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The Best Cocktails To Get You Through The Week

The new year is starting with a bang – here are some cocktails to take off the edge.

The new year is coming in hot – back to work policies, the LA fires, snowstorms and just having to work is killing the 2025 start buzz.  Now drinking your problems away isn’t a good or healthy solution, but sometimes a nip of something does help. January is already known as a bit of depressing month due to the post-holiday blues, cold weather, shorter daylight hours, and the potential for increased financial stress after the holiday spree. Here are the best cocktails to get you through the week.

RELATED: Fitting Marijuana Into Your Winter Arc Routine

Paloma

What better way to start the year with a semi healthy drink. The Paloma with tequila and juice is somewhat healthy. Good tequila is low calorie, low body impact coupled with a big dose of vitamin C helps make the dark days a little brighter.

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces tequila
  • 1/2 ounce lime juice, freshly squeezed
  • 4 ounces Grapefruit soda, chilled, to top
  • Pinch of salt
  • Garnish: lime wheel

Create

  1. Add the tequila, lime juice, and pinch of salt to the glass, and fill with ice.
  2. Top with grapefruit soda, and stir briefly and gently to combine.
  3. Garnish with a lime wheel.

The Spaghett

While beer drinking is down as people switch to California sober, it is still highly popular. Why  now merge it with a favorite (Aperol Spritz and beer) for a refreshing and low alcohol treat?  Try it, you will like it.

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces light beer, such as Miller High Life
  • 1 ounce Campari

Create

  1. Take a big sip of chilled beer, about 1 ounce
  2. Pour campari into beer bottle
  3. Enjoy

Cucumber Cleanse

While friends talk about Dry January, Damp January, winter arc, and more – you can brag you are doing a cleanse. The lemon and cayenne juice cleanse is popular, you are just adding a lpersonal twist so it fits into happy hour or a tailgate. For the ginger syrup add 4 oz peeled while making simply syrup ginger and let it steep for 30 minutes.  Strain and use.

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces Absolut vodka
  • 3/4 ounce fresh cucumber juice
  • 1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 ounce ginger syrup
  • 1/4 ounce honey
  • 1 egg white
  • Dash of ground cayenne

Create

  1. Add all ingredients into a shaker and dry-shake (without ice) until frothy
  2. Add ice and shake again until well-chilled
  3. Strain into a cocktail glass
  4. Garnish with a sprinkle of ground cayenne

RELATED: Rainy Weather Cocktails

Dirty Shirley

Like the actress, the Shirley Temple cocktail was sweet, wholesome and popular.  But why not have the adult version of the beverage to start the year out breaking the norms?

Ingredients

  • 2 ozs gin
  • 1/2 oz orange juice
  • 1/2 oz lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon grenadine
  • Orange slice

Create

  1. Combine all ingredients in a shake with ice
  2. Shake vigorously
  3. Strain into martini glass
  4. Garnish orange slice

 

DoorDash Will Bring You THC

DoorDash announced they will be delivering hemp THC and CBD!

In exciting news to every busy or lazy person out there, DoorDash will bring you THC. Yes, the popular food delivery platform, has expanded its offerings to include hemp-derived products in select markets, marking a significant shift in the on-demand delivery landscape. As of January 9, 2025, customers of legal age can now order a variety of hemp-derived THC and CBD products directly to their doorstep. Hemp is gaining in popularity and starting to pop up in liquor and convenience stores.

RELATED: Marijuana Users Gain Less Weight Than Non-Users

This new category includes items such as gummies, drinks, mints, chocolates, and honey sticks, all containing no more than 0.3% Delta-9 THC on a dry weight basis. The move comes in response to growing consumer demand for these products, with nearly 75% of adults aged 21-65 considering incorporating THC/ CBD products into their routine for relaxation and stress relief.

Photo by manish panghal via Unsplash

To access these products, eligible customers can simply select the CBD/THC tab in the DoorDash app, where they can browse and order from a selection of hemp-derived beverages, topicals, and edibles.

The company has implemented multiple safeguards, including electronic ID verification, to ensure that only customers of legal age can purchase these products. DoorDash is offering these products through various channels, including their own fulfillment platform, DashMart, as well as partnering with retailers like Total Wine & More and ABC Fine Wine & Spirits. This expansion allows DoorDash to tap into a growing market while providing consumers with convenient access to products they desire for relaxation and enjoyment.
This move by DoorDash reflects a broader trend in the delivery industry, as companies explore new product categories to meet evolving consumer preferences. However, it’s crucial to understand that these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration for safety or efficacy.
As the market for hemp-derived products continues to grow, DoorDash’s entry into this space could potentially reshape the landscape of on-demand delivery services. It remains to be seen how this new offering will impact the company’s business and consumer behavior in the long term.

It’s important to note that while DoorDash is expanding into hemp-derived products, they are not delivering marijuana. The company is operating within the legal framework of the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp-derived products containing no more than 0.3% Delta-9 THC. Several key marijuana beverage and edible companies like Wana Brands have rolled out hemp products to expand their selection and to available in most states.

What And Who Are Today’s Marijuana Prohibitionists

As a new federal administration starts to take place…who are the Prohibitionists against cannabis?

House Speaker Mike Johnson is one of the leading ones in the country along with Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM) group. While prohibiting things have generally not gone well in the country, some people are hard core to restrict what others can do. These types have been around since the 14th century. The word prohibition originally meant “the act of prohibiting by authority”. The word prohibitionist was first recorded in 1830. A prohibitionist is a person who supports or advocates for prohibition, which is the act of officially not allowing something, especially the sale of alcohol in the the United States during the 1920s. So what and who are today’s marijuana prohibitionists?

Marijuana prohibitionists are individuals, organizations, and government entities that oppose the legalization and use of cannabis. They advocate for strict laws and enforcement against marijuana cultivation, possession, and consumption. While almost 90% of those of age in the in country support marijuana legalization, this minority feels they should be allowed to decide.

Related: Cannabis Can Help You With Stress

The roots of marijuana prohibition in the United States can be traced back to the 1930s. Harry J. Anslinger, who headed the U.S. Treasury Department’s Narcotics Bureau from 1930 to 1962, played a pivotal role in criminalizing marijuana. Initially opposed to federal legislation against marijuana, Anslinger later capitalized on public fears and lobbied for the Marijuana Tax Act of 1937.

So who are some of the marijuana prohibitionists today? The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is in a legal mess and they have broken protocol and possible laws n their approach to rescheduling cannabis. Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA) and Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM) are part of the same mess. Also the National Institute on Drug Abuse, Drug Free America Foundation and Partnership for Drug-Free Kids and the Heritage Foundation..  In elected office there is Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, Nebraska Attorney General Mike HIlgers, Senator Mitch McConnell and some of the new administration nominees.

Tactics used include lobbying against legalization bills with no factual information, supporting anti-cannabis public service announcements an advocating for maintaining marijuana’s Schedule I status.

As public opinion shifts and more states legalize marijuana for medical or recreational use, the influence of prohibitionists has waned. Except for a group of older, traditional law and policy makers. They continue to play a significant role in shaping drug policy debates at both state and federal levels.

How The LA Fires Will Effect Cannabis Crops

It is devastating to Los Angeles and everyone in and around it – and it is going to hurt small mom and pop businesses including those in cannabis.

Los Angeles is one of the pillars of the cannabis industry with one of the largest concentration of sales and some of the most important grows within 200 miles of downtown LA. And like the residents of the City of Angels, they are effected by the horrific fires which have suddenly engulfed the area. The Palisades Fire, the largest of four life-threatening wildfires currently wreaking havoc across the county, alone is expected to be the costliest wildfire in history, according to Daniel Swain, climate scientist at the University of California, Los Angeles. It has burned more than 3,000 acres and numerous homes, businesses and landmarks in Pacific Palisades. But long term, it is going to damage the region. Here is how the LA fires will effect cannabis crops.

Wildfire smoke can have significant and complex effects on crops, including cannabis, with both negative and positive impacts depending on various factors. Smoke from wildfires primarily affects crops by reducing sunlight availability, which is crucial for photosynthesis.

This reduction in light can lead to stunted growth, lower yields, and decreased nutritional quality in many crops. For cannabis, smoke exposure can cause substantial crop losses, with some estimates suggesting potential statewide production losses exceeding 25% in a single year.

The impact of smoke on cannabis is particularly severe compared to other crops in California. Cannabis agriculture is geographically more threatened by wildfire than any other agricultural crop in the state. This vulnerability has led to significant economic losses, with potential damages estimated at $1.44 billion in 2020 and $970.04 million in 2021. Wildfire smoke can also increase ground-level ozone, which is harmful to both human health and crop growth. Ozone can damage plant tissue during respiration, affecting both corn and soybeans. In corn, this may lead to the remobilization of carbohydrates from stalks to satisfy grain fill requirements, potentially increasing the risk of weak stalks and lodging before harvest.
Another key issue is insurance. Jesse Redmond, Managing Director of Water Tower Research expressed his concern. “Wildfires highlight the ongoing insurance crisis within the cannabis industry. Due to the federal status of cannabis, many growers remain underinsured or entirely uninsured, leaving them without financial recourse in the event of crop or facility destruction” Redmond shared

The impact of smoke varies among different crops:

  • Cannabis: Highly susceptible to smoke damage, with significant economic losses reported.
  • Corn: More affected by light reduction than soybeans due to its C4 photosynthesis and higher light saturation point.
  • Potatoes: Can experience black flecking on recently emerged leaves.
  • Watermelons: May show premature chlorosis on older leaves and develop brown or black spots with white patches.
  • Squash and pumpkins: Can experience yellowing of older interior or crown leaves.

The damage from this fire will impact the lives, businesses and crops of the region for years to come.

Greenland And Cannabis

Here is the skinny on the world’s largest island’s approach to legal cannabis.

People are chatting about the country right now, but what Greenland and cannabis? It is the world’s largest island and ruled by the Danish King. It is a self-governing territory of Denmark, but remains politically tied to the European country especially around currency, defense and foreign affairs. In Denmark, recreational use of cannabis is illegal, but medical use is permitted through a pilot program that began in 2018. The sale and use of cannabis is also tolerated in the Freetown Christiania neighborhood of Copenhagen.  The government revealed they could be open to expanding into a legal market in late 2023.

RELATED: Cannabis Can Help With Holiday Stomach Issues

Greenland is part of a European monarchy but is closer to North America.  Their nearest neighbors to the west of them, Canada and the United States both have some form of legal marijuana for over 50% of their population. But there is a tough history with Greenland and cannabis. Currently, cannabis is illegal on the island and less than 20% of the country consumes.  Excessive alcohol use is a big concern in the country.

icebergs on body of water under blue and white sky at daytime

Greenland has had an issue with marijuana use abuse with young people and recently announced a bold move towards a progressive drug policy. They are Greenland is exploring innovative approaches to address youth cannabis use, signaling a potential shift towards more comprehensive strategies. This Arctic nation, known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is now gaining attention for its forward-thinking approach.
Greenland’s government agency Allorfik has commissioned a groundbreaking project to explore effective service delivery models for combating youth cannabis use. This initiative demonstrates Greenland’s commitment to evidence-based solutions and public health-oriented approaches, rather than punitive measures that have proven ineffective in many parts of the world.

RELATED: The Most Popular Marijuana Flavors

Greenland’s efforts align with a growing global trend towards more nuanced and health-focused cannabis policies. As many countries and move towards legalization or decriminalization, there’s an increasing recognition of the need for thoughtful regulation and public health measures.

Golden Globe Winner Hacks Treats Marijuana Like Normal

Some people take New Year New You to a different level – here is what you should know about cannabis and plastic surgery.

The annual Golden Globes award ceremony was held Sunday night and among the winners were cannabis. Held since 1944 to honor artists, writers and other creatives, it celebrates film, television and streaming. Founded by the Foreign Press Association, it is now run by the Golden Globe Foundation. This year, in a nod to the mainstream acceptance, Golden Globe winner Hacks treats marijuana like normal, making it an unacknowledged winner. The show, lead by the talented Jean Smart, is clever, witty and takes the mundane and is laugh out loud funny.

The HBO Max series offers a nuanced portrayal of marijuana use within its comedic narrative, reflecting evolving attitudes towards cannabis in contemporary television. The show has been cutting edge and pushed both stars into the limelight with their witty jokes and strong plot lines.

In “Hacks,” marijuana serves as a tool for character development, particularly for Ava Daniels, played by Hannah Einbinder. Ava’s cannabis use is presented as part of her lifestyle, contributing to her characterization as a young, somewhat stereotypical twenty-something writer. This portrayal aligns with Einbinder’s real-life experiences, as she has openly discussed using marijuana in her youth to counteract the effects of ADHD medication.

The show cleverly uses marijuana to highlight generational differences between Ava and Deborah Vance, played by Jean Smart. While Ava’s casual attitude towards cannabis use is representative of younger generations, Deborah’s reactions provide insight into older perspectives on the drug. This contrast serves to underscore the generational conflicts and evolution central to the show’s premise. Today, even the AARP support marijuana use.

“Hacks” incorporates marijuana into its storylines with a sense of normalcy, often using it as a source of humor. For instance, Deborah questions Ava about room service charges, revealing Ava’s marijuana-induced munchies. This approach to depicting cannabis use aligns with a broader trend in television, where marijuana is increasingly being written into storylines of both dramas and comedies.

The show also touches on the medical aspects of marijuana use. In one episode, Ava discloses her marijuana use to an ER doctor, alongside other substances. This scene, while played for laughs, subtly acknowledges the growing acceptance of marijuana as a topic of open discussion in medical settings

By incorporating marijuana into its narrative without heavy-handed moralizing, “Hacks” reflects the changing attitudes towards cannabis in society and media. This approach contrasts sharply with earlier television depictions of marijuana, which often portrayed it in a negative light or as the subject of “very special episodes”.
“I have a cast and crew that were sent from heaven, especially my costar, Hannah Einbinder,” Smart said while accepting the award for best performance by a female actor in a television series

Justin Trudeau’s Long Involvement With Cannabis

After 15 years as Prime Minister, he is stepping down…here is a look back on Justin Trudeau’s long involvement with cannabis.

Justin Trudeau’s journey with cannabis legalization in Canada is a story of personal experience, political conviction, and transformative policy-making. As the son of former Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, Justin’s perspective on marijuana was shaped by a family incident involving his younger brother Michel. In 1998, Michel Trudeau was caught with marijuana during a traffic stop. Thanks to their father’s connections and resources, the charges were dropped.

This event highlighted the inequalities in Canada’s drug laws, where those with means could avoid consequences while others faced criminal records. Justin Trudeau later reflected on this, stating, “That’s one of the fundamental unfairnesses of this current system is that it affects different communities in a different way”.

RELATED: Marijuana Users Gain Less Weight Than Non-Users

Trudeau’s personal history with cannabis extends beyond family experiences. In 2013, he admitted to smoking marijuana at a dinner party in his Montreal home in 2008, after he had already been elected as a Member of Parliament. In a sign of changing norms,
the admission, while controversial, did not significantly impact his political career.

As Liberal Party leader, Trudeau campaigned on a platform of cannabis legalization during the 2015 federal election. His approach focused on regulation and harm reduction rather than economic benefits. Trudeau emphasized two main goals: minimizing underage access to marijuana and reducing criminal activity surrounding illegal marijuana trade.
After winning the election, Trudeau’s government took concrete steps towards legalization. In 2016, a task force was created to explore the issue. The following year, the Cannabis Act was introduced in Parliament, allowing for the sale and possession of up to an ounce of marijuana for anyone over.
On October 17, 2018, Canada became the second country in the world, after Uruguay, to legalize recreational cannabis nationwide. This move was seen as a bold reform, distinguishing Trudeau’s administration from previous governments. The legalization process wasn’t without challenges. Provinces were given significant responsibility for regulating sales, leading to some friction with the federal government .Additionally, Trudeau faced criticism from both supporters and opponents of legalization.

Following legalization, Trudeau’s government announced plans to create a simplified, free process for pardoning individuals with simple possession records. This move aimed to address the historical inequities in cannabis law enforcement.Trudeau’s approach to cannabis legalization reflects a combination of personal experience, pragmatic policy-making, and a commitment to social justice. By moving from prohibition to regulation, Canada under Trudeau’s leadership has embarked on a significant social and legal experiment, the results of which continue to unfold.

As Trudeau ends one chapter and starts another, he will continue to be a champion of cannabis.

Sherry Is Becoming A Thing Again

Once seen only in black and white movies, sherry has now become a star in the craft cocktail scene.

Once seen only in black and white movies, sherry is becoming a thing again. From the fortified wine from Spain’s Jerez region, it is experiencing a renaissance in North America, particularly among younger consumers and wine enthusiasts. This resurgence is reshaping the perception of sherry and driving growth in the market.

RELATED: Marijuana Users Gain Less Weight Than Non-Users

The traditional image of sherry as a drink for older generations is rapidly changing. Young people in the US are increasingly embracing sherry, with consumption on the rise. This shift is particularly evident in the on-trade sector, where sherry’s popularity is growing in tandem with the increasing number of tapas bars and improved knowledge among sommeliers and restaurateurs.
The sherry wine market is showing promising signs of growth. Projections indicate a growth rate of 10.2% from 2025 to 2030. This growth is attributed to various factors, including the increasing popularity of sherry as an accompaniment to meals and its perceived health benefits.

While sweet sherries have long dominated the US market, there’s a growing interest in dry styles among younger consumers. This trend is part of a broader shift in consumption patterns, with drinkers becoming more adventurous and seeking out diverse flavor profiles. The movement towards dry sherries is seen as a positive development for the category’s long-term prospects.

Sherry’s versatility in food pairing is attracting attention from sommeliers and food enthusiasts. Plus, with the continued raise of craft beverage, sherry has been a rising star in cocktail scene, introducing it to a new audience of mixology enthusiasts.

The perceived health benefits of sherry is also buzzing as Gen Z and younger Millennials are switching to less harmful products. This gave rise to the California Sober movement. Sherry contains antioxidants called polyphenols that may help control cholesterol levels. Polyphenols may prevent the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), which is associated with heart disease. Sherry may also increase the body’s production of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, which is associated with longevity and a decreased risk of coronary artery disease.

If you want to try sherry, here are some tips. The correct way depends on the type: dry sherries like Fino and Manzanilla should be served chilled in a small glass, while sweeter sherries like Pedro Ximénez can be enjoyed at room temperature or slightly warmed;generally, a white wine glass is preferred to fully appreciate the flavors, and it’s best to serve sherry with food, particularly tapas for drier styles and richer dishes for sweeter options.

Chef Justin Khanna has worked in some of the top restaurants in the world and keeps his fingers are trends shared “Enjoying a well-made Sherry with food feels like spending time with most interesting person at a party. The versatility too makes it a stand-out as an ingredient in a cocktail, featured as part of a wine pairing in a tasting menu, or simply sipped over ice at the start of a meal. It’s high time that Sherry gets a rise in popularity, especially without the hefty price tag of other spirits.”

Can Cannabis Help Your Dry January

Dry January is increasing popular, but can cannabis help make it not seem so long?

Since it premiered in 2013 in the UK, it has grown increasingly popular. It received a boast  after the covid pandemic when alcohol consumption and sales increased exponentially. The trend has stuck around though, thanks to younger generations. Alcoholhelp.com says 35% of Gen-Z aged 21-24 practiced Dry January in 2024.  While it is known alcohol it is not healthy, taking a 31 day break can be difficult. Can cannabis help your Dry January?

RELATED: Marijuana Users Gain Less Weight Than Non-Users

Cannabis can serve as an effective substitute for alcohol during the month, providing relaxation and social lubrication without the negative impacts associated with drinking. Many individuals find that cannabis helps them unwind after a long day, much like how they might have previously used alcohol.  Oils, gummies, and vapes tend to be the healthiest options to avoid lung damage or extra pounds.  Microdosing has become increasingly popular also.
The US Is About To Be Sandwiched Between Two Countries With Legal Weed — Is It Next?
Photo by Carol Yepes/Getty Images

For those experiencing alcohol cravings during Dry January, cannabis may help. It can assist in managing withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety and nausea, making the transition to sobriety more manageable. While some may worry you are trading bad habits, marijuana’s effect on the body is less damaging.

Cannabis, particularly strains high in CBD, can offer a sense of relaxation similar to alcohol but without many of the adverse effects. It’s a natural way to de-stress and wind down, helping participants navigate the challenges of abstaining from alcohol..

RELATED: Holiday Hangover? Here’s How To Stop It Before It Strikes

Cannabis can enhance social interactions without the negative impacts of alcohol. Some strains can provide an energy boost and mental clarity, helping users navigate social events more comfortablyCannabis and hemp are great substitutes for house parties or on a Friday night. These products come in various flavors and can provide a refreshing experience without compromising on taste or effects.

The California Sober movement has become popular, especially among Gen Z. It recongizines marijuana is a healthier alternative to booze. Additionally, it is far less addictive than alcohol, with alcohol use potentially resulting in significant and potentially fatal physical withdrawal, which is not observed with marijuana.  As a sign of the benefits it brings, legal cannabis sales usually tend to spike in January.

New Year New Cocktails To Try

Now is the time to introduce something new and fresh to your drink menu – try out these new cocktails!

January is the time to introduce new things into your life.  While 80% of those who join gyms drop out in 3 months, other habits tend to continue. Taking a break from social media is another popular resolution along with drinking more water. They are easier to implement.  But if you are already enjoy a cocktail or two – why not resolve to try new ones?  Here are some New Year new cocktails to try and expand your palate.

RELATED: Beer Sales Flatten Thanks To Marijuana

Brazen Hussy

A hussy is awoman who behaves in a disrespectful or inappropriate way or who has many casual sexual relationships. Sounds like the perfect drink to start 2025.  Bold, sassy, and potent!

Ingredients

  • 1.5 ozs vodka
  • 1.5 ozs triple sec
  • Fresh lemon squeeze
  • Lemon wedge

Create

  • Combine ingredients in a mixing glass and add ice
  • Stir for 20 seconds
  • Strain into a rocks glass with ice
  • Garnish with lemon wedge

Zombie

This drink will put you on another plane. Taken from the Caribbean traditions of rum and voodoo, this Zombie lives up to all expectations.

Ingredients

  • 1 oz dark rum
  • 1 oz light rum
  • 1/2 oz golden rum
  • 1.2 oz apricot brandy (or any brandy in a pinch)
  • Juice form 1/2 lime
  • 1 teaspoon Grenadine
  • 1/2 pineapple juice
  • 1/3 oz overproof rum
  • 1/2 simple sryup
  • Pineapple wedge for garnish

Create

  1. Combine all ingredients except overproof rum and pineapple wedge in shaker
  2. Add ice
  3. Shake until well mixed
  4. Pour into tall highboy without straining
  5. Using the back of a spoon, float the overproof rum on top
  6. Add pineapple wedge for garnish

Lady of Leisure

January is the time to return to work….won’t it be great to be a lady (or lord) or leisure?  Here is a drink which is indulgent, delicious and tasty. Feel like the 1% with one of these.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz vodka
  • 1/2 oz raspberry liqueur
  • 1/4 oz Cointreau
  • Dash on lemon juice
  • Orange twist

Create

  1. Combine all ingredients in shaker with ice
  2. Shake for 20 seconds
  3. Strain into a martini glass
  4. Garnish with organza twist

RELATED: Rainy Weather Cocktails

Gin & Sin

Everyone is so “good” in January – exercising, starting healthy habits, reading more, trying to “lean in”….why not break the trend with this Gin and Sin.  Embrace your own path.

Ingredients

  • 2 ozs gin
  • 1/2 oz orange juice
  • 1/2 oz lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon grenadine
  • Orange slice

Create

  1. Combine all ingredients in a shake with ice
  2. Shake vigorously
  3. Strain into martini glass
  4. Garnish orange slice

Have a great holiday season!

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