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Will Iceland Be The New Normal For Cannabis

Anthony Washington
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0
Will Iceland Be The New Normal For Cannabis

Is Iceland the wave or puff of the future?

As the US debates rescheduling cannabis and officially recognizing its medical benefits, the public already has moved on from the conversation. Canada is fully legal and over 50% of the US has access to legal weed, along with pockets of Europe. But the interesting thing is things only get better with legalization. Teen use is down, medical use is up and lots of people of all ages are reaping benefits. While cannabis is not perfect, it is definitely healthier than alcohol.  The consuming public has noticed and more people are drifting away from booze and headed to weed. One of these is our chilly northern neighbors.  Will Iceland be the new normal for cannabis?
It is believed 6.6% of the population consumes cannabis regularly. The number is commonly believed to be 18.3% due to data confusion. It makes sense with the California sober movement of switching cannabis for alcohol.  Gen Z is drinking less and gumming more, and Boomers are turning on to medical marijuana for health reasons. While it is still illegal, there is growing domestic production. While it isn’t a world country record for use, the liberal country seems to embrace marijuana over mojitos.

photography of white swan floating on water body

The European Health Interview Survey (EHIS) suggests that people in Iceland drink less frequently than people in the other Nordic countries. Iceland has the seventh lowest proportion of people that drink at least once per week, just over 20%.  Overall, 62% of U.S. adults say they ever drink alcohol, while 38% abstain completely, where with marijuana it is closer to 10-12%.  With trends, will the US move closer to Canada with almost parity in use. Even states like Texas where cannabis is illegal, still sell hemp, made from the same plant.
While buying and holding small amounts for personal use doesn’t incur any severe punishment beyond a small fine of $500. Possession of small amounts of cannabis is prohibited, yet not criminalized, under the Icelandic Addictive Drugs and Narcotics act. History is moving and it is good to observe trends in other parts of the world.

New Data About Cancer And Cannabis

Amy Hansen
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0
New Data About Cancer And Cannabis

While there is a need for more research, the data has good news.

The American Medical Association and the American College of Physicians along with the federal agencies Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have all spoke up about the need for additional research to unlock medical benefits of cannabis. The acknowledge it can help, but need more information, including more understand about dosage. Now, a study reveals more data about cancer and cannabis which only reenforces their call to action.

RELATED: Science Says Medical Marijuana Improves Quality Of Life

While cannabis is not a treatment for cancer, studies support marijuana-derived cannabinoids. TCH and CBD can help relieve symptoms and ease the side effects of cancer, including chemotherapy. More research can be done on treatment, but how do patients feel about using medical marijuana? The University of California San Diego and VA Health Care researchers partners for the one-year study. Team conducted a comprehensive survey of nearly 1,000 adult cancer patients at various stages of cancer treatment. What they discovered wasn’t a common sense surprise.

The lead researchers Corinne McDaniels-Davidson’s published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute. They explored the decision-making process, perceived benefits, and risks of cannabis use to address symptoms in adults with cancer.

“There’s a vacuum in the world of cancer care. Many oncologists don’t talk to their patients about cannabis or refer them to a pain management specialist instead,” said McDaniels-Davidson, who is the associate director at the SDSU School of Public Health.

“Our data shows about a third of the patients surveyed used cannabis after their diagnosis, but only a few of those patients said they had told their oncologist,” said McDaniels-Davidson.

Cannabis has been used as medicine for thousands of years. The archeological site in the Oki Islands near Japan contained cannabis achenes from about 8000 BC, but it developed a bad name in the early 20th century. But the understanding it works is still strong. Survivors who perceived cannabis had any benefits were five times more likely to use it. Those who perceived there were any risks were nearly 60% less likely to have used it post-diagnosis.

RELATED: Biden Administration Puts A Knife Into The Cannabis Industry

According to the study, cancer survivors diagnosed with stage 3 or 4 were also more likely to use cannabis.  Among those who used cannabis, 19% said they believed the misconception that it could treat or cure cancer.  Cannabis can not cure cancer, a fact which needs to be made clear, but it increasing can help treat the disease. This study gives medical professional another tool to talk with patients.

The Best Strains Of Marijuana To Feel Rejuvenated

Anthony Washington
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0
The Best Strains Of Marijuana To Feel Rejuvenated

Fall is here and the loss of daylight can have an impact….so here are some marijuana suggestions to feel rejuvenated and fresh.

Here comes the “fall back” part of the time change and we lose an hour sleep. For some, it takes months until they feel better. During this time of year, the brain produces more of the sleep hormone melatonin. Autumn has lots of things to enjoy from back to school, sports, long walks in a changing landscape and a general slow ramp of social things before the holidays. To help you enjoy and have energy, here are the best strains of marijuana to feel rejuvenated.

RELATED: 8 Ways to Enjoy Marijuana Without Smoking It

All of Canada and over 50% of the US have access to legal weed, and it becoming increasing popular. While cannabis can help you sleep, some strains wake you up and gives fresh energy.  Smoking is still popular and great at home or with friends. But if you are out and about, vaping and gummies are increasing becoming a solution. Talk to your bud tender at the local dispensary for both the best strain and how you want to consume for a great autumn pick me up.

via GIPHY

Mimosa

This hybrid strain is perfect in a gummy or in small doses. With a low does, the strain produces happy, level-headed effects that will leave you feeling uplifted and motivated enough to take on any mundane task. In large doses, Mimosa may make you feel sleepy and relaxed. This strain has a strong aroma and flavor that reminds you of its namesake, with notes of fruit and citrus flavors bursting through. Medical marijuana patients choose this strain to help relieve symptoms associated with depression and stress.

Strawberry Cough

Known for its sweet smell of fresh strawberries this potent sativa strain has mysterious genetic origins. It is thought to be a cross of Haze and Strawberry Fields. The skunky, berry flavors capture senses while the cerebral, uplifting effects provide an aura of euphoria leaving a smile on your face. It is a great solution in times of elevated stress.

Sour Cheese

Although the name is a little funky, this marijuana strain will make you feel like your cells are being reborn again, boosting your brain with creativity and uplifting your mood. This strain is also perfect for social situations, enabling super philosophical conversations with your friends.  

BSC

This hybrid has powerful effects that will induce a deep and heavy relaxation, filling your brain with calm and happy thoughts. BSC allows your brain to disconnect and to pursue that mid-day nap you’ve been craving, or that perfect night of deep sleep.

via GIPHY

Grapefruit Diesel

This hybrid is mostly indica dominant but produces a focused mental high that’s most commonly associated with sativa strains. If you have any physical pain or ailments be ready to swap them out for a full body euphoria that will have a fast effect that’ll soon mellow out, leaving you brimming with energy and vitality.

Hawaiian Snow

This sativa blend has a very potent and delicious pineapple flavor. This bud is perfect to consume right before carrying out activities and chores, be them physical or creative, allowing you to tackle them head on. It’s not uncommon for Hawaiian Snow to give users a wonderful case of the giggles.

RELATED: Cannabis Kale Chips: The Perfect Munchie, Handfuls At A Time

Bettie Page

This high THC strain encourages energy and movement instead of relaxation, perfect to get you prepped for whatever it is that you want to do.

via GIPHY

Summertime Squeeze

This sativa dominant type of marijuana has fruity and tropical flavors which reference its name. It leaves your body and brain active and ready to work out, be creative and socialize.

9 Pound Hammer

This indica strain will hit you like a truck; giving you the best night’s sleep you’ve ever had and making you feel like a whole new person from the moment you wake up. 9 Pound Hammer is also great for stress relief and for making your body feel great.

Rather than relying on the an overdose of pumpkin spice lattes, consider these strains of marijuana to feel rejuvenated this time of year.

This Cocktail Has Been A Honey Of A Success

Anthony Washington
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0
This Cocktail Has Been A Honey Of A Success

This cocktail has made the rounds on social media and events….and has become a raging success.

This cocktail has been a honey of a success…and a refreshing change at sporting events. The Grey Goose Honey Deuce is the official cocktail of the US Open.  The drink returned this year to a roaring success. The name comes from a word play on the tennis term deuce (a tie score of 40-40) and the honeydew melon garnish.  Refreshing, intoxicating and popular – the drink has been gushing out of court side bars at $23 a pop.
The US Open is a premier tennis tournament sponsored by big hitters like American Express, Mercedes Benz, IHG Hotels and Resorts, Rolex and Emirates Airlines. The well heeled, the super rich and the famous flock to the stands. Anna Wintour was there along with celebrities at Arthur Ashe stadium. Spotted at the event was Phoebe Dynevor, Hugh Jackman, Zoey Deutch, Lindsay Lohan, Alec Baldwin, Kerry Washington, and Alicia Keyes. The crowd knows how to drink and drink well…and this cocktail has done well.  This year they ordered over 550,000 Honey Deuces, over 100,000 more than last year.  Roughly $12.65 million plus tips were spent over the two weeks of the tournament.

This Cocktail Has Been A Honey Of A Success

But you don’t have to fly to New York and hobnob with the crowd to have your own.  You can make it at home and imbibe. Here is how to make your own Grey Goose Honey Deuce.
Ingredients
  • 1 1.4 oz Grey Goose Vodka
  • Fresh Lemonade
  • Premium Raspberry Liqueur
  • Honeydew Melon Balls
Create
  1. Fill a chilled highball glass with cubed ice and add Grey Goose Vodka
  2. Top with fresh lemonade and raspberry liqueur
  3. Garnish with a skewer of 1 or multiple frozen honeydew melon balls
Beer has been the staple of sporting events, but stadiums around the country have been changing their drinks menu while adding sponsorship dollars to the coffers. In 1989 Evian water wanted to reach hot and thirsty affluent customers, so they became an official sponsor of the US Open. The tennis set has had beverage-centric partnerships ever since. And this has translated to other events from the Kentucky Derby to football adding it to their menu.

Court Makes Key Ruling About Marijuana

Terry Hacienda
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0
Court Makes Key Ruling About Marijuana

The Court in Illinois, a legal state, makes a key ruling about cannabis

With over 50% of the population in the US and 100% in Canada having access to legal cannabis, there has been some changes. All age groups are embracing it, including Boomers who are using it in bigger numbers for its medical benefits. Beer sales are down as people are embracing vapes and gummies over calorie filled and hangover inducing beer.  And the are figuring out how to keep people from driving under the influence. Now, a state court makes key ruling about marijuana which differentiates it again from alcohol.

RELATED: Biden Administration Puts A Knife Into The Cannabis Industry

Law enforcement has treated cannabis like alcohol regarding driving under the influence. The smell of either gives probable cause, but now, for marijuana it is under doubt.  The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) is very slow walking a decision about rescheduling cannabis. Part of the reason for the DEA is to combat marijuana and rescheduling would change a focus.  Several sources say the agency is not keen on the change and hopes by delaying action until after the election, they may be given a pass.  But this court ruling adds more pressure.

The ruling stemmed from a 2020 case in which Ryan Redmond was pulled over by Illinois State Police on Interstate 80 in Henry County. According to court records, Redmond’s license place was not properly secured to the vehicle and he was driving 3 miles over the speed limit.

The trooper allegedly smelled marijuana coming from inside the car, and subsequently found a small amount of cannabis inside. Redmond was charged with a misdemeanor for transport of cannabis.

Redmond exhibited no signs of impairment, leading Neville to opine that the trooper’s “reasonable suspicion” would not have advanced to a “probable cause search.”

The court ruled the smell of cannabis doesn’t provide probably cause, unlike the smell of alcohol on the breath.

RELATED: Dear Dr. Green: Can Marijuana Topicals Help With Arthritis?

This court’s ruling could have an impact on federal law. Currently, there isn’t a fully reliable way to test people with data, like an alcohol breath analyzer.  The next step in how the state adjusts will likely by copied by other states to avoid lawsuits.  This will have an impact on federal policy…and maybe nudge the DEA.

This Epic Love Story Is Being Set To Music

Sarah Johns
-
0
This Epic Love Story Is Being Set To Music

It was a love story which kept tongues wagging and the media in a frenzy – now it is being made into an opera.

The tempestuous love affair between global opera superstar Maria Callas and billionaire shipping tycoon Aristotle Onassis is coming to New York City. The epic love story is being set to music. The legendary tragic tale which eventually became a triangle with Jackie Kennedy Onassis is a saga for the ages. Now, new opera writer Elizabeth Coppinger has transformed it into an opera. After a career in technology and community activities, she decided this story needs to be framed in the grand, dramatic setting of opera to allow it to be memorialized in the perfect setting.
The story tells of Maria Callas and her scandalous relationship with Aristotle Onassis, then one of the world’s richest men. Tragically, their ill-fated affair collapsed in betrayal and heartbreak with Onassis’ surprise marriage to Jacqueline Kennedy in 1968. Their romance was during the height of the glamorous “jet set” and played across the world in locations like Rome, Athens, London, and New York.  This was the era when large yachts, titled guests, private planes and more were all new, and set the very rich apart. The papers ate it up and broke Callas heart.
In a clever twist, Coppinger tells the timeless tale via the Greek gods, Zeus and Hera.  They mythical couple are also the main stars in the new Netflix series Kaos starring Jeff Goldblum and Janet McTeer.

This new English-language opera by award-winning composer, Clint Borzoni, and new librettist Coppinger, is being workshopped in NYC.  Borzoni has created for La Callas a lush, melodic score evoking the sweeping passion and drama of Callas’ legendary life and career. Her story is contemporary. The story highlights the diva’s struggle with society’s bias against strong women and she was cast by the press as an egotistical diva rather than the dedicated and brilliant artist like her male contemporaries. She was expected to choose between her career and personal happiness, still a familiar dilemma for women today. The new film, Maria, starring Angelina Jolie, and the recent worldwide centenary celebrations of Callas’ birth show the public’s continuing fascination with Callas’ life and legacy.
The Act I workshop performance of La Callas will be on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at the Kaufman Music Center’s Merkin Hall in New York City.   Tickets are available from the Merkin Hall Ticket Office.

Santa Saves Cannabis

Anthony Washington
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0
Santa Saves Cannabis

As marijuana become legal across North America – the North Pole got caught in fight.

Canada and a big chunk of the United States have legalized cannabis. The results have been improved medical options, a decrease in alcohol consumption, a reduction of youth use and some more chill people. But the journey to this point has been tough. Opponents have spread misinformation and slowed the process.  Even the current administration has be lackadaisical in the approach. Medical marijuana patients will tell you the benefits in trea tment of chronic pain, cancer, insomnia, inflammation and more. Veterans now have access to treatments to a proven help with PTSD.  It has been a battle, but, in one case, Santa saves Christmas for marijuana fans.

Thomas O’Connor legally changed his name to Santa Claus in 2005 and is a monk, child welfare activist and local city council member.  He is also a cancer patient and a consumer of medical marijuana.  He resides in North Pole, Alaska, which originally banned all cannabis use.

RELATED: Science Says Medical Marijuana Improves Quality Of Life

North Pole, Alaska, a small suburb of Fairbanks, is known for its year-round Christmas decorations, including candy cane–striped street lights. Santa Claus House is a Christmas store with walls covered in children’s letters to Santa and a huge Santa statue outside. Streets have names like Kris Kringle Drive and Mistletoe Lane.  In 2016, the local city council voted to ban marijuana businesses within its city limits. But they didn’t talk to the official leader of the North Pole, Santa Claus.

Santa Saves Christmas
Screenshot via WCMH
When it happened (and it was covered by The Fresh Toast), Santa shared with Alaska’s KTUU. “I think they are not in this particular instance are not embracing the spirit of love. I think what they’re doing is engendering hate, which comes from fear.”
But you don’t become Santa without having some good will, determination and drive.  Santa worked with the city and city council and managed to get the proposition overturned. Now the area boosts three cannabis dispensaries.

RELATED: Beer Sales Flatten Thanks To Marijuana

And Santa? He continues his children welfare advocacy work and, as of 2022, is the mayor pro tem of North Pole. Unfortunately, Santa is still plagued with cancer and continues to be a medical marijuana patient.  We hope more research is in his stocking this year to provide help and relief for him and the millions of patients who would benefit.

4 Differences Between A Mind Vs. Body High

Amy Hansen
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0
4 Differences Between A Mind Vs. Body High

Sometimes you need marijuana to have a focused effect, especially around medical issues

With cannabis legal, more people are consuming. But the surprise it isn’t always about getting high and chilling out, a surprising number are using it for medical reasons. Gen Z, who is struggling with anxiety, use it to relax and also as an alternative to alcohol. Boomers are using it for medical reasons at increasing number. But a concern is they don’t users for these reasons don’t want to be too stoned. Here are the 4 differences between a mind vs. body high. This is a key part in consuming for medical reasons or just a relaxing evening.

RELATED: Science Says Medical Marijuana Improves Quality Of Life

According to data, most medical cannabis patients report enjoying the hyper-sensory experience of feeling high. Sativa strains can induce a head high, which may empower you to think faster, act more quickly, and feel less inhibited at social gatherings. Indica is associated with more of a ‘bedtime buzz’, or what we call a body high, leaving you feeling relaxed, calm, and ready to catch up on some sleep.Indica strains may be well known for their ability to provide body-numbing effects that can help make chronic pain more manageable. cerebral strains can help alleviate chronic pain by reducing pain perception, or how acutely you feel pain and discomfort.

So marijuana can have two effects: body highs and head highs. While it’s very difficult to predict always predict the type of high, it’s slightly easier to differentiate a head high from a body high. So whether you use it for medical or just for fun, it is good to know which trip you are choosing.

Body highs heighten your physical sensations

Teens With Sleep Issues Are More Likely To Binge Drink And Use Cannabis
Photo by Gregory Pappas via Unsplash

Body highs are known for their powerful relaxing effects. This makes tend to leave the user less functional and more impaired. These highs are great for watching silly movies or enjoying a delicious meal. You’ll be less talkative but might be having a better time.

Mind highs alter your mood

Mind highs result in a brighter mood, with less laziness involved. They’re perfect for day use, since people remain functional with an added sheen of optimism and energy. Controlled mind highs are great for working out or carrying out day to day activities with an exciting twist.

RELATED: Is Your Weed Good? Here’s How To Tell

Body highs  tend to help treat pain and provide relaxation

'Ok Boomer' Meme Might Become A TV Show
Photo by 0meer/Getty Images

Since body highs are so focused on the body, they tend to be an amazing option for people who are struggling with some form of pain. They also enhance sexual awareness and bodily sensations.

Mind highs are talky and creative

5 First Date Rules You Should Forget About
Photo via rawpixel.com

RELATED: What Are The Most Expensive Marijuana Strains In The World?

Mind highs are great for social or creative situations. They result in talky or giggly highs, easing social anxiety and making every situation fun and different. Creative activities like painting, writing, and more, come easily to people who know how to handle these type of highs.

This Epic Love Story Is Being Set To Music

Sarah Johns
-
0
This Epic Love Story Is Being Set To Music

It was a love story which kept tongues wagging and the media in a frenzy – now it is being made into an opera.

The tempestuous love affair between global opera superstar Maria Callas and billionaire shipping tycoon Aristotle Onassis is coming to New York City. The epic love story is being set to music. The legendary tragic tale which eventually became a triangle with Jackie Kennedy Onassis is a saga for the ages. Now, new opera writer Elizabeth Coppinger has transformed it into an opera. After a career in technology and community activities, she decided this story needs to be framed in the grand, dramatic setting of opera to allow it to be memorialized in the perfect setting.
The story tells of Maria Callas and her scandalous relationship with Aristotle Onassis, then one of the world’s richest men. Tragically, their ill-fated affair collapsed in betrayal and heartbreak with Onassis’ surprise marriage to Jacqueline Kennedy in 1968. Their romance was during the height of the glamorous “jet set” and played across the world in locations like Rome, Athens, London, and New York.  This was the era when large yachts, titled guests, private planes and more were all new, and set the very rich apart. The papers ate it up and broke Callas heart.
In a clever twist, Coppinger tells the timeless tale via the Greek gods, Zeus and Hera.  They mythical couple are also the main stars in the new Netflix series Kaos starring Jeff Goldblum and Janet McTeer.

This new English-language opera by award-winning composer, Clint Borzoni, and new librettist Coppinger, is being workshopped in NYC.  Borzoni has created for La Callas a lush, melodic score evoking the sweeping passion and drama of Callas’ legendary life and career. Her story is contemporary. The story highlights the diva’s struggle with society’s bias against strong women and she was cast by the press as an egotistical diva rather than the dedicated and brilliant artist like her male contemporaries. She was expected to choose between her career and personal happiness, still a familiar dilemma for women today. The new film, Maria, starring Angelina Jolie, and the recent worldwide centenary celebrations of Callas’ birth show the public’s continuing fascination with Callas’ life and legacy.
The Act I workshop performance of La Callas will be on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at the Kaufman Music Center’s Merkin Hall in New York City.   Tickets are available from the Merkin Hall Ticket Office.

Consumer Use Sets Records On Cannabis!

Terry Hacienda
-
0
Consumer Use Sets Records On Cannabis!

The speed of cannabis mainstreaming is setting records.

Since the first state went legal in 2016, consumers have moved to legal marijuana. Now, with over 50% of the country having access to it, things are starting to change.  And consumer use sets records on cannabis as all ages are starting to consume and consume more.  States who have full legal cannabis are bringing in more revenue from marijuana than alcohol. All fueled by consumers.

RELATED: Great Fall Whiskeys

The newest record is Michigan, a solid mid-western state. In the first year of it being available to the public, the state had $1 billion in sales.  Now, the Great Lakes State sets record with $295+ million in monthly marijuana sales. And it isn’t what you think, while it is being used to relax, it is also being used for its medical benefits.  Boomers, the generation who helped promote the War on Drugs, has turned to it for the medical benefits of managing inflammation, chronic pain, insomnia, and more.  And their grandchildren in Gen z are using it to combat anxiety. There generation has the highest amount of any other generation.

Photo by Hans via Pixabay

The other record is cannabis is taking a bit out of beer. Beer sales are down, especially earlier in the week as people are turning to vaping and gummies for a quick, low calorie and dose to relax after a busy start to the week.  Year over year growth is strong.  In 2022, sales were $30 million and in 2024, it is on track to be $38 million. While beer sales still far outpace cannabis at $117 billion, sales dropped again in 2023 by 5.1%. Another reason big liquor companies are wading into the cannabis market.

But the industry is still struggling and the Biden/Harris administration has failed to follow through on their 2020 promise to help the industry. Biden is one of the most seasoned policymakers in DC with 50 years of service, so it seems the failure of the DEA to make a move before the election could be planned. The DEA rescheduling move premiered at time to provide zero relief for the industry in 2024 as the DEA is not making an announcement until December.  Being post December, it could provide cover to the current administration to make make a move. Or if the GOP wins the presidency, Speaker Mike Johnson (R-KY) has made it clear he will move to reduce the industr

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