Alaska’s first recreational marijuana dispensary opened to the public over the weekend, almost two years after Alaskans voted to legalize adult-use marijuana.
Herbal Outfitters, located in Valdez, opened its doors to a line of excited customers, reports ADN.com. Michael Holcombe, the dispensary’s first customer, said “I’ve been waiting 46 years for this to open!” Holcombe purchased 5 grams for $145.65.
“I really feel honored to be the first cannabis shop open in Alaska,” said Rick Ballow, owner of Herbal Outfitters.
Ballow and his family were living in Arizona when Alaska legalized recreational marijuana in 2014. He knew immediately that he wanted to return to Valdez to open a dispensary.
Herbal Outfitters sells marijuana strains from two cultivation companies: Greatland Ganja and Green Rush Gardens. A gram costs about $20.
More recreational marijuana dispensaries in Alaska plan to open soon. Frozen Budz and Pakalolo Supply, both in Fairbanks, plan to open this week. Arctic Herbery in Anchorage plans to open within a couple weeks.
Photo: adn.com