Conscious Weed Rappers

Conscious Weed Rappers

Conscious Weed Rap?

You’re more likely to talk about social and political issues when sharing a blunt than when drinking with friends. Similarly, when listening to music while high you might be looking for deeper topics.
In the 90’s, walking into a head shop, you probably heard sublime playing through the speakers. Nowadays, you might hear A$AP Rocky or Wiz Khalifa. Marijuana seems to frequently make its way to mainstream music under the hip hop genre. Furthermore, more and more stoners and listening to the “conscious hip-hop” subgenre in 2016.
One source describes conscious or socially conscious hip-hop as “a sub-genre of hip-hop that challenges the dominant cultural, political, philosophical, and economic consensus. It aims to subtly inform the public of true political and social issues which are predominantly obscured by the mainstream media.”
“Hip-hop also gives these issues a wider audience base as it is coming from music artists which are extremely popular,” they added.
Here is a list of some stoner rappers who don’t shy from topics that are frequently ignored by the mainstream media.

Run The Jewels

Run the Jewels is a hip-hop duo consisting of the New York raised, talented rapper/producer, El-P and his southern companion Killer Mike. Separately and together these two cover topics such as police brutality, drone strikes, and more. They’re also not shy about their marijuana usage with lyrics like, “good pussy, good marijuana that be my medicine.” If you’re into or interested in the conscious hip-hop subgenre give Run the Jewels’ albums a listen. You won’t be disappointed.

Joey Bada$$

Joey Bada$$ has a song about getting high before going to high school. “Ya’ll go to high school, I go to school high!” He also makes songs about the trappings of fame rather than bragging about his fame. Joey’s songs cover topics like government surveillance, inequality, and more. If you’re looking for music that’ll make you think while you smoke check out Joey’s last album B4DA$$.

 Chance The Rapper

Chance the Rapper will provide you with both catchy tunes and his personal perspective on touchy subjects. Lyrics like “I’ve been riding around with my blunt on my lips, with the sun in my eyes and my gun on my hip” capture what life is like for Chance. Hailing from the southside of Chicago his hobbies include smoking weed and surviving. His music covers topics like witnessing the death of friend due to violence, getting suspended for smoking pot, his love for his grandma, and more. With Chance you really get the best of both worlds. You can get conscious hip-hop and songs to sing along to. If you’re looking for one of his projects to smoke out to try Acid Rap. If you want more catchy tunes check out his latest album Coloring Book.

Flatbush Zombies

The Flatbush Zombies traverse a deeper level of consciousness. The group is consists of three rappers, one of them, Erick Arc Elliot, is also their producer. Their music is full of references to psychedelic drugs like LSD and Mushrooms. The Zombies who hail from Flatbush, Brooklyn have everything you love about mainstream hip-hop like violence, women, and drugs while also covering more conscious topics. Sometimes they rap about their love for weed and other times pointing out inequalities. If you’re into psychedelics and hip-hop you’ll probably like the Flatbush Zombies. Even if you’re only into weed and hip-hop we recommend giving them a listen.
image credit: Run The Jewels / Facebook

Eight Great Cannabis Careers

Eight Great Cannabis Careers

If you’re a marijuana enthusiast who is looking for a new career path, there may be something for you in the cannabis industry. Since marijuana has begun to go legal at the state level across half the nation, new jobs are being created everyday. There are entry level positions and careers that make six figures a year. A quick visit to any marijuana job site and you’ll see listings for various positions. Of course the higher paying positions will require higher qualifications. Fore some positions you might even need a PHD.
We’ve compiled a list of eight popular cannabis careers and some details on each:

  1. Extract Artist
    Extract artists or technicians are one of the higher paying jobs in the cannabis industry. They require a specific set of skills. Dealing with solvents like butane, which is a flammable gas, can be dangerous. Some employers expect applying extract technicians to have a PHD in chemistry.
  2. Trimmer
    At a more entry level, just about anyone with a pair of fully functioning limbs can trim. Trimmers are responsible for snipping off the parts of the cannabis plant that aren’t desirable for smoking. These trimmings are then collected for recycling. Some trimmers get to keep their trimmings as a part of their pay.
  3. Budtender
    Budtending is another entry level position that pretty much stoner with retail experience will qualify for. Budtender responsibilities vary. You may be bagging up in the morning, serving customers during the day, and doing inventory at night. Budtenders are compensated a bit more than trimmers are. People with social skills and enthusiasm for weed should look into applying for this position.
  4. Edibles Chef
    Pretty much anyone with cooking skills can easily learn to make marijuana-infused snacks. If you’ve got prior experience as a chef or cook, you may be qualified enough to make marijuana edibles. Chef pay varies but it’s usually above what budtenders and trimmers get paid since it requires a bit more experience.
  5. Glass and Vaporizer Merchant
    Although the glass industry has existed for well over a decade, it couldn’t openly capitalize on cannabis consumers. Now medical marijuana patients are entering shops looking for smoking and vaping devices for their medicine. Opening up shop in an area with many dispensaries could yield in high profits.
  6. Grow Master
    One of the highest paying and most in-demand jobs in the industry has to be the Grow Master. Growers are the staple of the whole industry and extractors/chefs/budtenders/trimmers will all have nothing to do without the cannabis itself. Employers might be looking for growers who have a bachelor’s degree in botany, horticulture, or agriculture.
  7. Reviewer
    This has to be one of the most glorious jobs one could have. You could get paid to try out and review different strains of marijuana. Some people do this for a living, some writing skills and experience with marijuana will definitely help you land this position.
  8. Store Manager
    The least a Store Manager will be seeing yearly in this industry is $75,000 a year. At stores that are making millions of dollar this can mean big bonuses. Managers who prove themselves might end up overseeing several locations and raking in the big bucks. Responsibilities are similar to a manager at any retail location. Many dispensary store managers get health insurance and vacation pay as well.

Featured image: AP PHOTO/BRENNAN LINSLEY

8 Things NOT to Do When Smoking Weed With Your Friends

8 Things NOT to Do When Smoking Weed With Your Friends

We all love to get together with our friends and pass around the cannabis, right? It promotes bonding, stimulates conversation, and it just makes everything better – food, music, movies, you name it.
But just like any other social activity, there’s etiquette to be observed; unspoken rules that must be followed so that everyone can enjoy the smoking session to the fullest. These are bound to vary from group to group and place to place, but I’ve put together what I think are the most universal cannabis “no-nos.”
Here is what NOT to do when getting high with your friends:

1. Stealing Lighters

If I had a nickel for every time my lighter went missing during a smoking session, I’d have shit load of nickels.
I get it. You’re stoned, zoned out, not paying attention, and there’s several different lighters being passed around… it’s easy to pocket someone else’s. (I’ve probably done it myself.) But it’s a definite buzz kill when you go to light up later on, and find that your trusty flame has disappeared.
So be aware, and make sure that lighter in your pocket is your own.

2. Torching The Bowl

When sharing a bowl with your friends, don’t hold your lighter over it until the whole thing is ablaze. It burns up the weed too fast, and the next person in line is gonna taste nothing but burnt herb. Just a touch of flame is all you need to get one edge burning. Save some green for the next guy – it’s common courtesy.

3. Never Throwing In

Let’s face it: nobody likes a mooch. We all know that guy who always wants to come over and smoke, even though he’s never got any weed of his own. Not cool. So whenever you get your hands on some good cannabis, remember your friends who smoked you up when you had none. Call ’em up, and return the favor.

4. Slobbering On The Joint

Don’t you hate it when you’re smoking with your friends, someone passes you the joint, and the end is all soaked in spit? It’s hard to hit because the tip keeps sealing closed. Not mention it’s just gross. Don’t drool on the joint. Just don’t.
This goes for pipes and other smoking accessories, too. No one wants someone else’s slobber on their glassware.

5. Holding The Joint Too Long

You know that guy who gets so caught up in the story that he’s telling that he forgets to pass the joint? And by the time he realizes it, the damn thing has gone out. So annoying!
But I have a confession to make: I am that guy. I’m sorry. I know it sucks, and I’m working on it. Really, I am. Don’t be like me. When it’s your turn, shut up and hit it. Pass it on, then you can finish your story. Okay?

6. Taking Too Many Hits

This is similar to holding the joint too long, only it’s less about being absent-minded and more about being a selfish, weed hogging jerk. You know the rule: “Puff, puff, pass.” Two puffs. Count ’em! Don’t try to sneak in a dozen hits every time it’s your turn. We see what you’re doing, and it’s not cool.

7. Smoking In Public

Just because cannabis is being decriminalized across the country, doesn’t mean you can get high whenever, wherever you want. Alcohol is legal, too. Getting drunk in the parking lot… not so much. Same goes with smoking and driving – don’t do it. Come on, we’re not in high school anymore. Smoke responsibly. Smoke at home.

8. DIY Pipes & Screens

And speaking of high school, remember making your own pipe out of a Pepsi can? Or a bong from a 2 liter bottle? Cutting a screen out of an old, rusty window screen? Yeah… it turns out that’s not such a good idea.
Aluminum, plastic, and other DIY materials can release toxic chemicals when exposed to high heat. So, you end up inhaling a lot more than just cannabis – and possibly doing real harm to your throat and lungs. So, unless you happen to be a professional glass blower, don’t make your own pipes. It’s just not worth it. Save up for a real piece. And in the meantime, go get some papers, and roll it up!
What did I miss? What are your weed smoking pet peeves? Tell us about it in the comments below!

Best Scientific Glass Bong Brands

Best Scientific Glass Bong Brands

With the ever-increasing popularity of marijuana, there are more and more bong brands popping up every day. How is the inexperienced or even experienced user supposed to pick a piece based on the name alone? Even online research on most bong brands will yield minimal amounts of information. The best way to find out is to try different brands out yourself or hear what others have to say about them. Scientific glass with percolators are hottest in 2016. According to research and user feedback we’ve compiled a list of the best scientific bong brands on the market today.
5. Grav Labs
When it comes to affordability and functionality grav labs is where its at. The company uses borosilicate glass just like the most legendary glass blowers in the game. The company has been in the game since 2004 and their designs are only getting more innovative as time goes on. If you’re looking for smoother hits without breaking the bank you should look into grav labs extensive selection. There are options for dry herbs and concentrates. They have water pipes for under $100 and some others that are about $300 for users seeking high quality functional glass.
4. Mobius
The stereo matrix percolator bong by Mobius glass is one of the best pieces for filtering smoke. The two matrix percolators offer tons of diffusion without too much drag. You’ll be able to rip this thing til you’re out of breath from how smooth the smoke will be. Many other companies have been attempting to replicate this design but none seem to pull it off like Mobius does. Mobius has other percolator designs that offer significant diffusion with less drag. So there’s something for every kind of smoker.
3. Sovereignty
Sovereignty has a variety of glass but they are kings when it comes to dry herb tubes. Old school tubes were a bitch to clear but the peyote pillar water pipe by Sovereignty Glass is about a foot tall and quite easy to clear. Smoke travels through a dry chamber then down through a tube in the center of the 12 glass pillar percs. The smoke is then diffused through a “peyote ball” percolator before being shot up through the pillars with water bubbles. After this the smoke and bubbles dance together at the top chamber before sending you the smoothest, milkiest hit you’ve ever taken. SG has other designs for smokers who rather focus on smoother or faster hits. If you’d like a balance of the two the Peyote Pillar is a fan favorite.
2. Toro
Toro glass has gained a significant fan base over the years. Based out of upstate NY, Toro has some of the freshest looking and nicest functioning pieces on the market. They have large tubes for dry herb smokers and smaller rigs for concentrate users. All of their glass is scientific looking with a toro label printed on. Toro’s come in a huge variety of colors and designs. Users looking for a concentrate with minimal drag that’s easy to pull for a long time might want a single macro, which only has 2 holes for diffusion. Concentrates don’t need to be diffused because you’re pretty much just getting THC or CBD and no added carcinogens when doing dabs so a smaller piece with less diffusion will do just fine. However, some people still find dabs too hot on their throats so Toro has designs like the jet percolator which diffuses heavier than a single mac for less hot hits.
1. Mothership Glass
Mothership Glass is the only company on the market to laser etch their logo and percolators. The expensive laser used to create these designs makes water pipes by mothership glass impossible to replicate. If you want a mothership piece you’re going to have to have over $1000 to spend. The company only makes a limited number of pieces so that collectors don’t see a decrease in the value of their mothership pieces. Most Mothership pieces feature a one or more seed of life percs which are 18 hole diffusers that heavily cool smoke or concentrate vapors before they reach your throat and lungs. The straight faberge, exosphere, ball rig, and faberge egg designs by Mothership Glass all turn the entire piece into a percolator. Mothership has some of the most innovative and best-functioning glass on the market. They have truly set the standard for high-end scientific glass.
image: Grav Labs/ Facebook

Best Video Games To Play While Stoned aircrewmanmurphy deviantart

Top 5 Video Games to Play while Stoned

The best games to play while high should be visually appealing and fun to play. Games that provide more creativity and freedom are perfect for a stoned audience. Depending on the strain you’re smoking and your mood, you might want a more casual game to play or a challenging adventure. We’ve compiled a list of recent games that would be perfectly paired with cannabis.

  1. No Man’s Sky
    No Man’s Sky has gone beyond the open-world game genre. It should be considered an open-universe RPG because you are free to explore the planets of the games various galaxies. Who doesn’t wish they could explore the depths of the universe when they’re high? No Man’s Sky provides this experience with stunning graphics and vibrant colors. The stoned eyes will surely appreciate the aesthetics and level of freedom they will have in their gaming experience. In NMS you can mine for items that can be used to repair spaceships. You can then use your spaceship to explore other planets and solar systems. Every player’s experience is different, you may find several uninhabited planets before you find one full of life. You may also find yourself being attacked by the inhabitants of other planets. Either way you’ll be in for a surprise when playing NMS. The game isn’t too challenging for heavily stoned players and the combat system is simple so you can just focus on exploring and upgrading your ship/gear.
  2. Minecraft
    Minecraft is a modern classic game that has captured the interests in children and adults alike. For the stoners craving a creative and adventurous outlet, this game definitely one to check out. Minecraft is a 3-dimensional block construction game with an added element of a virtual world. Everything in the Minecraft universe is made of blocks, but don’t be fooled by that description. Upon spawning in the game, the player will find him or herself immersed in a vast and stunning landscape that is completely made of blocks. Not to mention, the background music is ambient and calm. There are a variety of modes to play, but the top two especially for stoners would be the classic survival mode and the creative mode. Stoners looking for an adventurous challenge should choose survival mode. In this mode, players must manage their health and hunger to survive. To do this, they have to mine and collect resources, build structures, and battle various creatures such as zombies and skeleton archers. There are many possibilities on what a player can do, from taming animals to exploring the endless and various landscapes. Creative mode takes out the survival aspects and is perfect for the stoner who just wants to be creative without the pressure of surviving. The player’s inventory has unlimited materials to work with so mining is not necessary. Here the stoner can zone out and create anything, whether it is their dream abode or a pixel art structure of a video game character like Sonic the Hedgehog. Last but not least, the creative mode is a stoner favorite because it allows the player to fly, which makes building tall structures and travelling and exploring far distances easier.
  3. Don’t Starve Together
    Don’t starve together is a fun survival game that you can play with a friend after a sesh. Unfortunately, you’ll need two computers but it doesn’t take much to run this game. The game has overwhelmingly positive reviews and it can get quite scary. If you’ve ever watched a horror flick while high you’ll understand the appeal of this game. The goal of the game is to gather resources to craft items and structures that will help you survive various dangers, creatures and surprises. If no one is available you can still play the game alone. However, it’s much more fun to have someone just as stoned and into the game as you are to play with. This game is a little challenging because you die of starvation or worse if you don’t take the proper actions, so try not to get too high before playing.
  4. Witcher III
    Witcher 3 has to be one of the best and largest open-world RPG’s ever made. Open-world RPG’s like Skyrim give stoners the freedom to explore. In recent open-world RPGs you can also tailor the way the story unfolds. Witchers take paid contracts to exterminate monsters so if you feel like extending the games duration or just exploring what else the game has to offer you can go on monster hunts. You’re forced to play as the old white-haired witcher named “Geralt” but this gives you a character with a rich history. Most RPG’s let players create their own unique character but this leads to a lackluster story. Throughout the game’s story you’ll see glimpses of Geralt’s past. He develops a father-daughter relationship with a young girl he is mentoring named Ciri. These glimpses hint at why Geralt’s character is so passionate about saving Ciri during the games story.  There’s also tons of side quests you can go on for various rewards. It’s hard to get tired of this game there’s always something to do and you’re free to choose how to handle certain situations. For example, if you see someone being bullied or robbed you can mind your own business or violently intervene. They say smoking reveals your real self so smoke up and see what kind of decisions the real you will make. Consider it a form of self-reflection.
  5. Far Cry 4
    According to leafly, first-person shooters are a favorite among pot lovers. Far Cry 4 combines the first-person shooter experience with an open world. You’ll find yourself on an action-packed adventure on a fictional island. Even though it’s only one island there is a lot to be seen in Far Cry 4 and even more to be done. You can follow the main story line or you can help rebel forces liberate clocktowers, and outposts filled with armed enemies. How you choose to do this is up to the individual. You can liberate an outpost without alarming or killing anyone if you play stealthily enough. However, if you’re feeling impatient and particularly belligerent you can hover in from above with a rocket launcher and wipe all your enemies clean off the map. The choice is yours in Far Cry 4.

image credit: aircrewmanmurphy deviantart

Top 5 YouTube Stoner Vlogs

Weedtube: Top 5 YouTube Stoner Vlogs

Smoking at home by yourself can be less lonely with the help of Stoner Youtube vloggers. You can watch videos of them smoking and talking about weed-related topics while you spark a bowl of your own.
Here are five of our favorite Stoned Youtube Vloggers:

SilencedHippie
(Sasha)

SilencedHippie is a stoner chick who likes to go on stoned nature hikes. Along with her vlogs, you can find product and strain reviews on her page. She is 23 years old and a legal Rhode Island medical marijuana patient. The young hippie has got two plus years of experience making YouTube videos and her own tie-dye clothing business. She attends events like hempfest and hotboxes tents with bong hits. Her page is female friendly and she even hosts lady smoke seshes, pajama party seshes and more.
SilencedHippie has a turtle, cat, and 2 adorable english bull dogs named Dana and Teddy. They all pop up on her channel, snapchat, and Instagram. Following her can lead to free gifts and offers. She had a “12 days of Kushmas” giveaway during the holidaze. She also puts up discount codes for webshops and products. One of her goals is to “get the good word out” and “be a part of the positive side of cannabis and fighting for it to be legalized.”
Her username is SilencedHippie because at first she never showed her face due to a fear of what her friends and family might think of her habit. However, she wanted to share her enthusiasm and interest in weed with the world. She decided to keep the username because her channel grew in popularity and it ironically gave her a voice. Sasha is no longer afraid to show or be herself on camera.
Strain Central (Josh)
Strain central is a daily cannabis education and entertainment channel run by Josh from Washington State. Josh can be seen participating in smoke sessions and weed challenges on film. He also does strain reviews and live streams his stoned gaming on his twitch channel: straingaming. His youtube channel also features unboxing videos as well as product reviews. He’s quite energetic and speaks clearly for a stoned fellow, his channels definitely worth looking into.
Crutch 420 (Joe Kid)
Joe Kid from Denver Colorado started the Crutch 420 channel. Crutch 420 is an “18+ youtube channel designed to keep adults and cannabis users up to date with everything happening in the wide world of weed.” On his channel Joe kid can be seen telling smoking stories. He also does cannabis-related tutorials, interviews, news, and more.
Jane Dro
Jane Dro is a 40 year old medical cannabis patient and advocate. She considers herself a 420 lifestyle coach and is the mother of 2 young teens. She receives medical cannabis to treat her multiple sclerosis. Her channel features in-depth product reviews and her channel provides a “fun and respectable environment where people can learn, teach and discuss all things marijuana related.”
Kimmy Tan
Kimmy Tan is an eccentric tattooed deadlocked down to earth chill girl hailing from San Francisco, CA. She grew up in China and moved to the U.S. Kimmy Tan has been running her youtube channel since 2007. She’s gone from hair and makeup tutorials, to music videos, to a focus on weed vlogging. She is a medical patient who enjoys posting rolling tutorials, product reviews, unboxing videos and more. She’s got nearly 130,000 subscribers and she’s been making unique weed-related content for youtube viewers over the past two years. Did we mention she has a cat named dabs? She rolls insane joints/blunts that are huge in size, wrapped in wax, or rolled into crazy shapes. Her channel doesn’t only feature weed-related things although as of lately that’s been the main focus of her page.

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Most Legendary Functional Glass Artists

Functional glass artists attempt to work aesthetics into efficient smoking devices. The functional glass industry has been rising in popularity alongside the legalization of marijuana movement sweeping the nation. We’ve compiled a list of some of the most legendary functional glass artists in the glass blowing game.

  1. Banjo Glass
    Banjo has been blowing functional glass for the past 17 years. He became inspired by seeing the evolution of pipes. After seeing a dragon double bubbler he realized glass pipes were becoming an art form. He actually learned to blow glass from a 15 year old who was taught by the creator of the dragon double bubbler. He’s now one of the most renowned glass artists in the industry. When asked about his creative process he responded,
    “I typically start with an image that I have in mind and then try to imagine a way for air to travel through it, while keeping the volume of the vessels to an absolute minimum. Sometimes if it’s tricky, I’ll draw it out on paper so I can better visualize what in the piece needs to be hollow. For the most part, I prefer to construct everything out of solid components whenever possible, only involving hollow vessel work when absolutely necessary.”
    Banjo continues to blow glass and teach classes for aspiring glass artists.
  2. Joe P Glass
    Aged 32. Began by doing nonfunctional glass artwork until the market began to crash in 2008. After seeing the functional work of other glass artists like banjo, he decided to make the switch to creating functional art. Joe P has years of experience taking classes in Italy and learning to blow soft glass. He has said that he incorporates those experiences into his current work. Joe P has recently become popular in the world of hip hop after queens-based rapper Action Bronson purchased one of his pieces of functional art. Joe P has certainly entered legendary status and even a pendant made by him will cost you around $1,000. A solo piece will costs thousands of dollars and some of his collaborations sell for 5 figures. Many artists have an image they’re associated with, for Joe Peters it is his signature honey-drip design.
  3. Scott Deppe
    Scott Deppe is a part of the Mothership team, which is considered by many to be the most innovative and high-end water pipe company on the market. Scott Deppe has created some of the most expensive functional glass art pieces on the market. His collaborations have sold for more than $100,000.
  4. A Pipe Maker / AKM
    A Pike Maker also known as AKM is known for his skull design. His pendants and jammers are highly collectable. Shows featuring his work are often packed out. He was also awarded glass artist of the month by High Times magazine. In 2014, AKM won the People’s Choice award at the Champs Glass Games. He’s been blowing glass sine 1999 and now he’s becoming one of the legends in the glass blowing game.

    Other worthy mentions:
  5. Gray Glass / Scott Rosinski
    Mr. Gray Glass is known for his realistically scultped marijuana leaves. He recently collaborated with Scott Deppe to make a beautifully crafted oil rig hookah.
  1. Salt
    Salt is known for his unique and compelling creature designs. The majority of his pieces feature his signature realistic eyes and teeth. Salt has been a part of collaborations that are worth over $10,000 and even some of his solo work is priced that high. His latest solo pieces sell for well over $1000.
  1. Sagan Glass
    Sagan’s signature is to involve realistically sculpted moons. He once sent a glass pendant into space. He won up and coming artist of the year at a glass expo and also people’s choice at another glass art festival. A collaborative piece Sagan made with Mothership’s Scott Deppe sold for a little over $100,000 dollars. The glass game is getting serious!
  2. Elbo Glass
    Elbo is known for his functional dinosaur glass sculptures. His solo pieces sell for over $3000. He’s become even more popular after having a table of his work featured on rapper Action Bronson’s Ancient Aliens with friends show featured on VICELAND. The rapper can be seen on the dinosaur themed episode hitting several of Elbo’s pieces. The episode even kicks off with rapper Schoolboy Q ripping a collaborative piece between Elbo and the legendary Joe Peters.
  3. Ryno
    Known for his glass yellow ducky design, ryno tells stories with his sculptures. His sculptures are almost always duck themed but each one comes out different from the last. Some of his solo work has sold for around $10,000 and he’s gained a few awards over time. Ryno continues to grow in popularity and if you want any of his work you’d better get it before he gets even more popular.
  4. Coyle Condenser
    Coyle is known for his monkey and banana themed pieces of functional art. His solo pieces sell for thousands of dollars and his collaborations are closer to the $10,000 range.

image sources:
instagram.com/banjoglass/
instagram.com/joepglass

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5 Up and Coming Functional Glass Artists

The legalization of marijuana is hitting states across the United States and as a result new markets are being created. Functional glass art has been on the rise since 2009 with competitions showcasing the art of glass blowers. People are paying thousands of dollars for glass depending on the maker. Here is a list of some up and coming functional glass artists that have yet to reach legendary status:

  1. Danny Camp
    Danny Camp is a glass blower from Maine. He’s been known for his mummy rigs but more recently he’s shifted his focus on his “yung tut” design. His tuts come in different shapes and sizes. During the Ball Out Shelter show at the Witch Dr glass blowing studio/smoke shop, Danny had several recyclers and other tut designs on display. He also had some lady tuts, illustrating the ancient egyptian theme to his pieces. Danny has created his own colors of borosilicate glass including kennebec lagoon. He won 8th place in the Champs Trade Show this year which features the work of many up and coming glass artists. We look forward to seeing what Danny has in store for his next big drop. His solo pieces are in the thousand dollar range but the price is rising along with his popularity.
  2. Tymeone
    Tymeone’s theme seems to be big eared creatures. Most notably is his Fox design but he also makes goblins, mice and other big eared creatures. Recently he’s been sandblasting his work for a nice matte finish. Tymeone works with color changing glass and blends colors together to make unique pieces of functional art. Tymeone’s solo work sells for thousands of dollars.
  3. RJ
    RJ Glass is one of the most creative up and coming glass blowers. His pieces usually feature birds but each one appears to be different from the last. He blends colors masterfully and doesn’t skimp on the function. He’s made recyclers, tubes, full figured bird rigs and more. Each of his pieces appears to be uniquely inspired. Clouds and birds are the two symbols most prevalent in his work. He often puts recently made pieces up for sale on his instagram account. His solo work ranges from one thousand to thousands of dollars. RJ glass is only getting better at what he’s doing and his work will likely increase in value over time.
  4. Vibe
    Vibe glass is known for his bunny design. He makes bunny jammers that closely resemble the skull jammers made by AKM. He also makes full figure bunnies and has illustrated his bunny sculpting mastery. Vibe recently had a show featuring his work at a smoke shop in New York. Guests lined up to look at his latest designs and to have their previously purchased bunnies signed by their maker. With a solo show under his belt and thousands of followers, Vibe glass is an up and coming glass blower to keep your eye on.
  5. Chaka
    Chaka is also known as “the ice man” and there’s a good reason for it. He is known for his ice-themed sculptures. Ice and penguins are the two symbols that present themselves the most in his work. He works with UV-reactive glass to make full figure penguins and more. Chaka makes penguin dabbers and ice cube pendants for cool kids. His work is nearing the thousand dollar range and it’s been steadily increasing as he masters his craft.These are just a few of the rising functional glass artists we think you should keep your eye on. Is there anyone we missed?

image credit: Dannycampglass / instagram

Marijuana Business

A Packed Bowl Of 10 Great Cannabusinesses

When it comes to the cannabis industry aka the Green Rush that is sweeping the United States and countries around the world, it is one that is offering a new financial stability for those who previously would not have had the opportunity. When entering into the cannabis industry, there are many different marijuana businesses that you can get in to. Here are ten suggestions on marijuana businesses that you may want to invest in or start up yourself.

  1. A marijuana dispensary is probably one of the most lucrative sides of the cannabis industry. However, it also requires the most initial start-up funds to get into out of any of the cannabis businesses.
  2. A marijuana growing operation or facility is another lucrative business in the green industry. These facilities much like dispensaries require large amounts of funding and capital to start up but optimally return great rewards. More than money is necessary to successfully run a grow operation. You will need a team of experienced breeders, growers, and geneticists.
  3. A cannabis testing facility is essentially a must for businesses that are compliant with state, laws, and regulations. A testing facility is one of the most expensive endeavors in the Cannabis industry if not the most expensive. Not only do you need all of the scientific equipment and a location you also have to have a team of scientists and much more.
  4. A cannabis clothing business is a line of business that is more practical for many people. An idea for a fashionable design that will be trendsetting can lead to financial success in the cannabis industry. This type of business often does not require an excessive amount of capital to start up there for is a more valid option for those looking for entry into the marijuana industry without a huge initial investment.
  5. Marijuana transportation services such as limousines that cater to business and recreational events offer business owners endless potential. There is also transportation services for medical marijuana as well as services for dispensary and grow operations that can be quite lucrative.
  6. Marijuana security services is an area that an individual with any form of security backgrounds such as military, law enforcement, or private investigator can enter into. The investment necessary is based upon the services being offered. Many times there is little to no investment for simple security services. Alarm systems, security monitoring equipment, and software are all areas in which anyone with the right knowledge can excel in by owning a business that caters to the cannabis industry.
  7. Cannabis entertainment is a great way to bring in income. Whether you are the talented one or have the ability to put together a talented team of entertainers for cannabis events, expos, and functions the possibility for financial success is endless. Entertainment comes in the forms of event planning and hosting of successful parties and functions as well. Many times an individual with the proper connections can start a business providing cannabis entertainment with little to no initial investment other than hard work and dedication.
  8. Cannabis wedding event planner is an area of business that has seen substantial growth since the legalization of marijuana in 2012 in the state of Colorado. In the last year, cannabis-themed weddings have become one of the hottest new trends. This is a business that you could own, and you can help make people happy on one of the happiest days of their lives.
  9. Social media content curator is a highly desired service that many cannabis businesses are looking for. Having a powerful social media presence is essential for any business that is striving for success in the blooming fast growing marijuana industry.
  10. Cannabis industry consulting is an area of business that is needed for those who have the initial funds to invest in the cannabis industry but lack the knowledge. There are many people who have lived the cannabis lifestyle their entire lives and know the ins and outs of marijuana. These individuals can be influential and beneficial to your business in every way from helping to establish trends to making the necessary connections needed to succeed in this industry.

These are ten ideas of great cannabis businesses that are meant to spark inspiration and creativity in your mind. With dedication, hard work, and perseverance, a successful cannabis business is achievable by anyone who sets out to accomplish this task.

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15 Most Popular Cannabis Strains

Have you ever wondered what the most popular cannabis strains are? The best of the best. What the cannabis connoisseurs are smoking.
Well, wonder no more! Feast your eyes on 15 of the most legendary, most potent, most aromatic and delicious cannabis strains on the planet:

1. Blue Dream

blue dream
Blue Dream has been named the most popular strain in the U.S., for a variety of reasons — it’s easy to find, easy to grow, yields an abundant crop, etc. But the biggest reason why it’s so well loved, is that it is a pure delight to smoke. This sativa-dominant strain is a cross between the popular Blueberry and Haze strains. The result is an extremely balanced, berry-scented bud, which offers the best of both worlds: the body high and symptom relief of an indica, and the uplifting and euphoric effects characteristic of a strong sativa.

2. OG Kush

OG Kush
OG Kush is the common ancestor of many, if not most, of the most popular West Coast strains — including several on this list. It’s been around for more than 20 years, and yet it continues to be a favorite. It’s lineage is uncertain, but most believe it to be a cross between the Chemdawg and Hindu Kush strains. The result is an intoxicating hybrid with a strong earthy and piney scent, that delivers an intense, euphoric and relaxing high.

3. Girl Scout Cookies

girl scout cookies
This cross between Durban Poison (one of the few remaining strains of pure sativa) and OG Kush is not for lightweights. It has a sweet, earthy, often minty aroma, and some of the highest THC levels around. One hit will have soaring on an intense, cerebral high, that can result in anxiety — even paranoia — if you’re not careful or experienced. But manage your dosage, your set and setting, and you should enjoy the ride.

4. Banana Kush

banana kush
This is an indica-dominant hybrid, born from the combination of Ghost OG and Skunk Haze. Easily recognized by it’s fruity, banana scent and flavor, it also delivers maximum euphoria and relaxation. A great choice for those dealing with stress and/or depression, this strain is sure to mellow you out and put a smile on your face.

5. AK-47

ak47
This award winning creation from Serious Seeds is a sativa-dominant mix of several different cannabis strains from around the world. The result is pungent, earthy and slightly sweet, while packing an uplifting and long lasting head high that will have you alert, creative and energized. But don’t let the scary-sounding name fool you; this bud is known for having pleasant, happy and relaxing effects.

6. “Green Crack”

green crack
Originally known as Cush (with a “C”), this strain was dubbed Green Crack by none other than Snoop Dogg. Descended from Skunk #1, this sativa-dominant hybrid has a hoppy, citrus taste and aroma. And as the name suggests, it delivers a powerful, energizing mental high that makes you intensely alert and focused.

7. Strawberry Cough

strawberry cough
As you might have guessed, Strawberry Cough is most famous for the powerful taste and aroma of fresh strawberries. And while it is both a smooth and delicious smoke, it’s also known for an expanding sensation that tickles the lungs, that can wring a cough out of even the most seasoned smoker. This sativa-dominant hybrid delivers an uplifting and euphoric high, that is sure to leave you satisfied.

8. Flo

flo
One of the most popular strains in the Colorado markets, Flo is a cross between Purple Thai (a potent sativa) and Afghani Indica — and offers the perfect blend of the two. Known for it’s purple coloration and sweet, piney scent, and loved for it’s light, pleasant and bubbly high. This is a true “feel good” bud, not at all heavy. Just pure relaxation, and gentle, uplifting euphoria… you can’t help but love it.

9. MK Ultra

mk ultra
Named after the covert mind control project of the CIA, this potent indica-dominant hybrid has been called hypnotic and mind bending. Bred from OG Kush and G-13, this is one of the strongest cannabis strains in the world, period. These dank, sticky buds will leave you laid out on the couch, super relaxed yet flying on an intense, cerebral high. Best not make plans to go out anytime soon.

10. Grand Daddy Purp

GDP
A West Cost classic, Granddaddy Purple (or GDP) is a heavy, indica hybrid that’s a cross between the famous Purple Urkle and Big Bud. It has distinctive color, and grape and berry scent characteristic of it’s parent. It also delivers one of the most powerful, relaxing body highs of any indica out there, combined with an intense cerebral high as well.

11. Trainwreck

trainwreck
This popular strain from northern California is one of the hardest hitting sativa hybrids on the market. It has a spicy pine and lemon scent, and is famous for it’s extreme, high energy head high, characterized by intense euphoria, creativity, time distortion, and overall blissed-out happiness.

12. Sour Diesel

sour diesel
Another classic hybrid, Sour Diesel has been around since the 90s. This strong and skunky sativa dominant strain gets it’s name from it’s aroma: the dank and pungent smell of diesel fuel. It also packs an intense, cerebral high that comes on fast and strong. Uplifting, energizing, and mind-expanding… it’s no wonder this strain has such enduring popularity and legendary status.

13. Golden Goat

golden goat
This popular was created by accident, the story goes, by the unintended crossing of a Hawaiian sativa with Sweet Island Skunk. The result is complex, in scent, flavor and effects. Simultaneously sweet, sour and spicy, with a tropical citrus taste, and a full body high that is both uplifting and relaxing, happy and euphoric and altogether pleasant and enjoyable.

14. Skywalker OG

skywalker OG
This cross between Skywalker and OG Kush is an indica-dominant hybrid, with the pungent, earthy, spicy scent characteristic of most kush strains. The effects are extremely relaxing, with a powerful body high and pleasant numbing, tingling sensation from head to toe. But there is also a good head buzz, that hits you right away. The perfect bud for when you just want chill, relax, and drift off while listening to some good music.

15. Bruce Banner

bruce banner no. 3
Named after the incredible Hulk, this cross between OG Kush and Strawberry Diesel can be found in at least 3 different varieties. It’s known for a sweet and pungent aroma, skunky diesel with berry undertones. It also gives an instant, energizing, cerebral high that is pleasant and euphoric — if a bit short on duration. But that can be a good thing, sometimes.
 
Well, there you have it! Have you tried any of these strains? What did you think? Did we miss any of your favorites? Tell us all about it in the comments below.
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