Page 11 – The Fresh Toast

Cannabis Is Quietly Reshaping Mardi Gras Culture

Anthony Washington

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February 16, 2026

How cannabis is quietly reshaping Mardi Gras culture, as millennials trade hurricanes for THC seltzers and balanced Carnival experiences.

For generations, Mardi Gras in New Orleans has been synonymous with exuberant parades, bead throws, brass bands, and free-flowing alcohol. From the krewes rolling down St. Charles Avenue to the packed revelry of Bourbon Street, the Carnival season has long been fueled by hurricanes, hand grenades, and go-cups carried through the French Quarter. But as cultural attitudes shift and younger generations redefine celebration, cannabis is quietly reshaping Mardi Gras culture. Marijuana, hemp, cod and low-alcohol alternatives are quietly reshaping how people experience the greatest free show on Earth.

Mardi Gras traces its roots to medieval Europe and Catholic traditions marking the last indulgence before Lent. When the celebration arrived in Louisiana in the 18th century, it evolved into a uniquely New Orleans blend of pageantry, music, and community. Over time, drinking became embedded in the festivities. Public consumption laws in New Orleans—famously permissive compared to most U.S. cities—helped cement the image of Carnival as a marathon of cocktails and street parties stretching from Twelfth Night to Fat Tuesday.

Yet today’s younger revelers are changing the script. Gen Z and many millennials are drinking less than previous generations, driven by wellness trends, mental health awareness, and a desire for more mindful social experiences. Instead of chasing the next sugary daiquiri, many are opting for cannabis products, THC-infused beverages, and low-ABV cocktails allowing them to stay present and energized through long parade days.

The rise of cannabis culture—particularly in legal states and through hemp-derived THC beverages available in parts of the South—has introduced alternatives aligning with these preferences. Lightly dosed THC seltzers and cannabis mocktails offer a social buzz without the heavy hangover, while low-alcohol spritzes and bitters-based drinks provide flavor and ritual without excess. For many, this shift reflects a broader move toward balance rather than abstinence.

Safety is another factor shaping this new era. Mardi Gras crowds can swell into the hundreds of thousands, with shoulder-to-shoulder conditions along parade routes and in the Vieux Carré. Lower alcohol consumption can mean greater situational awareness, fewer medical incidents, and a more comfortable experience navigating dense crowds. Public health experts have long noted excessive drinking contributes to accidents and altercations at large events; a moderation-minded approach may help reduce these risks.

None of this means the end of traditional revelry. The sound of a trumpet echoing down Royal Street, the cry of “Throw me something, mister!” and the joy of catching beads under a balcony in the Quarter remain unchanged. But alongside the classic purple, green, and gold festivities, a quieter transformation is underway. Younger celebrants are embracing options letting them laissez les bons temps rouler—let the good times roll—without sacrificing well-being.

As Mardi Gras continues to evolve, cannabis and low-alcohol beverages are becoming part of the cultural mosaic, offering new ways to celebrate while honoring the spirit of Carnival. In a city which thrives on reinvention, this subtle shift may be just another chapter in New Orleans’ long tradition of adapting the party to the times.

The Strong Drinks Powering Fat Tuesday

Anthony Washington

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February 16, 2026

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New Orleans comes alive for Carnival, fueled by music, parades, and the strong drinks powering Fat Tuesday keeping revelers dancing all day and night.

Mardi Gras in New Orleans is a marathon, not a sprint. While the season spans weeks of parades, masked balls, and street parties, the final days — Lundi Gras and Fat Tuesday — are fueled by indulgence, tradition, and Laissez les bons temps rouler…and here are the strong drinks powering Fat Tuesday.

Before Lent begins at midnight on Fat Tuesday, revelers embrace a last hurrah. From Bourbon Street to neighborhood parade routes, sugary, high-proof drinks have become the unofficial mascot of Carnival season. They’re portable, festive, and designed to keep pace with a day often beginning before sunrise and ends when the clock strikes twelve.

King Cocktail: Dessert in a Glass (With a Kick)

Ingredients

1.5 oz Cognac Park VS
0.75 oz Kringle Cream Liqueur
0.75 oz pecan syrup
0.75 oz cream
2 dashes cherry vanilla bitters

Create

Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker.
Add ice and shake vigorously.
Double strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

Why it’s strong: Cognac plus liqueur creates a deceptively smooth drink and goes down fast — much like King Cake itself.

Police & Thieves Swizzle: Parade-Ready Potency

Swizzles are a Caribbean cousin to New Orleans’ famous rum drinks, and this version leans fully into Mardi Gras decadence. Crushed ice softens the blow, but make no mistake — this cocktail is “stiff as hell.”

Ingredients

2 oz English Harbour 5-year rum
1 oz fresh pineapple juice
0.75 oz fresh lime juice
0.5 oz Giffard Banane du Brésil
0.5 oz Taylor Velvet Falernum
0.5 oz Cruzan Blackstrap rum
4 dashes Angostura bitters
Mint for garnish

Create

Shake the rum, juices, banana liqueur, and falernum without ice.
Strain into a Collins glass filled with crushed ice.
Float bitters and blackstrap rum on top.
Garnish with a large mint sprig.

Why it’s strong: Multiple rums layered together create depth — and a surprisingly high alcohol content.

Easy Hurricane: The Bourbon Street Classic

No Mardi Gras drink list is complete without the Hurricane, the iconic French Quarter cocktail known for its fruity flavor and formidable strength. This simplified version is perfect for home celebrations.

Ingredients

2 oz dark rum
1 oz light rum
1 oz passion fruit juice
1 oz orange juice
0.5 oz lime juice
0.5 oz simple syrup or grenadine

Create

Fill a shaker with ice and add all ingredients.
Shake well and pour into a tall glass over fresh ice.
Garnish with an orange slice and cherry.

Why it’s strong: Two types of rum plus sweet juices make this drink dangerously easy to sip — a hallmark of Bourbon Street favorites.

Mardi Gras is famous for excess, but the real magic lies in the music, parades, and sense of community. Pace yourself, hydrate, and remember: the celebration ends at midnight on Fat Tuesday, but the memories last long after the beads are packed away.

Whether you’re parade-hopping in New Orleans or hosting your own Carnival gathering, these super-strong cocktails deliver the bold flavors — and punch — worthy of the season’s grand finale.

Why Cannabis Is Becoming Part Of Modern Valentine’s Day

Sarah Johns

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February 13, 2026

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Why Cannabis Is Becoming Part Of Modern Valentine’s Day

Explore why cannabis is becoming part of a modern Valentine’s Day, helping couples, polyamorous groups, or solo celebrations.

Valentine’s Day is often framed as a celebration for couples, but modern relationships and lifestyles tell a broader story. Today, love can mean two partners, polyamorous relationships with three or more people, close-knit friend groups, or even a meaningful night spent solo. As social norms evolve, many adults are exploring new ways to relax, connect, and enhance their experiences. In all this, here is why cannabis is becoming part of a modern Valentine’s Day. It has emerged as one option people use to reduce anxiety, deepen intimacy, and create a more enjoyable Valentine’s Day—no matter how many people are involved.

For couples, cannabis is often associated with stress relief and improved communication. Low doses of THC or CBD may help some individuals feel more at ease, making it easier to have meaningful conversations or simply unwind together after a long workweek. By helping wash away lingering work anxiety, cannabis can allow partners to be more present with one another rather than distracted by deadlines, emails, or daily pressures. When stress and performance anxiety are reduced, partners may find it easier to focus on emotional connection rather than expectations.

Shared experiences can also feel more vivid and engaging. Many users report cannabis enhances sensory perception, which can make listening to music together more immersive, turning a simple playlist into a deeply felt, shared moment. Whether it is dancing in the living room, attending a live performance, or enjoying a favorite album, music can become a powerful bonding experience when both partners feel relaxed and tuned in to the moment. Likewise, simple activities such as cooking, giving a massage, or watching a romantic film may feel more enjoyable and intentional.

Polyamorous and multi-partner relationships, which emphasize communication and consent, may also benefit from the calming effects cannabis can provide. Navigating multiple emotional dynamics can sometimes bring added pressure. In these contexts, cannabis is sometimes used to promote relaxation and help participants remain present and attentive. When used responsibly and with clear boundaries, it may support a comfortable atmosphere where everyone feels included and valued.

Valentine’s Day is not only for those in relationships. Many people spend the holiday alone by choice or circumstance, and cannabis can play a role in transforming solitude into self-care. A relaxing evening with a favorite movie, a warm bath, creative pursuits, or a reflective journaling session may feel more restorative when paired with a product helping quiet racing thoughts. For individuals who experience social anxiety or holiday-related loneliness, cannabis may offer temporary relief and a gentler emotional landscape, though it is not a substitute for professional care when needed.

Cannabis is also frequently discussed in relation to intimacy. Some users report increased body awareness and a heightened sense of touch, which may enhance affectionate experiences. Others note reduced anxiety allows them to feel more confident and connected with their partners. Some couples also choose cannabis as an alternative to alcohol, seeking a clearer, more present experience without the potential downsides of overconsumption. For some, this substitution supports better communication, improved comfort, and more satisfying shared moments.

Preparation can begin even before Valentine’s Day arrives. A restful night’s sleep the evening before can set the stage for a more enjoyable and energetic celebration, and certain cannabis products—particularly those formulated for relaxation—may help some individuals unwind and fall asleep more easily. Waking up refreshed can make it easier to approach the day with enthusiasm, patience, and a positive mindset.

As with any substance, responsible use is essential. Adults should be aware of local laws, avoid driving under the influence, and consider potential interactions with medications or health conditions. Valentine’s Day is ultimately about connection—whether with partners, friends, or oneself. For some, cannabis can be a tool supporting relaxation, eases anxiety, enhances sensory experiences like music, promotes restful sleep, and fosters a more mindful and intimate celebration. By approaching the holiday with openness and care, people can redefine what makes the day meaningful and create a celebration reflecting the diverse ways love is experienced today.

Sip A Little Romance With The Best Valentine’s Cocktails

Anthony Washington

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February 13, 2026

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Sip a little romance with the best Valentine’s cocktails and discover simple, elegant drinks perfect for a memorable night in.

Valentine’s Day has long been associated with flowers, candlelight, and indulgent dinners, but in recent years the holiday has evolved into a more personalized celebration of connection. Couples, friends, and even solo celebrants are turning to thoughtfully crafted drinks to set the mood. A romantic cocktail can be equal parts sensory experience and shared ritual — the clink of glasses, the aroma of citrus or oak, and the warmth of a carefully chosen spirit all contribute to the atmosphere of the evening.

Whether you’re planning a quiet night at home or hosting an intimate gathering, easy yet elegant drinks can elevate the occasion without adding stress. From sparkling champagne to the smoky depth of whiskey, the right beverage can express affection in ways words sometimes cannot.

Sip a little romance with the best Valentine’s cocktails. Each of the 5 with a touch of history, balanced flavor, and a recipe simple enough to prepare together.

Champagne Cocktail

Few drinks are as synonymous with celebration as champagne. Originating in 19th-century France, the classic champagne cocktail became popular in Victorian-era love stories and grand toasts alike. Its light effervescence, gentle sweetness, and aromatic bitters make it both refreshing and sophisticated — perfect for a Valentine’s toast.

Why it’s perfect: Sparkling wine symbolizes joy and new beginnings, making it ideal for couples marking milestones or simply savoring time together.

Ingredients

• 1 sugar cube
• 2–3 dashes Angostura bitters
• Chilled champagne or sparkling wine
• Lemon twist

Create

Place the sugar cube in a flute
Add bitters and fill with champagne
Garnish with a lemon twist

Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned dates back to the early 1800s and remains one of the most enduring whiskey cocktails. With its blend of bourbon or rye, sugar, and bitters, it highlights the spirit’s natural caramel, vanilla, and oak notes. For many, whiskey, bourbon, or Scotch is a love language — a shared appreciation for depth, patience, and complexity that transcends gender and tradition.

Why it’s perfect: Its warmth and richness invite slow sipping and meaningful conversation.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
• 1 sugar cube or ½ tsp simple syrup
• 2–3 dashes bitters
• Orange peel

Create

Muddle sugar and bitters
Add whiskey and ice
Stir
Garnish with an expressed orange peel

Strawberry Margarita

The Margarita’s origins trace back to Mexico in the 1930s–40s, with many stories crediting bartenders crafting the drink for glamorous patrons. The strawberry variation adds natural sweetness and a rosy hue, balancing tequila’s earthy agave notes with bright citrus.

Why it’s perfect: Its vibrant color and fresh fruit flavor evoke romance and playfulness.

Ingredients

• 2 oz tequila
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz strawberry puree
• ½ oz triple sec
• Salt or sugar rim (optional)

Create

Shake with ice
Strain into a rimmed glass over fresh ice
Garnish with a strawberry

French Martini

Despite its name, the French Martini was created in New York City in the 1980s during the cocktail renaissance. Combining vodka, raspberry liqueur, and pineapple juice, it delivers a silky texture and a blush-pink tone that feels tailor-made for Valentine’s Day.

Why it’s perfect: Its smooth, fruity profile appeals to a wide range of palates and adds a touch of glamour.

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka
• ½ oz raspberry liqueur
• 1 oz pineapple juice

Create

Shake with ice
Strain into a chilled martini glass
Garnish with a raspberry or lemon twist

Chocolate Espresso Martini

Espresso martinis emerged in London in the 1980s, famously created to “wake up” patrons while indulging their sweet tooth. Adding chocolate liqueur introduces a dessert-like richness that pairs beautifully with coffee’s boldness.

Why it’s perfect: Chocolate is a Valentine’s staple, and this cocktail doubles as dessert in a glass.

Ingrediants

• 1 oz vodka
• 1 oz fresh espresso (cooled)
• ½ oz coffee liqueur
• ½ oz chocolate liqueur

Create

Combine ingredients in cocktail shaker
Strain into a martini glass
Garnish with coffee beans or chocolate shavings

This Valentine’s Day, the most romantic gesture may be as simple as crafting a drink with care. Whether you’re toasting with bubbles, savoring whiskey’s warmth, or sharing a chocolate-infused nightcap, these cocktails offer an easy way to celebrate love — one sip at a time.

Are States In A Pickle About Cannabis

Anthony Washington

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February 12, 2026

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Are states in a pickle about cannabis income as booming tax revenue clashes with continued federal prohibition and uncertainty?

Are states in a pickle about cannabis income? As more jurisdictions legalize marijuana, the fiscal reality is becoming harder to ignore: cannabis taxes are delivering billions to state coffers—often outpacing alcohol revenue—while federal policy remains stalled. The result is a widening gap between state budgets relying on cannabis income and a federal government still classifing marijuana as illegal.

Across the United States, legal cannabis has evolved from a controversial ballot measure into a dependable revenue engine. Since the first adult-use markets opened in Colorado and Washington in 2014, states have collected more than $24.7 billion in cannabis tax revenue, including a record $4.4 billion in 2024 alone. These funds support education, health programs, infrastructure, and community reinvestment, making cannabis one of the most versatile new revenue streams in modern state finance.

Colorado provides one of the clearest examples of cannabis outperforming traditional “sin taxes.” In fiscal year 2022–2023, the state collected over $282 million in marijuana taxes—far surpassing alcohol’s roughly $56 million. Similar patterns have appeared elsewhere. Analyses show legal states collected about 20 percent more tax revenue from cannabis than from alcohol in 2021, with California’s cannabis taxes generating more than double its alcohol tax intake.

California, the nation’s largest cannabis market, has brought in more than $6.7 billion in cumulative cannabis taxes, leading the country. Even in years when sales fluctuate due to regulatory costs or competition from illicit markets, the state still collects hundreds of millions annually. Washington, Illinois, Michigan, and Massachusetts also routinely report nine-figure revenues, demonstrating the fiscal impact is not limited to early adopters or coastal economies.

Meanwhile, states without legal recreational cannabis—such as Texas—face a different budget reality. Texas maintains limited medical access and collects no comparable adult-use tax revenue, leaving billions in potential income untapped while neighboring states expand their regulated markets. This contrast underscores the growing divide between legalization states and holdouts.

Yet despite the economic windfall, federal policy remains stuck in neutral. Cannabis is still illegal at the federal level, creating banking barriers, tax complications, and legal uncertainty for state-licensed businesses. Analysts and industry advocates argue federal inaction forces states to operate in a patchwork system limiting growth and increases compliance costs.

Critics also point to federal spending priorities, arguing while Washington debates rescheduling and enforcement policy, federal agencies continue to spend heavily on equipment and operations unrelated to state cannabis markets. This perceived disconnect fuels frustration among state officials who rely on marijuana taxes to fund essential services.

Public opinion, however, has moved far ahead of federal policy. Multiple national surveys in recent years show roughly 88% of Americans support some form of legalization, whether medical or adult use. That overwhelming consensus adds pressure on Congress and federal agencies to reconcile national law with state-level realities.

The bottom line is states are not merely experimenting with cannabis—they are budgeting around it. As cannabis taxes surpass alcohol revenue in several jurisdictions and total collections climb into the tens of billions, the fiscal stakes continue to rise. Whether Washington acts or continues its long tradition of dragging its feet, the economic case for legalization is no longer theoretical. It is already written into state balance sheets.

What Does The Year Of The Fire Horse Hold

Sarah Johns

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February 12, 2026

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What does the year of the Fire Horse hold for love, money and career? Discover how this powerful zodiac sign signals bold change, high energy and unexpected opportunity.

Every year, millions of people check the Chinese zodiac the way others check their horoscope, wondering if the cosmos plans to hand them a trophy or a lesson. When the Year of the Fire Horse arrives, it does not tiptoe in politely. It kicks the door open, rearranges the furniture, and asks if you are ready to run. What does the year of the Fire Horse hold for you?

In the Chinese zodiac, the Horse symbolizes movement, independence, charisma and raw energy. Add the Fire element and you turn that galloping force into a blaze. Fire amplifies everything it touches. It fuels ambition, heightens emotions and accelerates change. If the standard Horse year is a spirited sprint, the Year of the Fire Horse is a full-throttle charge.

Historically, Fire Horse years are associated with intensity and transformation. The last one, 1966, coincided with dramatic global cultural shifts. That does not mean history repeats itself on schedule, but it does hint at a pattern. Fire Horse energy favors bold decisions over cautious committee meetings. It rewards risk-takers, entrepreneurs and people willing to pivot quickly.

For careers and business, the Year of the Fire Horse often favors innovation. Stagnant projects may suddenly feel unbearable. Professionals who have quietly plotted their next move may finally leap. Markets can feel volatile, but volatility also creates opportunity. Industries tied to technology, media, travel and entertainment often resonate with Horse energy because they thrive on motion and visibility.

Financially, this is not typically a year for timid savings strategies alone. The Fire Horse encourages calculated risk, not reckless gambling. There is a difference, and yes, the universe expects you to know it. Investments aligning with emerging trends may outperform, while outdated models struggle to keep pace.

In relationships, the Fire Horse can be passionate and impulsive. Romance may feel cinematic, with dramatic declarations and whirlwind connections. The flip side is tempers can flare just as quickly. Communication becomes essential. The Fire element heightens emotion, so thoughtful words matter more than usual. For couples, this can be a year of reigniting excitement or confronting issues which have been simmering beneath the surface.

On a personal level, the Year of the Fire Horse favors self-expression. Creative projects, personal reinventions and physical movement all align with its energy. Travel plans may materialize unexpectedly. Many people feel an urge to break routine, whether it means changing careers, relocating or finally starting the side project they have been talking about for years.

However, there is a cautionary note. Fire burns. Burnout is a real risk during a Fire Horse year. The same drive fueling achievement can also exhaust. Rest, reflection and moderation are not signs of weakness. They are survival skills.

Ultimately, what does the Year of the Fire Horse hold? Momentum. Change. Opportunity wrapped in adrenaline. It is a year rewarding courage and punishing complacency. If you have been waiting for a cosmic nudge, this is more like a cosmic shove. The question is not whether the energy will move. It is whether you are willing and able to move with it.

Colorectal Cancer And Medical Marijuana

Amy Hansen

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February 11, 2026

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James Van Der Beek sparks conversation as experts examine colorectal cancer and medical marijuana and how cannabis may help patients manage symptoms.

James Van Der Beek just lost his battle to colorectal cancer, one of the most common cancers in the United States and worldwide. It begins in the colon or rectum, which are parts of the large intestine responsible for absorbing water and processing waste before it leaves the body. Most colorectal cancers start as small, noncancerous growths called polyps develop on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Over time, some of these polyps can become cancerous. It is a tough joinery, but what about colorectal cancer and medical marijuana?

RELATED: Effects Of Lifetime Use Of Alcohol And Cannabis

Risk factors for colorectal cancer include age, family history, certain genetic conditions, inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, obesity, smoking, heavy alcohol use, and diets high in red or processed meats. Symptoms may include persistent changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, abdominal discomfort, unexplained weight loss, weakness, and fatigue. Because early-stage colorectal cancer often causes few or no symptoms, routine screening through colonoscopy or stool-based tests is critical. When detected early, colorectal cancer is highly treatable.

Standard treatments for colorectal cancer may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of these approaches. While these treatments can be lifesaving, they may also bring significant side effects. Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, chronic pain, neuropathy, anxiety, and sleep disturbances are common complaints among patients undergoing treatment.

This is where medical marijuana, also known as medical cannabis, has entered the conversation. In many states, colorectal cancer qualifies as a condition for medical marijuana use. Cannabis contains compounds called cannabinoids, including THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), which interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This system plays a role in regulating pain, mood, appetite, and inflammation.

For colorectal cancer patients, medical marijuana may help manage chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, which can be debilitating and lead to dehydration or malnutrition. Cannabis may also stimulate appetite in patients experiencing weight loss or cachexia, a condition marked by severe muscle wasting. Additionally, some patients report relief from cancer-related pain and improved sleep.

Preliminary laboratory studies have also explored whether cannabinoids might have anti-tumor effects, including slowing cancer cell growth or promoting cancer cell death. However, these findings are largely based on preclinical research in cell cultures or animal models. Clinical evidence in humans remains limited, and medical marijuana should not be viewed as a substitute for standard cancer treatment.

As with any medication, cannabis carries risks. Short-term side effects can include dizziness, dry mouth, impaired concentration, anxiety, and increased heart rate. In some individuals, particularly those predisposed to mental health conditions, high-THC products may worsen anxiety or trigger psychotic symptoms. Long-term or heavy use may lead to cannabis use disorder, characterized by dependence and difficulty controlling consumption.

Overuse of marijuana, much like excessive alcohol consumption, can create health and social problems. Chronic heavy use has been associated with cognitive impairment, respiratory issues when smoked, and potential interactions with other medications. For cancer patients already managing complex treatment regimens, careful medical supervision is essential.

Colorectal cancer patients considering medical marijuana should consult their oncologist or healthcare provider to discuss potential benefits, risks, and legal considerations in their state. When used responsibly and under medical guidance, cannabis may serve as a supportive tool in managing symptoms. But as with alcohol and many other substances, moderation and informed use are key to minimizing harm and maximizing potential benefit.

Cannabis And ICE Agents

Terry Hacienda

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February 11, 2026

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The hiring process was rushed, but can they be fired if caught while employed – here is the skinny on cannabis and ICE agents.

As debate intensifies over immigration enforcement, scrutiny has also fallen on whether standards have ever been loosened during periods when ICE was directed to rapidly expand its workforce. The concern stems from past political pledges to significantly increase the number of immigration enforcement officers within a short time frame — sometimes by thousands of positions. So what about cannabis and ICE agents?

During high-profile expansion efforts, critics have questioned whether certain hiring safeguards were relaxed to meet aggressive staffing targets. It is important to separate perception from documented policy.

When Congress allocates funding for additional ICE personnel, the agency can use federal hiring tools such as Direct Hire Authority, expedited onboarding, recruitment bonuses, and streamlined administrative processing. These mechanisms are legal and available to multiple federal agencies facing urgent staffing needs. They allow agencies to move candidates through the pipeline faster — but they do not automatically eliminate core requirements.

Historically, ICE law enforcement applicants have been required to complete background investigations, medical evaluations, drug testing, physical fitness assessments, and in many cases polygraph examinations. These are baseline standards for most federal criminal investigators and deportation officers. Waiving those entirely would raise significant legal and liability concerns.

That said, there have been reports during prior hiring surges — particularly during earlier immigration crackdowns — ICE explored modifications to certain screening elements. For example, discussions have surfaced in past years about adjusting polygraph policies, expanding eligibility pools, or reconsidering disqualifiers such as prior cannabis use. In federal hiring, “waivers” can sometimes refer to case-by-case determinations where an applicant with a minor or dated issue is allowed to proceed if it does not pose a security risk.

This is different from eliminating standards wholesale. A waiver typically means a documented exception approved through supervisory or legal channels, not the removal of the requirement itself.

Concerns have also been raised about training timelines. In rapid expansion phases, agencies may increase academy class sizes or shorten the time between hiring and field placement. However, federal law enforcement officers must still complete required training programs before exercising full authority.

Transparency advocates argue when hiring accelerates quickly, oversight must increase proportionally to ensure standards are not diluted. Supporters of expansion efforts counter workforce shortages can hinder enforcement missions and federal agencies retain professional vetting systems even under pressure.

Importantly, regardless of hiring tempo, federal drug-free workplace rules remain in force. Because marijuana is still classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law, ICE employees — like all federal officers — are prohibited from using cannabis, even in states where it is legal. Federal law enforcement personnel are subject to random and for-cause drug testing, and a positive marijuana test can lead to disciplinary action, including suspension or termination. In short, while hiring processes may at times be streamlined, federal officers can be fired for using cannabis, and drug policy enforcement remains a firm standard across the agency.

Does Ricky Martin Consume Marijuana

Sarah Johns

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February 9, 2026

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He’s a worldwide music icon and sexy symbol with an audience of millions — but does Ricky Martin consume weed?

Puerto Rican superstar Ricky Martin has spent four decades in the spotlight as one of Latin pop’s most enduring icons, but fans curious about his personal life often wonder: Does Ricky Martin consume marijuana? While he hasn’t publicly embraced cannabis use as part of his lifestyle in recent years, there are some intriguing bits from his past suggesting he’s candid — when asked — about taking breaks and decompressing away from fame.

In a past interview, Martin admitted on his birthdays, he would “disappear to Amsterdam” for some alone time where he might “smoke my joint” and relax away from public scrutiny. That anecdote, shared in the context of his personal coming-out journey and need for solitude, remains one of the few instances where Martin interwove cannabis with his own narrative — though he framed it as a tool for decompression during a difficult period rather than an ongoing habit.

Today, Martin appears focused on health and holistic living rather than partying or substance use. In a recent Entertainment Tonight interview about his latest acting work, he said he drinks lots of water and avoids drugs and alcohol as part of “good living,” a comment aligning with a wellness-centric lifestyle more than a recreational one.

That acting work is garnering fresh attention. Martin plays Robert Díaz in Palm Royale, Apple TV+’s star-studded period comedy-drama. His turn as a high-society bartender with secrets in 1969 Palm Beach has earned praise for adding depth to the ensemble, which includes legends like Carol Burnett and Kristen Wiig.

And even outside scripted television, Martin continues to share big cultural stages with today’s biggest stars. At the Super Bowl LX halftime show in February 2026, he joined Bad Bunny and Lady Gaga in a historic performance celebrated Latin music on one of the world’s largest platforms.

Whether he’s singing, acting or quietly navigating life offstage, Ricky Martin still commands headlines — and the public’s curiosity — about everything from his artistic choices to rumors about how he unwinds. What’s clear is this multi-faceted entertainer continues to evolve while staying true to his storied career.

Game On With These Super Bowl Cocktails

Anthony Washington

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February 8, 2026

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Ready to get your game on with these Super Bowl cocktails?

It is the finale to the football season and a good chunk of the population tunes in to watch the Super Bowl. Alone, with a few friends or a full on party…it is a festive occasions (at least until the 4th quarter in a tight game) and people enjoy a beverage. The Super Bowl is a drinking day for most viewers. As you settle into the 59th annual competition and halftime show – game on with these Super Bowl cocktails!

RELATED: Beer Sales Flatten Thanks To Marijuana

Creole Bloody Mary

In a nod to the host city New Orleans, a Creole Bloody Mary is the best to pre-func and get right to start watching the game! This is a flavorful way to start the day.

Ingredients

3/4 cup vodka
4-1/2 cups chilled tomato juice
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
4-6 dashes Tabasco hot sauce
Salt and black pepper
Celery for garnish

Create

Fill shaker with ice
Combine vodka, juices, Worcestershire, salt, pepper and hot sauce in shaker
Strain and pour in a tall glass with ice
Garnish with celery stick

Super Bowl Julep

The nice thing about the Super Bowl is you can enjoy day drinking. While a Mint Julep is the drink of the Kentucky Derby, it is refreshing enough for morning football drinking. Plus it is good for the throat after all the cheering.

Ingredients

4 sprigs of mint
1 teaspoon of powdered sugar
2 teaspoons of water
2 oz. bourbon
Fresh mint sprig, for garnish

Create

Muddle the mint, the sugar and the water in a cup
Add the bourbon and stir gently
Fill a glass to the top with finely crushed ice, add the julep mix and garnish with mint

FYI, an ounce of mint simple syrup can be substituted for the mint/sugar/water mixture

Perfect Stormy

Why not combine the classic beer with the cocktail. Mix it up and enjoy this drink…rich in flavor and filling enough you don’t have too many over the course of the game.

2 oz amber rum

1 oz egg white

1 oz fresh lime juice

¾ oz ginger simple syrup

3 dashes Scrappy’s lime bitters

4 oz light beer

Glass: Highball tumbler/Collins glas

Create

Dry shake all ingredients except the beer
Add ice and shake
Double strain into a collins glass with ice
Top up with beer

RELATED: Rainy Weather Cocktails

Gatorade Margarita

Everyone knows hydration is important when plays sports. It is also important for fans, especially if they are celebrating. Gatorade is part of the football culture, dive in with this take on a classic cocktail.

Ingredients

1/4 cup blue sanding sugar
1/4 cup kosher salt
One 20-ounce bottle blue sports drink, such as Cool Blue Gatorade ®, chilled
1 cup thawed frozen limeade concentrate
1 cup silver tequila
1/3 cup blue curacao
Fresh orange slices, for serving

Create

Mix the sugar and salt in a shallow dish
Wet the rims of 4 to 6 rocks glasses with water and then dip in the sugar-salt mixture to coat
Combine the sports drink, limeade concentrate, tequila and blue curacao in a large pitcher and stir
Fill the rocks glasses with ice
Pour the margarita into the glass
Garnish each with an orange slice

Fourth Quarter Rum Countdown

When the fourth quarter hits, it can be a focus time, keep it simple with this classic drink. Quick to prepare, refreshing to drink and the soda is a little caffeine boost after tailgating.

Ingredients

1 1/2 oz Bacardi Superior rum
3 oz cola
Lime for garnish

Create

Fill a highball glass with ice
Pour in a good rum
Add the chilled cola, stir
Garnish with lime

The Fresh ToastThe most trusted name in cannabis

How cannabis is quietly reshaping Mardi Gras culture, as millennials trade hurricanes for THC seltzers and balanced Carnival experiences.

New Orleans comes alive for Carnival, fueled by music, parades, and the strong drinks powering Fat Tuesday keeping revelers dancing all day and night.

King Cocktail: Dessert in a Glass (With a Kick)

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Police & Thieves Swizzle: Parade-Ready Potency

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Easy Hurricane: The Bourbon Street Classic

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Explore why cannabis is becoming part of a modern Valentine’s Day, helping couples, polyamorous groups, or solo celebrations.

Sip a little romance with the best Valentine’s cocktails and discover simple, elegant drinks perfect for a memorable night in.

Champagne Cocktail

Old Fashioned

Strawberry Margarita

French Martini

Chocolate Espresso Martini

Are states in a pickle about cannabis income as booming tax revenue clashes with continued federal prohibition and uncertainty?

What does the year of the Fire Horse hold for love, money and career? Discover how this powerful zodiac sign signals bold change, high energy and unexpected opportunity.

James Van Der Beek sparks conversation as experts examine colorectal cancer and medical marijuana and how cannabis may help patients manage symptoms.

The hiring process was rushed, but can they be fired if caught while employed – here is the skinny on cannabis and ICE agents.

He’s a worldwide music icon and sexy symbol with an audience of millions — but does Ricky Martin consume weed?

Ready to get your game on with these Super Bowl cocktails?

Creole Bloody Mary

Super Bowl Julep

Perfect Stormy

Gatorade Margarita

Fourth Quarter Rum Countdown

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