaded after holding your breath for 30 seconds or coughing your guts out. Both of these activities deprive your brain of oxygen, elevating carbon dioxide in the bloodstream and producing feelings of spaciness, confusion and dizziness. So yes, these things will make you feel more fucked up, but that’s different than being higher.
We’ll have to wait for more studies to examine THC absorption, but for now, the next time someone comments on how long you held in your hit, you can remind them that you’re here to get high on weed, not a lack of oxygen.
Cannabis has intoxicating e ects and may be habit forming. It can impair concentration, coordination, and judgement. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the in uence of this cannabis. There may be health risks involved with consumption of this product. For use only by adults 21+ Keep out of reach of children.
iDO ROBOTS GROW WITH ELECTRIC SEEDS?
compound genetics, node labs and the hunt for synthetic seeds
WAS AT A PARTY when Felipe Recalde from Compound Genetics came up and pulled out a vial filled with these clear, gelatinous bubbles. Inside each orb was a tiny green shoot suspended in goo like an embryo in a fish egg. He shook them up and poured some into my hands to show they weren’t as delicate as they appeared. “These,” he said, “are Cannabis seeds.”
When you think of planting fields of Cannabis 100 years from now, what do you imagine it will look like?
Certainly far different than the hoop houses or even the giant indoor facilities we see today. Looking at the progression from small farms to large facilities and seeing the title of this article, it’s hard not to start picturing some kind of science fiction garden from “Blade Runner” or “Alien.” Certainly the term “synthseeds” sounds like it was made by the Weyland-Yutani Corporation. The concept of a synthetic seed, or seed analog, was actually first discovered back in 1958.
A SEED BY ANY OTHER NAME
Presented as a concept in 1977, the very first synthseeds were reproduced in 1984 with somatic embryos from alfalfa.
Even looking the concept up online you’ll find YouTube videos dating back to five and six years ago from places as far away as Australia. The National Library of Medicine lists a 2022 study examining artificial seeds as an alternative approach for the commercial-scale use of clones. Because, to be clear right from the start, we’re not talking about a solution for traditional Cannabis cultivation methods but rather another tool in the playbook for large-scale cultivation.
There will always be a need for natural seed stock in the world of Cannabis and the genetic diversity it provides. However, as more commercial facilities open up, synthetic seeds have undeniable applications in those environments — particularly for transferring genetics. Many different laws and regulations still apply to seeds. Remember that while a package might say “novelty use,” it’s still subject to agricultural restrictions. Many tourists have come back from Amsterdam only to discover their “novelty” seeds taken at customs. In speaking with Compound for this article, Recalde says the meristem cell contained inside an artificial seed represents base cells and can’t simply be planted in the ground to grow. Therefore, they’re excluded from many of the situations traditional seeds can find themselves in.
To learn more, we headed to Compound Genetics’ facility in Santa Rosa, Calif., where they maintain a lab as well as a facility to work on long-term projects like synthseeds. Part of Node Labs and connected to an antique barn, the facility can house a staggering 450 different cultivars, but Production Manager Emily Hsu says they normally store around 300 strains. These range from Compound and other recreational flower brands to a section for private client storage and a space for their work with the Origins Council to offer free genetic banking for farmers stewarding
California’s legacy outdoor genetics. Together with Lauren Avenius, CEO of Node Labs, Hsu walked us through the breakdown of the parts of a synthetic seed and how they’re made, a process they say all starts with meristems cells.
WHAT ARE MERISTEMS?
A meristem is a cluster of cells within a plant containing a bunch of actively dividing initial cells, along with derivative cells that have an intended purpose. Avenius says, “Think of it a bit like the stem cell of the plant world.” They collect these meristems and then prepare them into synthetic seeds which they refer to in the lab as “boba.” When asked why the reference, Avenius said, “I think we've all had boba tea before, and you understand how it has that outer casing within that little bit of a pop when it opens up, and then it’s filled with a sugary sort of fluid, right? That's basically what this is. We simulate everything that’s inside a seed: all of the food, the little bit of hormones, all of the sugars and starches that that seed embryo gets, we put in here.” Softer than your traditional seed, the shell is made of sodium alginate, a completely organic, edible substance that the plant can easily break through but requires a bit of force to burst from the outside.
"
To anyone who can recognize how important genetics are to the future of Cannabis, this represents a possible game-changer."
in tissue culture, and eventually replacing clones is Avenius and Recalde’s long-term goal. “Our vision for the project is that these become a viable product to replace clones so that you’ll get all the benefits of a sterile clone and genetically identical plants, with all the agronomic data, so you can dial in your room and be able to have that perfect product output,” Avenius says.
From there, we went to the lab station where Shannon Healy, manager of R&D, was sitting down to create the artificial seeds by collecting the fluid and meristem into a scientific turkey baster, dropping it into the sodium alginate, where it instantly formed a tiny egg, and was scooped out into a sterile container. We asked Healy if the recipe for the liquid starter was universal to the process, and she says they actually went through several different mixtures of sodium alginate and calcium chloride before achieving a successful autoclavable solution. When asked how long these stay viable, Healy said they have some in cold storage that are as old as five months. Even the ones I was sent home with sat in and out of my fridge for six weeks before tiny sprouts started to poke through the shells.
THE FUTURE IS NOW
Currently, Recalde says Node and Compound are stress testing to see how long the meristem stays viable, as well as running trials on how to eventually plant these straight into rockwool cubes. He believes that with a tissue culture lab in Colombia and partners in Germany, Canada, Israel, Thailand and Australia, “we need to simulate that supply chain now to be ready.” Long term, Avenius says, they want home and commercial growers to be able to plant these just like seeds. The result would be a healthy, harvestable plant grown straight from nothing but the tiny bit of tissue and its boba bathtub. Recalde says he sees one of the most important long-term benefits as the ease with which synthetic seeds allow us to transport plants.
Also, Avenius points out, unlike seeds you can’t just plant a meristem and have it grow into a plant for harvest. “Those meristems need that direction, the right growth medium and hormones to get it to grow into what you want. Sometimes that can make the plants have a strange morphology,” she says. That’s the reason they don’t recommend using tissue culture as a flowering crop but instead recommend growing it out to become a mother plant.
For now, they want boba seeds to become a replacement for the traditional storage methods
This leads me back to what put me into this story in the first place: the idea that you can wander around with a container full of healthy clones right in your pocket, ready to be delivered anywhere you can reach in at least six weeks. To anyone who can recognize how important genetics are to the future of Cannabis, this represents a possible game-changer. Despite the 40-year-old technology still being 10 to 15 years away from what Node and Compound are picturing, this is something they see as part of prepping for the future.
This year at Spannabis in Barcelona, Avenius says they hope to unveil the project to commercial growers with a simplified explanation: “How do we combine the best thing about seeds, which is they’re cheaper and healthier, with the best thing about tissue culture and clones, which are genetically identical and have proven commercial viability?”
I baked the quiche in jumbo muffin tins. The recipes make one full-size quiche or six large, individual ones.
Quichessential
Itseems like quiche is making a comeback. And I can’t say I’m sorry. This custardy, comfort food, with a base of eggs, cream and milk, is waiting for the addition of your favorite fillings. The most famous variety is cheddar and bacon. For personal reasons, I am making this classic quiche Lorraine both crustless and infused, and I will probably have it at least twice today. So I will probably stay home. I infused with the Prūf Cultivar strain Alien Apple Warp, an indica-forward hybrid that tastes great and the high is positive and fun. Long lasting too. I have to reach out to the folks there about what makes it longer lasting. Is it the potency, the terpenes? Inquiring minds want to know. Laurie@Laurieandmaryjane.com
Mushroom and Onion Quiche
1 package refrigerated pie crusts
Oil for muffin tin
6 eggs
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup milk
2 tablespoons canna-oil or butter, melted
Salt and pepper
1 cup mushrooms, sliced and sautéed
3/4 cup onion, chopped and sautéed
1 1/2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded
1. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Unroll thawed pastry dough. Using a biscuit cutter or large glass, cut into six 5-inch circles. Spray the pans with oil and place a disc of dough in each opening. Press down and onto the sides. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes. Set aside. Reduce oven temperature to 340 degrees.
2. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, cream, milk and infused oil or butter. Add salt and pepper.
3. In a large bowl, combine the mushrooms, onions and cheese. Gently place in the prebaked crusts.
4. Gently pour the egg mixture into each crust.
5. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The center should be a bit jiggly.
Vegged Out and Dairy-Free
1 package refrigerated pie crusts
Oil for muffin tin
6 eggs
1 1/2 cups almond milk
2 tablespoons canna-olive oil
Salt and pepper
2 garlic cloves, chopped and sautéed
4 scallions, chopped and sautéed
1 1/2 cups yellow and red peppers, chopped and sautéed
10-ounce package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry in a clean hand towel
1. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Unroll thawed pastry dough. Using a biscuit cutter or large glass, cut into six 5-inch circles. Spray the pans with oil and place a disc of dough in each opening. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes. Set aside. Turn oven down to 340 degrees.
2. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, almond milk and infused oil. Add salt and pepper.
3. In another bowl, combine the garlic, scallion, peppers and spinach. Mix well. Place in the prebaked crusts.
4. Gently pour the egg mixture into each crust.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes. The center should be a bit jiggly.
Crustless Keto Quiche
6 eggs
2 1/2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup milk
2 tablespoons canna-oil or butter, melted
Salt and pepper
8 ounces bacon, cooked and chopped
1 cup leeks, chopped and sautéed
1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
1. Heat oven to 340 degrees. Spray the pan with oil.
2. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, cream, milk and infused oil. Add salt and pepper.
3. In another bowl, combine bacon, leeks and cheddar cheese.
4. Place the bacon mixture into each prebaked crust.
5. Gently pour the egg mixture into each crust.
5. Bake 20 to 25 minutes. The center should be a bit jiggly.
Sunday Wednesday
Saturday
Thursday
Salute to the SKUNK MAN
DAVID WATSON 1949-2025
Remembering the legendary breeder known as Sam the Skunk Man.
by BOBBY BLACK
The Cannabis community is mourning the loss of yet another of its greatest icons — breeder and entrepreneur David Watson (better known as Sam the Skunk Man), who passed into the great beyond on Monday, January 27, 2025 (the same day that medical marijuana activist Dennis Peron died seven years earlier), at the age of 76.
“Every Cannabis breeder operating over the past 40 years owes a debt of gratitude to the Skunk Man.”
Watson — aka Skunkman Sam, aka Sam Selezny, aka Sadu Sam — was, by most accounts, the most influential Cannabis breeder in history. Starting out in Santa Cruz County in the early 1970s, he began collecting, cataloging and crossing Cannabis cultivars from around the globe, eventually creating several classic strains, including — as his nickname suggests — the legendary Skunk #1, whose genetic fingerprints can be found within many of the popular varieties enjoyed today.
Watson shared the unique genetics he’d procured and produced with the public through the seed company he founded, Sacred Seeds (America’s first commercial seed bank). Then, in 1984, he brought around a quarter million seeds to Amsterdam, where, under the new name of Cultivator’s Choice, he sold his genetics (including Skunk #1, Afghan #1, Durban Poison, Hindu Kush and the original Haze) to all of the Dutch growers, who then used them to help create the iconic strains and seed companies we know today. It’s not overstating things to say that every Cannabis breeder operating over the past 40 years owes a debt of gratitude to the Skunkman.
Beyond breeding, Watson made numerous other groundbreaking contributions to Cannabis culture and science. In the late 1980s, he published the first pamphlet explaining how to make water hash and is credited with coining the phrase, “If it don’t bubble, it ain’t worth the trouble.”
He later went on to co-host the infamous Legends of Hashish dinner party and competition (held in Amsterdam each November during the Cannabis Cup) with his lifelong friend, botanist Robert Connell Clarke, and Marcus
“Bubbleman” Richardson. He and Clarke also co-founded the International Hemp Association, as well as the genetics company Hortilab, and Hortapharm, the world’s first privately funded pharmaceutical cannabinoid research company.
Regarded by many as a kind-hearted curmudgeon, Watson was almost universally beloved by growers around the world. But despite his revered status in the community, he eschewed all accolades and recognition, preferring to live a very private life as an expat in Amsterdam (where he resided with his wife and partner Diana since the 1980s) and forbidding photos of himself to be made public. It’s only now, after his death, that friends have begun posting images of him.
As part of his final wishes, Watson’s ashes have been portioned out into small, custom-blown glass vials to be shared with his friends and other prominent growers around the world, with the intention that they be sprinkled into the soil of their next crops so that his remains can nourish the sacred plant he so loved and devoted his life to.
Skunk Man’s ashes in glass vials to share with friends and fellow growers.
Sensi Sensibility
Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, Holland’s Sensi Seed Bank is the world’s oldest and most influential Cannabis seed company still in operation.
EARLY DAYS
Sensi Seeds was founded in 1985 by Dutch cultivator and entrepreneur Ben Dronkers.
Born on Dec 25, 1949, Dronkers was raised in Rotterdam, where he first gained an appreciation for horticulture while spending time with his mother in their garden.
In 1963, at the age of 15, he began working as a boatswain’s boy (an assistant deck hand) for the Rotterdam-based Holland-America merchant shipping line. While visiting ports of call in various countries, he sought exotic fabrics for a clothing company he hoped to start. Three years later, Dronkers had already married and had his first son, Alan. In 1968, he and his wife did indeed open their own clothing boutique… but by then, his passion had already started shifting towards another pursuit: Cannabis.
INTRODUCTION TO CANNABIS
Dronkers smoked his first joint (tobacco and hashish, as was typical in Europe at the time) at 17 while walking on a pedestrian bridge across the Nieuwe Maas River with a friend. Soon, instead of just collecting hemp fabrics on his voyages, he was also collecting seeds. And since there was nowhere to get hash or weed there in Rotterdam, he and his friend began riding down to Amsterdam to cop.
Like in America, the late ’60s saw a counterculture beginning to emerge in the Netherlands. In June 1970, around a year after Woodstock, Rotterdam had a psychedelic rock festival of its own. Billed as “Europe’s answer to Woodstock,” the Holland Pop Festival — aka “Stamping Ground” and the “Kralingen Music Festival” featured a stellar lineup, including Santana, Jefferson Airplane and Pink Floyd. It was this concert that many cite as the birthplace of the Dutch’s famous tolerance towards Cannabis use, or gedoogbeleid — and Dronkers was right at the heart of it.
“Everyone knew that at the festival a lot of people would be smoking, so the police said they would take it easy, that there would be no arrests because they were afraid there would be riots,” he told High Times in 1996. “So we made a ‘Hash and Marijuana Here’ sign and sat under it and sold it.”
CULTIVATING THE DREAM
By 1975, Dronkers had begun growing his own Cannabis in makeshift greenhouses using seeds he’d acquired abroad or culled from some of the better quality weed he’d come across.
“Back then we were experimenting with the first indoor grow techniques, using cool-tubes shaped as a tipi to try and get some buds. The weed was not good, but it worked,” he once explained. “For us, it felt amazing that we could just put some seeds in the ground, water it, and grow your own weed.”
Dronkers began setting up larger-scale grows, then tried to sell his harvests to coffeeshops. But ironically, since the Dutch market wasn’t used to seeing kind bud, he initially encountered resistance.
“The first two to three years that I grew Cannabis in greenhouses, no one wanted to buy it,” he explains. “The Dutch had only seen brown Thai and African weed, which was pressed into blocks and dried out. So when they saw green buds, they didn’t know what to do with it. They even called it ‘spinach.’”
Eventually, though, he convinced a few shops to take a chance on his “spinach,” and they they were not disappointed: it was flying off the shelves, thanks in large part to American tourists.
“[People] were getting so stoned that they would literally fall off their stools!” Dronkers emphasized.
BUILDING THE BANK
From 1978 to 1984, Dronkers spent much time traveling to various regions along the infamous Hippie Trail (e.g. India, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Morocco), procuring quality hashish and landrace genetics.
Sensi Seed Bank owner Ben Dronkers in front of his shop in Amsterdam.
Dronkers with a Skunk bush in his greenhouse (1983).
Then, in the early to mid-1980s, Holland’s tolerance toward Cannabis began attracting some of America’s top pot pioneers who were eager to share their cultivation knowledge and genetics with Amsterdam’s burgeoning marijuana market. From grow gurus like Ed Rosenthal, Jorge Cervantes, “Seattle Greg” McAllister, and Sam the Skunk Man, Dronkers obtained now-classic strains like Skunk #1, Early Pearl, Original Haze and Northern Lights. Using these cultivars and those he’d curated from his travels, Dronkers began developing and stabilizing his own hybrids.
SENSI SMILE
In addition to selling his weed to coffeeshops in Amsterdam, Dronkers also opened his own shop in his hometown in 1983. The first Cannabis cafe in Rotterdam, Sensi Smile, was originally just his clothing shop with a big pot leaf in the window from which they sold weed and hash.
Additional locations were later opened in Amsterdam, Groningen and other parts of Rotterdam. Unfortunately, raising his public profile like that also led to unwanted scrutiny from the law. And though Dutch authorities tolerated the sale and possession of small amounts of Cannabis, growing more than five plants was still considered illegal, so Dronkers’ large-scale grows inevitably led him to run afoul of the law. Luckily, though, penalties for Cannabis in Holland weren’t very harsh.
“Altogether, I’ve been arrested about 80 times in my life,” Dronkers confessed to HT. “I’ve been convicted about 15 times and jailed four or five times, but always for a short time. The longest period I’ve been in jail was six weeks.”
As the story goes, it was during one of these jail stays that Dronkers began researching the legal basis of Cannabis prohibition in Europe, the Opium Act (celebrating its centennial this year), and discovered a loophole of sorts: apparently, Cannabis seeds were exempt from the ban. After verifying this find with his lawyer, he decided to shift gears and sell seeds instead of weed. And thus, the Sensi Seed Club (aka Sensi Connoisseurs’ Club) was born.
SEEDS OF SUCCESS
In 1985, Dronkers rented a storefront in Amsterdam’s infamous Red Light District and began selling their seeds. The shop was an immediate success, attracting aspiring home growers and pros worldwide.
Sensi’s most famous strain, Jack Herer, has become one of the most popular “sativas” in the world.
Of course, Sensi wasn’t the only seed company operating out of Holland at the time: Super Sativa Seed Club (SSSC), Lowlands Seed Company, and The Seed Bank were also in the mix. Of these, The Seed Bank was the first and most successful, thanks to founder Nevil Schoenmakers’ bold move of selling to Americans via ads in High Times. Unfortunately, that strategy backfired when he became the target of the Bush administration’s Operation Green Merchant sting in 1989.
In 1991, Schoenmakers was arrested in Australia and faced extradition to the U.S. During his incarceration, he struck a deal to sell his entire seed and plant stock — as well as his mansion known as the “Cannabis Castle” — to Dronkers. With the acquisition of Nevils’ Seed Bank, Sensi Seed Club became the Sensi Seed Bank… and with the dissolution of SSSC, Lowlands, and Cultivators Choice soon after, emerged as the largest seed company in the world.
THE CANNABIS CUP
With a vast genetic library and no serious competition, Sensi Seeds began cranking out phenomenal new strains (e.g., Silver Haze, Black Domina, Sensi Skunk, Big Bud and Hindu Kush), some of which would go on to win awards at High Times’ newly-created (1988)
Cannabis Cup competition — even sweeping the Seed Company category in 1993.
But it was the 7th Annual Cup in 1994 that would prove to be the real game-changer for Sensi. That was the year Sensi first opened up the Cannabis Castle for tours and, during a special ceremony there, premiered what would become their most famous strain — one that bears the name of the weed world’s most legendary activist, Jack Herer. Allegedly a cross between Haze, Northern Lights, and Skunk, this sativa-dominant sensation ended up taking home the top prize that year and has since become one of the most popular “sativas” in the world.
After 2002, Sensi took a decade-long hiatus from participating in the Cannabis Cups. It wasn’t until 2013, at the 26th Cup, that Dronkers finally decided to re-enter the competition, and High Times celebrated his return by inducting him into their Counterculture Hall of Fame.
HEMP COMPANY & MUSEUM
In addition to his seed company, Dronkers has spearheaded several other groundbreaking projects in the Cannabis space.
The same year he launched Sensi Seeds, Dronkers also opened the Cannabis Info Museum — the world’s first Cannabis museum — just a few blocks from his seed shop. With help from Rosenthal, he curated an ongoing exhibit showcasing some of the countless Cannabis-related artifacts he’d collected on his travels. After an expansion in 2008, then a complete remodel in 2012, it transformed into the iconic Hash Marihuana & Hemp Museum we know today. A sister museum was opened in Barcelona mere weeks after the Amsterdam location’s reopening.
Next, in 1993, Dronkers founded HempFlax, a company that grows hemp in several European countries and processes it into fibers for textiles and plastic substitutes. It’s the largest CBD oil producer in Europe.
Then, in 2004, he created the Cannabis Culture Awards — an annual ceremony at the museum honoring individuals who’d taken an extraordinary stand on behalf of Cannabis, including Herer, Rosenthal, Dr. Lester Grinspoon, Todd McCormick, and Sir Richard Branson.
A NEW CHAPTER
Now, at 74, Dronkers lives in Malaysia in semi-retirement, passing the proverbial torch to his son (and executive director) Gio Dronkers. Under his stewardship, Sensi has continued to thrive — now offering over 500 unique and classic cultivars. And at MJ Bizcon last December, Sensi announced that they would be merging with both Nor-Cal’s ILGM (I Love Growing Marijuana) and fellow Amsterdam icons Barney’s Farm Genetics, and plan to take the new conglomerate public later this year. This would make it the world’s first publicly traded Cannabis seed company.
“This partnership strikes a balance between honoring the legacy market and shaping a brighter future for the Cannabis industry,” Dronkers said of the merger. “We are devoted to innovation, quality and preserving the seeds of this rich, diverse and extraordinary plant.”
For our podcast and more Cannabis history content visit worldofcannabis.museum/cannthropology.
Sensi Seeds’ Cannabis Connoisseurs Club (1992).
Dronkers in a Cannabis field in Afghanistan in the 1970s.
Jack Herer celebrates the debut of his namesake strain at Sensi’s Cannabis Castle (1994).
Dronkers & Rosenthal at his Rotterdam coffeeshop during the1980s.
Amsterdam’s Hash Marihuana & Hemp Museum: before and after. Sensi catalog (1996).
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DRAGON ASS SHOULD NOT BE CONFUSED WITH DRAGGING ASS.
Dragging ass is something we all do when our energy is low, especially in the moments upon waking before the requisite black brewed stimulant sparks the body’s motor that consumes fuel and burps exhaust.
We all know that feeling of lethargy. For so many of us, the first 30 minutes of the day is like boot camp. And if you happen to find yourself in a bizarre situation where that previously mentioned human gasoline called coffee is not available, motivating your brain toward a direction of productivity is like tugging cement through water. You are a recoil starter on the lawn mower with an empty tank. Regardless of how many times you tug on that sucker, the engine ain’t turning over until it gets some gas.
It’s not dissimilar for some stoners, you know. Different kind of gas, of course.
Anyway, dragon ass is something completely separate. However, these intelligent lizards have been known to be unapologetically lazy when perched atop their spoils of plunder, enjoying a good snore. At least that’s what we learned from the “The Lord of the Rings.” They’re kinda like cats when the belly is full. They will aimlessly drift into a back nap with the loins exposed — dreaming colorful fantasies of torching small village rooftops while blissfully unaware of the dribble of drool leaking through the muzzle’s lower incisors.
But then the interruption can be so very abrupt when the scent of hairy feet fouls the nostrils, alarming the defenses of little pint-sized thieves called Hobbitses. And nothing pisses a dragon off more than getting his favorite hood ornament jacked from his booty. So, with a burst of smoke and a toss of the tail, he boldly rises with awesome drama and devours him in one swallow.
And then he sniffs for a mate. Preferably one with nice booty.
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