Power couple fusing cannabis and cuisine

Power couple fusing cannabis and cuisine

Written By: Rocky Brown

(BINGHAMTON, N.Y.) She’s one of the area's most accomplished culinarians. He’s one of Broome County’s favorite DJs following last year’s Binghamton Black Excellence Awards. Now the local power couple that is Kizzy-Ann Short and Reggie Leaver have put their talents together to launch a new cannabis business they call Love, Peace and Haze.

The couple said the idea for LPH came about during the Covid-19 pandemic, following a rise of people turning to THC and CBD products to self-medicate and deal with the lockdown.

“Due to the dangers and rise of fentanyl, people who had never entertained the idea of smoking, including those into harder recreational drugs, started smoking weed as a safer alternative,” Leaver said.

There was a series of setbacks for local cannabis shop owners following New York’s legalization of recreational marijuana in 2021. Earlier this year, state regulators expanded the market opportunities to offset the hiccups, leading to a significant influx of dispensaries across the state, Broome County included.

A fusion of Short and Leaver’s talents has made LPH a cut above the rest. Combining their social and culinary skills, they are able to offer not only top tier flower, but also edible options ranging from macaroons to chewing gum.

“Our products are designed to put you at ease and to ensure a great experience,” Leaver said. “Love, Peace and Haze aims to make every day a little more tolerable for each of us. An experience and overall lifestyle is what we aim to sell.”

The company held a soft launch party at The Outlet Bar and Lounge in Endicott on December 1. Guests were treated to a glass of wine before experiencing an extensive menu of cannabis-infused cuisine. Even the salad dressings and desserts were infused with Love, Peace and Haze.

Short said the goals of their business are to expand with more cannabis-friendly events and an eventual brick and mortar location.

Until then, their products can be purchased by contacting Short or Leaver personally on Facebook.

In addition to her work as a VNN Journalist, Rocky Brown is also part owner of The Outlet Bar and Lounge, a venue mentioned in the story above.

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