June 2023 - Northeast Leaf

Page 1

HIGHLIGHTING THE PEOPLE AND COMPANIES CHANGING THE CANNABIS LANDSCAPE

THE IMPACT ISSUE

#34 | JUNE 2023 THE ENLIGHTENED VOICE INDEPENDENT CANNABIS JOURNALISM SINCE 2010 FREE / LEAFMAGAZINES.COM
NORTHEAST

From Maryland to Maine, Your Favorite Brands All Along the Northeast

CURALEAF

@curaleaf.usa | flower, vapes & edibles

SELECT

@select.better | premium vapes & edibles

GRASSROOTS

@grassrootscannabisco | high-quality flower & concentrates

B NOBLE

@bnobleo cial | pre-rolls & flower for a cause

FIND.

@find.your.flower | high-quality flower at prices that’ll make you smile

ENDLESS COAST

@drinkendlesscoast | infused beverages

MA NJ MD NY CT ME WONDERING
TO FIND US NEAR YOU? There’s a map for that. Here’s where to locate our premium cannabis products: For use only by adults 21 years of age and older; 18+ for medical states. Keep out of reach of children. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery while under the in uence of this drug. Laws governing the legality, availability and use of marijuana vary by state. CDPH-1003298, 404R-00025, AMS 351, Devine Desert Healing Inc. A/U: 00000026ESRZ99769978.
WHERE
LEAFMAGAZINES.COM june 2023 4 NORTHEAST [ issue #34 JUNE 2023 THE impact ISSUE 07 EDITOR’S NOTE 08 NATIONAL NEWS 10 DISPENSING EQUITY 12 KING FIGHTS CANCER 14 CANNABIS SIGN LANGUAGE 16 PATIENT OF THE MONTH 18 TOPICAL OF THE MONTH 19 CONCENTRATE OF THE MONTH 20 STRAIN OF THE MONTH 22 THE IMPACT LIST 38 STONEY BALONEY MARIA CAVALI DISPENSING EQUITY FEATURES THE IMPACT ISSUE mila " queenhash " jansen 22-36 APRIL BLACK 18 TOPICAL OF THE MONTH TONY SIMONELLI 14 CANNABIS SIGN LANGUAGE HIGH SIGNS BAXSEN PAINE 16 PATIENT OF THE MONTH KIJANA ROSE TAP ROOT FIELDS CBD SUNSCREEN DAN MCCARTHY COURTESY FIGHTING CANCER WITH CANNABIS CONCENTRATE OF THE MONTH CHEM S1 LIVE HASH ROSIN 12 19 COLIN LENTON 10

BEST MENU IN MASS

OPEN EVERY DAY ®

ABOUT THE COVER

We are pleased to present the Leaf’s first AI-assisted photo illustration, crafted by the inimitable mind of Pete Gibson. Gibson’s surreal and creative works have become well-known in the Cannabis-fueled Instagram community, where it caught the eye of Leaf contributor Matt Jackson who connected him with the team. Leaf Creative Director Daniel Berman @bermanphotos and COO Tom Bowers @cannabombtom, worked with Pete over one intense week (ahead of its debut at the Oregon Leaf Bowl) to morph the piece and dial in the cover designs to fully capture the Impact Issue’s heart and soul: the peopleandbusinesses makingchangeinourever-evolvingindustry.

WES ABNEY

Editor’s Note

Thanks for picking up The Impact Issue of the Leaf!

We’ve decided to honor the people, organizations and trends that are having an impact on the Cannabis industry and culture, which touches all of our lives in an environment that’s constantly shifting. Just as the Earth developed its rich layers of minerals and water from countless impacts during the Late Heavy Bombardment, so has the weed world been shaped by those who have had an impact – changing the landscape for the future betterment of the Cannabis community.

ILLUSTRATION

CONTRIBUTORS

DANIEL BERMAN, PHOTOS

APRIL BLACK, FEATURES

BOBBY BLACK, DESIGN + FEATURES

JOSHUA BOULET, ILLUSTRATION

TOM BOWERS, FEATURES

MARIA CAVALI, PHOTOS

AMANDA DAY, FEATURES

JENN DOE, SALES

EARLY, PRODUCTION

STEVE ELLIOTT, NATIONAL NEWS

PETE GIBSON, ILLUSTRATION

MATT JACKSON, FEATURES

BAILEY JONSON, REVIEWS + PHOTOS

COLIN LENTON, PHOTOS

STEVEN MACADAMS, PHOTOS

DAN MCCARTHY, PHOTOS

SARA MILLS-GAINES, SALES

BOBBY NUGGZ, REVIEWS + PHOTOS

LEXI PADUSSIS, SALES + FEATURES

BAXSEN PAINE, FEATURES + PHOTOS

MIKE RICKER, FEATURES

MIKE ROSATI, PHOTOS

TONY SIMONELLI, PHOTOS

JAMIE VICTOR, DESIGN

DAN VINKOVETSKY, FEATURES

NATE WILLIAMS, FEATURES

KATHERINE WOLF, FEATURES

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

This month also marks the thirteenth anniversary of the Leaf in print, which began printing in June 2010 with Northwest Leaf and hasn’t missed a month yet. I was only 22 years old when I decided to take my journalism skills and apply them to Cannabis – at a time when the biggest impact weed had on lives was the slamming of a cell door. But I’d had a taste of the injustice, having been arrested for a small amount of pot myself, and seen the impact firsthand of a friend who beat all odds through the healing powers of the plant. I knew in my heart that people could heal themselves with Cannabis instead of pharmaceuticals, and that the most dangerous thing about weed were the laws making it illegal – so I set out to tell a story that has lasted for over a decade.

Along the way the Leaf has distributed millions of copies for free, now across 13 states and with a much bigger team than when it all began. I’m blessed to have been joined on this journey by a team of Leafers who care just as much about Cannabis journalism as I do, and many more who have helped along the way. We’ve told stories about patients healed through Cannabis, and those whose last days were improved by the plant. We’ve seen hundreds of companies come and go, high hopes become failed dreams, and witnessed the weed rising from the ashes as the green rush crested.

Today the industry is once again full of people who care about the plant and those who need it, largely because we are the only ones left. Everyone looking to get rich quickly either did or failed, and those who hoped for nothing more than a chance to grow legally are once again at the forefront of the cultural movement that is Cannabis. And just like the early Earth, it’s the sum of those who’ve had an impact that have built the layers we stand on today.

This issue honors a lot of those people, but being the nature of a list, doesn’t include many of the wonderful contributors to our amazing movement – we’d probably need a whole year’s worth of issues for that. With that spirit in mind, I hope you enjoy our first Impact Issue. And if you have a nomination for a future list, please shoot us an email or DM on social!

leafmagazines.com 7 NORTHWEST LEAF / OREGON LEAF / ALASKA LEAF / MARYLAND LEAF / CALIFORNIA LEAF / NORTHEAST LEAF JUNE 2023
Journalism CONNECT
NORTHEAST LEAF ESTABLISHED 2010 THE ENLIGHTENED VOICE NORTHEAST LEAF MAG @NORTHEAST LEAFMAG #NORTHEASTLEAF @NELEAFMAG ISSUU.COM/NWLEAF READ PAST ISSUES IN OUR FREE ONLINE ARCHIVE
Exclusive Cannabis
WITH
-Wes Abney
“TODAY THE INDUSTRY IS ONCE AGAIN FULL OF PEOPLE WHO CARE ABOUT THE PLANT AND THOSE WHO NEED IT, LARGELY BECAUSE WE ARE THE ONLY ONES LEFT.”

POST-ACCIDENT MARIJUANA TEST POSITIVITY REACHES RECORD

LEGALIZATION HEADS TO FLORIDA SUPREME COURT

ATTORNEY GENERAL Ashley Moody in May formally submitted a proposed adult-use marijuana ballot initiative to the Florida Supreme Court. AG Moody signaled she will argue the proposal doesn’t meet legal requirements to go before voters in 2024.

The political committee Smart & Safe Florida is sponsoring the proposed constitutional amendment. The group has far exceeded the 222,881 petition signatures needed to trigger a crucial Supreme Court review. The Supreme Court reviews issues such as whether proposed constitutional amendments are limited to single subjects and whether the proposed ballot language is clear.

MONTCLAIR: JERSEY’S CANNABIS CAPITAL?

MONTCLAIR, N.J. , has granted four more licenses to Cannabis businesses – moving the city closer to becoming the “marijuana capital of New Jersey.”

In May, the town council awarded two more recreational licenses – bringing the total to three with Ascend, which opened last fall.

The percentage of employees in the general U.S. workforce testing positive for marijuana following an on-the-job accident increased to its highest level in 25 years in 2022, according to a new analysis released in May by Quest Diagnostics, a provider of diagnostic information services.

In 2022, post-accident marijuana positivity of urine drug tests in the general U.S. workforce was 7.3%, compared to 6.7% in 2021. The new peak follows a steady increase in post-accident marijuana positivity every year from 2012 to 2022. In that 10-year timeframe, postaccident marijuana positivity increased 204.2%. From 2002 to 2009, post-accident marijuana positivity declined.

"The new peak follows a steady increase in postaccident marijuana positivity every year from 2012 to 2022."

These increases in post-accident marijuana positivity correspond with legalization of marijuana in certain states. In 2012, Colorado and Washington became the first states to legalize for adult use. Since then, 19 additional states and the District of Columbia have followed, while 38 states (plus DC) have legalized medical use. Either kind of use remains illegal under federal law.

"Intoxicating Cannabis products, including marijuana, can have a major impact on safety at work and have been proven to slow reaction time, impact memory and impair skills essential to driving. State legalization of the drug creates new challenges for employers," said Katie Mueller, a senior program manager at the National Safety Council focusing on Cannabis safety. "The Quest data provides compelling evidence that increased use of Cannabis products by employees can contribute to greater risk for injuries in the workplace. It is imperative employers take the proper steps to create and maintain a policy that addresses Cannabis use, build a safety-focused culture and educate the workforce to keep all workers safe on and off the job."

CANNABIS PROVIDES SIGNIFICANT HEALTH HELP

THE USE of medical marijuana is associated with “significant improvements” in quality of life for people with conditions like chronic pain and insomnia. Those effects are “largely sustained” over time, according to a new study published in May by the American Medical Association (AMA). Researchers carried out a retrospective case series analysis that involved 3,148 people in Australia. Patients were prescribed medical Cannabis for the treatment of certain eligible conditions. For all eight wellbeing indicators that were tested, marijuana appeared to help. Adverse side effects were “rarely serious,” according to the study.

MINNESOTA ONE STEP CLOSER TO LEGALIZATION

LEGAL ADULT-USE CANNABIS is almost certainly coming to Minnesota, with lawmakers signing off in May on a final version of the bill. The conference committee agreed on a state tax of 10% on top of sales taxes – with 80% going to the state mainly to fund the Office of Cannabis Management and 20% going to local governments. Residents may possess up to two pounds in their home, and two ounces everywhere else.

N.M. ADDS INSOMNIA AS QUALIFYING CONDITION

INSOMNIA will soon be a qualifying condition to obtain medical marijuana in New Mexico. “From a health equity perspective, medical Cannabis can offer a legal alternative to the expensive medications sometimes utilized by those suffering with insomnia,” announced the state’s medical marijuana program. The Department of Health’s Medical Cannabis Program will allow the condition to qualify for enrollment starting in June.

One went to two Montclair entrepreneurs, George Marable and Eric Payne. They plan to open Night Owl at the site of the former DLV Lounge on Bloomfield Avenue. Marable owned the iconic jazz venue, which closed in December after 50 years. The second recreational license was granted to Kush Connections. Licenses for cultivation and manufacturing were granted by the council in April. Both of these businesses, Genuine Grow and TLEHL, will share space at 154 Pine Street, currently under renovation.

normalization

MICHIGAN MOVES TO END PRE-EMPLOYMENT TESTING FOR GOV. WORKERS

Michigan officials are proposing to end preemployment drug testing for marijuana for most government job applicants, while also giving people who’ve already been penalized over positive THC tests an opportunity to have the sanction retroactively rescinded.

The Michigan Civil Service Commission released the proposed amendments to the government’s employment code in May, opening a public comment period on the two policies.

“Michigan voters legalized marijuana’s medicinal use in 2008 and recreational use by adults in 2018,” John Gnodtke, the state’s personnel director, wrote in a memo.

“Michigan voters legalized marijuana’s medicinal use in 2008 and recreational use by adults in 2018.”

“In light of these changes, commissioners have requested circulation for public comment of potential regulation amendments to end the pre-employmenttesting requirement for marijuana for classified employees hired into non-test-designated positions.”

LEAFMAGAZINES.COM june 2023 national news STORIES by STEVE ELLIOTT, AUTHOR OF THE LITTLE BLACK BOOK OF MARIJUANA 8 health & science THE NEWS IN BRIEF
EAST COAST
of those between 18 and 30 say federal marijuana policies keep them from applying for jobs.
30%
of the Earth’s population uses marijuana, according to the U.S. Government.
3.8%
is the amount of growth in Florida’s medical marijuana patient count in the past two years. 71% adult-use Cannabis outlets were operating in Pennsylvania in January 2023. 264 of Cannabis was sold in Missouri during the first weekend of legalization in 2023. $13m of adult-use marijuana was sold in Montana during the first year of the program. $202m
keep your flower fresh STAZE.CO @STAZEFRESH Airtight Vacuum Seal Smell Proof Filter Patented Technology

DISPENSING EQUITY

Perched on the waterfront in the historic riverfront town of Lambertville, New Jersey, a dispensary prepares to open its doors. But what sets the Baked by the River dispensary apart, aside from the picaresque locale, is that its team isn’t just planning to open the doors to the store – they plan to open doors to companies all over the country.

“We knew if we were going to be hiring people, we wanted to hire people who had come from that community –people who we knew were experienced, knowledgeable, and had been doing this for years.”

june 2023 LEAFMAGAZINES.COM
Baked by the River co-founder Jesse Marie Villars, center, with fellow co-founder Cord Schlobohm, and Afia Dash, executive director of the People’s Equity Project.
THE RIVER & THE PEOPLE’S EQUITY PROJECT 10
BAKED BY

THE

PASSION PROJECT

OF JESSE MARIE VILLARS AND HER PARTNER, CORD SCHLOBOHM, BAKED BY THE RIVER DISPENSARY BEGAN AS A REACTION TO THE COUPLE’S OWN EXPERIENCE WITH THE DAMAGING WAR ON DRUGS.

“We both got into this industry because we both come from the legacy market,” said Villars. “My fiancé was arrested and went to jail because of Cannabis possession. I was arrested and had to go on probation early in opioid recovery because of Cannabis possession. A lot of people that we knew had also suffered from the war on drugs and weren’t being represented in this new legal market. We knew if we had this opportunity to open our dispensary, we wanted to bridge that gap between the legacy and the legal market, to really allow for more people who had experience with the over-policing of Cannabis and the war on drugs, and had been directly and negatively impacted by that.”

Villars and Schlobohm knew they needed to do more than simply open a store. They hatched an impact plan that they hoped would reach the corners of New Jersey and beyond.

“We knew if we were going to be hiring people, we wanted to hire people who had come from that community – people who we knew were experienced, knowledgeable, and had been doing this for years,” Villars said. “We wanted to see more of them in this industry.”

Of course, intention is only part of the battle. They realized that they needed a way to connect with the seasoned candidates they were searching for. They needed Cannabis convicts like themselves.

“It’s not like something you can just Google and find people with Cannabis arrest records who are looking to get into the industry,” Villars said. “People who’ve been negatively impacted by the war on drugs – that’s something that’s very stigmatized, and people are not very open about it for obvious reasons. So, we wanted to create a pathway specifically for people who’ve been directly impacted by the war on drugs, and people from communities that have been overly policed in the war on drugs, to find a way into this legal market.”

The People’s Equity Project seeks to build a job resource hub that solves the problem Baked by the River had identified during their hiring search. They’ve built community outreach, pilot shuttle services, expungement services, and career support services for the community, in order to help people with Cannabis arrest records find gainful employment in the industry.

Artist and international NGO specialist Afia Dash, who is also on the board of the local arthouse cinema in town, heard about the pair’s plan to build a dispensary and was impressed by the way they were going about it – so much so she decided she wanted to get involved at the grassroots level, and was chosen by Villars and Schlobohm to be the Executive Director of the People’s Equity Project.

“I have a family member, a very, very dear uncle of mine, who did eight years in prison for a dime bag of Cannabis back in the ‘80s,” Dash said.

“I was a child, you know, taking the bus to many different prisons to visit him every time he was moved. It destroyed my family. It was just devastating. He did the full eight years in prison. When he came out, he had severe PTSD. He was never the same person. A couple of years after his release from prison, he committed suicide.”

Having that life experience gave birth to conflicting emotions when Dash saw dispensaries start to pop up in the newly legal Cannabis industry.

“When I learned about dispensaries and all of the people profiting off of this, and then knowing that people who look like me and my uncle are still incarcerated, it was offensive to me,” Dash explained.

“I’m so tired that there are dispensaries all over the place where Black people are still incarcerated (for Cannabis offenses). I’m so tired that someone who has a Cannabis conviction cannot even find a job at McDonald’s. I’m so tired of it. I’m so tired of our neighborhoods being destroyed. I’m so tired of families being destroyed. I could be sick and tired, or I can do something about it.”

Together, the group hopes to make a difference not only in their immediate community and the surrounding New Jersey counties –where companies and hopeful workers have already started signing on for The People’s Equity Project job placement services – but in the greater national Cannabis community.

Many people who have been negatively impacted by the war on drugs do not have access to resources or generational wealth to enter the industry as business owners.” -Afia Dash

To date, they’ve participated in and helped organize expungement clinics and career fairs in Atlantic City, Trenton, Newark and Paterson, and have plans for an event in Jersey City this Fall.

“Many people who have been negatively impacted by the war on drugs do not have access to resources or generational wealth to enter the industry as business owners,” Dash said. “This enables people with experience with the plant to match with people looking for people with that experience.”

The group has been helping entrepreneurs in the area who plan to enter the nascent New Jersey Cannabis market with their impact plans, their licensing process, and helping connect them with prospective equity employees.

Dash says that Villars’ activist mindset and strong commitment to affecting change at a community level is what makes the difference about their approach. She credits Villars with the fact that Lambertville even has a budding Cannabis community.

“This little town voted ‘no’ on Cannabis,” Dash said. “Jesse went door to door and changed their mind. The only reason why these three dispensaries are opening up in this little town is because of Jesse.”

Villars credits the community as a whole.

“I think a lot of the activism that we’re doing,” she said, “we end up very lucky in surrounding ourselves with people who are so like-minded and similarly passionate and motivated to make a change and make an impact in this industry, which is really exciting.”

STORY by TOM BOWERS @CANNABOMBTOM | PHOTOS by COLIN LENTON @COLINMLENTON for NORTHEAST LEAF
by the River | 8 Church St. Lambertville, NJ
bakedbytheriver.com @bakedbytheriver thepeoplesequityproject.org @thepeoplesequityproject Baked

fights cancer fights cancer

In 2016, King became the youngest medical marijuana patient in New York. At age two, he was diagnosed with a rare and incurable blood disease called G6PD, and unfortunately just a few months later, was also diagnosed with leukemia.

The combination is extremely rare and can be fatal. He survived four years of daily, intense chemotherapy treatment from ages two through six – suffering

every side effect including brain injury, nerve damage, mouth sores and losing the ability to walk and talk as a result of the treatment’s toxicity. We watched him deteriorate to bones … on the brink of death. The doctors insisted on placing a feeding tube due to his rapid decline on the chemotherapy treatment – a risky option for immunocompromised patients. We chose the non-invasive option: Cannabis.

king 12 june 2023 the impact issue LEAFMAGAZINES.COM
STORY by MICHAEL SINGH @KINGFIGHTSCANCER for NORTHEAST LEAF | PHOTOS by SINGH FAMILY

DURING THOSE TIMES it was unheard of and heavily frowned upon to give Cannabis to children. It took us weeks to find a doctor willing to put a three year old on medical marijuana. Contrary to popular belief, children consume the plant orally via tinctures and not through inhalation.

The result was a complete 360-degree difference after starting Cannabis.

We want other families to know that Cannabis is medicine. Cannabis is a safer option for our son compared to the narcotics prescribed by his doctors. With narcotics came many side effects such as nausea, constipation, and a condition called intussusception which caused his intestines to twist. With Cannabis we did not have any of those side effects. For example, one medication required him to take Miralax, Senna and Colace to combat the side effects. If he missed his nerve medication, it put him at risk for having seizures. In our experience, his overall health improved once he started Cannabis –and we know the plant is a safer option compared to opioids.

Cannabis improves his mood, helps with anxiety, PTSD and most importantly, naturally helps him manage chronic pain. Cannabis helped him through four years of chemotherapy treatment without the need to take narcotic pain medications. Cannabis is a key element for King not only surviving, but thriving. He is a face and a voice of a pediatric medical marijuana patient who wants to end the negative stigma on Cannabis. King is beyond grateful for his second chance at life and certainly does not take a moment for granted. These days, he spends his time giving back to his community and raising awareness and funds for childhood cancer research – on a mission to inspire and motivate others, being a source of hope and making a difference in the world.

@KINGFIGHTSCANCER

A common misconception is that once treatment is over, “everything goes back to normal” – but that is far from the truth, as cancer survivors require “forever care.” Knowing firsthand that when a child is diagnosed with a life-threatening illness the entire family suffers, King turned his pain into purpose and started a 501c3 nonprofit with his family: the King Fights Cancer Foundation, dedicated to supporting families that have a child diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. His passion stems from his personal experience of battling a rare and deadly combination of two blood diseases, losing friends to cancer and his beloved grandmother Roxann, who developed cancer due to the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.

King is a hero in every essence of the word – a testimony that Cannabis is medicine, alongside his personification of bravery, hope, love and strength. While King still battles long-term side effects, he never gives up!

Follow King’s journey @KingFightsCancer on Instagram and Facebook.

Cannabinoid–Infused Freezer Pops Cannabinoid–Infused Freezer Pops (862)-268-7955
“Knowing firsthand that when a child is diagnosed with a life-threatening illness the entire family suffers, King turned his pain into purpose and started a 501c3 nonprofit with his family: the King Fights Cancer Foundation.”

HIGH SIGNS

Sign language brought medical marijuana growers Angela and Jared Panks together. Now, this creative couple is developing their own new sign language specifically to help the Cannabis community communicate.

FATE IS A CURIOUS THING … some people go their entire lives without ever truly finding their place in the world, while others are fortunate enough to have the universe show them a sign early on to point them in the direction of their destiny. Such seems to be the case with Jared Panks.

Jared grew up the son of a guerilla marijuana grower in southern Oregon – smoking by 13 and growing by 16. Besides weed, Jared’s other teenage hobby was playing hockey, which he learned by playing with several local adults, one of whom happened to be deaf. As the two that differed from the rest of the group, they formed a bond, and his new friend began teaching him some basic sign language. Little did he realize at the time how much learning the ASL alphabet would soon change the trajectory of his life – thanks to an unexpected encounter with a girl named Angela, who would eventually become his wife.

HEEDING THE SIGNS

Angela had quite a bit in common with Jared: She’d also grown up in southern Oregon, had started smoking weed around the

same age (sneaking joints at a hippie party in Keno near Klamath Falls), and also had family members who were guerilla growers – not only her dad, but uncle and grandfather as well. But there was one big difference between Angela and Jared (and, in fact, most of the other kids in their area) – Angela was born deaf.

As it happened, the two teens ended up in the same church youth group but never officially met until one fateful afternoon when the group went out wakeboarding and Angela started having trouble.

“I went in the water trying to wakeboard, and I was struggling, trying to get up,” Angela recalls. “People were trying to yell at me to tell me what to do, but I couldn’t hear them.”

Seeing her start to panic and realizing her situation, Jared instinctively sprang into action.

“I jumped out, swam over to her, and started finger spelling everything that she needed to do, trying to communicate for the first time while I was treading water,” he explains.

“Thanks to his help, I was able to get onto the board … and after that, I had a crush on him,” Angela confesses.

Since the two teenagers were in relationships with other people, nothing came of the encounter and they continued on separate paths – Angela later got married and had kids, while Jared studied to become a firefighter paramedic in Salem. But the experience in the lake never left him.

“It gave me a different perspective on life,” he reflects. “I remember praying, and God putting that image in my mind of being in the lake interpreting for Angela because she needed it. I started thinking about how useful it would be in emergency services, so that became my second language.”

Just two months into his classes, Jared used his knowledge to help paramedics save the life of the infant of a deaf couple who’d accidentally ingested heroin. He took it as another sign from above. “After that, I was like, ‘OK, I hear you, God.’”

LOVE CONNECTION

Fast forward to 2013: Angela was divorced and single for two years, and Jared was working for the forest service in California. Having never forgotten that girl in the lake, Jared

14 june 2023 the impact issue LEAFMAGAZINES.COM WANT TO KNOW HOW TO SIGN “CANNABIS?” MAKE A “C” SHAPE WITH YOUR HAND, THEN USE IT TO OUTLINE HALF OF YOUR HEART.
TONY SIMONELLI
“There's no sign language for regenerative farming or Cannabis or natural sciences. So we decided to build a foundation and create our own language."
With both hands in a fist position, one on top and another at the bottom of your abdomen, flick your index fingers towards each other across your stomach.
1 2 3
HOW TO SIGN " ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM "

looked her up on Facebook and sent her a friend request.

“I wasn’t looking for a relationship. After my divorce, I didn’t trust anybody – I just wanted to be on my own,” explains Angela. “So when I got his friend request, I almost deleted it … but I thought he looked familiar, so I said ‘fuck it’ and I accepted it. As soon as I did, he sent me a message saying, ‘Do you remember me from back in the day?’ And I was like, ‘Oh yeah.’”

“I told her that I went to college and studied sign language and how she’d changed my life,” Jared says. “Then we FaceTimed, and as soon as we started talking again, she just fell in love with me right there.”

HOME GROWN OREGONICX

By this point, both of them had been separately working on Cannabis farms for several years: Jared, running his dad’s grow after his debilitating spinal surgery in 2006, and Angela helping at a farm as part of the Oregon Medical Marijuana Program since 2005. Eventually, Angela started a medical grow of her own on her one-acre property in Grants Pass — supplying Cannabis just to herself and her deaf friend Brandy at first, then later selling to local dispensaries. After the couple got together, they expanded their cultivation efforts, started driving to dispensaries all around the state together soliciting business, and building their own sustainable medical Cannabis brand: Home Grown ORegonicX. Sadly, that dream ended for them in 2015 with the passage of Measure 91, legalizing recreational adult use.

“Rec killed that opportunity for us,” Jared laments. “We were in 70 stores all over Oregon, and then they suddenly closed our access to sell legally to those stores. There’s no justice for the medical farmer.”

Without the ability to legally sell to dispensaries, they did the only thing they could do: scale down their grow (from 80 to 48, and now just 12 plants) and provide medicine only for themselves and their patients in the deaf community, even though it meant operating at a loss.

“We’ve kept going and providing for our patients because it’s not about the money,”

says Jared. “It’s about the need, and giving people opportunities to live a better life.”

“Deaf people come from all over the country to learn and do hands-on farming here because they want to learn, and they trust us,” Angela adds proudly.

DEAFINING CANNABIS

This caring couple now devotes their lives to educating deaf people about Cannabis and regenerative agriculture – not only on their farm, but online as well. In February 2020, they started a Facebook group for deaf growers called Deafining Cannabis where they answer questions, offer advice and post educational videos. It was this name and concept that they adopted for their latest and most impactful project yet: developing their own Cannabis-related signs.

“We’d go to different Cannabis events and we’d see that there were no interpreters, so I would interpret for Angela and our team,” Jared explains. “But we’d lose our train of thought since I had to fingerspell so many words because there were no signs for those words.”

“We wanted to do educational videos for our deaf community, but how can you when you don’t have language?” Angela asks. “There’s no sign language for regenerative farming or Cannabis or natural sciences. So we decided to build a foundation and create our own language.”

In developing their new sign language for our culture, they naturally started with the most obvious word: Cannabis. There were already two signs for marijuana in ASL, but both had derogatory drug connotations to them – so the Panks decided to come up with a better one.

“We really wanted to create a sign that represents Cannabis well – gives it its own identity,

its own name – one that’s more positive.”

To determine what that sign should be, they launched the “Three Words Project” – walking around at Cannabis events with a video camera asking prominent people in the Cannabis industry/community what three words best defined Cannabis for them.

“A lot of people would say community, love, inspiration, healing, mission – it was all about coming from the heart,” Angela says. “So when we were thinking of the word to appropriately represent the inspiration behind Cannabis, it’s a letter ‘C’ tracing the outline of your heart, because a lot of it comes from love.”

The couple has since developed signs for sativa, indica, hybrid, terpenes, extract, cannabinoids, endocannabinoid system and mycelium, as well as starting a nonprofit and website – Deafining – planning to eventually use their many hours of footage to produce a documentary and educational video series. They also hope to someday revive their Cannabis business in the modern legal market using the new 60-acre plot they purchased five years ago, so they can once again provide their dank medicine to the masses.

Unfortunately, though, all of these projects require funding – which has been in short supply lately.

“Money’s been a struggle,” Jared reiterates. “We’re making it work, but it’s crucial for us to find sponsorships and do some fundraising to help with it.”

“Our hope is that with this language, our deaf community will be able to learn and educate themselves on these healthy choices and lifestyles,” Angela continues, “and be able to have a conversation and find commonality with others in our Cannabis community anywhere we may go in the world –so that everyone is welcome.”

STORY
@THEBOBBYBLACK/LEAF NATION | PORTRAITS & SIGNING PHOTOS
SIMONELLI | ADDITIONAL PHOTOS by HOME GROWN OREGONICX
by BOBBY BLACK
by TONY
DEAFINING.ORG @DEAFININGCANNABIS FB.COM/HOMEGROWNORX
ANGELA IN THEIR GARDEN. PHOTO BY HOME GROWN OREGONICX SIGNING ON STAGE AT THE EMERALD CUP.
PLEASE VISIT LEAFMAGAZINES.COM FOR MORE SIGNING EXAMPLES AND VIDEOS OF THE
PHOTO BY HOME GROWN OREGONICX
DUO AT WORK.
TO SIGN " TERPENES " 1 2 3 4 5
Index fingers meeting in the middle of the chest, make quick jagged downward and upward lightning movements with index fingers in opposite directions.
HOW

KIJANA ROSE WOULD LIKE TO SET THE RECORD CLEAR. She wants to dispel the notion that yoga teachers have their lives perfectly in order, living each day in a meditative bliss. “That’s a common misconception,” laughed the 33-year-old native of Boston. A graduate of the prestigious Boston Latin School, and the proud recipient of a bachelor’s and master’s degree at Northeastern University, Kijana has found the last decade of her life as rewarding as it has been exhausting.

16 june 2023 LEAFMAGAZINES.COM
PATIENT OF THE MONTH
CANNABIS & YOGA

KIJANA ROSE

After receiving her post-graduate degree in 2015, Kijana put her schooling to the test inside of Corporate America. She quickly ascended the ladder, earning the title of executive director for a small Boston-based foundation at the age of 26.

“At that time, I thought, ‘I’ve made it!’” exclaimed Kijana (pronounced Kee-Jah-Na). “I thought from there it was just a natural progression. Like, I’m just going to keep climbing and climbing. I’m going to be the next CEO of Nike.”

Two months later, she was let go without warning, prompting a deep internal shift.

“Getting fired, that was God telling me I wasn’t walking the path I was supposed to be on,” she said. “I thought, ‘The Universe is talking to me. I need to listen.’”

One month later, Kijana stumbled into a “Ganja Yoga” class in Toronto in the spring of 2017. She had grown up in a family of Rastafarians –meaning an early medical introduction to Cannabis at the age of seven. Kijana was also a well-trained yogi, having completed a 200-hour yoga teacher training in Medford, Mass. in 2014. But the concept of bringing the herbal essence directly to the yoga mat was something new.

“I certainly smoked a lot of weed before yoga classes, but I had never seen those two words together: GAN-JA YO-GA,” repeated Kijana, as if reading the sign once more. “When I finally walked out of [that class], I was like a kid leaving a candy shop. I had participated in this amazing yoga class and bought two ounces of weed – may I add, my first legal purchase! I was in heaven!”

A post-ganja yoga glow directed Kijana into a city-based Korean BBQ restaurant, where she met a group of Rastafarian chefs that shared her Jamaican heritage. They boasted of an “Ital lifestyle” – a Rastafarian plant-based diet that closely resembles veganism – to the then-amateur Boston foodie.

“I was having the time of my life,” said Kijana, whose family hails from Little London – a community in Westmoreland Parish, Jamaica. “I left there thinking I’ve gotta share this with people.”

Kijana soon returned to the states with Ganja Yoga and set up shop in the backyard of her childhood home in Roslindale (one of 23 Boston neighborhoods). She now had her own studio – The I&I Rose Garden –and soon, a cult-like following of over 30 devoted yogis began showing up to her four weekly classes.

Sessions opened with a toke or two of a sativa strain through a Volcano vaporizer. The class was then guided into a movement-based program. Once their teacher believed their bodies had sufficient stimulation, a second dosing of medication was encouraged (think yoga, but with a halftime show).

Patients were treated to a hybrid or indica, all of a homegrown variety. Savasana – a class-ending restorative pose – was then chased down with a detox shot of herbal delight. The teacher-turned-culinary savant would then provide Ital snacks – which often prompted social sojourns lasting late into the evening – before gifting a take-home edible to close the session.

“I really got to see the best of people,” she said, noting the pandemic halted a three-year run of operations. “I just remember being so grateful to be there and share that experience with my community. I mean, that was my mom’s home! (laughs) And the energy brought by people who just wanted to feel good and were just seeking a vibe … it was amazing.”

Kijana has spent the last three years building upon that pre-pandemic communal vibe – holding visions of spreading her Rastafarian charm across Massachusetts and beyond its borders.

In 2018, the I&I Rose Garden was approved for priority economic empowerment status – green-lighting an application for a Cannabis venture inside the market. But what began as ganja yoga has turned into a promotion of Ital delicatessen. Sharpening her culinary skills, Kijana has brought all-natural edibles to the Massachusetts market, while fighting off “capitalistic vultures” determined to buy her business and operate under the umbrella of her good will.

“Everything – the timing, the pandemic – it was all just wild,” she said, letting out a sigh. “I’ve been sleeping on people’s couches for the past eight months, and I still work overnight at Wegmans [grocery] just to pay bills.”

Her persistence, however, is about to pay off.

Currently, I&I Rose Garden is entering the final inspection for approval of a Roslindale storefront – with its eyes set on opening doors in the fall of 2023. The company, now composed of Kijana and four other yogi practitioners (aptly called The High Five), sell edible cookies at three dispensaries: Mello Cannabis in Haverhill, the Heritage Club in Charlestown and Major Bloom in Worcester.

“Between my team and the community, I truly have the most amazing people around me,” she said.

While the communal support has been tremendous, her purpose has been the northern star that navigates her way in the dark. And on the days she forgets about that light, Cannabis is always a spark away –staving off the stress that tells her she can’t go on.

“I know I am this edible girl now, but smoking will always be very special for me,” she said. “There’s just something special – something meditative – about sitting down in the morning, smoking a blunt, journaling and going through my yoga practice.”

The edibles, Kijana says, help with insomnia – putting the brakes on a brain that dreams of fulfilling a utopian Cannabis community where lives are enhanced by the roots of the people and plants.

“When you have a purpose, it’s a failsafe,” she said. “It makes it so you can’t give up.”

“I think a lot of people look at me and think I have it all together … and I really don’t,” Kijana continued. “There are areas of life that have been a struggle and that remain that way. But I made a commitment and when things go bad, I tell myself, I’ve made it 33 years. I’ve made it this far. I might as well finish what I started. And that keeps me going.”

STORY & PHOTOS by BAXSEN PAINE @BAXSENPAINE for NORTHEAST LEAF “
“I certainly smoked a lot of weed before yoga classes, but I had never seen those two words together: GAN-JA YO-GA.”

TAP ROOT FIELDS

CBD Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Summer is finally here … and with it comes bright and intense sunshine that can burn our skin and cause painful and disease-causing inflammation with only a few minutes of exposure to harmful rays. Thankfully, we can now enjoy our precious outdoor time – whether sunbathing at the beach, picnicking in the park or playing a round on the golf course – without worry by utilizing the new CBD-infused ReefSafe Sunscreen from Tap Root Fields.

Made from hemp grown in the Finger Lakes region of Upstate New York, this fiveounce bottle of smooth and silky sunscreen is infused with 500 milligrams of full-spectrum CBD and boasts 30 SPF broad-spectrum protection against UVB and UVA rays – all the while keeping your skin fully hydrated and happy. Plus, it’s reef-safe and formulated for all skin types, so it’s perfect for the face, body and the environment without a strong scent or greasy feeling. I

n fact, this amazing sunscreen is paraben-free, cruelty-free and vegan – so make sure to apply liberally before any outdoor activities and enjoy fire experiences without the burn.

TAPROOTFIELDS.COM | @TAPROOTFIELDS 500MG CBD | 30 SPF

“This five-ounce bottle of smooth and silky sunscreen is infused with 500 milligrams of full-spectrum CBD and boasts 30 SPF broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.”

june 2023 LEAFMAGAZINES.COM REVIEW by DAN VINKOVETSKY @DANNYDANKOHT/NORTHEAST LEAF | PHOTO by APRIL BLACK @HIGHERWAYTRAVEL topical OF THE MONTH
18

Chem S1 Live Hash Rosin

Grown by the legendary Greg "Chemdog" Krzanowski and extracted by Treeworks, the Chem S1 Live Rosin epitomizes the aroma, flavor and potency of the Chem family lineage. It’s called S1 because it’s the result of a Chemdog D cut (or Chem D for short) self pollinating, creating a single seed that Greg grew out with amazing results.

The product of this freakish occurrence culminated in a cultivar with even more overwhelming diesel-fuel funk and conifer-pine scent and flavor than the original. Glass jars of S1 flowers must be vacuum sealed in plastic to avoid stinking up all surroundings – and there’s no mistaking that powerful smell and taste shining through in this amazing live hash rosin.

Plants are flash frozen immediately upon harvest to preserve as much of the fresh essential oils as possible, and the team at Treeworks then gently hand washes the material to separate the glandular trichome heads from the flowers utilizing only ice water, heat and pressure, without the use of chemical solvents. After collection, pressing the extracted heads culminates into this beautiful, creamy, 70-179μ full-spectrum rosin – perfect for dabbing in your favorite glass or e-rig.

"It's some of the best tasting live hash rosin I've ever smoked," Greg tells me, "and over 9% terps makes it even more banger, and in my opinion, compares with any top producers out there. And it's the flower that makes it. As the old saying with concentrates goes: ‘Fire goes in, fire comes out.’ And live hash rosin is the best way to experience the full natural flavor. It's why we have California Raisins and Chem 4 coming down the line too. You start with some great flower and you get a great product when it's in the right hands."

Cannabinoids THCa: 81.00% | D9THC: 2.27%

CBG: 0.46% | CBGA: 1.11%

Terpenes Caryophyllene: 3.20% | Limonene: 1.74%

Myrcene: 0.95% | Total terpenes: 9.50%

Lee and Holyoke cannaprovisions.com @cannaprovisionsgroup smashhitscannabis.com @smash_hitscannabis treeworksma.com @treeworksma

REVIEW by DAN VINKOVETSKY @DANNYDANKOHT/NORTHEAST LEAF |
PROVISIONS/SMASH HITS CANNABIS @ACUTALPROOF leafmagazines.com 19 concentrate of the month
PHOTO by DAN MCCARTHY/CANNA
SMASH HITS CANNABIS X TREE WORKS COLLAB
in
Available from CannaProvisions
“It’s some of the best tasting live hash rosin I’ve ever smoked, and over 9% terps makes it even more banger.” - Greg ‘Chemdog’ Krzanowski

With their commitment to excellence and quality control that includes handtrimming and cold-curing their flowers to perfection, it’s no wonder that they recently won Best New England Cannabis Company 2023 at NECann.

Their Angry Ginger strain is named for the prominent orange hairs and trichomes all over the buds –not the effect, which is the antithesis of upsetting. The pairing of blissful body buzz and focused mental relaxation exemplifies this hybrid cross of Red Headed Stranger and I-95. Freshlyground Angry Ginger flowers reek of citrus, ginger and pepper with prominent terpenes including myrcene, limonene, caryophyllene and terpinolene. Despite the name, this cultivar is uplifting with the aroma and flavor of lemon ginger tea – making it a perfect daytime smoke for creative people seeking inspiration, or patients treating anxiety or post-traumatic stress. So give some properly grown and harvested buds from Root & Bloom a try. The unique flavor and euphoric effect of Angry Ginger is nothing short of feel-good fire!

Rootandbloominc.com | @rootandbloomgrow

ANGRY

LEAFMAGAZINES.COM 20 STRAIN OF THE MONTH
Root & Bloom, based in Salisbury, have earned praise throughout Massachusetts for growing craft-quality Cannabis and producing top-shelf concentrates and edibles.

CULTIVATED BY ROOT & BLOOM

“THE PAIRING OF BLISSFUL BODY BUZZ AND FOCUSED MENTAL RELAXATION EXEMPLIFIES THIS HYBRID CROSS OF RED HEADED STRANGER AND I-95.”

GINGER

NORTHEAST
REVIEW by DAN VINKOVETSKY @DANNYDANKOHT/NORTHEAST LEAF @NORTHEASTLEAFMAG | PHOTOS by STEVEN MACADAMS PHOTOGRAPHY @SMAC710

HIGHLIGHTING THE PEOPLE AND COMPANIES CHANGING THE CANNABIS LANDSCAPE

dr. amanda reiman

CHIEF KNOWLEDGE OFFICER

NEW FRONTIER DATA/FOUNDER | PERSONAL PLANTS

Northern California-based social ethnobotanist Amanda Reiman, PhD MSW, has been a Cannabis patient, advocate and educator for decades while pioneering the study of the therapeutic value of plants, earning her PhD from UC Berkeley. Dr. Reiman was the first to explore the use of marijuana as a substitute for alcohol and other drugs. Her groundbreaking work in the field of psychoactive plants and social science led to her founding of Personal Plants in 2020, with an emphasis on mindful consumption and a healthy lifestyle. mypersonalplants.com | @personalplants | @dr.amandareiman

stephanie landa

FOUNDER & PRESIDENT | FREEDOM GROW

Sen. Chuck Schumer

U.S. SENATOR

ed rosenthal

“THE GURU OF GANJA"

A lifelong pot pioneer and activist, Ed Rosenthal’s massive contributions to Cannabis cultivation knowledge helped “Overgrow the Government.” Ed’s books, first published in 1981, and his grow column in High Times in the 1980s and ‘90s, enlightened many thousands of prospective pot farmers. As Tommy Chong said, “Ed holds the distinction of turning more people onto pot than Cheech and Chong.” Ed’s arrest and trials in the early 2000s galvanized the movement and he continues to release new grow books – with his recently revised “Cannabis Grower’s Handbook” being the definitive Cannabis cultivation guide. edrosenthal.com | @edrosenthal420

tom angell

PUBLISHER & EDITOR | MARIJUANA MOMENT

As the creator and curator of the Marijuana Moment website and daily email newsletter, Tom Angell provides vital up-to-the-minute information for the Cannabis culture and industry.

A 20-year veteran in the marijuana law reform movement, Tom has his finger on the pulse of pot policy and politics – and always links primary source documents. Politico called Marijuana Moment “One of the nation’s leading trackers of developments and news in the Cannabis industry,” largely due to Tom and his team’s timely, unique and unbiased approach to reefer reportage. marijuanamoment.net @marijuanamoment | @thisistomangell

A longtime supporter of Cannabis law reform, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., is the highest-ranking pot proponent in Washington. He recently labeled federal legalization a top priority and joined Sens. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Cory Booker, D-N.J., to introduce the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act – a measure to decriminalize and deschedule marijuana. Chuck has also been a speaker at the NYC Cannabis Parade for the last three years, saying, “I’m proud to be the first Senate Majority Leader ever to say it's time to end the federal prohibition on Cannabis and bring justice to so many Americans whose lives have been ruined by the War on Drugs.” schumer.senate.gov @senschumer

Stephanie Landa knows firsthand the price paid by those who fell into the hands of law enforcement during the height of pot prohibition. It was during her five-year stint in federal prison for Cannabis cultivation when she learned the importance of money for prisoners to purchase essentials such as socks, stamps, clean drinking water, medicines, etc. She’s now the founder and current president of Freedom Grow Forever, an all-volunteer nonprofit organization that works directly on prisoner outreach to help them maintain their dignity while incarcerated and most importantly, regain their freedom. freedomgrow.org @letfreedomgrow

robert "baby boi"

jeffrey

PRESIDENT | MASSCANN

evan nison

FOUNDER & PRESIDENT NISON CO.

Evan got his start in Cannabis law reform early on as a student in Ithaca, New York in 2008. He’s been active and effective ever since as the youngest member of the NORML National Board of Directors. In 2012 he founded Nison Co., and the PR and SEO agency has since become an industry stalwart –representing some of the biggest brands in bud. Marijuana Venture included Evan in their “40 under 40” and The Observer listed Nison Co. at the top of their “Cannabis PR Power List.” nisonco.com @nisoncopr | @nis022

Robert’s activism began as a volunteer at the Boston Freedom Rally, getting an inside look at local legalization efforts and events. As a medical marijuana patient, cultivator and educator, he became a member and then the director of MassCann – the decades-old nonprofit organization that puts on the rally. He was recently voted in as President of the embattled org and pledges to continue the fight, saying, “I’m hopeful that all the work done today will bring a better tomorrow for the community.”masscann.org | @robert_babyboi_jeffrey

jeremy silva FOUNDER | BUILD A SOIL

Over a decade ago, Jeremy Silva started Build A Soil in his Colorado garage with the dream of providing the best growing mediums and natural fertilizers, as well as educating people on the benefits of cultivating Cannabis in living soil. Since then, Build A Soil has become a mainstay in the “back to the future” growing movement that promotes no-till farming, cover crops, oxygenated compost teas and many more sustainable products and natural techniques. buildasoil.com | @buildasoil

BY DANNY DANKO @DANNYDANKOHT | TOM BOWERS @CANNABOMBTOM | KATHERINE WOLF @KATADELLIC | BOBBY BLACK @THEBOBBYBLACK | MATT JACKSON @ACTIONMATTJACKSON | AMANDA DAY @TERPODACTYL_MEDIA | MIKE RICKER @RICKERDJ
IMPACT BOARD STORIES by LEAF NATION STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS LEAFMAGAZINES.COM 22 june 2023 the impact issue PAGE 1 / 8
NOMINATED BY THE
*This product name and accompanying statements are not intended to represent a medical or therapeutic claim. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. PLEASE CONSUME RESPONSIBLY. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. For use only by adults 21 years of age or older. Keep out of the reach of children.
CHOCOLATINA EBONY & IVORY HORACE HASH PLANT 1

THE IMPACT List

HIGHLIGHTING THE PEOPLE AND COMPANIES CHANGING THE CANNABIS LANDSCAPE

Eugene Monroe

FORMER NFL PLAYER | FOUNDER OF HEART COMMUNITY

Chosen as the eighth overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft, Eugene Monroe had a brief but eventful, seven-season career as an offensive tackle for the Jacksonville Jaguars and Baltimore Ravens. He was the first active player to publicly challenge league policy on Cannabis for pain relief and brain injury treatment in March of 2016, and also championed the plant as an alternative to highly addictive opioids. Monroe was also named chairman of the "Yes on 4" campaign that legalized Cannabis for recreational use in Maryland and formed Heart Community Capital to “build the leading Black-owned MSO.” heartcommunity.com | @eugenegreenmonroe

luke scarmazzo ADVOCATE

As a young father who was sentenced to 22 years under the Kingpin Statute for operating a state-legal Cannabis dispensary in Modesto, Calif., Luke Scarmazzo immediately became a lightning rod for the emancipation and legalization movement. The Cannabis advocate worked from within the system to fight to end the harassment and imprisonment of people for the plant, and advocacy group The Weldon Project (run by Scarmazzo’s former prison mate Weldon Angelos) worked with the White House on commutation of his sentence. After more than 14 years in prison, Scarmazzo was finally freed and has since rejoined his family. He and Angelos’ Project Mission Green continue to fight for the rights of Cannabis consumers and for the emancipation of Cannabis prisoners. @lukescarmazzo

weldon angelos

FOUNDER | THE WELDON PROJECT & PROJECT MISSION GREEN

Advocate Weldon Angelos embodies the concept of impact, both in how he benefited from powerful people who advocated for him, and how he then passed along the power of that advocacy in his work for others. The music producer was sentenced to a mandatory minimum sentence of 55 years after a confidential informant testified that he possessed a weapon in the commission of a Cannabis sale – serving 13 years before pressure from his friend Snoop Dogg, other celebrities and high-powered politicians, led to a commutation of the remainder of his sentence. These days he’s a tireless advocate for law reform and clemency for Cannabis prisoners, founding both The Weldon Project and Project Mission Green. projectmissiongreen.org | theweldonproject.org | @weldonangelos

brian "box" brown

CARTOONIST & ILLUSTRATOR | LEGALIZATION NATION

Brian “Box” Brown wondered why legal Cannabis in his native Pennsylvania didn’t hold up to the stuff he found in his travels among other “legal” states. He decided to use his background in visual arts to create a relevant and sometimes scathing comic strip that depicts the pitfalls of over-regulation and consolidation in the licenced industry. Box speaks truth directly to power, simplifying complex topics into easy-to-digest cartoons. His Legalization Nation strip is now syndicated by Hearst Media’s King Features. boxbrown.com | @boxbrown

fab

brathwaite DIRECTOR AND PRODUCER GRASS IS GREENER DOCUMENTARY

Iconic hip-hop elder statesman, first host of Yo! MTV Raps, video director and Cannabis advocate, Fred Brathwaite has been at the cusp of major movements since the late 1970s. Better known as Fab 5 Freddy, he recently teamed up with pot prisoner Bernard Noble and Curaleaf to create the social equity brand B Noble – drawing attention to the disproportionate impact of the drug war on minorities. His documentary film “Grass is Greener” further articulates the injustice and brutality of prohibition on disadvantaged communities. fab5freddy.com | @fab5freddy

Julio Zenil

EDITOR, REVISTA CÁÑAMO MÉXICO | EVENT PRODUCER, EXPOWEED MÉXICO

Julio Zenil has been at the forefront of Cannabis legalization efforts in Mexico for many years and organized the first Million Marijuana March there 23 years ago.

As the editor of Revista CÁÑAMO México and producer of the Expoweed México event, he educates the Spanish-speaking public and politicians on the medicinal and spiritual benefits of marijuana, as well as the excessive negative effects of global prohibition on the Americas. He’s also the founder of Museo del Cáñamo y la Marihuana de México and proprietor of Cañamo Shop – a Cannabis museum and hemp store in Mexico City. canamo.mx | @juleszengram

jackie bryant

HOST, THE PLANT LADY PODCAST | MANAGING EDITOR, SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE

Based in California, Jackie Bryant is an acclaimed journalist, the managing editor of San Diego Magazine and host of The Plant Lady – a podcast about modern Cannabis culture. Bryant's bylines include The New York Times, Harper’s Bazaar, Forbes, and Cannabitch, her very own newsletter with more than 2,000 subscribers. A frequent panel speaker, moderator and judge at conferences and events – her unique voice touches every aspect of the industry. jackiebryantwriting.com | @jacqbry

Garyn Angel FOUNDER & CEO | MAGICAL BRANDS

A thought leader and entrepreneur in the Cannabis industry, Garyn Angel created Magical Brands to transform the way people perceive and use the healing flower. His first development, the Magical Butter machine, streamlines the extraction process and allows consumers to create their own infused Cannabis edibles. Their Magical Gummy Maker transforms extracts into delicious, easy-to-dose Cannabis gummies. The newest arrival, Magical Grow, is an AI-powered smart garden designed to simplify the process of cultivation. Altogether, Garyn Angel’s vision and innovation revolutionized home growing and processing for everyone. magicalbutter.com | @magicalbutter | @garynangel

STORIES by LEAF NATION STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS LEAFMAGAZINES.COM 24 june 2023 the impact issue
fred
"
5 freddy"
PAGE 2 / 8
South Jersey's Patient-Focused Medical Cannabis Dispensary Scan here for our First-Time Patient deals! OPENING June 25 1337 Blackwood Clementon Rd. Gloucester Township, NJ 08021 www.honeygrovedispensary.com JOIN THE ORIGINAL GRASSROOTS CANNABIS ACTIVIST ORGANIZATION IN MASSACHUSETTS! 31 YEARS ON THE GROUND AND STILL GROWING TOGETHER!

THE IMPACT List

HIGHLIGHTING THE PEOPLE AND COMPANIES CHANGING THE CANNABIS LANDSCAPE

cannabis marketing association

INDUSTRY TRADE GROUP

Founded by Lisa Buffo in 2016, the Cannabis Marketing Association is an industry trade group with a mission to bring a positive perception to, and authentic understanding of, Cannabis and its consumers around the world. By supporting industry professionals through career resources, educational events and networking opportunities, the CMA has contributed to more approachable and informative marketing in the Cannabis space. thecannabismarketingassociation.com @cannamarketing

ricardo baca

JOURNALIST | FOUNDER, GRASSLANDS

Ricardo Baca is one of the most widely respected ganja journalists in the game. As a 20-year industry veteran, he was appointed as the first-ever Cannabis editor of The Denver Post in 2013 and founded the news vertical The Cannabist before launching Grasslands in 2016. This “journalism-minded” marketing and PR agency based in Denver empowers brands in highly regulated industries, from Cannabis to psychedelics and spirits – earning him a spot on Fortune’s 7 Most Powerful People in America’s Marijuana Industry and Marketer of the Year by AdCann. mygrasslands.com | @bruvs

40 tons

CANNABIS ACTIVISTS | SOCIAL JUSTICE REFORM

In 2013, Corvain Cooper was sentenced to life in prison for a nonviolent Cannabis offense while states across the nation began to decriminalize possession and personal use. He received a “winning lottery ticket” on the last day of Donald Trump's presidency in 2021: clemency. After his release, Cooper, along with his team, Loriel and Anthony Alegrete, started 40 Tons with the sole purpose of fighting for social justice and diversity in Cannabis. In addition to their CPG line in California, New York and other states, the brand puts on career conferences, offers educational programs and mentorship, and has set up a foundation to help provide second chances for those who have been impacted by the War on Drugs to work in the legal industry. 40tons.co | @40tonsbrand

nba ATHLETIC LEAGUE

The National Basketball Association recently announced a revolutionary move allowing players to promote and invest in Cannabis companies – one that we can only hope other sporting leagues will soon follow. With Cannabis removed from the league’s drug testing program, players will no longer be penalized for personal use and will also be able to promote and invest in Cannabis companies. Talk about a slam dunk for stoners. nba.com | @nba

women employed in cannabis

FOUNDER | KYRA REED

Founded by Kyra Reed in 2017, Women

Employed in Cannabis is a safe place for all women working with the plant to participate in the mission of creating a fair, just and equitable industry. With a Facebook Group to share resources and support as well as virtual networking events, in-person meetups, and “Women’s Lounges” at Cannabis conferences across the country, WEIC is working to create a more inclusive industry for the next generation of women in weed. womenemployedincannabis.com

rick simpson

MEDICINAL CANNABIS ADVOCATE | FULL EXTRACT CANNABIS OIL

Rick Simpson is the man who first made the extraordinary claim that super-potent, whole-plant Cannabis oil could actually shrink tumors and cure cancer. Though not a doctor or scientist, the humble Canadian engineer began producing the full-spectrum extract Cannabis oil (FECO) that eventually came to be known as “Rick Simpson Oil” (RSO) or “Phoenix Tears” in 2001 – at first, to treat his own skin cancer, then later to supply to thousands of other patients free of charge. For this, he was convicted and forced to flee North America and live in exile in Croatia. It’s not an exaggeration to say that everyone who’s used Cannabis oil to treat their cancer in the past two decades owes Rick Simpson a debt of gratitude.phoenixtears.ca | @ricksimpsonoil

champs trade shows

CANNABIS INDUSTRY EVENTS

CHAMPS was the first trade show of its kind in the Cannabis industry, paving the way for modern-day events like Hall of Flowers (also mentioned on this list) and our very own Leaf Bowls! Since 1999, CHAMPS has been hosting annual trade shows in Las Vegas, Atlantic City, Denver, Orlando and Chicago – bringing together some of the most innovative brands, manufacturers, distributors and artists in the space. champstradeshows.com @champstradeshows

STORIES by LEAF NATION STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS LEAFMAGAZINES.COM 26 june 2023 the impact issue PAGE 3 / 8
EMILY EIZEN ADOBE STOCK

EXCLUSIVE CULTIVARS FROM CALIFORNIA’S CANNABIS CAPITAL

SEEDS: FEMINIZED, REGULAR, AUTOFLOWER, PHOTOPERIOD THC AND CBD

CLONES: STRAIN LICENSE AGREEMENTS AVAILABLE FROM OUR 2022 UNPRECEDENTED 10K PLANT PHENOTYPE MEGA-HUNTS!

ONLINE SEED SALES NOW AVAILABLE, ORDER NOW BEFORE WE’RE SOLD OUT!

WWW.HUMBOLDTSEEDCOMPANY.COM ®

THE IMPACT List

HIGHLIGHTING THE PEOPLE AND COMPANIES CHANGING THE CANNABIS LANDSCAPE

the emerald cup

GROUNDBREAKING CANNABIS EVENT

Nowadays referred to as the “Academy Awards of Cannabis,” the Emerald Cup started in 2004 as an underground sungrown Cannabis competition among the Emerald Triangle’s outlaw farmers. Run by founder Tim Blake and his daughter Taylor, the Emerald Cup has continued to set the standard for modern-day Cannabis competitions by enlisting the industry's top experts as judges, establishing terpene profile-based judging subcategories, and honoring sustainable farming practices and legacy cultivators. theemeraldcup.com | @theemeraldcup

ana willey OWNER | CAM

In 2018, Anna Willey moved her brand CAM from Colorado to California. Since then she's worked to cement the name and in 2022-23, she became the largest female Cannabis producer in the country when she activated a 2,000-light facility in Sacramento. In May, the company went multi-state by expanding into 30 Pharmacann stores in Colorado – where they first started. Her firm stance that price shouldn’t keep someone from access to quality is why the M in CAM still stands for Medicine. camdispensary.com | @camstr007

laganja estranja

ADVOCATE & ENTERTAINER

last prisoner project

DRUG REFORM ACTIVISTS

The Last Prisoner Project was founded in 2019 by drug policy reform activist Steve DeAngelo, Cannabis entrepreneur Andrew DeAngelo, and music industry veteran Dean Raise. The organization was born out of the belief that no one should remain incarcerated for Cannabis offenses and focuses on three core criminal justice reform initiatives: release, record clearance and reentry support. LPP has given micro grants to over 300 constituents, matched over 80 with pro-bono attorneys through its Cannabis Justice Initiative, and been involved in freeing over 70 Cannabis prisoners nationwide. lastprisonerproject.org

@lastprisonerproject

jimi devine

JOURNALIST | FOUNDER, TRANS BAY CHALLENGE

grassroots california

CLOTHING BRAND | DESIGNERS

When it comes to the headiest of hats, there’s no topping the team over at Grassroots California. Founded by former real estate financier Ryan "Ruga" Connolly in 2008 as a passion project born out of his love for music, fashion and weed, the Denver-headquartered company quickly became renowned for their high-quality, custom-embroidered ball cap designs – including countless celebrity collabs and limited artist editions. Today, what began as a mere backpack trap on the Venice Beach boardwalk is a multi-million-dollar streetwear brand in 300 stores worldwide. grassrootscalifornia.com | @grassrootscalifornia

Laganja Estranja is a transgender advocate for Cannabis use and LGBTQ rights. As a professional choreographer and dancer, she believes Cannabis motivates and challenges your creativity. Since first gaining national attention as a contestant on “RuPaul's Drag Race” in 2014, she's gone on to have appearances on “Bong Appetit,” “Now This” and “Getting High with Doug.” She's also created education and outreach with her medicated dance classes, her World of Wonder show “Puff Puff Sessions,” and as co-host of the Twitch streaming series “Misters & Marys with Adam Ill.” laganjaestranja.com @laganjaestranja

Ali Jamalian

OWNER, SUNSET CONNECT | CHAIRMAN, SAN FRANCISCO CANNABIS OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE

Successful businessman, equity operator, Owner of Sunset Connect, Chairman of the San Francisco Cannabis Oversight Committee, and former plug for half of SF – these are all ways to describe Ali Jamalian. With 20+ years of experience, Ali is a rallying force for Bay Area Cannabis producers, dispensary owners and industry personalities alike. This year he helped gain national attention for the plight of Bay Area shop owners and dispensary workers who have seen a dangerous rise in armed robberies. sunsetconnect.co | @jahmillion415

Bringing both the hype and the heat via bylines in every major pot publication and weed website, journalist Jimi Devine has emerged as one of the most popular and prolific voices in marijuana media in the past several years. In addition to his editorial endeavors, Jimi is also the man behind one of Northern California’s hottest new happenings: the Trans Bay Challenge – a one-day connoisseur Cannabis competition/party launched in the fall of 2019 and designed to determine the best bud in the Bay. jimidevine.com | @thejimidevine

cannabis media council

CANNABIS MEDIA/PR

Just formed in September 2022, the Cannabis Media Council is a nonprofit group comprised of an impressive roster of media, marketing and PR professionals from prominent publications, organizations and corporations whose mission is to foster a positive public perception towards Cannabis. Their inaugural campaign, entitled “I’m High Right Now,” targets older Americans with the message that contrary to the myths of harm, Cannabis can actually improve their daily lives. cannabismediacouncil.com | @cannabismediacouncil

STORIES by LEAF NATION STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS LEAFMAGAZINES.COM 28 june 2023 the impact issue PAGE 4 / 8
ALEXANDER FOSCHI JON SAMS

Our custom filter tips function as a joint filter tip, a blunt filter tip, or a cigarette filter tip. The perfect all-purpose filter tips for an elevated smoking experience.

We carry an array of di erent custom filter tip options. We carry items like custom glass tips, custom paper tips, custom wood tips and our flagship our custom Kemp tips. @SHOPBIOKEMP

WWW.BIOKEMP.NET

THE IMPACT List

HIGHLIGHTING THE PEOPLE AND COMPANIES CHANGING THE CANNABIS LANDSCAPE montell williams

TALK SHOW HOST | CANNABIS ADVOCATE

Famous for his daytime talk show, Montel Williams gives a voice to Cannabis patients all over the country. After being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1999, doctors suggested Cannabis for pain in 2001. Williams has said it was the medicinal use of Cannabis, not traditional medications, that allowed him to continue the show until 2008. Since then, he's spoken on behalf of patients in front of state legislatures, created his own brand of products, and started the informational show "Let's Be Blunt." letsbebluntmontel.com | @montel_williams

origins council

CANNABIS ADVOCATES

In 2019, this Northern California-based nonprofit advocacy group was created to help promote legacy Cannabis farmers and the areas they live in. Key to their mission is establishing a nationally and internationally recognized map for regions that have a long history of producing Cannabis. They’ve developed partnerships in Massachusetts, Maine, Oregon and Vermont, as well as a regional council made up of six different counties in California. In 2023, they partnered with scientists, researchers and the Cannabis Equity Policy Council to launch a two-year study surrounding legacy Cannabis in California. originscouncil.org | @originscouncil

thc nyc

ART GALLERY

hall of flowers

CANNABIS B2B EVENT

Started in 2018, Hall of Flowers is a business-to-business event focused on presenting the latest offerings and innovations from the Cannabis industry. Over two days vendors present at their booths, interacting directly with dispensary purchasers and industry professionals, while the surrounding spaces are made into comfortable lounges to take meetings and sample products. In 2022, they opened up second-day attendance to budtenders. Since launching in Northern California, it's expanded to include shows in Las Vegas and Toronto. hallofflowers.com | @hall_of_flowers

mary pryor

CO-FOUNDER, CANNACLUSIVE | OWNER, SHEBA BABY!

spannabis

INTERNATIONAL CANNABIS TRADE SHOW

The largest Cannabis gathering in Europe, Spannabis is held yea rly in the city of Barcelona. Twenty-five thousand people attended in 2023, traveling from over 50 different countries and uniting a worldwide passion for the plant. While the show has live music, food vend ors, on-site tattooing and tons of prize wheels, there are also hall s full of nutrient companies, accessory brands and seed vendors from around the globe. It's estimated this year's event had an over 8 million euro fiscal impact on the city. spannabis.es | @spannabisbcn

alice reis

FOUNDER & CEO | GIRLS IN GREEN COMUNICAÇÕES

Alice Reis is the Brazilian Founder and CEO of Girls in Green Comunicações, one-half of Wooksauce Winery, and Content Manager at Weedmaps. Reis brings a background and passion for psychology and harm reduction –“the biggest pillar of Girls In Green” – to the Cannabis space, all while casually crushing the concentrate scene from Cali to Spain. Her skills and perspective (from gardening to drug policy) have been gathered around the globe as one of a small group of women paddling and pressing their way to hash history. @aliiiiiice

@girlsingreen710 | @wooksaucewinery

The House of Cannabis is the first-ever immersive Cannabis experience and art gallery. It’s a multi-level, “transportive, multi-sensory journey” stretched out over 10 exhibits. In this revolutionary look at Cannabis, viewers can find a new perspective of the plant through exhibits like Kandid Kush’s “microverse” of macro photography, educational works about the War on Drugs, or even peruse the plants in a real indoor grow. Overall, the concept is a significant step for Cannabis art and the continued normalization of the plant. thcnyc.com | @thcnyc

Mary Pryor is a “multihyphenate” making waves in the digital strategy, marketing and business side of Cannabis and hemp. Her portfolio includes New York brands like Tricolla Farms and Tonic CBD, and her very own Sheba baby! brand. Pryor has poured years into making space for more all-around inclusivity in Cannabis – as a co-founder of Cannaclusive, she helped create a network for accountability, outreach and advocacy. InclusiveBase is a tool for “collaboration and communication” that allows the community to find Cannabis-related products and services through a categorized and searchable database.

@iammarypryor | @cannaclusive

The Hashish Inn

CANNABIS PODCAST

When it comes to community education and connection, social media and podcasts have become an invaluable tool. Shoragim Amir of The Hashish Inn has embraced this concept to create a unique community of hash heads looking to talk terps and techniques.

Episode One aired in 2019 featuring Oregon’s Pua Extractions and since then, the show has only continued to cater to some of the finest and freshest events, companies and individuals on the scene. It’s even picked up Rosin Evolution as a main sponsor, with others rolling in to support.

thehashishinn.com | @thehashishinn

STORIES by LEAF NATION STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS LEAFMAGAZINES.COM june 2023 the impact issue PAGE 5 / 8
LOVERL LOVER
TOM BOWERS
Medical Cannabis Dispensary NEW PATIENTS 25% OFF WEEKLY PRODUCT SPECIALS DISCOUNTS FOR SENIORS & MORE BROOKLYN • HUDSON VALLEY • STATEN ISLAND Now selling whole flower! Please Consume Responsibly. Cannabis products should be kept out of the reach of children. We carry New York patient-favorite brands including: bestores.com @be.stores.now @be.stores • Find your location and menu here Cannabis Dispensaries EVERYDAY DISCOUNTS • WEEKLY DEALS LOYALTY PROGRAM mpxnj.com SCAN HERE To Select Location This product contains cannabis. For use only by adults 21 years of age or older unless it has been recommended by an authorized physician to a registered medical cannabis patient. Keep out of the reach of children. There may be health risks associated with the consumption of this product, including for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning on becoming pregnant. Do not drive a motor vehicle or operate heavy machinery while using this product. MPX NJ is licensed by the State of New Jersey. We carry New Jersey’s favorite brands including: NOW OPEN Gloucester Township: MED Atlantic City: MED & REC

THE IMPACT List

HIGHLIGHTING THE PEOPLE AND COMPANIES CHANGING THE CANNABIS LANDSCAPE

bubbleman

CREATOR, FRESH HEADIES LTD. | HASH CHURCH

After some time looking for a “safe, compact and portable trichome extraction kit,” Fresh Headies Ltd. was born. Here, Marcus Richardson made his name and mark in the world of water extraction with the invention of the “first three-bag multitasking filtration kit”

– earning him the name Bubbleman. In the early 2000s, Richardson and Skunkman Sam dreamed up an exclusive, invitation-only hash event spanning four countries and 21 years later, Legends of Hashish was born. In 2014, Richardson began building what would become a staple in concentration education and community building: Hash Church. The web series made it to its fourth iteration (“Hash Church 4.0”) after almost 10 years and has boasted experts from fields far and wide. @bcbubbleman

Mila "Hash Queen" Jansen

INVENTOR, THE POLLINATOR

This royalty of the revolution didn’t just pave a path for women in hash – she led the march in modernizing mechanical separation methods with her invention of the Pollinator in 1994 – a move that would take timely, traditional hash techniques into a new era of dry sift automation. Some even say Jansen jump started the beloved coffee shop culture Amsterdam is so famous for when her fashion studio-turned-teahouse started attracting an atmosphere of global ganja visitors sharing hash from far and wide over cups of tea. These days, she’s keeping her crown polished by producing more equipment for mechanical separation methods and organizing events like DabA-Doo. All hail the queen! pollinator.nl | @milahashqueen

humboldt seed company

SEED PRODUCERS

Humboldt Seed Company has produced regular, feminized and auto-flowering seeds since 2001, with origins in breeding for patients under California’s Prop. 215. Today, they’ve established themselves as the state’s largest seed provider, with a global reach spanning multiple U.S. states, Spain, Canada, Jamaica, South Africa, Colombia, France, Portugal, Greece, the UK, Malta and Thailand. The team also dedicates their time to making an impact in the world around them with endeavors like the Nature Rights Council, the company’s environmental nonprofit arm that’s led by Humboldt’s Indigenous youth. humboldtseedcompany.com @thehumboldtseedcompany

ellen komp

ADVOCATE & AUTHOR | DEPUTY DIRECTOR, CALIFORNIA NORML

Activist, author, advisor and all-around leader, Ellen Komp currently serves as the Deputy Director of California NORML. In the early ‘90s, Komp held rallies for hemp advocacy in LA that ran 20,000 strong. In the late ‘90s, she began her era as Deputy Director of Community Outreach and Communications at the Drug Policy Alliance. She’s authored articles in multiple major Cannabis publications and put out her own book, "Tokin' Women: A 4,000-Year Herstory.” Komp was even acting editor on the ninth edition of the legendary book, "The Emperor Wears No Clothes" by Jack Herer. canorml.org

mj bizcon CANNABIS BUSINESS EVENT

MJ BizCon is entering its twelfth year influencing the business side of Cannabis as the top industry trade show around the globe. It’s held annually at the Las Vegas Convention Center, so companies can flex their latest concepts and network with over 1,400 exhibitors, 100 speakers, and “more than 30,000 Cannabis executives from around the world.” It’s a place to make moves and stay up to date on the latest industry innovations, and an undeniably momentous mechanism for moving forward. mjzbizconference.com | @mjbizdaily

STORIES by LEAF NATION STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS LEAFMAGAZINES.COM june 2023 PAGE 6 / 8
MIKE ROSATI CEO NAT PENNINGTON MARIA CAVALI
#ITBEGINS ATINTER CHANGE WWW.INTER CHANGEMV.C OM | INTER CHANGE@MAR IJUANAVENTUR E .C OM OREGON SEP 2 0-2 1 WASHINGTON MAY 2 3 -24 / NOV 7- 8 MICHIGAN MAY 1 7-18 OC T 18 -19 S C AN F OR MORE!

THE IMPACT List

HIGHLIGHTING THE PEOPLE AND COMPANIES CHANGING THE CANNABIS LANDSCAPE

woody harrelson

ACTOR, ADVOCATE OWNER, THE WOODS

Few pro-Cannabis advocates have the star power of Woody Harrelson. Many of us remember when he first came out in the ‘90s as a pot smoker, alienating much of his weed-hating audience and cementing the fandom of the rest of us. In the years since, the Oscar-nominated actor has fought alongside small farmers in the Emerald Triangle, spoken out on the need for clemency for prisoners, and even entered the business space in 2022 with The Woods, his own dispensary and consumption lounge in West Hollywood. thewoodsweho.com | @woodyharrelson

you, the reader

Thank you, our beloved reader, for you are taking the time to educate yourself about the plant that we all love. You deserve credit for becoming an enlightened stoner, and hopefully you share the good news about our plant the way you share tasty strains from your favorite dispensary. We can change the world, one person and toke at a time, for as the Lorax said, "Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better.” leafmagazines.com

greg james

FOUNDER | MARIJUANA VENTURE

From a career making big bucks in software, James found himself in Seattle with an idea to show the Cannabis industry a professional approach to doing business. Taking from his experiences in software, he launched Marijuana Venture to publish on the expanding business world of Cannabis, and started Interchange – an event which allows speed networking between brands and retailers in multiple states. marijuanaventure.com | @mjventure

dragonfly earth medicine

CANNABIS GROWING STANDARDS

The team at Dragonfly Earth Medicine long ago established their authority in the Canna-certificate scene. A “DEM Pure” commitment goes deeper than superficial certifications to examine a producer’s full practices – right down to their inputs, treatment of employees and pricing ethics. They offer a holistic approach to preserving the integrity of Cannabis medicine while acting as a steward of the earth. When you see a DEM Pure certification, you can rest easy knowing the producers have rallied around regenerative practices and earthbased formulas. DragonflyEarthMedicine.com | @dragonflyearthmedicine

honorable mentions cap 'n crunch

CEREAL AFICIONADO

This Merchant Marine of Marijuana secured his place in the Stoney Cereal Hall of Fame when he added Crunch Berries to the already phenomenal peanut butter bonanza.

the cannabis alliance

INDUSTRY GROUP

A trade organization with an eye on highlighting the best of Washington’s Cannabis community, and a focus on bettering policy through collective efforts – the Cannabis Alliance has worked for years to make the Washington industry a better place for businesses and consumers alike. thecannabisalliance.us | @thecannabisalliance

matthew mcconaughey as david wooderson in dazed and confused

FILM ICON This was potentially the turning point for all adolescents back in the day who discovered that even though possession could get you in trouble with Mom and the Fuzz, having a joint on hand when in the presence of an older, seasoned stoner would make you cooler.

elliot lewis

FOUNDER & CEO | CATALYST CANNABIS

Elliot Lewis is the man behind one of California’s most prolific and fastest growing retail empires. He opened the first Catalyst location in 2017 in his hometown of Long Beach, Calif. – which is now up to 18 stores and counting. Much of Lewis’ notoriety comes from his outspoken approach to business ownership, his “bring-the-fight-to-their-door” mentality, relentless hustle and impassioned persona, earning him the reputation of a force to be reckoned with in the ever-evolving California market. catalyst-cannabis.com | @catalyst_ceo

A tireless advocate for the plant and legalization, Stuart is a single mom running two retail locations, while also finding time to serve on the Alaska Marijuana Control Board as an advisor and advocating for the Alaska Cannabis industry through AMIA. Her stores – the Green Jar locations – are also the official Intake Partner for the Alaska Leaf Bowl! thegreenjarak.com | @greenjar_ak

shaggy

STONER DETECTIVE

The biggest mystery of the machine was that he kept his stash in the dash. With his wake-and-bake regimen and Scooby gobbling down CBD snacks, there’s no wonder they were the ones catching the ghosts.

STORIES by LEAF NATION STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS LEAFMAGAZINES.COM 34 june 2023 the impact issue
PAGE 7 / 8
WAYNE MASER NATHAN AVILA
LEAF NATION AUDIENCE & THE CANNABIS COMMUNITY
AVELLANEDA-CRUZ
stuart
OSCAR
bailey
COO & O-OWNER | THE GREEN JAR

Staff Picks

Fast-Acting

These THC gummies deliver potential effects in 5-15 minutes! Natural fruit flavors. Vegan and gluten-free.

Disposable

These stylish, convenient pens are formulated with high potency distillate and naturally derived terpenes.

Recreational cannabis. You must be 21 years or older with a valid ID. Medical card holders receive discount pricing. Keep product out of the reach of children. License #AMS338 HighNorth South Portland 29 Western Ave. Wellness Connection Portland 685 Congress St. Wellness Connection Gardiner 31 Maine Ave.
highnorthmaine.com mainewellness.org Wellness Connection Brewer 221 Dirigo Dr. Gift Card
great gift for birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, or just because! Pre-roll 5 packs
favorite strains
in
Concentrates
A
Your
conveniently available
five-packs. HighNorth
Deliciously potent concentrates sure to satisfy everyone!
Vape
Gummies

THE IMPACT List

HIGHLIGHTING THE PEOPLE AND COMPANIES CHANGING THE CANNABIS LANDSCAPE

dennis peron

MEDICAL CANNABIS ADVOCATE | (1946-2018)

Known as the “Father of Medical Marijuana,” Dennis Peron was a passionate advocate for the people and the plant. After experiencing Cannabis in Vietnam during his time in the Air Force, he decided to smuggle some back and begin a career. This legend led the way to medical legalization in California when he saw the benefits of Cannabis use surrounding him in a community coping with AIDS. It was his persistence in the early days of campaigning that pushed the 1996 Compassionate Use Act (also known as Prop 215) into fruition and with it, the nation’s very first public dispensary: the San Francisco Cannabis Buyers Club.

alaska marijuana industry association

PRESIDENT | LACY WILCOX

As President of the Alaska Marijuana Industry Association –a collective of Cannabis businesses that work together for the betterment of the industry – Wilcox works around the clock on everything from legislative or municipal changes in regulations, to running a network of canna-businesses that are unifying to better the industry as a whole. She’s also a partner at Top Hat Alaska, an award-winning CO2 processor. alaskamia.org thcalaska.com | @thcalaska

Doctors Knox

ENDOCANNABINOID SPECIALISTS

frenchy cannoli

HASH INNOVATOR & ADVOCATE (1956-2021)

Frenchy Cannoli was born in Nice, France but left at a young age to explore the world. On the road to becoming a hashstorian and master hashishin, he lived nomadically from “Morocco to Mexico, to Nepal, Pakistan, and India,” taking in the historic hashish techniques of many cultures. Cannoli dedicated his life to teaching students from far and wide the philosophy of his craft. His workshops (“Lost Art of the Hashishin”), brand (Very Special Olde Press), videos, writings and presence on this earth left a mark on the minds and methods of many hash makers. @frenchycannoli

This family of doctors is a pioneering force in Endocannabinology. With a diverse background in medicine (including Emergency, Anesthesia, Family, Integrative and Preventive), the talented Dr. Rachel, Dr. Jessica, Dr. David and Dr. Janice have been breathing hope into the healthcare scene. The Knox Docs are knocking down barriers in healthcare with endeavors like Pivotal EDU and The Association for Cannabis Health and Equity Medicine – a brainchild of Drs. Janice, Jessica and Rachel Knox, alongside Dr. Ogadinma "Oga" Obie – aimed at “serving the needs of BIPOC healers and health and medical professionals in the advancement of health equity.” doctorsknox.com

rep. earl blumenauer

U.S. REPRESENTATIVE, OREGON

Rep. Earl Blumenauer has been a force in plant politics since 1973 when he first voted in Oregon to decriminalize possession in small quantities. Since then, he has been stirring up and supporting movements like Cannabis research (The Medical Marijuana and Cannabidiol Research Expansion Act), banking access (The SAFE Banking Act), veterans' access to Cannabis (The Veterans Equal Access Act), and much more. Recently, along with Rep. Dana Rohrabacher, Rep. Don Young and Rep. Jared Polis, the congressman announced his founding and co-chair position in the Congressional Cannabis Caucus – a bipartisan Cannabis workgroup focused on research, veteran access and Cannabis business needs. blumenauer.house.gov

STORIES by LEAF NATION STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS LEAFMAGAZINES.COM 36 june 2023 the impact issue PAGE 8 / 8
O'HARA SHIPE
All Things Cannabis For All People beardedlorax stashleylynn maaryjwhite rickerdj leaflifepodcast PODCAST THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS #222 SKATEBOARDING AND CANNABIS #223 BHO #224 DABTENDER WATCH ON LEAF LIFE PODCAST V2 LISTEN EVERYWHERE THIS MONTH: Marijuana products may be purchased or possessed only by persons 21 or older. 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 21 and older. Keep out of reach of children. #221 DATING & CANNABIS

WE ARE PREOCCUPIED WITH SEX. Since each of us first exited the womb, the genitalia has drawn our fascination by the irreversible magnetism that’s built into our DNA.

But as the system of indoctrination has been designed to control our natural urges through guilt and shame, there is still no proven method of turning off the salacious thoughts that occupy much of our attention – no matter how hard we try. Because like any animal with the propensity to propagate its lineage, the compulsion to unveil the object of our reproductive options hiding behind those undergarments is undeniable. And make no mistake about it, were we armed with the intensity of a dog or a bear’s ability to determine the signals of varying bodily scents, we would probably be sniffing each other’s backsides, too.

Thank God for perfume and cologne.

But then again, those are a creation for the modern age, as our innate senses seek to gauge one’s virility by taking stock of the current state of natural bacteria that we foolishly wash away and subsequently mask with these pheromones of other mammals.

They call this evolution.

Hence, the mind and body will negotiate, often subliminally, to direct our senses to determine what we favor the most based on our biological needs. Just as the nose knows when it dips into a jar of finely-cured Cannabis bud or a saucer of freshly-pressed rosin, the subconscious directs our senses to the favored terpenes to best stimulate the body’s endocannabinoid receptors. They are females, the givers of life, and their sensuous allure is only a different manifestation of what instinctively draws us to the loins…

We want to see the flowers in full blossom. It satisfies our voyeurism.

Because we are naughty.

38 LEAFMAGAZINES.COM june 2023 stoney baloney FOLLOW @RICKERDJ // GET THE AUDIO VERSION & EVERY EPISODE AT LEAFMAGAZINES.COM

EXTREMELY TASTY & POTENT

Whole bud flower is infused with a proprietary process that combined diamonds, natural botanical terpenes and pure kief all contained within the pre-roll to produce a potent flavor explosion and high THC content for that desired Lift o or couch lock without the mess and burn of a traditional pre-roll.

INTRODUCING
hellavated.com
This product has not been analyzed or approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). There is limited information on the side e ects of using this product, and there may be associated health risks. Marijuana use during pregnancy and breast-feeding may pose potential harms. It is against the law to drive or operate machinery when under the influence of this product. KEEP THIS PRODUCT AWAY FROM CHILDREN. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug. The impairment e ects of Edibles may be delayed by two hours or more. In case of accidental ingestion, contact poison control hotline 1-800-222-1222 or 9-1-1. This product may be illegal outside of MA. Please Consume Responsibly.  For use only by adults 21 years of age or older. Keep out of the reach of children. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product.

NORTHEAST LEAF MAGAZINE

IS PROUD TO PRESENT TWO NEW LEAF BOWL EVENTS

The Leaf Bowl is an impartial, independent competition created by Leaf Magazine to determine the best Cannabis products in each state.

Backed by the integrity of Northeast Leaf, the Leaf Bowl is a Cannabis competition like no other — with transparent judging, scores released in print, and no sponsorships allowed by entering companies.

Don’t miss out on your chance to be crowned a LEAF BOWL CHAMPION!

COMING TO NEW ENGLAND THIS FALL!

BOOTHS, BUNDLES, ENTRY DEALS & LIMITED SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE!

SCAN CODE TO REQUEST MORE INFO

CONTACT US: LEAFBOWLS@LEAFMAGAZINES.COM | FOLLOW US: @THELEAFBOWL

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.