Page 7 – The Fresh Toast

The Rise Of The Zillennial

Sarah Johns

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October 17, 2025

Behold the mini generation – blending nostalgia, tech fluency, and emotional authenticity online.

There’s a new generation quietly claiming cultural power — the rise of the Zillennials – born roughly between 1993 and 2000. Too young to fully remember a world without the internet, yet too old to have grown up entirely online, Zillennials sit in the messy middle between Millennials and Gen Z — and they’re using the in-between status to shape modern culture in unexpected ways.

For years, the internet has loved a generational war. Millennials were mocked for avocado toast and participation trophies; Gen Z clapped back with middle parts and low-rise jeans. But Zillennials? They don’t have time for that. This micro-generation is redefining what it means to come of age in chaos — straddling analog childhoods and digital adulthoods, cable TV and TikTok, idealism and exhaustion.

They remember LimeWire and Vine. They watched The Office on DVD and Euphoria on Max. They used Facebook in high school but deleted it in college. In short: Zillennials speak both dialects of modern culture — they can read a meme in Gen Z irony but also appreciate a well-crafted Instagram caption.

Marketers are starting to pay attention. Zillennials are now entering their late 20s and early 30s — earning money, starting families, and setting cultural tastes. They crave authenticity like Gen Z, but they also value stability like older Millennials. They buy fewer “status brands” and more products promising balance, calm, and connection. According to a 2025 Mintel lifestyle study, Zillennials are the most brand-loyal when they feel emotionally seen — but they’ll instantly ghost a brand who panders.

Their blended worldview is reshaping fashion, work, and wellness. Think quiet luxury with a thrifting twist. Think flexible careers with boundaries. Think mindfulness without the crystals. The Zillennial vibe is less about aspiration and more about alignment.

Culturally, they’re nostalgic minimalists. They stream early 2000s R&B while journaling about burnout. They post “photo dumps” that look careless but are carefully curated. They’re suspicious of hustle culture but still ambitious. They’ve lived through economic crashes, pandemics, and social media’s entire evolution — and somehow, they’re still optimistic enough to care.

As one viral TikTok put it: “We’re the generation that remembers when the internet was fun.”

The rise of the Zillennial isn’t just another demographic trend — it’s a reminder the next cultural wave will come not from extremes, but from the middle. And maybe, that’s the most modern thing of all.

Fall For These Autumn Cocktails

Anthony Washington

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October 16, 2025

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From maple whiskey to pear bellinis, fall’s best cocktail lineup is here

As the heat of summer fades and crisp evenings roll in, autumn’s arrival brings more than just sweater weather and pumpkin patches—it’s prime cocktail season. Between football watch parties, cozy dinners, bonfires, and Thanksgiving gatherings, there are countless opportunities to toast the season with drinks that taste like fall in a glass. This is the time of year when mixology meets comfort—think smoky, spiced, and slightly sweet.

The flavors of fall tend to draw from nature’s pantry: apples, pears, cranberries, cinnamon, maple, and warm vanilla. Spirits like whiskey and tequila feel right at home next to these cozy ingredients, while gin, vodka, and champagne add brightness and balance. Whether you’re hosting friends or just want something seasonal to sip by the fire, these five fall-forward cocktails are guaranteed to impress.

RELATED: 5 Great Bourbons For Fall

Maple Whiskey Sour

Smooth, smoky, and perfectly balanced, this take on the classic sour captures the heart of autumn in one sip.

Ingredients

2 oz bourbon whiskey
¾ oz fresh lemon juice
½ oz pure maple syrup
Dash of bitters
Ice and lemon wheel for garnish

Create

Combine and hake all ingredients with ice
Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice
Garnish with a lemon wheel or cinnamon stick

The maple syrup replaces traditional sugar for a richer, seasonal flavor.

Spiced Tequila Cider

A warming, slightly smoky cocktail inspired by crisp orchard days and golden leaves.

Ingredients

1½ oz reposado tequila
3 oz apple cider
½ oz lime juice
Dash of cinnamon or allspice
Apple slice for garnish

Create

Shake all ingredients with ice
Pour into a short glass
Garnish with an apple slice

The reposado’s caramel notes pair perfectly with spiced cider.

Rosemary Gin Fizz

An herbal twist on the classic fizz—bright, aromatic, and effervescent.

Ingredients

2 oz gin
¾ oz fresh lemon juice
½ oz rosemary simple syrup (equal parts sugar, water, and rosemary)
Soda water

Create

Shake gin, lemon juice, and syrup with ice
Strain into a tall glass
Top with soda water and garnish with a rosemary sprig

Cranberry Vodka Smash

The perfect party cocktail—vibrant, tart, and easy to make in batches.

Ingredients

2 oz vodka
2 oz cranberry juice
½ oz lime juice
½ oz simple syrup
Fresh cranberries and mint

Create

Muddle cranberries and mint in a shaker
Add vodka, juices, and syrup with ice
Shake and strain over fresh ice

Related: 5 Weird Whiskeys to Challenge Your Ideas About Whiskey

Autumn Bellini

A sparkling ode to fall, this twist on the Italian classic uses pear and champagne for a festive finish.

Ingredients

2 oz pear purée
½ oz lemon juice
4 oz chilled champagne

Create

Pour pear purée and lemon juice into a champagne flute
Top with chilled champagne
Stir gently and garnish with a thin pear slice

From tailgate tables to Thanksgiving toasts, these autumn cocktails capture the season’s spirit—literally. Whether smoky and strong or bright and bubbly, each sip is a reminder that fall is made for slowing down, savoring flavors, and celebrating good company.

Florida Courts Make A Sort Of A Stand For Marijuana

Terry Hacienda

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October 16, 2025

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Florida Courts Make A Sort Of A Stand For Marijuana

Shaking up Florida’s authoritarian image, Florida’s courts make a sort of stand for marijuana.

Florida has long carried a reputation for being uniquely authoritarian, a place where bold laws collide with bold personalities. It’s home to the infamous #FloridaMan headlines, often chronicling wild and unpredictable stunts, and also the mecca of spring break chaos, where rowdy college crowds flock each year. Against this backdrop of quirky notoriety and strict law enforcement, Florida’courts make a sort of stand for marijuana. And it marks a striking departure from its “tough on crime” image.

RELATED: Cannabis Can Help PTSD

In a landmark ruling on October 1, 2025, the Florida Second District Court of Appeal declared the mere odor of marijuana no longer constitutes probable cause for police to search a vehicle. This decision marks a significant shift in Florida’s approach to cannabis law enforcement, reflecting evolving legal standards and public attitudes toward marijuana.

For decades, Florida law enforcement relied on the “plain smell” doctrine, which permitted officers to search a vehicle if they detected the odor of marijuana. This practice was grounded in the assumption the smell of marijuana was indicative of illegal activity. However, with the legalization of medical marijuana and hemp, the legal landscape has changed, rendering the smell of cannabis insufficient to establish probable cause.

The case of Darrielle Ortiz Williams highlighted the limitations of the plain smell doctrine. Officers detected the odor of cannabis during a traffic stop and proceeded to search the vehicle, finding both marijuana and a small bag of white powder. Williams contended the search was unlawful, as the odor alone did not provide probable cause. The appellate court agreed, emphasizing the legalization of medical marijuana and hemp had altered the legal context, making the odor of cannabis unreliable as sole evidence of illegal activity.

This ruling necessitates a paradigm shift for Florida law enforcement agencies. Officers can no longer rely solely on the smell of marijuana to justify a search. Instead, they must consider the totality of circumstances, including other indicators of illegal activity, to establish probable cause. This change aims to protect citizens’ rights while ensuring searches are based on concrete evidence rather than assumptions.

Florida’s journey toward cannabis reform has been marked by significant milestones. The state legalized medical marijuana in 2016, allowing patients with qualifying conditions to access cannabis for therapeutic use. However, efforts to legalize recreational marijuana have faced challenges. In November 2024, a proposed constitutional amendment to legalize recreational cannabis garnered 55.9% of the vote but fell short of the 60% threshold required for passage.

Governor Ron DeSantis played a pivotal role in opposing the amendment, arguing legalization would lead to increased crime and negatively impact communities. Despite public support for legalization, the governor’s campaign efforts were instrumental in the amendment’s defeat.

Despite setbacks in the legislative arena, public support for cannabis reform remains robust. Polls indicate a majority of Floridians favor the legalization of recreational marijuana. Legal challenges, such as the recent appellate court ruling, reflect a growing recognition of the need to adapt laws to contemporary realities. As the legal landscape continues to evolve, it is likely future reforms will align more closely with public opinion, paving the way for comprehensive cannabis legislation in Florida.

In conclusion, the repeal of the plain smell doctrine represents a significant step forward in Florida’s cannabis law reform. While challenges remain, the state’s legal system is increasingly aligning with public sentiment, indicating a potential shift toward broader cannabis legalization in the future.

Beloved Partner Of Marijuana Faces Recall

Amy Hansen

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October 15, 2025

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Beloved Partner Of Marijuana Faces Recall

Cinnamon’s recall hits cannabis fans hard — the beloved spice enhances marijuana mornings, nights, and everything between

Cinnamon toast is one of life’s simple pleasures — warm, sweet, and nostalgic. As a good the combination of warm toast, sugar, butter and cinnamon brought smiles on a school morning. But for many cannabis enthusiasts, it has become more than a breakfast comfort; it’s a favorite flavor pairing enhancing both body and mind. So when news hit several this beloved partner of marijuana faces recall, fans of this perfect cannabis companion let out a collective groan: ARGH!

RELATED: Cannabis Can Help PTSD

The spice rack staple, prized for its sweet heat and cozy aroma, has long been used alongside marijuana for both culinary and wellness reasons. Whether sprinkled into a morning edible or infused in a nighttime tea, cinnamon doesn’t just taste good — it enhances how people experience cannabis.

Here’s why: cinnamon’s natural compounds, particularly cinnamaldehyde, are known to support metabolism and blood sugar balance, while its scent helps trigger a calm, focused state. When paired with cannabis strains contain mood-lifting terpenes like limonene or pinene, the result can be an energizing and joyful start to the day. Cinnamon-infused cannabis coffees or low-dose edibles are especially popular among millennials looking for a more natural “wake and bake” which doesn’t leave them groggy.

At night, the combo flips. A cinnamon-chamomile tea blended with a relaxing cannabis strain rich in myrcene or linalool can help calm racing thoughts, ease muscle tension, and support better sleep. It’s a cozy ritual feeling more like self-care than indulgence — a perfect wind-down for the overstimulated generation.

But with the current recall affecting certain batches of ground cinnamon, many cannabis-friendly kitchens are pressing pause. The recall, linked to potential contamination concerns, is a reminder not all natural products are created equal. Experts recommend checking product labels and buying organic or certified-safe cinnamon when using it in cannabis recipes, tinctures, or infusions.

While cinnamon might be off the menu temporarily, fans aren’t giving up on this spicy soulmate. After all, few things beat the comfort of a cinnamon-dusted edible or the aroma of cannabis and cinnamon wafting together through a kitchen on a lazy Sunday morning.

Officials Cling To Personal Moral Codes Despite Public Opinion

Terry Hacienda

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October 14, 2025

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Officials Cling To Personal Moral Codes Despite Public Opinion

Legal cannabis is booming for fun, medicine, and anxiety relief—yet some elected officials let their moral code override public opinion

Despite a national surge in support for cannabis legalization, a minority of elected officials cling to personal moral codes despite public opinion. This disconnect between public opinion and political action raises questions about representation and the role of personal beliefs in shaping public policy.

Recent polls indicate overwhelming public support for cannabis legalization. A Quinnipiac University poll found that 93% of Americans aged 50-64 and 91% of Americans aged 65 and older support medical cannabis, with support reaching 99% among those aged 18-34. Similarly, a University of North Florida poll revealed that 66% of voters supported Florida’s Amendment 3, which aimed to legalize recreational marijuana.

Despite this overwhelming public support, some lawmakers persist in blocking reform efforts. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, for instance, acknowledged that “more people probably agreed” with a marijuana legalization ballot initiative he helped defeat last year. However, he argued that it was the “morally right” choice to prevent the sale of what he termed “dangerous stuff” in the state. Other elected officials, including a handful of state legislators in Oklahoma and Alabama, have cited similar moral objections to block legalization measures, framing their opposition in terms of protecting community values and public health.

DeSantis’s stance underscores a broader issue: the influence of personal morality on public policy. While elected officials are entrusted to represent their constituents, some prioritize their own ethical beliefs over the will of the people. This approach can lead to policies that do not align with public opinion, potentially eroding trust in democratic institutions.

The refusal to legalize cannabis also has economic and social repercussions. Legalization could generate significant revenue through taxation, create jobs, and reduce law enforcement costs associated with cannabis-related offenses. Moreover, regulated cannabis markets have been linked to reductions in alcohol consumption, offering a safer alternative for some adults. Medical research also highlights cannabis’s therapeutic benefits, from pain management to treating certain neurological conditions. Younger generations, particularly Gen Z, are increasingly embracing cannabis to help manage anxiety and stress, signaling a shift in both social norms and wellness trends.

The persistent opposition to cannabis reform by a minority of lawmakers highlights the need for a more representative approach to governance. Elected officials should consider the overwhelming public support for cannabis legalization and weigh it against their personal beliefs. While moral considerations are important, they should not override the collective will of the people.

As public opinion continues to favor cannabis reform, it is imperative that lawmakers reflect the values and desires of their constituents, ensuring that policies are both representative and progressive. If lawmakers continue to allow personal morality to outweigh public support, they risk further eroding trust in the democratic process while denying citizens the economic, social, and medical benefits that responsible cannabis legalization could bring.

Do You Know Someone With Main Character Syndrome

Sarah Johns

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October 14, 2025

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Do You Know Someone With Main Character Syndrome

The drama, the attention and more – you know someone with this new issue?

You’ve probably seen it on Instagram or TikTok: a friend dramatically posting sunrise selfies, captioning every moment as if they’re the lead in a blockbuster movie, or narrating their life like a cinematic journey. If this sounds familiar, do you know someone with Main Character Syndrome. The term has become a cultural shorthand for people who see themselves as the protagonist of every story.

Main Character Syndrome isn’t just a funny meme—it’s a reflection of a broader trend in how younger generations interact with social media. For Gen Z and Millennials, growing up in the digital age means our lives are constantly curated for public viewing. The “main character” mindset often shows up as a heightened self-focus, dramatic storytelling, or an obsession with capturing life’s most aesthetic moments. It’s as if every coffee run or park stroll is worthy of a feature film.

However, there’s an ugly side to Main Character Syndrome isn’t often discussed. Some individuals take their self-centered worldview too far, treating friends as props in their story, disregarding others’ feelings, or even being rude to service staff without thinking twice. This extreme self-focus can lead to toxic behaviors—like only reaching out when they need something, or belittling others to maintain a sense of superiority. For those around them, the experience can feel exhausting and alienating.

Psychologists note while some level of self-focus is normal, Main Character Syndrome can sometimes tip into narcissistic tendencies or social anxiety. Constantly comparing oneself to the highlight reels of others can create unrealistic expectations and increased stress. According to a 2024 study by the Pew Research Center, nearly 70% of Gen Z report feeling more pressure to “perform” their lives online than offline. This cultural pressure partly fuels the Main Character mindset, where life is always staged for an audience.

Interestingly, not all aspects are negative. Main Character Syndrome can inspire creativity, confidence, and self-expression. Many people channel this mindset into photography, writing, fashion, or lifestyle branding, turning everyday moments into meaningful narratives. For Millennials and Gen Z, it’s a way to reclaim agency over how they present themselves in a world dominated by likes, shares, and viral trends.

So, do you know someone with Main Character Syndrome? Chances are, it’s someone who embraces life like a story worth telling—or maybe, it’s you. Either way, the phenomenon says a lot about our generation’s desire for individuality, connection, and a little bit of cinematic flair. In a world where everyone’s life is online, being the “main character” is as much about survival as it is about self-expression.

The Intersection Of AI And Cannabis Wellness

Anthony Washington

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October 14, 2025

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The intersection of AI and cannabis wellness is creating personalized, data-driven wellness experiences

Artificial intelligence isn’t just revolutionizing tech, it is starting to reshape daily lives. And here is a look at the intersection of AI and cannabis well, how it is—eshaping how people grow, buy, and use cannabis for wellness. From personalized product recommendations to smarter cultivation systems, AI is helping cannabis evolve from a cultural trend to a precision-based wellness industry.

For Gen Z and millennials, who already blend technology seamlessly into their lifestyles, this intersection feels natural. Cannabis is no longer just about relaxation—it’s about balance, mental clarity, and customized health. AI is making that level of personalization possible.

One driving reason the AI-meets-cannabis wellness niche resonates now is that younger generations—especially Gen Z and younger millennials—are grappling with high levels of anxiety. In a 2023 Gallup survey, nearly 47% of Gen Zers (ages 12–26) said they “often” or “always” feel anxious, and more than 20% reported often or always feeling depressed. Among Gen Z young adults aged 18–24, a U.S. Census Bureau–backed survey found that 44% experienced persistent feelings of nervousness or being “on edge.” Compared to older generations, Gen Z is more than twice as likely to report frequent stress or anxiety symptoms, according to cross-generational global research.

Younger generations are actively seeking tools and strategies to manage anxiety—including wellness approaches that combine science, personalization, and low stigma. That’s exactly where AI + cannabis for wellness enters the picture: offering a data-driven but holistic option that appeals to digital natives looking for more control over their mental health.

On the production side, AI-powered sensors and predictive analytics are helping growers fine-tune everything from lighting and humidity to nutrient delivery. The result? Cleaner, more consistent plants with specific cannabinoid and terpene profiles tailored to wellness needs like sleep support, anxiety relief, and focus. Companies such as Bloom Automation and Cultivation Tech are using computer vision to analyze plant health in real time, reducing waste and maximizing yields.

In dispensaries and online retail, AI-driven recommendation engines—similar to what Spotify or Netflix use—help consumers find products that match their body chemistry and goals. Imagine logging into an app, entering your stress level or sleep quality, and receiving a curated list of strains, edibles, or tinctures designed just for you. This approach appeals to younger consumers who crave transparency, data, and control over what they put in their bodies.

AI is also improving safety and education. Machine learning tools can flag potentially unsafe combinations of products or alert users to dosage risks. Meanwhile, chatbots trained in medical cannabis knowledge are making trusted information more accessible, especially for first-time users exploring cannabis as an alternative to pharmaceuticals.

As cannabis moves toward broader federal acceptance, AI could become its most powerful ally—driving innovation, compliance, and credibility. The technology gives the industry a scientific edge, helping shift the narrative from “stoner culture” to “smart wellness.”

For a generation raised on both self-care and technology, the AI-cannabis partnership feels like the future: personalized, data-driven, and deeply human.

Target Follows Customers Trends But Will The Government Follow

Sarah Johns

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October 13, 2025

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Is the retailer recognizing the future while taking a gamble on the government

Target follows customers trends but will the government follow? The company has quietly moved into the intoxicating-beverage market, testing THC-infused, hemp-derived drinks at a small number of Minnesota stores — a pilot, if expanded, would mark one of the first times a major U.S. big-box chain has put psychoactive cannabis beverages on its shelves.

The move fits a familiar Target playbook: for decades the Minneapolis retailer has leaned into cultural trends appeal to younger shoppers – from designer collaborations to small-format urban stores and digitally savvy merchandising. A move and instinct which helped it punch above its weight in fashion and lifestyle categories. Those strategic bets — promoted over years in corporate announcements and trade coverage — helped turn Target into a go-to brand for millennials and Gen Z consumers.

But the rollout also comes at a fragile moment for Target. Industry coverage and analysts have argued the chain’s momentum with younger, more affluent shoppers has slipped in recent years as competition from discounters and changing shopper habits accelerated. Critics say testing hemp-derived THC beverages may be an attempt to reclaim cultural relevance and traffic, even as the brand recalibrates its core value proposition.

Target’s pilot highlights how mainstream commerce is normalizing cannabis-adjacent products while policymaking remains fractured. On the one hand, retailers are responding to consumer demand for low-alcohol, experiential and wellness alternatives — categories which appeal to younger buyers and dovetail with Target’s historic strengths. On the other, some political currents push a very different agenda.

While Target’s move reflects where the market and the culture are heading, the federal government remains stuck in neutral. Despite overwhelming public support for legalization and the endorsement of more access from major medical organizations — including the American Medical Association and the American Public Health Association — there is still no clear national pathway for cannabis regulation or commerce.

This regulatory limbo has left states to craft their own patchwork laws while companies like Target cautiously experiment in compliant markets. The disconnect is stark: public opinion has moved on, the private sector is innovating, and yet Washington continues to debate how (or if) cannabis should be treated like alcohol.

Target’s test isn’t just about drinks — it’s about the mainstreaming of cannabis culture in everyday retail. As consumers sip low-dose THC seltzers instead of cocktails, big retailers are quietly normalizing what federal law still treats as a gray zone. The question now isn’t whether cannabis will become part of mainstream commerce — it’s how long the government can afford to ignore the will of hte public.

Toys Aren’t Just For Kids Anymore

Sarah Johns

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October 13, 2025

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Toys for adults have become a multi-billion dollar industry and growing…

In 2025, the toy industry is seeing a surprising shift, toys aren’t just for kids anymore. Driven by Gen Z’s mix of nostalgia, mental health awareness, and a desire for meaningful play, the adult toy and collectible market is booming. Brands like Jellycat, Labubu, and new favorites such as Crybaby are leading the charge, offering comfort, collectibility, and emotional resonance for a generation seeking joy in small, tactile experiences.

Jellycat, the British plush toy brand, has become a cultural touchstone for Gen Z. Known for its ultra-soft plush designs and whimsical characters, Jellycat appeals not just to children but to young adults craving comfort. Limited-edition releases, soft textures, and quirky designs make them a must-have, while social media buzz—especially on TikTok—fuels the frenzy, with thousands of posts showing collections and trades. These toys aren’t just playthings; they’re emotional anchors in an unpredictable world.

Pop Mart’s Labubu, with its mischievous rabbit-like grin, continues to dominate the collectible toy market. Its blind-box format drives repeat purchases and collecting habits, turning casual buyers into devoted fans. Alongside Labubu, the Crybaby line has emerged, offering characters that express a wide range of emotions. This focus on feelings resonates with Gen Z’s emphasis on mental health and emotional expression, while the rarity of certain figures fuels excitement and social sharing.

Adult-focused LEGO sets are also experiencing a renaissance. Intricate builds like the LEGO Ninjago and LEGO Creator sets provide stress relief, creative stimulation, and a dose of “newstalgia”—a chance for adults to reconnect with childhood memories in a more sophisticated, satisfying way. Similarly, collectible designer figures, from anime characters to limited-edition art toys, offer exclusivity and aesthetic appeal, satisfying Gen Z’s desire for unique, culturally relevant items that also double as décor or status symbols.

Yes, cow-themed toys are trending. From interactive plushes like FurReal Maggie the Feed & Follow Cow to playful games such as “Cows in Space,” these whimsical designs appeal to Gen Z’s love for quirky, unconventional toys. They also highlight the fun, playful side of adult collecting, showing that not all toys need to be serious or display-only.

As the holiday season approaches, these toys are set to dominate gift lists. From Jellycat plushies to Labubu, Crybaby, LEGO sets, and designer figures, Gen Z is redefining what makes a meaningful gift. Small luxuries, nostalgic items, and interactive collectibles combine to create experiences that resonate deeply, making these toys some of the most sought-after items of the year.

RELATED: The Rise Of The Pickle Flavor

This movement is part of the larger “kidult” trend, where adults engage with toys for emotional comfort, creative expression, and nostalgia. Adults now account for nearly 28% of global toy sales, with the market expanding into a $114.4 billion industry. Plush toys, collectibles, and innovative new designs like Crybaby and designer figures offer solace, joy, and a sense of connection.

The adult toy and collectible market is more than a trend—it’s a cultural shift. Gen Z is embracing toys for comfort, creativity, and emotional expression, with brands like Jellycat, Labubu, Crybaby, LEGO, and designer figures leading the way. This holiday season, these items aren’t just toys—they’re expressions of identity, care, and the joy of rediscovering childhood magic in an adult world.

OSHA Closed Can Effect Alcohol And Cannabis

Amy Hansen

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October 13, 2025

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OSHA Closed Can Effect Alcohol And Cannabis

The government shutdown can hit you in an unexpected way – alcohol and cannabis

A federal shutdown doesn’t just pause bureaucracy—it can have real consequences for workplace safety and public health. In fact, OSHA closed can effect alcohol and cannabis. When the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) suspends inspections, outreach, and compliance programs, everyday jobs, healthcare facilities, and even the marijuana industry feel the impact. With the industry already fragile waiting for some nod from the federal government, this impacts thousands of mom and pop businesses and millions of consumers.

During a government funding lapse, OSHA halts nonessential functions like guidance, education, and most inspections. Critical operations—investigating imminent dangers, workplace fatalities, and serious violations—continue, but many routine safety checks slow or stop entirely. This slowdown can allow hazards in workplaces to persist, increasing risk for employees and the public.

Even after the shutdown ends, backlogs in enforcement and inspections can take weeks or months to resolve. Employers are still legally responsible for meeting safety standards, but with limited federal oversight, unsafe practices may go unchecked longer than usual.

Employees in high-risk industries—construction, manufacturing, and chemical plants—may experience delays in OSHA investigations or reporting. Workers could hesitate to report unsafe conditions because complaint processing and whistleblower protections are slowed. For businesses, abatement schedules, contest periods, and enforcement deadlines continue ticking, creating confusion and risk when OSHA staff are absent.

Food, alcohol, and beverage operations feel the impact. OSHA standards cover kitchen and bar ventilation, hot equipment handling, chemical cleaners, and safe storage of liquids. When inspections are paused, restaurants, breweries, distilleries, and beverage production facilities may be more prone to burns, slips, and chemical exposure. These lapses can compromise not only employee safety but also public health.

While it may seem surprising, the cannabis industry is increasingly under OSHA’s watch. Local Emphasis Programs target cultivation, processing, extraction, and retail operations. Cannabis workplaces face unique hazards: dust exposure, mold, flammable solvents, and intensive ventilation systems.

One reported case involved an employee at a cannabis packaging facility who died from respiratory complications caused by ground cannabis dust. OSHA also cited Massachusetts cannabis licensees for failing to treat cannabis dust as a hazardous chemical under its Hazard Communication Standard. When OSHA’s broader operations slow, enforcement and investigations in these sensitive workplaces can be delayed, allowing unsafe conditions to linger.

Healthcare workers face heightened risks during an OSHA shutdown. Hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities rely on OSHA guidance for infection control, chemical safety, and ergonomics. Without inspections, unsafe conditions such as improper handling of hazardous medications or unsafe patient lifting practices may persist, putting both staff and patients at risk.

An OSHA shutdown is more than a bureaucratic pause—it affects workplace safety across industries from healthcare to food, beverage, and the cannabis sector. Real lives are at stake, and consumers may unknowingly encounter risk in workplaces that go unchecked. Whether you’re working in a hospital, a brewery, a dispensary, or buying products from these sectors, the effects of paused federal oversight are closer than you think.

The Fresh ToastThe most trusted name in cannabis

The Rise Of The Zillennial

Behold the mini generation – blending nostalgia, tech fluency, and emotional authenticity online.

Fall For These Autumn Cocktails

From maple whiskey to pear bellinis, fall’s best cocktail lineup is here

Maple Whiskey Sour

Spiced Tequila Cider

Rosemary Gin Fizz

Cranberry Vodka Smash

Related: 5 Weird Whiskeys to Challenge Your Ideas About Whiskey

Autumn Bellini

Florida Courts Make A Sort Of A Stand For Marijuana

Shaking up Florida’s authoritarian image, Florida’s courts make a sort of stand for marijuana.

Beloved Partner Of Marijuana Faces Recall

Cinnamon’s recall hits cannabis fans hard — the beloved spice enhances marijuana mornings, nights, and everything between

Officials Cling To Personal Moral Codes Despite Public Opinion

Legal cannabis is booming for fun, medicine, and anxiety relief—yet some elected officials let their moral code override public opinion

Do You Know Someone With Main Character Syndrome

The drama, the attention and more – you know someone with this new issue?

The Intersection Of AI And Cannabis Wellness

The intersection of AI and cannabis wellness is creating personalized, data-driven wellness experiences

Target Follows Customers Trends But Will The Government Follow

Is the retailer recognizing the future while taking a gamble on the government

Toys Aren’t Just For Kids Anymore

Toys for adults have become a multi-billion dollar industry and growing…

OSHA Closed Can Effect Alcohol And Cannabis

The government shutdown can hit you in an unexpected way – alcohol and cannabis

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