THE ENLIGHTENED VOICE
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THE HISTORY OF THE LEAF
RECLASSIFYING CANNABIS
K U S H C O N V E R S AT I O N
HEADY THREADS54 60 F E AT U R E G U I D E
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LEAF OPINION
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REEFER MADNESS, REVISITED
CANNTHROPOLOGY
ADAM SMITH BEEHIVE FARMACY BUDTENDER SPOTLIGHT
ADOBE STOCK
42 B-REAL
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KAT JORGENSEN
DRAGONFLY WELLNESS
WORLD OF CANNABIS MUSEUM
PEDRO GARCIA COURTESY
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PUBLISHER’S NOTE EDITOR’S NOTE HISTORY OF THE LEAF DAB VOCAB 101 TECH SPOTLIGHT FLOWER SPOTLIGHT CONCENTRATES SPOTLIGHT DRAGONFLY WELLNESS PROFILE KUSH CONVERSATION: B-REAL ADAM SMITH BUDTENDER PROFILE UTAH MEDICAL CANNABIS PATIENTS LEAF OPINION: RECLASSIFY CANNABIS PSYCHEDELIC ICONS HEADY THREADS RECIPES CANNTHROPOLOGY STONEY BALONEY
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T H E E N L I G H T E N E D VO I C E
N O RT H W E S T L E A F / O R EG O N L E A F / A L AS KA L E A F / M A RY L A N D L E A F / CA L I F O R N I A L E A F / N O RT H E AS T L E A F / U TA H L E A F
A B O U T T H E C OV E R For the debut issue of Utah Leaf, we looked to illustrator Joshua Boulet, a longtime Leaf Magazines contributor, who created this impactful and surreal cover that captures the spirit of innovation the magazine embodies. Boulet has created more than three dozen Leaf covers and also creates the art for all of our Stoney Baloney columns authored by Leaf Operating Partner Mike Ricker. We hope that you enjoy reading through this new issue of Utah Leaf and also that you will fondly remember the legacy and incredible work done by the team at Salt Baked City. Without their stewardship, the magazine would not have its local foundation - and we look forward to growing, onward and upward! ILLUSTRATION BY JOSHUA BOULET @JOSHUABOULET | JOSHUABOULET.COM
WES ABNEY C E O, F O U N D E R & P U B L I S H E R wes@leafmagazines.com
CONTRIBUTORS
COLE FULLMER U TA H L E A F E D I T O R - I N - C H I E F cole@leafmagazines.com
MIKE RICKER O P E R AT I N G PA R T N E R ricker@leafmagazines.com | advertising sales TOM BOWERS C H I E F O P E R AT I N G O F F I C E R tom@leafmagazines.com DANIEL BERMAN C R E AT I V E D I R E C T O R daniel@leafmagazines.com
MEGHAN RIDLEY C O PY E D I T O R meghan@leafmagazines.com
ASHLEY HIRCHERT S O C I A L M E D I A L E A D ashley@leafmagazines.com
WES ABNEY, FEATURES DANIEL BERMAN, PHOTOS BOBBY BLACK, DESIGN + FEATURES JOSHUA BOULET, ILLUSTRATION TOM BOWERS, FEATURES AMANDA DAY, FEATURES EARLY, PRODUCTION COLE FULLMER, FEATURES PEDRO GARCIA, PHOTOS MATT JACKSON, FEATURES KAT JORGENSEN, PHOTOS JESSE RAMIREZ, DESIGN MIKE RICKER, FEATUTRES MEGHAN RIDLEY, EDITING DAN VINKOVETSKY, FEATURES LAURIE WOLF, RECIPES BRUCE WOLF, PHOTOS KATHERINE WOLF, FEATURES
Utah Leaf Magazine. We do not sell stories or coverage. We can offer design services and guidance on promoting your company’s medicinal, recreational, commercial or industrial Cannabis business, product or event within our magazine and on our website, leafmagazines.com. Email ricker@leafmagazines.com to start advertising with Utah Leaf!
CON N EC T W I T H
UTAH LEAF!
Exclusive Cannabis Journalism @NWLEAF |
@UTAHLEAF #UTAHLEAF
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ABNEY
publisher’s Note Thanks for picking up the very first issue of Utah Leaf! I am proud to be bringing our voice for Cannabis normalization and legalization to the great state of Utah, and to return to our roots as a patient advocacy publication. When I began the Leaf in 2010, it was to fight for patients to have access to plant medicine and to end the War on Drugs (check out this whole story in my “History of the Leaf” piece on page 14-15). After 14 years of independent publishing, we still have a long way to go before our plant and our people are free to grow, share and use the medicine that has helped change so many lives. The Leaf is here because we have joined forces with the hard-working team behind Salt Baked City and its founder, Cole Fullmer, who has dedicated years to fighting for patient rights in Utah. Together as Utah Leaf, we are looking forward to telling the stories that matter to you – information about medical Cannabis, patient profiles, strain and product reviews, and updates on legal policy in Utah and the rest of the country. We will also be fighting for the normalization of Cannabis use because we believe in its medicinal nature, and that all Utahans should have the freedom to grow and consume the plant if they so choose.
“I CALL ON OUR READERS TO SHARE THEIR TRUTH – TO TELL THE PEOPLE YOU LOVE AND WORK WITH AND GO TO CHURCH WITH – HOW CANNABIS HAS HELPED OR HEALED. ”
In today’s society that is divided on so many issues, Cannabis can be a uniting factor that goes beyond politics or religion, and be a tool for peace and enlightenment. I wrote at the beginning of the war in Ukraine that if Putin was puffin’, there would not be a war – and I believe that more than ever as our world creeps towards further conflict. Cannabis is a healing plant, for mind, body and spirit, which is why I believe all of its use is medicinal. If your reason for smoking is bad weather or a bad day, or anxiety about the election or WW3 – and Cannabis brings relief without causing harm – then it is surely a wonderful medicine. No matter the reason, consuming Cannabis holds the potential to make you feel better without any nasty side effects – a claim that alcohol or pharmaceuticals surely cannot make. I’m very familiar with pot’s bad reputation. But medical Cannabis helps mothers and fathers, teachers and veterans, and the truth and positive impacts cannot remain hidden. This is why medicinal use has been allowed, even in places where so-called “stoners” remain soaked in stigma. Like a plant with deep roots, Cannabis is slowly healing our society and as more people share their truths, the plant grows stronger. In that spirit, I call on our readers to share their truth – to tell the people you love and work with and go to church with – how Cannabis has helped or healed. This is how we break the stigma and gain freedom and access for all who need the plant. Together we can make the world a better place, one plant and patient at a time! Thank you for reading the Leaf, and please share this issue and our online platform with 14 years of content at leafmagazines.com.
-Wes Abney
Got a story suggestion, idea for a product review, or want to share a hot news tip? Email ricker@LeafMagazines.com!
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“MA BUT
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TURNING A NEW LEAF Bidding a fond farewell to Salt Baked City and embracing a bold beginning in Utah Leaf
As we stand at the threshold of change, it is with a blend of nostalgia and anticipation that I share some bittersweet news: Salt Baked City, Utah's Cannabis beacon, is preparing for its transformation. But before we turn the page on this incredible chapter in our journey, let's pause to reflect on the remarkable path we've walked together and the brilliant future that beckons ahead. In 2019, when the clouds of change began to gather on the horizon with Utah's new medical Cannabis program, I saw a need that local media wasn't addressing. The War on Drugs had left its mark on the conservative landscape of our state, and it was clear that it was time for a change. As an experienced journalist, I felt a duty to support Cannabis as it had supported me throughout my life. Salt Baked City wasn't born to create a legion of "pot heads." Instead, it emerged as a beacon of transparency, illuminating the myriad benefits of Cannabis and challenging outdated thinking. Through education and awareness, we aimed to transform Cannabis from a misunderstood pariah into a healing ally for all Utahns. After all, why should this remarkable plant continue to be vilified when it has the potential to enhance so many lives? For the past few years, Salt Baked City has been more than just a magazine; it has been a lifeline to nearly 80,000 registered medical Cannabis patients in Utah – including myself. We've proudly distributed our magazines in every state dispensary and hundreds of non-Cannabis businesses for free, ensuring our message reaches far and wide. Think of Salt Baked City as the High Times of Utah – a homage to Tom Forcade, who once walked the halls of the University of Utah and ignited a movement in New York City. I've always believed that Utah deserves recognition as a pivotal influencer in the country's Cannabis culture, and we've strived to make that vision a reality. One of the most rewarding aspects of my role as Publisher at Salt Baked City has been connecting with the remarkable patients of Utah. Their stories are living proof of the unwavering resilience that defines them. In a state where the stigma around Cannabis use has run deep, these individuals have shown remarkable courage in sharing their journeys. They are teachers,
As we bid adieu to Salt Baked City, rest assured that our dedication to bringing Cannabis and its patients out of the shadows remains as steadfast as ever. Fall 2023
Utah Leaf Editor-in-Chief Cole Fullmer tours Dragonfly Wellness.
veterans, parents, artists and professionals of all kinds – each with their own unique story to tell, and each a testament to the transformative power of the plant. It's not easy being labeled a "sinner" in our conservative state, but together, we've worked tirelessly to rewrite that narrative – replacing outdated stereotypes with tales of healing, compassion and progress. I couldn't be prouder of the strides we've taken in reshaping the conversation surrounding Cannabis in Utah. As we embark on this poignant farewell to Salt Baked City, my heart swells with gratitude towards the exceptional community of readers and supporters who have stood by our side throughout this extraordinary journey. You've been more than just the audience; you've been the very heartbeat of our mission. Your unwavering passion for Cannabis advocacy has been the fuel propelling us forward, the guiding star in our night sky. It's your voices that have echoed through the pages, your stories that have shone like beacons of hope, and your commitment that has fortified our resolve. Together, we've illuminated the path toward a brighter, more enlightened future for Cannabis in Utah. And as we bid adieu to Salt Baked City, rest assured that our dedication to bringing Cannabis and its patients out of the shadows remains as steadfast as ever. I'd be remiss not to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the exceptional individuals who have been the backbone of Salt Baked City, the unsung heroes working tirelessly behind the scenes. Given our conservative landscape, attracting skilled and passionate professionals to the Cannabis space is no small feat.
DEcrimiNAlizE vS. lEGAlizATiON For most cannabis consumers over the age of 40, they’d be telling you they have been waiting for legalization their whole lives. Activists like Ed Rosenthal, known for writing the Marijuana Growers Handbook, have been fighting the good fight since the early 60’s. Although many have given up the endless battle, in recent years, pressure on state legislatures across the U.S. has increased to legalize or decriminalize the use, possession, and sale of cannabis. BUT WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE TWO? Legalization of cannabis is the process of removing all legal prohibitions against the plant. The Good Herb would then be available
to the adult general population for legal use and purchase. This is very similar to current tobacco and alcohol laws. This would also grant the federal government broad powers to regulate a national cannabis industry.
permitting medical use only, and other states like Indiana and Idaho are maintaining blanket prohibition. Penalties would range from none at all, civil fines, drug education, or drug treatment. As of January 2022, there are 31
states and the District of Columbia Decriminalization of who have decriminalized low-level cannabis means the plant cannabis possession offenses. This would remain illegal, but typically removes the possibility the legal system would of jail time at least for first time offenses, though the possibility of a not prosecute a person fine or a criminal record remains in for possession under a some places. specific amount.
It took the courage and conviction of many brave men and women to stand by their beliefs, advocating for Cannabis as a safe and viable alternative to pharmaceuticals. These diligent souls have woven their expertise into the fabric of our magazine, ensuring its integrity, professionalism and the highest standards of journalistic excellence. Their unwavering commitment to our cause has enriched the content, elevated our discourse, and contributed immeasurably to our collective vision of a more enlightened Utah. This is not a farewell but a transformation – a turning of the leaf, if you will. I'm thrilled to announce our partnership with the Leaf Magazine team, and together, we'll continue to elevate the conversation surrounding Cannabis until our message has reached the farthest corners of our conservative state. Utah Leaf is our family's next chapter, so as we raise our metaphorical Cannabis buds to the sky in a final salute to Salt Baked City, let us embrace the future with open hearts and minds. Together, we'll ensure that Cannabis takes its rightful place in our society – bringing healing, understanding and unity to all who seek its solace. Thank you for being a part of our journey. Utah, get ready – the best is yet to come.
This would also enable the current patchwork model with some states making cannabis fully legal for adult-use, while others like Utah are
The medical cannabis program in the Behave State continues to grow like a well-watered weed. With over 42,646 active medical cannabis card holders, the number of Utah cannabis patients tripled from September 2020 (approx. 11,000) to September of 2021 (approx. 37,500). Yes, you read that correctly - TRIPLED.
LEGAL FOR ADULT RECREATIONAL USE
Not too shabby for a medical cannabis program still in its infancy. This growth can likely be attributed to various factors; the increased number of cannabis pharmacies, more product availability and affordability, additional QMPs certified to prescribe cannabis, increased awareness of the program across the state population and growing rural access via cannabis delivery services.
LEGAL FOR MEDICAL USE ONLY STATUS PENDING NO PROGRAM
The recent addition of Limited Medical Providers (see article on LMPs in this issue!) may ensure that the weed will keep on growing a little longer. During the same one-year period the number of medical cannabis pharmacies in Utah doubled, now hosting 14 medical cannabis pharmacies with a 15th pharmacy in development. With locations in North Logan, Brigham City, South Ogden, West Bountiful, Park City, Salt Lake City, South Jordan, Lehi, Provo, Springville, Payson, Cedar City, and St. George these pharmacies are themselves beacons of bud, planting the seed of relief in the minds of many. With more products on the shelves and greater variety in pricing, sales also continued to climb.
14 | Salt Baked City | Spring 2022
IN THIS ISSUE
Cannabis pharmacies made a total of 480,621 transactions from October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021. The net sales revenue from those transactions was $61,262,982.00. Most of these pharmacies are located around the dense
7 – STEPPINGOUT OF THE SHADOWS
18 – DANK DATA 22 – UTAH AND PSILOCYBIN 26 – HOME GROWARREST 37 – UTAH CANN EVENT GUIDE 54 – BEER & CANNABIS PAIRING 58 – TERPENES 62 – CANNABIS 101 64 – UTAH PATIENT PROFILE 68 – GREEN PHARMACIST 72 – CANNABIS INSTEAD OF BOOZE
76 – PHARMACY MAP
SALT BAKED CITY STAFF COLE FULLMER PUBLISHER & MANAGING EDITOR JEFF BELL – ART DIRECTOR KAT JORGENSEN – PHOTOGRAPHER LARSON QUICK – WRITER
CONNECT WITH UTAH’S GREEN SCENE Salt Baked City does not receive any form of compensation from licensed Utah medical cannabis companies for content found in this publication, or on our web site. Stories and coverage are not for sale, but we can offer design services and insights on how to promote your Green Scene Business, product, or event in our magazine or on our website. To discuss advertising in the next issue of Salt Baked City Magazine, send us an email colefullmer@saltbakedcity.com.
Cannabis delivery began in January 2021 and by September of that year, medical cannabis pharmacies had already made 6,990 deliveries of medical cannabis to cardholder homes. The increased accessibility and obvious convenience of using delivery services is likely a factor contributing to the continued growth of medical cannabis in Utah. Now patients in far off corners of the state like Vernal and Moab can medicate, without a multiple hour drive to the nearest cannabis pharmacy to resupply. The addition of delivery services also meant more jobs were added to Utah’s economy in the form of delivery drivers. Last year also saw a 38% increase in the number of QMPs and as of September 30, 2021, there were 781 qualified medical providers (QMPs) registered by the Utah Department of Health. The new LMP designation also means even more medical providers will be involved in the cannabis sphere in the coming months. The number of Pharmacy Agents was 328 who have an active registration with the Utah Department of Health. Additionally, there are 72 active Pharmacy Medical Providers working in the pharmacies across the state. Cannabis cultivars were also busy this last season and produced 65,161 pounds of cured biomass, a significant increase on the previous years 10,856 pounds. One might say that in Utah, things are growing like a weed.
18 | Salt Baked City | Spring 2022
12 – NATIONAL NEWS
74 – ATHLETES AND CANNABIS
population centers of the Wasatch Front making access to medical cannabis a little tricky for the folks who like to live without traffic and stop lights. This is where cannabis delivery delivers.
SALT-BAKED CONTRIBUTORS JD LAURITZEN – WRITER MINDY MADEO – WRITER MARLEY COLT – WRITER MIKEY SALTAS – WRITER PAUL KEMP – WRITER SARAH WOOLSEY – WRITER © 2022 SALT BAKED CITY
6 | Salt Baked City | Spring 2022 AmAzON PUSHiNG FOr lEGAlizED cANNAbiS IN U.S. Amazon, one of the largest private employers in the U.S., is backing a Republican-led bill to federally legalize, tax, and regulate cannabis. The States Reform Act was filed by Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) during November 2021 as a middle-ground alternative to a more scaled back GOP proposals and wide-ranging legalization bills that are being offered by Democrats. Months before backing the States Reform Act, Amazon announced they would also stop testing most employees for cannabis. Their
WHO IS TUrNiNG GrEEN IN 2022?
Americans are changing their minds about cannabis. Currently there are 34 states who now allow medical cannabis, while 18 allow adult-use. Advocates across the country made a significant number of cannabis reform victories in state legislatures
decision was widely celebrated by reform advocates and industry stakeholders. Brian Huseman, Amazon’s vice president of public policy, said the bill “offers comprehensive reform that speaks to the emergence of a bipartisan consensus to end the federal prohibition of cannabis.” The reason for moving away from cannabis testing was easy according to Amazon, mostly because it was becoming difficult to keep up with the state-level legalization during 2021, but they’re hopeful the momentum will continue into 2022. November is approaching quickly, and activists are already in the process of qualifying cannabis legalization and other drug policy reform measures for ballots. All while lawmakers separately work to advance reform bills.
movement sweeping the country. The South Carolina congresswoman’s bill already has support of the Koch-backed conservative group American for Prosperity. The measure would end federal cannabis prohibition while taking specific steps to ensure that businesses in existing state markets can continue to operate unencumbered by changing federal rules.
Here’s a rundown of which states are most likely to enact broad cannabis or psychedelics reform this year:
ADULT USE CANNABIS LEGALIZATION DECRIMINALIZE DRUGS MEDICAL CANNABIS LEGALIZATION LEGALIZING POSSESSION AND PERSONAL CULTIVATION OF PSYCHEDELICS AND CANNABIS LEGALIZING POSSESSION AND PERSONAL CULTIVATION OF PSYCHEDELICS PSYCHEDELIC POSSESSION
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Looking gLass 1568 South State Street Salt lake City, ut 84115
Salt Baked City | Spring 2022 | 15
STORY by COLE FULLMER @UTAHLEAF
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CHEECH AND CHONG LEAF NATION'S BOBBY BLACK & MIKE RICKER INTERVIEW THE STONER COMEDY ICONS F RE E / L E A F M AGA Z I N E S . COM
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From Arrest to Protest THE LEAF has always stood as a free publicaGrowing up in a Seattle suburb, weed was in a weird legal tion dedicated to medical patients and freedom for space. Seattle had decriminalized the plant and the few times the plant, telling stories of healing and loss, and I had interactions with cops and weed, it was only to have it sharing the truth as we see it through the lens of confiscated or be told to step on it, crushing a bag of BC Bud the sick and oppressed. into the dirt. But only a few months before my 21st birthday, While today’s patients have a lot of options, in as captain of the college tennis team and business manager 2010 the best case scenario for MMJ seekers was of the student newspaper, I was arrested for possession of a laughter – and the worst, jail or death. I have intergram of “leafy vegetable matter.” viewed patients from prison and their deathbeds, It was a Wednesday in June, and my good friend Daniel and seen children with intractable epilepsy live Berman (our Leaf Creative Director) and my very pregnant healthy lives because their parents defied laws and girlfriend headed down to a local beach for a quiet bonfire. big pharma to give their children a plant. Our lives were changing, mine quite majorly, and so we lit a The fight for access to a plant that heals, and fire and Daniel and I each cracked a single 24-ounce beer – to end a drug war that hurts, has often felt like a preparing to smoke the very sad looking battle of good versus evil. gram of weed we had between the two of But it’s not that simple, because “Suddenly us. Suddenly a bright flashlight lit us up our government and teachers and a bright and behind the glare a cop appeared, police officers told us that pot flashlight smoking a cigar and wearing a cowboy was evil. The devil’s lettuce. The lit us up and gateway drug. A message repeated behind the glare hat. His partner had circled behind us, and with a classic “we got ya” attitude, blindly and taught by DARE – one a cop appeared, the cops proceeded to arrest us. that has to be reprogrammed, a smoking a cigar This was in a suburb and the local high narrative that must be retold. and wearing a school had senior graduation that day, When the Leaf began in 2010, it cowboy hat.” and these cops were the party patrol. was a project that I thought would While they couldn’t believe that we were in college, or that take me to Law School – my own testament to the pregnant woman wasn’t secretly drinking one of the two fighting for the oppressed, which is what attracted beers, they arrested myself and Daniel before releasing us on me to using the law in defense of those wronged the beach with a court summons. by the system itself. To date, this project has never Weeks later, as my mom cried while we waited for my court stopped … instead spreading like the weed we hearing, she asked me a tough question: “Wesley, is this once feared. Northwest Leaf has published an what you want your life to be?” She did not like my answer, issue every single month in Washington since June but it burned inside me like a fire. I told her directly that I 2010, with our November 2023 Harvest Issue didn’t believe I deserved to be in court for Cannabis. This being the 161st monthly issue. planted the seeds for my belief that nobody should lose their We’ve published in Oregon since 2014, Alaska freedom or rights for a plant – which would matter greatly 2016, Maryland 2018, California and our eightwhen I was first introduced to medical Cannabis. state Northeast edition since 2020 – and now Utah begins our first quarterly edition with the >> STORY CONTINUES NEXT PAGE partnership of Salt Baked City.
DUSTIN REVERE X PYRO F RE E / L E A F M AGA Z I N E S . COM
THE GLASS ISSUE
@ CHRIS_DYER
<< From the first issue published in June 2010, the Leaf has existed to serve as advocacy journalism for a plant that has healed for millenia, and to right the wrongs of the War on Drugs which has criminalized a seed that is a gift to our human race.
#36 | APR. 2023
CAL I F O R N I A
ISSUE
INDEPENDENT CANNABIS JOURNALISM SINCE 2010
STORY by WES ABNEY @BEARDEDLORAX | ART DIRECTION by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS
@MARYLAND.CONNOISSEUR
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THE ART & SCIENCE OF PAIRING CANNABIS & TASTY BEVERAGES
The Hash Frontier's Lemon Dough flower paired with color-changing Unicorn Butterfly Pea Vodka in a classic lemon drop cocktail.
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INDEPENDENT CANNABIS JOURNALISM SINCE 2010
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See nearly 14 years of free and exclusive Cannabis journalism in our vast archive of past editions at Issuu.com/nwleaf and LeafMagazines.com. Toke. Read. Enjoy!
I lived a boy’s life growing up: Fishing and dirt-biking and generally being as risky as possible, without breaking bones or rules. For my best friend David the limits were more fluid, and it wasn’t long after my pot arrest that he crashed in a motocross event and fractured his pelvis in three pieces. To put him in traction, doctors at a prominent Seattle hospital drilled a pencil-sized hole through his knee and then promptly overdosed him on morphine. He died and was resuscitated on the operating table, and they could not provide NORTHEAST him painkillers for the first two weeks of an incredibly painful recovery. When I first saw David after the accident, he looked many years older – more frail and had more pills than I had ever seen. I snuck him off to get high and the Cannabis helped with his pain. He began pushing his father to allow him a medical Cannabis authorization and facing the prospect of long-term opiate dependence, David became one of the first minor medical Cannabis patients at age 17 (he was a few years younger than me) in Washington. The plant healed him, helped him recover THE WEED & WELLNESS ISSUE without opiates, and turned us both into something more than just “stoners.” He began growing and after a trip to California for canna-tourism, he returned in a twist of fate with Cannabis magazines. By this point I was 21, had a one-year-old daughter, and I’d left a Division 1 tennis scholarship behind and was splitting time between contracting as a builder and moving furniture. But when I saw the magazines writing about weed, I knew that it was something I could do – because Daniel and I had worked on our college paper, and David knew business. We outlined a plan over the winter for a first edition that would be distributed to the dozen or so MMJ collectives in Seattle, found a printer, and convinced David’s dad to loan us $1,600 to print the first issue of the Leaf. It was 16 pages and the same dimensions as this magazine you hold, but printed on newspaper and unstapled. It was a tabloid, it was underground, and it created a spark in the Seattle medical Cannabis scene that still burns today.
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INDEPENDENT CANNABIS JOURNALISM SINCE 2010
“We believe in the right to grow Cannabis at home, and that homegrow doesn’t pose a threat to the medical industry. And we believe in the right for brands and companies to advertise and share their products – if we can allow big pharma companies to dominate television advertising, how does hiding the benefits of medical Cannabis products serve the patients of Utah?”
Fall 2023
@BERMANPHOTOS
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Fighting for Freedom in Utah
At the Leaf, we believe that all use of Cannabis is medicinal – because it heals without causing harm. No other drug can make this claim. We believe that all people should be free to use Cannabis medically or recreationally, in any form, from topicals and tinctures to smoking flower. We believe in the right to grow Cannabis at home, and that homegrow doesn’t pose a threat to the medical industry. And we believe in the right for brands and companies to advertise and share their products – if we can allow big pharma companies to dominate television advertising, how does hiding the benefits of medical Cannabis products serve the patients of Utah? Cannabis opens minds and generates empathy and understanding, so let’s lay down our stigmas and instead embrace our community, and end the War on Drugs that has caused so much harm. I have high hopes for Utah Leaf and it is an honor to serve this beautiful state and community with Cannabis journalism. I hope and pray to do so for many years to come.
STORY by WES ABNEY @BEARDEDLORAX | ART DIRECTION by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS
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THE TANNINS & TERPENES ISSUE
Medical Roots
#89 | SEPT. 2023
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DAB VOCAB' Concentra rates clarified. | Extracts explained.
FRESH FROZEN The process of freezing Cannabis plant material right after harvesting it, typically with dry ice, to preserve trichomes for concentrate extraction.
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FORMS OF CONCENTRATES
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ICE WATER HASH Made when trichomes are separated from fresh frozen plant material using nothing but ice, water and filter bags. Also referred to as bubble hash, it is usually dabbed but can also be mixed with flower and smoked. FULL MELT The highest grade of ice water hash, usually rated at five or six stars. Fully melts and leaves very little to no residue or char on the banger. STAR SYSTEM What stars are we talking about here, you say? Ice water hash is rated on a scale of one to six stars based on quality and meltability, with one being the lowest quality and six being the highest. FLAG OF HASH Pressing out water hash using parchment paper into a flag shape in order to dab it off a nail. TRADITIONAL HASHISH Produced for centuries in countries such as Morocco, Afghanistan, Nepal and India, traditional hashish is made by either separating the trichomes from a live plant with one's hands (charas) or by agitating dried, cured plant material over a screen (dry-sift), then compressing the collected resin to form a solid brick or ball of concentrate that is typically brown in color.
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PIATTELLA Six star bubble hash that’s been washed and cured using a unique process that preserves resin. It has a consistency similar to soft fudge and can be cut with a knife. LIVE ROSIN Solventless hash oil made by using water and ice to agitate the trichomes off of the fresh frozen plant material, which is then placed into a rosin press that uses heat and pressure to extract the rosin. FRESH PRESS Rosin that goes directly from the parchment paper it was pressed onto and into the jar. Tends to have a glassy, stretchy consistency like taffy. COLD CURE Fresh-pressed rosin that has been stored in a jar, cured at low temperatures, and agitated until it has more of a batter-like consistency. FULL SPECTRUM EXTRACTS Includes all compounds of the Cannabis plant such as cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids, rather than isolating just one specific compound. WAX An umbrella term used to describe concentrates that appear soft and waxy in appearance. Typically extracted using butane or hydrocarbon solvents, and comes in a variety of forms referred to as butter/badder, honeycomb, crumble, sugar and more.
BHO Butane Hash Oil, or a form of concentrates extracted using butane, and available in various consistencies. Excess butane is purged using a vacuum oven. DISTILLATE An extract made with a distillation process that separates all materials and compounds from one specific cannabinoid, often THC. Can be used to dab or vaporize, but is most often found in edibles, topicals, vape cartridges and other products. DIAMONDS Cannabinoids which have been purified and isolated to form crystalline solids that look like diamonds. FECO Full Extract Cannabis Oil. A dark, tar-like extract made by soaking plant matter in a solvent – typically grain alcohol. Often used for severe pain relief. Sometimes referred to as Phoenix Tears or Rick Simpson Oil (RSO), after the Canadian engineer and Cannabis advocate who helped popularize its medical use to treat tumors and other cancers. SHATTER Named for its glass-like consistency that tends to crack or shatter when broken, typically gold or amber in color. HASH HOLE Also referred to as a “donut,” hash holes are rolled with a snake of hash rosin surrounded by flower. As the flower and rosin burn together it creates a perfect ring of hash resembling a donut, with bubbling rosin in the hole. JAM Bubble hash that has been pressed and heated until the microcrystals of THCa separate from the terps in the rosin, creating a jam-like consistency with small chunks of crystals.
PRODUCING CONCENTRATES EXTRACTION The process of removing the resin from fresh frozen plant material to make a concentrate. SOLVENT Extraction methods can use solvents, such as butane or CO2, to create products like BHO or CO2 extracts. SOLVENTLESS Extraction methods not dependent on solvents can use techniques involving ice and water, or heat and pressure, to remove oils. This is used to create products like rosin or traditional hashish. SQUISHING Also called “pressing,” this is the process of using a rosin press to apply heat and pressure in order to “squish” live rosin out of the plant material. RESIN A sticky substance found in trichomes that can be collected or extracted from the plant to make various forms of concentrates. MICRON SCREEN A series of mesh screens that allow trichomes to fall through to each successive screen while producing hash. MICRON GRADE Refers to the fineness of a micron screen. Common micron screens for making hash are 73, 90 and 140 microns. The higher the number, the finer the mesh.
KNOW THE LINGO
HEAD STASH Your personal, private reserve stash of those extra special or rare terps you don’t want to share. “My roommate better not have smoked that jar from my head stash while I wasn’t home.”
SMOKING CONCENTRATES DAB RIG A water pipe that is used to inhale Cannabis concentrates. E-RIG A device that electronically heats a nail for dabbing rather than using a torch. Learn more about Focus V, one of the innovators in eRig technology, in this month’s issue or at LeafMagazines.com NAIL An attachment that connects to the downstem of a rig, like a bowl in a bong, to hold and heat up the concentrate. BANGER A bucket-shaped attachment on a rig to dab concentrates off of, made in a variety of materials, sizes and designs.
HEADIE A piece of glass you’re proud to pull up to the sesh with. “Hey man, can I take a dab of this fire off your new headie?”
QUARTZ A common material used to make bangers that can withstand high temperatures for longer periods of time, making it the most common and ideal material for taking dabs off of.
GLOB A dab of epic-sized proportions. “I need a giant glob after the day I’ve had.”
TERP SLURPER A style of quartz banger with a dish attached to the bottom, invented by glass legend JP Toro. When a concentrate is heated up and melts, holes in the bottom of the banger allow oil to seep out into the dish, enhancing flavor and minimizing waste.
710 The dab version of 420. And if you haven’t gotten it yet, “710” spells “OIL” upside down and backwards. “What event are we pulling up to for 7/10 this year?” WOOK A hippie who likes to take a lot of dabs and hang out at music festivals to see jam bands. “Wow, there sure were a lot of wooks on lot at the Grateful Dead show last night.”
CARB CAP A device that seals around the banger to help regulate the amount and direction of air going to the nail on a dab rig. DABBER A tool that is used to scoop up dabs and place them on a banger. DAB MAT A mat made of non-stick material that is placed underneath a rig when dabbing to protect the glass and keep it in place. TERP PEARL Small balls that spin around the bottom of the banger while dabbing to distribute the concentrate and heat evenly. TORCH A device filled with butane that is used to heat the nail of a dab rig to high temperatures. ISO Referred to simply as “iso,” isopropyl alcohol is great for getting sticky resin off surfaces and is used to disinfect and clean dab tools and rigs between uses.
N SI DS RE AN GL STORY by KATHERINE WOLF @KATADELLIC for LEAF NATION | ILLUSTRATIONS by MATT JACKSON @ACTIONMATTJACKSON
PHOTO BY FOCUS V
tech spotlight
Making smoking concentrates convenient and customizable
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THE CARTA 2 | FOCUS V leafmagazines.com
AN OLED DISPLAY SCREEN showcases all the quick stats you need to see and tactile buttons on the base make for quick time and temp adjustments in between hits or users, or even mid dab. If you want to go digital, there’s the mobile app that makes it possible to fully control the device from your phone – changing the temperature or hit duration, saving color presets and LED light shows for different sesh vibes, or even heating up your dab – all from across the room and with the press of a button. “We created the piece so that it could be yours,” explains JR, the brand’s Director “WE WANTED TO of Product Development. “Choose PUSH THE E-RIG SPACE your colorway, AND INNOVATE IN upload a custom PERSONALIZATION screensaver, or AND INDIVIDUALITY TO mix and match accessories. We HELP DESTIGMATIZE wanted to push DABBING,” EXPLAINS JR, the E-Rig space DIRECTOR OF PRODUCT and innovate in DEVELOPMENT AT FOCUS V. personalization and individuality to help destigmatize dabbing. With our device, you can turn the LED light pink, put the temp down low, and heat up a dab for your grandma from your phone. It makes the whole process not only more personal, but more accessible to people who might not try dabbing off of a rig – which can seem scary with the torch, or overwhelming because it requires a lot of accessories and ongoing costs like filling up butane.” Beyond building a device that functions effortlessly and looks sexy doing it, I’m all about being part of the Focus family because I love what they’re doing to bring the concentrates community together. The founders all have a legacy background in the Cannabis industry, currently operating with a “small but nimble” team that is incredibly passionate about hash, based out in LA with an East Coast hub in NYC as well. Sam, the company’s CEO, goes on to tell me how, “Eight years ago, I started Rosin Tech – one of the first companies to pioneer solventless hash extraction equipment. That evolved into Rosin Tech Labs, which is now one of the leading hash companies in California. We have always championed hash-making at all levels and continue to push this passion through our products like the CARTA 2 and the network of industry functions you can always find our team at.” The brand has been a part of international events from Spannabis in Barcelona to Hall of Flowers and Legends of Hashish in California, and collaborated with other industry leaders like Blazy Susan, Mystic Timber, and SakiBomb. A popping Discord channel creates a community for users to connect virtually, while tracking technology and social features through the app allow you to keep a count of device hits – and see how much your friends are seshing, too. There’s even an international leaderboard of app users where you can upload your dab count and become a world champion. Finally … someone has made smoking concentrates a sport. Thank you, team CARTA.
LATELY, I haven’t been leaving the house without my handy CARTA 2 – an electronic rig from Focus V dreamt up to help hash heads “dab smarter.” Seriously, I think I may use this device more than my own cell phone. The thing absolutely rips – with a larger atomizer than the classic model and a 360° heating element for optimized airflow, they say “the CARTA hits hardaaa.” Even with more power, the design is sleeker than ever before. She fits right in my car’s cup holder or coat pocket and comes in an adorable mini backpack that is both portable and stylish. Besides being thoughtfully crafted for onthe-go usage, the amount of personalization
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the CARTA 2 provides is perhaps its most significant differentiator. Some of my personal favorite features are the ability to upload custom screensavers and change the LED color to match my mood or the vibe of the sesh I’m at. Here at HQ, we obviously like to keep our device on-brand – glowing green with the lil’ Leaf Nation logo as our screensaver. A whole slew of more fire features certainly makes it easy to customize your own concentrates experience with the CARTA 2. Originally available in black and clear, Focus V recently dropped four fresh colorways: Grape, Midnight, Mint and Forest, as well as new Chromatix glass tops attachments and a limited run of custom branded Tuff Tethers with matching Zach Harrison carb caps.
focusv.com | @focus.v
REVIEW by KATHERINE WOLF @KATADELLIC | PHOTO by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS
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Fall 2023
flower spotlight
Chimera Flower Cultivated by Ritual
WHEN IT COMES to the world of craft Cannabis in Utah, Chimera by Ritual, a new brand from WholesomeCo Cannabis, is a strain that demands your endocannabinoid system’s attention. Crafted through a genetic cross between White Truffle and The Creature, this hybrid is known for its unique flavor and effects, with high THC levels and a complex terpene profile. Gazing at Chimera through the clear packaging is a feast for the eyes. The buds are absolutely stunning, with a frosty exterior that gleams under the light. The flowers boast a beautiful purple hue and their dark-red hairs create an alluring contrast. This is not your run-of-the-mill Cannabis; it’s a visual spectacle that leaves a lasting impression. Ritual’s packaging, with its olive green backdrop and turquoise lettering, is a reflection of the product inside – bold, unique and eye-catching. It’s a perfect complement to the extraordinary flower it contains. A powerhouse cultivar designed for experienced consumers, Chimera is akin to the Black Diamond of Cannabis strains – perfect for those Utah powder hounds who seek an intense and memorable “safety meeting” on the chairlift. If you’re new to Cannabis or have a low tolerance, you might want to consider something more in the Blue Square/Green Circle arena. WholesomeCo Cannabis, the parent company behind Ritual, offers a wide range of Cannabis flower brands including the “A true classic, OG, WholesomeCo and the lighter Hilight brand. While standout in Hilight is known for quality, it often the world of features lower THC percentages Cannabis … and caters to a broader spectrum it’s a journey, of consumers. WholesomeCo truly an experience, has something for everyone, from beginners to seasoned tokers. and a The true magic of Chimera lies celebration of in its genetic lineage, a fusion of the craft.” two remarkable strains – White Truffle and The Creature. White Truffle, known for its enchanting aromas reminiscent of its namesake, delivers a rich, earthy base that forms the backbone of Chimera’s flavor profile. This earthiness is layered with subtle pine notes, creating a deep and complex experience that engages the senses like a fine wine. On the other side of the genetic equation, The Creature adds its unique contribution. This mysterious strain introduces citrus undertones that provide a refreshing contrast to the earthy and piney notes. The result is a delightful interplay of flavors that make Chimera a true standout in the world of Cannabis. It’s not just a product – it’s a journey, an experience, and a celebration of the craft. Ritual plans to drop new strains throughout the winter, so if you’re already a fan or eager to become one, keep an eye on their website or sign up for early access. By enrolling, you’ll receive emails notifying you when the latest Ritual strains hit the dispensary shelves. WHOLESOME.CO
STORY by COLE FULLMER @UTAHLEAF | PHOTO by TOM BOWERS @CANNABOMBTOM
concentrates spotlight
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EXTRACTED BY MO XIE
Ghost Stories Live Resin Badder
“A sy mphony of terp s th at prom i ses an encha nti n g j ourney, wit h li monene ta ki ng the lea d wi th bri ght not es tha t a wa ken the senses.”
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T E S T R E S U LT S Indica | 72.44% THCa 64.46% Total THC .18% CBDa | .16% CBD Limonene: 70.63 mg/g β-Caryophyllene: 67.41 Humulene: 22.37 mg/g β-Myrcene: 20.62 mg/g β-Pinene: 10.34 mg/g
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In the world of Cannabis concentrates, live resin is a uniquely flavorful and potent experience. And in the case of this Ghost Stories live resin badder from Moxie, it’s so good it’s scary. Live resin brings forth the essence of the plant in a way that transcends traditional extraction methods. Instead of the customary curing process, the moment the Cannabis flower is harvested, it is immediately frozen – locking in its terpene and cannabinoid profiles. This preservation of compounds is highly coveted by Cannabis connoisseurs, as it typically results in extremely tasty dabs and nuanced layers of highness. Cracking open a jar of Ghost Stories, the first sensation is a burst of citrus courtesy of the limonene dominant terps inside. It's almost as if you're slicing through a ripe lemon orchard with your face. The texture is like heavy badder, with a consistency that's easy to work with – making it ideal for a range of consumption methods. The terpenes in this live resin badder play a pivotal role – dictating not only the aroma, but also the effects. Here we encounter a symphony of terps that promises
an enchanting journey, with limonene taking the lead with bright notes that awaken the senses, while β-caryophyllene adds a spicy and earthy character to the mix, providing waves of complexity. Upon inhalation, the flavorful journey begins. The zesty lemon notes dominate, followed by a gentle spice. The herbal and woody undertones of humulene add depth, while β-myrcene's muskiness lingers in the background. As you savor each hit, the subtle woodsy essence of β-pinene completes the experience. But Ghost Stories live resin badder doesn't just excel in flavor – its effects are equally captivating. As an indica-dominant strain, it gently cradles the mind and body in relaxation. Stress melts away and a sense of calm washes over, making it an ideal choice for winding down after a long day. Regardless of if you're a connoisseur of terpenes or simply seeking a soothing journey, this product delivers. You can find this delightful concentrate from Moxie at select dispensaries throughout Utah, including Beehive Farmacy in Salt Lake City. ENJOYMOXIE.COM | @ENJOYMOXIE
STORY by COLE FULLMER @UTAHLEAF | PHOTOS by KAT JORGENSEN @KATHRYNXIV
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CULTIVATING COMPASSION UTAH LEAF CHATS WITH DRAGONFLY WELLNESS DIRECTOR OF CULTIVATION CODY HENDERSON ON ECO-EFFICIENCY, GROWING GREAT CANNABIS, AND WHAT IT TAKES TO THRIVE HERE.
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DRIVING THROUGH rural Utah amidst picturesque landscapes and majestic mountains, you’d never guess you were in the middle of Cannabis country. What was once a turkey farm in Sanpete Valley has blossomed into a thriving medical grow – where the scent of possibility, and Cannabis, hangs heavy in the air. But beyond the green fields and thick aroma lies a story reminiscent of a Clint Eastwood wild west film – a tale of vision, passion and transformation. At the heart of this journey is Cody Henderson, the Director of Cultivation at Dragonfly Wellness, whose dedication has propelled this Cannabis operation into becoming one of the largest producers in the state. like rockwool. Even when it comes to foliar feedings or Cody’s dedication inoculations, they to innovation and use organic-based sustainability is evident or certified organic in the cutting-edge products. systems employed But sustainability at Dragonfly isn’t just about Wellness. “Speaking what goes into the to methodology,” plants – it’s also Cody emphasizes, “I about how they passionately believe in manage waste. organic practices first All Cannabis and foremost in both waste, including Cannabis and food “The process has been a bit fan leaves, stems production.” like turning a cruise ship and root balls, While a fully organic are meticulously around in the Venice Canal... approach in indoor processed by cultivation may not be but after two years of blending the coco considered commercially methodical troubleshooting with the biomass. viable due to associated and facility development, This waste is low yields and costly then transformed I think we are succeeding in inputs, Cody and his into composted, team integrate as growing some of the best reusable soil that’s many organic practices Cannabis flower in the state.” donated to the as possible into their community for otherwise typical indoor -Cody Henderson topsoil enrichment. cultivation regimen. From a technical perspective, Dragonfly “We NEVER use pesticides or herbicides Wellness operates a typical drain-to-waste in any of our indoor or greenhouse top-fed hydroponic system using coco coir spaces,” Cody emphasizes. Instead, they as the medium. This system employs highrely on beneficial insects, with ladybugs efficiency drippers/emitters and Athena’s serving as frontline defenders. If a line of commercial powdered fertilizers. specific pest issue arises, they opt for the The facility boasts a unique lighting introduction of the appropriate beneficial setup, with half of it illuminated by predator insect. traditional 1000W DE HPS fixtures and For their growing medium, Dragonfly the other half by high-output 1200W Wellness favors coco coir – an inert water-cooled LED fixtures. These fixtures and pure ground coconut hull – over are controlled by a proprietary software engineered and manufactured substrates Innovating for Excellence
platform with advanced integrated atmospheric monitoring. These highly efficient LED lights also employ a hydronic cooling loop that removes 50% of their BTUs, contributing to Dragonfly’s commitment to sustainability. In fact, the facility is preparing to go even greener with a massive solar array set to go online in 2024. Cultivating Compassion, One Bud at a Time
As Cody navigated the meandering path from Northern California to Moroni, he didn’t just find a job – he found a calling. His role as the Director of Cultivation at Dragonfly Wellness isn’t just about growing Cannabis … it’s about nurturing compassion, activism and healing. In a world where change is constant and the Cannabis industry evolves daily, Henderson stands as a reminder that some things remain steadfast – the enduring power of a plant to heal, unite and inspire. His story, intertwined with the growth of Dragonfly Wellness, echoes the sentiment that Cannabis is not just a commodity – it’s a force for change, a symbol of compassion and a beacon of hope. >> STORY CONTINUES NEXT PAGE
STORY by COLE FULLMER @UTAHLEAF | PHOTOS by KAT JORGENSEN @KATHRYNXIV
grow tour
DRAGONFLY WELLNESS STORY CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PG.
Utah’s Medical Cannabis Program and Dragonfly Wellness
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Dragonfly Wellness, nestled on a sprawling 60-acre property in Sanpete County, holds one of Utah’s eight coveted cultivating licenses – making it a leading force in the state’s burgeoning medical Cannabis industry. With a state-of-the-art 40,000-square-foot grow, 450 flowering lights, and five climate-controlled greenhouses supporting up to 11,800 flowering plants, their operation is a testament to both innovation and sustainability. They’re on the cusp of harnessing solar power, reducing their environmental impact—a step that reflects their commitment to a greener future. The facility’s security measures, including a perimeter chainlink fence topped with barbed wire and vigilant security guards, underscore the gravity of their mission. Undoubtedly, cultivating medical Cannabis in Utah is a responsibility they take seriously. Utah’s medical Cannabis program has experienced remarkable growth, with sales reaching $118.7 million in 2022 – a staggering 59% increase from the previous year. The first half of 2023 alone has seen sales of $68.5 million. Revenue streams include a $3 levy on each pharmacy transaction, contributing $2.4 million in 2022, in addition to income from pharmacy licensing fees and patient card fees, totaling $4.7 million. Comparatively, neighboring Colorado recorded over $230 million in medical Cannabis sales in 2022, reflecting substantial differences in market size and maturity. Colorado’s combined medical and recreational Cannabis retail sales in the same year neared $1.8 billion – highlighting the immense potential of the industry.
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BY THE NUMBERS
$118.7 million Total sales in Utah’s medical Cannabis program (2022) — a 59% increase from 2021.
$1.8 billion Total sales in Colorado’s medical/recreational Cannabis markets (2022).
As of September, nearly 80,000 Utah residents held medical Cannabis cards, underscoring the program’s substantial impact. While this figure represents approximately 2% of the state’s population, it’s noteworthy that growth rates are stabilizing – a trend observed in other medical Cannabis programs nationwide – where participation typically ranges from 1% to 3% of the state’s population.
It’s vital to recognize that Utah’s medical Cannabis program is among the most restrictive in the country, especially when compared to medical-only states like Florida, Pennsylvania and Ohio. Oversight by two government agencies – the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food for the Utah Medical Cannabis Program and the Utah Department of Health and Human Services managing the Center for Medical Cannabis – ensures rigorous adherence to regulations. In 2022, Utah’s eight licensed Cannabis farms (spanning seven counties) produced an impressive 111,000 pounds of biomass to supply licensed facilities engaged in Cannabis product manufacturing, packaging and labeling. As of September, nearly 80,000 Utah residents held medical Cannabis cards, underscoring the program’s substantial impact. While this figure represents approximately 2% of the state’s population, it’s noteworthy that growth rates are stabilizing – a trend observed in other medical Cannabis programs nationwide – where participation typically ranges from 1% to 3% of the state’s population. Dragonfly Wellness, synonymous with quality, sustainability and compassion, is at the forefront of Utah’s medical Cannabis movement. The story of Cody Henderson, Director of Cultivation, seamlessly aligns with Dragonfly’s values. As an environmentally-conscious and community-focused individual, Cody found a perfect match. Their shared vision extends beyond Cannabis cultivation – it’s about fostering compassion, promoting activism and facilitating healing. Together, they stand as a testament to the enduring power of this remarkable plant, transcending its role as a mere commodity to become a symbol of hope and change. DRAGONFLYWELLNESS.COM @DRAGONFLY.WELLNESS
STORY by COLE FULLMER @UTAHLEAF | PHOTOS by KAT JORGENSEN @KATHRYNXIV Head to LeafMagazines.com to see more photos from the grow!
feature
B-Real
Kush Conversation
In our inaugural Kush Conversation for Utah Leaf, we’re interviewing the man who coined the term Kush Conversation. In this edition, we sit down with the legendary B-Real, the iconic frontman of Cypress Hill and the visionary creator behind Dr. Greenthumb’s dispensaries found in California.
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With a rich history in both the Cannabis and music industries, B-Real shares his personal journey, brand philosophy and vision for the future of the plant in our country. Join us as we delve into the hazy world of B-Real and uncover the unique perspective he brings to today’s Cannabis culture. So, grab your favorite smoking instrument and strain, and sit down with us for a Kush Conversation with the man, the myth and the legendary, B-Real. Can you share a bit about your personal journey with Cannabis, from your early days to becoming a prominent figure in the industry today? I started off as a teen when I was introduced to Cannabis and it was always in the scenario of hanging out with friends and listening to music and things like that, so music and Cannabis has always been, y’know, a part of my evolution into becoming an artist. Being a young stoner in California, one of the big things that a lot of us made a big deal about is High Times Magazine – so we would learn about, you know, the strains that were out there and read some of the articles … the Freedom Fighter articles and sort of learn about what was going on in the history of Cannabis. That sort of saturated into when we started making music. That it was just something we did naturally, it wasn’t something planned. We would reference it in the music and things like that, and when the first album came out, a lot of people that heard the album were activists and advocates in the Cannabis movement – like people from NORML and Jack Herer and some of the people at High Times, Ed Rosenthal, etc. They all mentored us into the Cannabis industry and helped us become advocates and activists. It just sort of meshed into who we were already, so we were constantly championing legalization of Cannabis everywhere we went as Cypress Hill from then on.
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“I felt like the Dr. Greenthumb’s song could easily translate into a brand or a product within the Cannabis industry, perhaps even a store if the opportunity presented itself. I thought it was an easy transition, taking this name that I created, because I had a squad of friends that we’re still tight with to this day – we do the Greenthumb’s brand together.”
Fans lined up for photos with B-Real at the launch of the company’s newest Dr. Greenthumb location on Wilshire in Los Angeles. Cheech Marin even made an appearance.
What’s your favorite strain to kick back and relax with after a long day? What I like to smoke out and kick back to, the strain I like, it used to be OG – that was always the go-to, most especially for us out here on the West Coast in Southern California … we always leaned on that, but as the flavor started to evolve here, different strains started happening and people were breeding different things and creating what is known now as the exotics. One of them that I recently came across is the RS11. To me, that’s one of the good ones aside from the OG and a few of the other ones that are out there. It’s really gassy, flavorful, and it’s got a pretty goddamn good impact – so that’s what I like to chill out to if I have it. Cypress Hill was one of the first bands to embrace and rap extensively about Cannabis. How did this decision come about, and how do you think it influenced the perception of Cannabis in the music industry and culture at large? Well, we weren’t the first to necessarily speak about Cannabis. Jazz artists in the ‘40s were speaking about it – they created a whole culture there with some of the slang definitions like ‘reefer’ and stuff like that. Obviously the reggae artists – Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, and the list goes on – they were talking about it. In terms of hip hop and in mainstream America, yeah you know … we pushed a certain button I guess, that was relatable for a lot of people to gravitate towards. The message of legalizing Cannabis and saying that Cannabis isn’t a drug – it’s a medicine, it’s something that heals and so on and so forth. It wasn’t necessarily a decision that we said, ‘Hey, this is what we gotta talk about’ – it was just sorta organic. Certain songs Muggs would give us, we’d get ideas from them you know, and some of the songs that you hear that represent Cannabis driven songs, those were based off of the vibes that Muggs created musically. It was just something that happened organically, it wasn’t anything that we necessarily planned out. It was a part of who we were. I think the influence that the music had … it opened people up, our music opened people up to saying, ‘Hey, Cannabis, maybe it ain’t the drug that all the propaganda throughout the years has tried to tell us it is.’ What was important was that people that didn’t smoke Cannabis sort of opened up and said, ‘Hey, we’ll do our own due diligence on what this is as opposed to just taking the word of all this propaganda and stuff like that.’ It softened people’s perception of what Cannabis is and it became a little bit more open. I think people started to investigate and educate
themselves … they started realizing that this plant heals and that was it. Your brand Dr. Greenthumb’s started in 2018. What inspired you to create this brand, and how do you envision it fitting into the modern Cannabis movement? The idea to come in with Dr. Greenthumb’s as a brand started with the fact that Cypress Hill hadn’t yet come into the Cannabis market, and I thought we should have because we actually helped create it in terms of what we have done as advocates. I felt like the Dr. Greenthumb’s song could easily translate into a brand or a product within the Cannabis industry, perhaps even a store if the opportunity presented itself. I thought it was an easy transition, taking this name that I created, because I had a squad of friends that we’re still tight with to this day – we do the Greenthumb’s brand together. Kenji Fujishima, my partner for a long time, we’ve been in the cultivation world and it felt like an easy transition – bringing this name that was inspired by the stuff we were doing in my garage and houses before the time of warehouse-type cultivation here in Southern California. I decided to integrate the Dr. Greenthumb’s name into the things I was doing in the Cannabis industry and culture. People knew it was from Cypress Hill, they knew who Dr. Greenthumb’s was, they knew this was my alter ego – so I felt like this was something people would understand immediately. Dr. Greenthumb began as a skit and became a song before evolving into a Cannabis brand. What do you think it is about this concept that resonates with people, and why do you believe it has become a legacy dispensary? I think it was an easy transition because people knew my alter ego. I used to throw events under the Dr. Greenthumb’s name and come in as the character. I threw a few festivals, Dr. Greenthumb’s Spring Gathering, we had a Cannabis expo that featured vendors and a lot of information about Cannabis, with panels happening and stuff like that. I felt like the name was synonymous with Cannabis, with the culture, most especially here in Southern California and the West Coast. It just made the most sense. What sets Dr. Greenthumb’s dispensaries apart from others in the industry, and how do you ensure an authentic experience for your customers? Cannabis has come a long way … but there
still needs to be a lot of education put out there for people to understand every aspect of it. A lot of states have embraced Cannabis and have reaped the benefits – the revenue stream of Cannabis. The taxation is high, we need the states to stop punishing the industry when the industry is creating so much revenue for it. I see ourselves and a lot of other brands playing a role in educating others about this and, God willing, that we come together and fix these problems to make our industry better. Advocating to make our industry fair for all the operators and consumers. How do you view the current state of the Cannabis industry, and what role do you see your brand playing in its future? I believe so many more people are open to Cannabis because they believe it will benefit them more than over-the-counter pharmaceuticals will. Cannabis in society today is major because it’s helping people at different levels that no one expected. I think people that were outside of the culture are now seeing what it actually can do for people, not just the economic factor, but the medicinal factor. People are seeing more results behind that and I don’t think that was anticipated. … I think people are getting more educated and that’s important because we want everybody to know the benefits of Cannabis all around, not just casual consumption, but how it could help you in many different ways. That’s where I see us now, just people are more willing to learn … and know the derivatives like concentrate, edibles, etc. People have really opened up to seeing what fits them and I think that’s one of the best things that could happen. If you could share a joint and have a conversation with anyone, living or dead, who would it be and why? Bob Marley. I’ve always been a big fan of his music – I’m friends with his family, his kids, and I just think it would be interesting to chop it up, smoke out with Bob Marley. Rest in Peace to the Legend. DRGREENTHUMBSBRAND.COM @DRGREENTHUMBSBRAND
STORY by COLE FULLMER @UTAHLEAF | PHOTOS by PEDRO GARCIA
interview
ADAM SMITH
UTAH LEAF BUDTENDER SPOTLIGHT ADAM SMITH, a 34-year-old native of Brigham City, has not only returned to his roots – he’s brought with him a wealth of knowledge and dedication to Utah’s medical Cannabis industry. As a budtender at Beehive Farmacy, Adam’s journey from his early days with True North Organics cultivation team to his experiences in the Arizona Cannabis industry, have been a remarkable adventure – one marked by resilience and an unquenchable passion for the plant.
BEEHIVE FARMACY 870 WEST 1150 SOUTH SUITE C BRIGHAM CITY, UT 84302 BEEHIVEFARMACY.COM @THEBEEHIVEFARMACY 10AM-7PM MON-SAT 11AM-4PM SUN (435) 919-0966
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A Serendipitous Discovery
During 2020, amid the unique challenges posed by the pandemic, Adam embarked on an odyssey that would immerse him in the world of Cannabis. It all began with a simple visit to a local dispensary (once known as Perfect Earth Apothecary) in pursuit of pain relief. However, this wasn’t a normal visit to his local pot shop – it was a serendipitous encounter that would ignite Adam’s ardor for the plant and set the stage for a transformative chapter in his life. As he perused the packaging of various Cannabis products, Adam was struck by a revelation – the Cannabis he held in his very own hands was cultivated right in his hometown of Brigham City. This moment of synchronicity served as a calling he couldn’t ignore. Driven by his newfound fascination, he decided to seek a position at True North Organics, the very company responsible for the locally-grown Cannabis that had captivated him. Adam’s entry into True North Organics marked the commencement of his profound immersion into the Cannabis industry. Far from a mere job, this endeavor was an exploration of a world where he could cultivate not only plants,
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but also his profound understanding of Cannabis. Guided by his mentor Cody, he embraced every aspect of cultivation – from nurturing plants at different growth stages to meticulously overseeing the dry-cure process. The path was far from smooth, as the team encountered its fair share of challenges. Yet, with unwavering commitment and a collective spirit to overcome obstacles, they persevered. Under Adam’s stewardship the team achieved remarkable milestones, from orchestrating perfectly timed weekly harvests to consistently attaining stellar results in state testing. It was during this period that Adam’s passion for the intricate nuances of Cannabis – such as the art of curing and the unique terpene profiles found in strains like Cheesecake, Mimosa and Donnie Burger – truly flourished. A Journey Unfolds
Adam’s fervor and dedication did not go unnoticed within the Cannabis industry. Before long, he received an enticing oppor-
tunity to manage a 125,000-squarefoot facility in Arizona. The prospect of a new location, though daunting to some, was an exciting challenge for Adam. Alongside a dedicated team of eight like-minded individuals and under his skilled management, the harvest production surged to new heights. Adam’s recruitment efforts further strengthened the team, bringing in individuals who shared his profound enthusiasm for Cannabis. Despite the allure of the Arizona desert, Adam’s heart remained tethered to his hometown and, most importantly, to his daughter. It was this deep connection that ultimately led him back to Utah. Fate intervened once more and an opportunity at Beehive Farmacy in Brigham City materialized – thanks to a glowing recommendation from the esteemed pharmacist, Mindy Madeo, renowned in Salt Baked City magazine as the ‘Green Pharmacist’ over the years. For Adam, the decision to return home and join Beehive Farmacy wasn’t just a career move … it was a mission to make a tangible difference in the lives of patients and the very community where his roots ran deepest.
The Healing Power of Cannabis
"I want patients to know that they have options and that Cannabis can be a tool for healing. It's about finding what works best for you, and I'm here to help you every step of the way."
For Adam, Cannabis is not just a plant – it’s a lifeline that helped him break free from the clutches of alcohol and find a new purpose in life. His personal journey with alcoholism and depression took a positive turn when he discovered the therapeutic benefits of medical Cannabis. The plant became the catalyst for his transformation, enabling him to become a better father to his daughter and a more compassionate member of the community. Adam’s favorite terpene, linalool, holds a special place in his heart due to its stress-reducing, anxiety-relieving and mood-enhancing properties. He fondly recalls the moment he first encountered the Lavender Jones strain, which is rich in linalool. The aroma alone had a calming effect on him, and its medicinal benefits became an integral part of his life. As an experienced budtender, Adam is always eager to share valuable insights into the world of Cannabis products with patients seeking specific outcomes. For those in search of profound relaxation and bliss, he recommends two exceptional products: Blissed Out by Boojum and PacMan Jones from Cookies. Blissed Out is a vape cartridge known for its high linalool terpene content and is an excellent choice for stress relief and tranquility. This Cannabis oil’s linalool-rich profile offers soothing floral and lavender notes, ideal for unwinding after a long day. PacMan Jones, also loaded with linalool, provides relaxation and a gentle euphoria. Its blend of earthy, floral and citrus notes creates a delightful experience. Adam’s personalized recommendations consider each patient’s unique needs, ensuring a satisfying Cannabis journey. With his guidance, patients can confidently explore diverse products to discover the full range of benefits. Changing Perspectives
In his role as a budtender in Brigham City, Adam often encounters misconceptions about Cannabis. One such inaccuracy is that it can only be smoked – a notion he is keen to dispel. Drawing from his extensive knowledge, he takes the opportunity to educate patients about the wide range of consumption options available – highlighting the existence of non-THC cannabinoids like CBD, CBG and CBN, emphasizing their potential therapeutic benefits.
These alternative cannabinoids have been gaining recognition for their role in promoting relaxation, relieving anxiety and addressing specific health concerns. By broadening patients’ perspectives and informing them about the diverse product offerings, Adam ensures that individuals can make well-informed decisions based on their unique requirements and preferences. Despite initial reservations held by some residents of Brigham City due to the town’s conservative values, Adam remains undeterred in his mission to make a positive impact. One of the most remarkable aspects of Adam’s journey is his unwavering belief in the potential for the Cannabis industry to not only thrive, but also bring about positive change within the community. He recognizes that change often begins with understanding and compassion – and to achieve this, Adam has taken it upon himself to be an educator and advocate, both within the walls of Beehive Farmacy and beyond. Within the dispensary, he patiently engages with customers, addressing their concerns and curiosities about Cannabis. He knows that it’s not just about selling a product – it’s about fostering a sense of trust and openness. By providing detailed information on various Cannabis strains, consumption methods and their potential benefits, Adam ensures that every customer leaves with not only a product, but also a newfound understanding. Beyond the dispensary, Adam actively participates in community outreach programs – organizing
educational workshops and seminars to demystify the Cannabis plant. His efforts have gone a long way in breaking down the barriers of misconception and stigma that often shroud the industry. In this small town, Adam is more than a budtender – he is a catalyst for change. A Bright Future
As the Cannabis industry continues to evolve at a breathtaking pace, Adam finds himself at the forefront of these exciting developments. He’s not only witnessing, but actively participating in advancements that have transformed the patient experience. The ease with which patients can now obtain medical cards, thanks to streamlined processes, is just one example. Moreover, there’s a growing number of Qualified Medical Providers (QMPs) who are vocal proponents of the therapeutic benefits of Cannabis. This growing network of advocates is helping to destigmatize the plant in the medical community. Adam’s own journey mirrors this progress. His deep knowledge and hands-on experience with innovations like the Mobius trimmer machine, bud-sorting technologies, and state-of-the-art packaging systems from companies such as Green Vault Systems and N2 packaging, have given him a unique perspective on the industry’s evolution. For those looking to follow in his footsteps, particularly in smaller communities, Adam offers valuable advice: Pursue your dreams relentlessly. His journey from Cannabis enthusiast to respected budtender exemplifies the possibilities that come with dedication and unwavering commitment. In Brigham City and beyond, there’s a growing need for individuals who can bridge the gap between Cannabis and its potential to improve lives. You too can become a catalyst for positive change – one patient interaction at a time.
STORY by COLE FULLMER @UTAHLEAF | PHOTOS by KAT JORGENSEN @KATHRYNXIV
patient profiles
EMBRACING HEALING
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ZAC KING
UTAH MEDICAL CANNABIS PATIENTS SHARE THEIR UNIQUE JOURNEYS
As we conclude Salt Baked City's journey and embark on a new chapter with Utah Leaf, we would like to take a moment to reflect on the remarkable stories of a few of Utah's medical Cannabis patients. These individuals have shown incredible resilience and courage in the face of adversity, using legal Cannabis to transform their lives. The War on Drugs has cast a long shadow, especially in conservative Utah, but through these stories we hope to shed light on the brighter and safer alternatives that medical Cannabis offers.
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BRANDON VOORHEES THE DATE WAS JUNE 3, 2005, and it was a Friday night in Millcreek which held promise for 25-year-old Brandon Voorhees. He had just proposed to his girlfriend, Emily, and was looking forward to building a life together. Little did he know, a tragic accident was about to change the course of his life. While driving with his dog, a collision left him with severe head injuries, two epidural hematomas, a broken shoulder blade and more. He slipped into a coma and doctors prepared Emily for the possibility that Brandon might not remember her or even himself when he woke. Yet, against all odds, he emerged from the darkness. Cannabis became a lifeline for Brandon as he battled PTSD, chronic pain and sleep disturbances. It offered him a path to recovery and allowed him to regain control of his life. His journey from that fateful night to becoming a medical Cannabis advocate exemplifies the healing power of this plant. But Brandon’s story is just one among many in Utah’s growing community of patients – each with a unique journey – forming a tapestry of hope and healing. Kristopher Kennedy, a 42-year-old father of three, faced an unexpected morning raid by law enforcement in West Valley City.
CHIRINE TOUATI
He had been cultivating Cannabis to help his anxiety and find solace in the wake of his wife’s wife Heather overcome an opioid addiction tragic death. He discovered a deeper conthat stemmed from prescribed medications for nection between mindfulness, faith and plant her post-surgery pain. The raid shattered their medicine, transforming his life’s trajectory. lives, resulting in charges that threatened their These patients, along with many others, family’s well-being. demonstrate the resilience of the human spirit Despite the legal ordeal, Kristopher’s deand the transformative potential of medical votion to his family never wavered. Medical Cannabis. While their stories highlight the posCannabis had been their lifeline, itive impact of legalization, they helping Heather break free from also underscore the need for con“Utah's opioids. This incident shed light tinued education and advocacy. medical on the lingering consequences of The War on Drugs may still Cannabis the War on Drugs, even in a state cast its shadow, but through these with a legal medical program. patients come stories, we can illuminate a path Utah’s medical Cannabis from diverse toward healing, compassion and patients come from diverse understanding. backgrounds, backgrounds, united by their As we conclude Salt Baked pursuit of a better quality of life. united by their City’s journey, we carry with us Sarah Jacobs, a nurse practithe profound lessons learned from pursuit of a tioner, found herself advocating these remarkable individuals. better quality for Cannabis after witnessing its Their courage and determinaprofound effects on her father’s of life.” tion have paved the way for a battle with Parkinson’s disease. brighter future in Utah, where The relief it brought him inspired the stigma surrounding medical her to explore alternative treatments beyond Cannabis is gradually giving way to accepconventional medicine. tance and hope. Utah Leaf begins its journey Zac King, an LDS member from High Creek with a commitment to furthering this cause, Canyon, Idaho, faced profound challenges after amplifying the voices of patients and advocating a paintball accident left him visually impaired. for a safer and more compassionate approach Cannabis also offered him a way to manage to healthcare.
STORY by COLE FULLMER @UTAHLEAF | PHOTOS by KAT JORGENSEN @KATHRYNXIV
LEAF OPINION
POTBUTTON ISSUE
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IN
the ever-evolving landscape of Cannabis legalization and regulation, the rumor of reclassification of the plant within the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) has become a hugely important issue demanding resolution. Utah Leaf reporters delve into the heart of the matter, shedding light on the potential consequences and public sentiment surrounding this crucial debate.
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The Misrepresentation of Cannabis Safety
The first point of contention lies in the way Cannabis is categorized within the CSA. Many argue that reclassifying it to a lower schedule continues to misrepresent the herb’s safety relative to other controlled substances. For example, it currently shares Schedule I status with drugs like heroin – despite a growing body of research suggesting its medicinal properties and lower potential for harm. When we examine the CSA’s schedules, it’s evident that Cannabis is in dubious company. Anabolic steroids and ketamine, both classified as Schedule III substances, and benzodiazepines in Schedule IV, are considered less dangerous under federal law. Even the comparison to alcohol, an unscheduled substance, highlights the stark disparities in how these substances are regulated.
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Public and Cultural Consensus
The second point of concern centers around public and cultural consensus. A growing majority of Americans do not want Cannabis to be treated as the equivalent of heroin, as is currently the case. However, they are equally uncomfortable with the idea of classifying it as a Schedule III substance such as ketamine, which can only be legally possessed with a physician’s prescription. The cultural shift in attitudes towards Cannabis has been undeniable. State after state has passed laws allowing for medical and recreational use, reflecting a more accepting view of pot’s potential benefits and safety. This changing landscape creates a palpable dissonance between federal policy and the desires of the American people.
RECLASSIFICATION OF CANNABIS
State-Federal Conflict
Perhaps the most critical aspect of this proposed reclassification is its impact on the growing chasm between state-level Cannabis legalization and federal law. While individual states have embraced herb reform with vigor, federal laws have remained stubbornly unyielding. The conflict between state and federal law has far-reaching implications. State-legal Cannabis businesses continue to face challenges in accessing banking services, filing taxes and complying with regulations. Additionally, individuals and patients in states with legal Cannabis programs are left in a legal gray area – never sure when federal authorities might intervene. Even if the federal government reclassifies Cannabis as a Schedule III substance, this change does little to resolve these deep-rooted issues. Every state law that currently conflicts with federal law will persist in this state of discord. For Salt Baked City residents and businesses operating within the burgeoning pot industry, this legal ambiguity remains a major cause for concern. The debate surrounding the reclassification of Cannabis within the CSA is far from resolved. While some argue for a more nuanced approach that reflects the evolving science and changing public sentiment, others believe that retaining its Schedule I status is a necessary safeguard. Utah Leaf’s Cannabis reporters will continue to monitor this issue closely, providing our readers with up-to-date information on the shifting landscape of Cannabis regulation. As state and federal authorities grapple with this complex matter, the voices of the people and the needs of a growing industry hang in the balance.
STORY by COLE FULLMER @UTAHLEAF | ILLUSTRATION by ADOBE STOCK
Buddha Gear, Mindful Headwear and jason latas Human Consciousness Guide! Be aware of what you wear and where it takes you! Planting seeds of mindfulness within our communiy
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PSYCHEDELIC
ICONS
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A LBERT H OF M A N N The Swiss chemist who first synthesized LSD while working with the ergot fungus in 1943. After purposefully taking a dose of acid, his historic afternoon bike ride on April 19, 1943 has become a revered psychedelic holiday. The author of “LSD: My Problem Child,” Hofmann believed LSD could be used to increase society’s respect for our place in the natural world. M A R I A S A B I N A Posters of the famous mushroom shaman of Mexico still line windows in Oaxaca where Sabina lived until 1985. She famously used mushrooms – which she called “the children” – to cure sick members of her community and communicate with the divine. This ritual, or velada, was reported in LIFE Magazine and was responsible for an explosion of interest in psilocybin research. ALDOUS & LAURA HUXLEY Authors of numerous cornerstones of psychedelic literature including “The Doors Of Perception,” “Islands,” “Brave New World” and “You Are Not The Target” – the Huxleys believed using psychedelics could unlock the secrets of the mind, and perhaps existence. Aldous believed psychedelics help us achieve a spiritual and philosophical experience that has benefits for everyone. Laura – a self-described "restrained investigator of LSD" – believed acid and mescaline could help you navigate the heavy jungles of the human mind. In 1963, she helped her husband pass peacefully, administering 100 micrograms of LSD to him on his deathbed to ease his journey.
PAUL STAMETS Over the last 40 years, Stamets has become one of the most famous mycologists of our time – spreading the message that mushrooms have the power to save the world. His stance that psilocybin mushrooms are a non-addictive, life-changing substance has helped him discover new types of hallucinogenic fungi and even inspired a character in “Star Trek.”
T ER E N C E M C K EN N A He’s been called a mystic, ethnobotanist, pioneer, and even “the Timothy Leary of the ‘90s.” Throughout McKenna’s travels in Jerusalem, Mexico and Nepal, he experimented using plant-based psychedelics to increase the spiritual connection to a combined consciousness. In 1976, he and his brother wrote “Psilocybin: Magic Mushroom Grower's Guide” outlining spore cultivation techniques for the home enthusiast. T I M O T H Y L E A R Y Referred to as the “father of the psychedelic movement” of the '60s, Leary was a psychologist who studied psychedelics and personality at Berkeley and as a faculty member at Harvard. He inspired young people everywhere to experiment with acid. Famous for the phrase "tune in, turn on, drop out" – he co-founded the Harvard Psilocybin Project and the League for Spiritual Discovery. President Richard Nixon called him "the most dangerous man in America." RICHARD ALPERT (RAM DASS) A researcher at Harvard who was fired in 1962 for giving psychedelics to his undergraduate students, Alpert worked with Timothy Leary to found the infamous Millbrook Commune – aka the League for Spiritual Discovery. Later, he’d journey to India and be renamed Baba Ram Dass by a guru, before returning to become a spiritual leader and write the influential book “Be Here Now.” ALFRED M. HUBBARD The Johnny Appleseed of LSD, it’s estimated that Hubbard dosed six thousand people between 1951-1966. Hubbard wanted to change the world by dosing influential and prominent figures in society. Using LSD he obtained from Hofmann himself, Hubbard preached the key importance of “set and setting” during an acid session and felt promoting psychedelic therapy was his angelic calling.
A N N & ALE XAND E R “SA SHA” SHU LGIN Together, this husband and wife team created and tested over 200 psychoactive compounds in their home laboratory. The process was documented in their 1991 book “Phenethylamines I Have Known and Loved” and its follow-up “Tryptamines I Have Known and Loved” – commonly referred to as “PiHKAL” and “TiHKAL.” While not the inventor, Alexander’s work introducing MDMA throughout the ‘70s and ‘90s earned him the nickname “The Godfather of Ecstacy.” HU NTE R S. THOM PSON Author, journalist and psychonaut who defined the literary style we now call “Gonzo.” Throughout his career, Thompson notoriously supplied the first psychedelic dose to influential artists, writers, actors … and even Hells Angels. He often used psychedelics to invite the unknown to write his next paragraph. “As for LSD, I highly recommend it. The feeling it produces is hard to describe. 'Intensity' is a fair word for it."
AUGUSTUS OWSLEY STANLEY III “Clandestine chemist” is the best way to describe this pivotal figure in the ‘60s psychedelic scene. It was his talent for manufacturing acid that helped iconify the Monterey Pop Festival and fueled the Merry Pranksters’ Acid Tests. The Oxford English dictionary defines Owsley as a noun for a particularly pure form of LSD.
KEN KESEY After volunteering in a 1959 government program that studied the effects of psilocybin, amphetamine, LSD and other psychoactive drugs, Kesey used the experience to write “One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest.” With his group of Merry Pranksters, he sought to defy conformity and promote psychedelic discovery. Their exploits were documented in Tom Wolfe’s novel “The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test.” (For more on Kesey and the Merry Pranksters, check out this month’s Cannthropology).
STORY by LEAF NATION STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS
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HEADY
THREADS
A ROUNDUP OF ARTISTS AND CLO THING B RANDS MAKING THE MOST WONDE RFUL WEARAB LES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP.
THE BINDLE CONSPIRACY
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Luke started The Bindle Conspiracy in 2016 after exploring Europe, Southeast Asia and Central America, then driving his van across the United States, Mexico and Canada. “A few things sparked my interest as potential careers while I was traveling,” he explained, “but really one thing stayed constant for me: my love for clothing.” So, he decided to learn how to make it from scratch and has been cutting and sewing every single piece by hand since. Currently based out of Boulder, Colorado, his one-of-a-kind wearables feature fun fabrics, trippy textures and playful patchwork. thebindleconspiracy.com | @thebindleconspiracy
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KILLER ACID
Rob Corradetti has been making art for over 25 years and launched Killer Acid in 2010, which specializes in screen prints, t-shirts and psychedelic accessories. While the brand is based out of Santa Cruz, California, Rob’s style blends “head shop and punk rock” inspired by the technicolor coming-of-age in New York City – full of cartoon characters, bright colors and subtle references to classic art. So far, Killer Acid has done some killer collaborations with brands like Meow Wolf, Zumiez, VICE, Adult Swim and Santa Cruz Skateboards. killeracid.com | @killeracid
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BROKEN PROMISES CO.
Founded by Mandee Bence and Jason Blake, Broken Promises Co. is “rooted in the expression of human emotions, with products that allow people to express their feelings by wearing them when sometimes itʼs hard to talk about how you feel.” Based out of Southern California, the brand has its own app where it drops an exclusive new collection every Saturday morning and has collaborated on capsules with Hot Wheels, Beetlejuice, Mountain Dew, Death Note and others. brokenpromises.com | @brokenpromisesco
S K U L LY V I B E S
Skully Vibes has been making art his whole life but started drawing skull characters in high school. He continued to evolve his spooky-stoney style, and the Skully Vibes brand was officially born in 2021 with a passion project called Smoking Skulls – a collection of 710 different hand-drawn skull characters with a poem to go with each one. Now, the skulls are a staple throughout his multimedia art including prints, stickers and t-shirts – each embroidered to order in Denver.skullyvibes.com skullyvibes.com @skully.vibes
WOOK WEAR
Michelle started Wook Wear a couple of years ago to create stash bags for all her friends, specializing in “prizedpossession pouches” that are perfect for terp pearls or marbles. She designs her own patterns, cutting and sewing everything from scratch by hand, and says she “loves making insulated bags for hash or your favorite glass and psychedelic supplies – just about anything you can dream of!” Don’t miss the drops on her Instagram at 4:20 p.m. on #wookwearwednesdays. @wook.wear
STRAIGHT TRIPPIN CO.
GRASSROOTS CALIFORNIA
Grassroots began making hats for a documentary film in 2009 and has since hooked up artists like Method Man, Jerry Garcia and Griz with the headiest headpieces. They’re known for their signature holograms and designs on the interior of the hats, made with environmentally-friendly materials such as hemp. The company donates 1% of all sales to charity and has done limited-time collections with psychedelic artists such as Vincent Gordon and The Frank Brothers. grassrootscalifornia.com @grassrootscalifornia
Armed with his friend's printing press and his mom's old embroidery machine, Tyler started Straight Trippin Co. in 2021. Today, he makes shirts, hats and beanies that are each dyed and embroidered by hand in Austin, Texas. He draws inspiration from his own psychedelic experiences and says he started the brand to “challenge the prevailing stigma associated with substances often frowned upon in society.” straighttrippinco.etsy.com | @straighttrippinco
S H E LT E R C U LT I V A T I O N P R O J E C T The Shelter Cultivation Project is an experimental retail space and apparel brand in Burlington, Vermont featuring zines, clothing, artwork and home goods by a collection of makers. Founder Shawn Dumont says, “This is really just a weird art experiment, and we only make something new when we have an idea worth pursuing or find an artist that we really want to work with.” Shelter has done a few group gallery shows, created a toll-free hotline for talking to exotic plants (give it a call at 1-844-Plant-Talks), and recently held a concert with Michael Nau and Benny Yurco. sheltercultivationproject.com | @sheltercultivationproject
STORY by KATHERINE WOLF @KATADELLIC for LEAF NATION | PHOTOS provided
cooking with cannabis
FLAVORS OF FALL YOU’RE TOAST PANZANELLA 4 SERVINGS 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 cloves garlic, minced 3 cups bread cubes, about 1 inch pieces 2 large tomatoes, cut in chunks ½ medium cucumber, cut in pieces ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced 2 tablespoons capers ¼ cup red wine vinegar 2 tablespoons olive oil 4 teaspoons infused oil 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard salt and pepper to taste
BLUEBERRY PEACH PIE-FECTION
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet. Add the garlic, stir, and add the bread cubes. Over low to medium heat, lightly brown the bread cubes. Allow to cool.
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2. In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion and capers.
1 pie crust, rolled to 11-12 in. 4 cups blueberries, rinsed 1 peach, sliced ½ cup sugar ¼ cup orange juice 3 tablespoons infused oil 2 tablespoons cornstarch pinch of salt 1 egg, lightly beaten 2 tablespoons sugar
3. In a small bowl, combine the vinegar, oils and Dijon, and add to the large bowl. Salt and pepper to taste. Toss to combine. Allow to sit for at least 30 minutes so the flavors can marry, happily ever after.
A-MAIZE-ING CORN SALAD
1. Heat oven to 340. Place the crust on parchment, on a baking sheet.
4 SERVINGS 3 cups corn, from 3 to 4 cobs 3 scallions, sliced 2/3 cup chopped bell peppers, any color ½ cup mayo 4 teaspoons infused oil 2 tablespoons lime juice 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon chili powder salt and pepper to taste 1 cup corn chips ½ cup cotija cheese 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped or torn Optional CBD Taco Spice Blend
2. In a large bowl, combine the blueberries, peach slices, sugar, orange juice, infused oil, cornstarch and salt. 3. Place the berries on the crust, leaving a two-inch border. Fold edge of pastry dough up over the fruit, pinching folds closed. Brush the crust with the egg, and sprinkle with the sugar.
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4. Bake until golden brown and bubbling, 35-45 minutes.
1. In a large bowl, combine the corn, scallion and peppers. 2. In another bowl, mix the mayo, oil, lime juice, cumin and chili powder. Salt and pepper to taste.
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3. Add the mayo to the corn, along with the chips, cheese and cilantro. Stir gently to mix. 4. Divide the corn between four bowls. Top with optional CBD Herb & Spice Taco Blend.
TOMATOES SHOULD BE ILLEGAL IN THE WINTER! Honestly, the tomatoes on salads in February barely resemble the lusciousness of a local seasonal specimen. Not even close. Frozen corn is not bad, but taking the kernels off the cob is a summer right of passage, and well worth it. The crostata – a free-form pie piled high with end of summer blueberries and peaches – is simple and quite attractive, if I do say so myself! The recipes are infused with Zookies by 7 Points, a hybrid flower with an upbeat vibe,
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leaving me relaxed and relatively happy. I really can’t ask for more than that. Although the recipes are infused with flower into coconut oil, the corn salad is topped with the newest product from Laurie and MaryJane – a taco spice blend with activated CBD – so just a sprinkle of CBD adds to the overall effect of the dish, as well as a hit of more south of the border flavors. If you want to try any of the CBD blends, they are available to order. Very soon, they will be joined by a 1:1 THC:CBD mixture. Need I say more? I think not.
RECIPES by LAURIE WOLF @LAURIEANDMARYJANE for LEAF NATION | PHOTOS by BRUCE WOLF @BRUCE_WOLF
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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.
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Profiling pot’s most preposterous propaganda pictures.
“MARIHUANA” The first of the pot propaganda flicks to make it to the big screen in May 1936, “Marihuana” (a.k.a. “Marihuana: The Devil’s Weed,” a.k.a. “Marihuana: The Weed With Roots in Hell”) tells the tale of a high school girl named Burma who’s “led to ruin after befriending a drug dealer who invites her to a party at his beach house.” After Burma and some other girls get drunk and smoke weed at the party, one ends up drowning while Burma becomes pregnant. After she pressures her boyfriend to marry her, he gets hired by the
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Since the early days of American cinema coincided with the dawn of Cannabis prohibition, it makes sense that some filmmakers would look to the sensationalized stories of marijuana mayhem and madness portrayed in the “yellow journalism” of the era as inspiration for their films. In the 1930s and ‘40s, a number of low-budget, anti-pot propaganda films were produced that were hysterical in both senses of the word: Originally, they were intended to induce a “hysteria” (overwhelming fear and panic) among the American public about marijuana; in modern times, however, they’re hysterical in the humorous sense due to their campy delivery and absurd exaggerations of the dangers marijuana purportedly posed. Here’s a look back at history’s most infamous “drugsploitation” flicks.
dealer to unload some smuggled drugs at the docks and ends up being killed by the cops. Upon hearing the news, Burma runs away from home, has the baby and puts it up for adoption – then becomes a drug dealer herself. After graduating to heroin and becoming a junkie (the classic “gateway drug” theory), she tries to kidnap her sister’s new baby and hold it for ransom, only to find out it’s actually her own. “Marihuana” was produced by the pulp fiction power couple of Dwain Esper and Hildegarde Stadie. Stadie spent her childhood traveling around the country in a horse-drawn wagon with her opium-addicted uncle – a doctor turned snake oil salesman who shamelessly used her to hawk his cure-all, Tiger Fat (including having a pre-teen Hilde appear in front of customers nude except for a python). In 1920, she married Dwain Esper, a former carnival barker who, in 1932 – despite having no training or experience in filmmaking – began a new career as a movie director after acquiring a small studio in a loan default settlement. With Hilde as his writer and co-producer (and often in cameo roles), Esper began cranking out outlandish B-movies designed to entice and frighten, including 1933’s “Narcotic” (a tale based loosely on Hilde’s uncle) and 1934’s “Maniac” (a.k.a. “Sex Maniac”). Esper not only side-stepped the Hollywood movie industry and their decency standards, but the theater system itself by forming his own distribution company, Road Show Attractions, in 1936.
The Espers would travel around showing their films in pop-up theaters and tents like a circus sideshow attraction, then hightail it out of town before local law enforcement could slap them with obscenity or indecency charges. This practice led Esper to crown himself the “king of the celluloid gypsies.” In addition to their own films, the Espers occasionally bought the rights to other low-budget films, which they would then spice up with more sex and drug scenes and re-release under new titles. One such film was the one we’ll examine next—twas the drugsploitation classic, “Reefer Madness.” “REEFER MADNESS” Originally entitled “Tell Your Children,” the film that came to be known as “Reefer Madness” was first released on July 12, 1936. The story begins with a high school principal telling a PTA meeting about a group of students lured by pot pushers to a “reefer house” where they smoke marijuana, become immediately hooked, and begin hallucinating and going mad. Under the influence, they commit various violent crimes, including running over a pedestrian, shooting a teenage girl, beating a man with a stick, attempted rape, and suicide. The film ends with the principal cautioning the parents in the meeting (as well as those watching through the camera lens) that “the next tragedy may be that of your daughter ... or your son ... or yours!”
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Widely considered one of the worst movies ever made, “Reefer Madness” was largely forgotten … that is, until it was rediscovered in the early 1970s by NORML founder Keith Stroup. Today, it’s the most well-known drugsploitation movie by far.
Directed by Louis J. Gasnier, the film was financed by a Christian church group to “educate” parents about the supposed dangers of Cannabis. But in 1936, shortly after its release, it was acquired by Esper, who added some salacious new shots (naturally) and screened it on his underground film circuit until the early 1950s under different titles in each region of the country: In the South it remained as “Tell Your Children;” in the West he called it “Doped Youth;” in Pennsylvania and West Virginia it was known as “The Burning Question;” but it was in New England that was given the name it would be remembered by, “Reefer Madness.” Widely considered one of the worst movies ever made, “Reefer Madness” passed into the public domain and was largely forgotten … that is, until it was rediscovered in the early 1970s by NORML founder Keith Stroup – who began hosting screenings of the absurd propaganda pic at colleges to raise money and interest in the budding legalization movement. Today, it’s the most well-known drugsploitation movie by far.
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“ASSASSIN OF YOUTH” Directed by Elmer Clifton, “Assassin of Youth” (a.k.a. “The Marijuana Menace”) is another “cautionary tale” about a young journalist named Art who’s tasked by his editor to investigate the death of a rich old woman killed in a car crash with a “marijuana-crazed youth.” Posing as a soda jerk, the reporter infiltrates a gang of “dope fiends,” attends their wild parties and falls for the woman’s virtuous granddaughter Joan, who’s set to inherit her fortune. Joan agrees to help him but is framed as a degenerate by her promiscuous, pot-dealing cousin Linda, who drugs her and sets her up in compromising positions to get her disinherited through a “morality clause” in the will. Spoiler alert: Art ends up saving Joan’s reputation at the last minute in a dramatic courtroom scene in which he exposes Linda and her suppliers and reads aloud from his article in which he decries the evils of marijuana, which he calls the “assassin of youth” and the “scourge of our country.”
“DEVIL’S HARVEST” Released in 1942, “Devil’s Harvest” is a lousy gangster movie that uses marijuana as a gimmick to drum up an audience. Directed by Ray Test, this flick tells the story of Kay O’Farrell – a high school girl who gets sucked into the underworld of WOC MUSEUM organized crime. On the promise of a dancing gig, Kay is lured to a wild party, where gals strip down to their undies to dance and get busy after smoking the “loco weed.” After a brawl breaks out and a girl dies, police question all the “kids” from the party (who all look 40 years old) and manipulate Kay into helping bust the marijuana ring. She’s soon recruited by the racketeer suppliers to dance at their nightclub, where the top mobster Larry falls for her. It ends with a showdown in Larry’s Publicity photo for office between him and “Devil’s Harvest.” a rival gangster named “Snuffy,” in which they both end up dead. Through it all, Kay remains bizarrely calm and unaffected by everything going on around her. With its flimsy plot, cheesy dialogue, goofy acting, bad lighting and sloppy editing, “Devil’s Harvest” more than earns its place in the drugsploitation Hall of Shame.
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Mobile billboard advertising “Assassin of Youth” circa 1937.
Released in January 1937, the film shares its name with the infamous anti-pot propaganda article published in The American Magazine in July of that same year – an article written by Federal Bureau of Narcotics director Harry J. Anslinger (see our Oct. 2020 edition). The article details various marijuana-related crimes drawn from Anslinger’s “gore files,” similar to those portrayed in this film. While not as overtly absurd as some of its counterparts, “Assassin” shares their paranoia-inducing purpose – apparently effective, since Anslinger’s Marijuana Tax Act (essentially outlawing Cannabis) was signed into law later that year.
“THE DEVIL’S WEED” Directed by prolific B-movie maker Sam Newfield (a.k.a. “Sherman Scott”), “The Devil’s Weed” regurgitates the same tired tropes of its predecessors: a dancing girl who gets corrupted by marijuana at a wild party, becomes
romantically involved with her dealer, and ends up in ruin. In this case, it’s an orphan chorus girl named Anne Lester who is pressured by a dealer named Markey into smoking reefer at a “tea party.” After Markey seduces her and gets her hooked, she loses her job and goes to work for him selling “tomatoes.” When her younger brother Bob discovers what’s going on, he – ridiculously – hangs himself. Soon after, Anne is arrested, shown a few druggies and the asylums where they end up, and spends a couple of months in jail before cleaning up her act and helping the cops nail Markey. Like others in the genre, this movie also had many titles: It was initially released as “Wild Weed” in July 1949 through Eureka Productions and was not well-received (“Never did vice seem so devoid of enchantment.” - NY Times). It was later acquired by Hallmark Productions, who made some changes and re-released it – first, as “The Story of Lila Leeds and Her Exposé of the Marijuana Racket” (more on that in a minute), then later as “She Shoulda Said No!” and “The Devil’s Weed.” Hallmark had more success with it, thanks to new promotional posters featuring racy photos of its leading lady and some fabricated letters to community leaders claiming it was a public service sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury Department. The most interesting thing about this film, however, is that it was purportedly inspired by the life of its lead actress, Lila Leeds. On September 1, 1948, the stunning 20-year-old starlet was busted smoking weed with actor Robert Mitchum in her home, charged with felony narcotics possession and sentenced to 60 days in jail plus five years probation. Unfortunately, the stigma of her arrest led to her being blackballed; broke News clipping of and desperate, she reluctantly agreed Leeds’ & Mitchum’s to star in “The Devil’s Weed” – which conviction. alas, turned out to be her final role. After that, her life tragically ended up mirroring those depicted in drugsploitation films: she went to prison, became a heroin addict, was involved in a car accident, had parole violations, and eventually turned to prostitution. All of which shows once again that what truly ruins lives is not using Cannabis, but getting arrested for it. For our podcast & more Cannabis history content visit worldofcannabis.museum/cannthropology.
STO RY & M AI N I M AG E CO L LAG E b y B O B BY B LAC K @ CAN N T H RO PO LO G Y for LEA F NAT IO N
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PEEK INTO SOMEONE’S FRIDGE, AND YOU GLIMPSE THEIR SOUL. Because what one chooses to store in the crib’s chilliest place provides clues to those with inspective impulses while grabbing a glass of water. Are there indications of plans for the unexpected (or expected) Armageddon, or is it a bare bones, protein shake and salad with raspberry vinegarette affair? Food lends definition to our existence. And what we choose to stock in the container of cool mirrors our personality. This inventory often reflects how we manage our bodies, entertain people, and what we stand for as members of society. And the volume speaks volumes. For instance, if you find frozen Salisbury steak television-ready dinners amassed on the freezer shelves, chances are good that the person bathes at least once a week – whether he needs it or not. If the veggies appear visibly abundant and there’s oat milk and faux meat, she most likely keeps a yoga mat close by. And if a tub of Ben and Jerry’s Chunky Monkey ice cream and leftover Domino’s pizza is evident, then it’s obvious they are a stoner. However, some may find that contradictory because a stoner probably wouldn’t have any Ben and Jerry’s ice cream left. So, let’s pretend they just made a grocery run. And by the way, the Cap’n Crunch that sits on top of the refrigerator does indeed deserve inclusion. It’s almost like the refrigerator is your butler. It stands ready at the guard; you chat with it. You audit the innards and shuffle the contents accordingly. Its interior reflects a calendar of sorts, most items categorized by preference while others stay static – the capers, the horseradish, the sauce you took a chance on – accessibility based upon frequency. This cold cache is an indirect barometer of your success. It’s important that you’re content with the contents. And it’s where you stash your quality dabs. Right next to the Devil’s lettuce.
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