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https://hightimes.com/

‘Peyote Crisis’ Threatens Sacred Native American Ceremonies

Native American and preservationist advocates are sounding the alarm about an imminent “peyote crisis.” The crisis started decades ago, but recently has been amplified by pharmaceutical interests in mescaline, the psychoactive compound the cactus is known for. The mescaline-rich spineless cactus, Lophophora williamsii, has been used in sacred rituals for over 5,000 years by American indigenous cultures, but through careless harvesting by recreational users, or worse, mass produced pharmaceutical companies, all of that could soon be lost. In the U.S. the cactus only grows wild in Texas—where it’s been declared an endangered species—as well as Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo León, and Tamaulipas in northern Mexico. The cactus is currently being monetized for either pharmaceutical or recreational use, and indigenous groups like the Native American Church (NAC) are concerned that the sacred plant is being exploited. In the December 1977 issue of High Times, journalist J. F. Burke wrote about his journey with peyote that started in 1957, one of the first in-depth articles about the plant, just as the federal government was making exemptions for a short list of Native Americans. Since then, a lot of hippies, psychonauts, and wannabe shamans have scoured the earth looking for ways to find it. The American Indian Religious Freedom Act of 1978 (42 U.S.C. § 1996.) protects the rights of Native Americans to exercise their traditional religions–including psychedelic sacraments. On Dec. 22, 1981, the Department of Justice reiterated the DEA’s peyote exemption for the NAC, but only bona fide members of the church are included. Only allowing that single church was challenged in 1994 under Peyote Way Church of God, Inc. v. Thornburgh and Congress amended the American Indian Religious Freedom Act to legalize peyote use by all members of Native American tribes. Vice reported last September Canada-based Lophos Pharma, a publicly-traded company, started to produce the psychoactive cactus for pharmaceutical, not spiritual purposes. Lophos runs a 10,000-square foot facility in Napanee, Ontario. Mescaline itself is illegal under Schedule III of the Canadian drug act, peyote is permitted, so long as the mescaline isn’t extracted from it. But some say even medical purposes are not the way the cactus should be consumed, as it’s considered sacred. Colorado-based journalist Annette McGivney has recently been advocating for the preservation of peyote and the sacred ceremonies that surround it. McGivney told KJZZ that she visited with the two camps of people: “One is, you know, the plant medicine activists and then the pharmaceutical entrepreneurs, so the plant medicine activists had two different responses,” she said. “One was they were totally oblivious to the Native American worldview and why it would not be OK with them for someone to just grow a peyote cactus in their home greenhouse. They had no idea or they were coming up with their own justification saying, ‘Well, it’s not interfering with Native American spirituality because we’re growing the cactus ourselves. So we’re not taking it away from its natural habitat.’ And they kind of come up with their own justification, ignoring what Native Americans were actually saying, that that was a problem.” Companies like Lophos Pharma, which is growing peyote legally in Canada, as well as researchers in the U.S. are also a threat to the sanctity Native American religious ceremonies. “And then the pharmaceutical industry has their own justifications about why they’re not infringing on Native American spirituality, which is they’re using synthetic mescaline. So they’re creating chemical compounds in a lab that clone the cactus, the psychoactive substance. So they’re saying that’s OK because we’re not actually using the cactus, but for Native Americans and their worldview around interconnectedness and respecting the sovereignty of plants as well as humans. They say it’s not OK to clone our sacred cactus.” Last month McGivney also wrote for The Guardian about the same issue. In Window Rock, Arizona, members of the Navajo Nation, called the Diné partake of azeé (peyote). “How would Christians feel if Jesus Christ was cloned?” Justin Jones, a Diné peyote practitioner and legal counsel for the NAC asked The Guardian. “And while the real Jesus is protected, people could do whatever they wanted to the clone.” The NAC is the same church Burke explored in the 1950’s. Other Native American healers and shamans echoed the same response, saying that cloning or mass-producing peyote is fundamentally wrong from their context. “I’m all for healing,” said Cora Maxx-Phillips, a social worker, member of the Navajo Nation human rights commission and board member of the Council of Peyote Way of Life Coalition, a Navajo Nation grassroots group. “But don’t do it at the expense of our people, who are trying to survive the multigenerational trauma inflicted upon us. Please, leave us alone.”

https://hightimes.com/

Michigan Adult-Use, Medical Cannabis Sales Reach $3.06 Billion in 2023

New data from the Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA) in Michigan revealed that the state collected more than $3.06 billion in adult-use sales last year. Compared to the $2.3 billion in sales collected in Michigan in 2022, the most recent sales data shows 30% growth. According to Crain’s Detroit, that amount equates to $305 in cannabis products per person, compared to the $150 per capita in California (with a projected $5.9 billion in cannabis products sold in 2023), and approximately $290 in per capita spending in Colorado. The CRA also showed an increase in retailers as well, with a total of 750 dispensaries as of December 2023. “As we head into 2024, the CRA continues to focus on transparency and communication, working with stakeholders as the industry continues to grow,” CRA Director Brian Hanna said. “We’re committed to supporting Michigan’s cannabis licensees who currently employ over 35,000 employees, a 23% increase from December 2022.” Hanna took the position of director after former director Andrew Brisbo departed in September 2022. With a background in law enforcement, Hanna has implemented strict rule enforcement, such as fines for cannabis businesses that didn’t pay their annual fees but also for those who were not tracking and/or handling cannabis products properly. According to MLive.com, this helped curb black market sales and other related activity. MiCannaPros founder Harry Barash told MLive.com about the methods and results of the CRA. “They’re certainly making a lot of examples, and if you’re doing things that you shouldn’t be doing it’s only a matter of time before the CRA figures it out,” said Barash. “It certainly seems like they have more bodies and more enforcement now. The CRA has sent a strong message.” The news outlet sought out comment from an industry veteran, Eric Jacovetti, who has previously worked in cultivation and for a cannabis-related staffing company, but currently runs cannabis-related equipment rental. Jacovetti added that the CRA has only reached the tip of the iceberg, so to speak, in terms of uncovering black market operations. “Just the way the current system is set up, you’d have to go to facilities and be auditing sticker by sticker, batch by batch, and I just don’t see that happening,” said Jacovetti. “I don’t even know how they could do it, en masse. A lot of this is still self-policing and thankfully there’s not a lot of folks that don’t want to break the rules.” Despite the growth in sales, some believe that Michigan is reaching a cap soon. Prices in December 2019 when sales first began included $323 for one ounce of flower, but by December 2023, prices had dipped to $95 an ounce. Just in 2023 though, per ounce prices were lowest in January 2023 with $80.15 an ounce, and highest in July 2023 with $98.65 per ounce. After July, prices remained stable. NORML board member and Meds Café operations manager, Jamie Lowell, predicts that the more drastic price decreases in 2022 pushed away investors, leading to a decrease in supply in the near future. “We could be looking at a scenario in the future where there’s not as much inventory in the pipeline,” said Lowell. “A lot of people just backed off because of market saturation.” Michigan currently uses private labs for product testing, which is funded by cannabis producers, but some allegations claim that labs can potentially be changing product results to benefit business owners and not consumers. To counter this, the CRA is working on building a state-run testing lab that will verify test results and perform audits on those labs. The new lab will be built using $2.8 million from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s 2024 budget, and is expected to open sometime this year. “I think it could definitely have an impact on the safety compliance portion of the business, which definitely needs some correction,” Barash commented about the state lab. “If that gets corrected, it could definitely impact pricing. Because if these results are artificial and we now see the true colors of these results, it will probably have a negative impact on prices, because it’s all based on THC.” Proof of corruption has been found in other parts of the industry as well. Last September, former legislator and head of the Michigan Marijuana Licensing Board and Marihuana Advisory Board, Rick Johnson, plead guilty to accepting $110,000 in cannabis-related bribes while in office between 2017-2019. “I am a corrupt politician,” he said in court, which followed with a sentence of 4.5 years in prison. U.S. Attorney Mark Totten told AP News that Johnson exploited the system. “Rick Johnson’s brazen corruption tainted an emerging industry, squandered the public’s trust and scorned a democracy that depends on the rule of law,” Totten said. However, other legislators continue to push to change the industry for the better, in some cases. In May 2023, legislators proposed a rule change to stop drug testing potential government employees for cannabis, which took place later in October. Michigan Civil Service Commissioner Nick Ciaramitaro said that it’s well past time that the rule was implemented. “Whether or not we agree with it or not is kind of beyond the point,” Ciaramitaro said. “Use of marijuana on the job is different than having used it months before you take the test … It doesn’t make sense to limit our ability to hire qualified people because they took a gummy two weeks ago.”

https://hightimes.com/

CBD Can Significantly Lower Dogs’ Stress and Anxiety in Car Travel, Study Shows

Taking your dog to the vet or anywhere that involves moving vehicles is stressful. For you, let alone the poor pup. But your favorite plant, particularly CBD, could make the experience easier for them. And, yes, you’re allowed to have some, too. Dogs who enjoy a daily dose of CBD see “significant reductions” in stress and anxiety related to car travel, according to a new study. Scientists at Waltham Petcare Science Institute in the United Kingdom looked at both the behavioral and physiological stress response in canines given CBD (THC-free cannabis) and a placebo group who did not ingest CBD. They studied the doggos before, during, and after car trips. For the study, researchers partnered with the pet food and vet company Mars Petcare. Twenty dogs participated in the study. And these weren’t dogs who jump at the chance to stick their head out the window of a car and eagerly wave their tongue into the wind. To qualify, they all showed symptoms of anxiety and stress regarding car trips. But when given CBD, in this case, two hours before the required drive, every man’s best friend given CBD showed “meaningful improvements” during the 24 weeks the study lasted. How you may ask, did they level dogs’ stress levels? The researchers monitored cortisol levels, a steroid hormone produced and released by your adrenal glands, which are endocrine glands situated above your kidneys, associated with stress. They also looked at more obvious factors, such as how much they whined. The results suggest that these stress indicators “were significantly influenced by CBD administration,” the study says, “indicating daily dosing at 4 mg/kg may have a mild anxiolytic effect on dogs when traveling in a car.” The placebo group’s stress levels also went down. In humans, the placebo effect can be extremely effective; if you believe you’re taking something, your brain often reacts as if this is the case. But dogs don’t understand (as far as we know) the implications of taking an agent such as CBD, so the study assumes that the lowering of anxiety in the placebo group is the result of dogs getting used to driving. But, before we assume that this is why those who did take CBD showed less stress, note that this group of dogs, on average, had lower levels of cortisol post-test than they did when the study began. But the stress indicators, such as cortisol, didn’t go away completely. As a result, the study’s authors suggest that, just like for you, CBD is most effective in reducing anxiety in dogs as part of a comprehensive approach, noting that CBD is “best used in combination with other interventions, such as behavioral modification therapy, in order to fully alleviate canine stress…These results, combined with the established pharmacokinetics of CBD oil to reach peak levels at 1.5 to 2 hours, with a half-life of 1 to 4 hours, suggests CBD could be used efficaciously as a single dose treatment prior to acute stressors.” The researchers concluded that “Additional research is warranted to better understand the effect of CBD at other dosages on improving dog emotional wellbeing.” Enjoying the calming effect of CBD isn’t the only thing humans have in common with dogs. Just like with our brains and bodies, stress can be pretty detrimental to your pet. Anxious dogs experience a range of symptoms, from physiological changes like increased heart rate and suppressed digestion to behavioral shifts, including heightened reactivity or depression. Stress can also lead to digestive problems such as diarrhea and vomiting, peeing more often or with less control, and obsessive-like behaviors like pacing and overgrooming. Poor things! Stress in dogs can also lead to heightened aggression, demonstrated through growling or biting. Over time, a high level of stress starts to have a negative cumulative effect on your dog’s health, which is all the more reason for you both to keep calm and chill out with CBD. This certainly isn’t the only research showing that dogs can benefit from cannabis. One 2018 study suggests that CBD can reduce seizures in dogs, while another from the same year finds that it can alleviate arthritis pain, Marijuana Moment reports. However, the legalization is putting weed-sniffing police jobs out of work. But perhaps getting to retire early is also good for reducing their stress levels, so it’s another win for canines and cannabis.

https://hightimes.com/

Federal Judge Upholds Mississippi’s Ban on Weed Advertising

A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed by a Mississippi medical marijuana dispensary owner challenging the state’s ban on cannabis advertising. In the legal action, Clarence Cocroft II, the owner of Tru Source Medical Cannabis, argued that Mississippi’s regulations prohibiting cannabis advertising in any media amounted to unconstitutional censorship of the industry. But U.S. District Judge Michael P. Mills disagreed with Cocroft and dismissed the lawsuit on Monday. In his ruling, Mills wrote that because the possession of marijuana remains illegal at the federal level, it is not a “lawful activity” that is protected by the U.S. Constitution like some other forms of commercial speech. Cocroft opened his dispensary in Olive Branch, Mississippi after the state legislature legalized medical marijuana in 2022. In his lawsuit, he argues that he has faced difficulty reaching potential customers because of the state’s ban on advertising by cannabis businesses. The judge, however, said that overturning Mississippi’s ban on cannabis advertising would be a “drastic intrusion upon state sovereignty.” “This is particularly true considering the fact that, by legalizing marijuana to any degree, the Mississippi Legislature has gone further than Congress itself has been willing to go,” Mills wrote in his ruling, according to a report from the Associated Press. “In light of this fact, on what basis would a federal court tell the Mississippi Legislature that it was not entitled to dip its toe into the legalization of marijuana, but, instead, had to dive headfirst into it?” Cocroft is represented by the Institute for Justice, a nonprofit libertarian law firm. The lawsuit names the Mississippi Department of Health, Department of Revenue and Alcoholic Beverage Control Bureau as defendants in the legal action. In the suit, Corcroft maintains that Mississippi’s ban on cannabis advertising prevents him from reaching out to customers via television, radio or print ads. He is even forbidden from placing ads on billboards that he owns. The judge ruled that the state cannot prohibit cannabis businesses from displaying products on their websites or from using “appropriate signs” on their businesses. The authority to enact other restrictions, however, lies with the state Health Department, which bans dispensaries from advertising or marketing “in any media.” Corcroft’s legal team says the ban amounts to unconstitutional censorship. “When Mississippi legalized medical marijuana, it relinquished its power to censor speech by medical marijuana businesses,” said Ari Bargil, an Institute for Justice attorney. “If a product is legal to sell, then it is legal to talk about selling it.” Corcroft’s suit argues that a current review of cannabis policy by the Biden administration and presidential pardons for low-level federal marijuana offenses constitute a de facto legalization of cannabis. But while the president has pardoned thousands of people who have been federally convicted of marijuana possession, cannabis remains illegal under federal law. As long as marijuana remains a federally controlled substance, the judge ruled, the states are free to pass laws that restrict advertising by cannabis businesses. “Plaintiffs thus argue that Congress and President Biden have ‘all but’ made the possession of marijuana lawful, which strikes this court as a tacit admission that it still remains illegal under federal law,” Mills wrote. In a statement released after the judge’s ruling and dismissal of the case, Corcroft said that Mississippi’s ban on cannabis advertising is a violation of the First Amendment rights of legal businesses. He added that he plans to appeal the judge’s ruling to the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. “I’m prepared to fight this fight for as long as it takes,” Cocroft said. “This case is bigger than me and my dispensary – it is about defending the right of everyone to truthfully advertise their legal business in the cannabis industry.” Although Mississippi’s regulated medical marijuana businesses still face the state’s ban on advertising, Brian Vicente, founding partner of the cannabis and psychedelics law firm Vicente LLP, noted that some states with similar policies have later modified the restrictions. “Mississippi’s marijuana laws are still new. In most states, we see advertising restrictions lessen over time as states realize that marijuana, including medical marijuana, is a legitimate product that is not only highly regulated but also legal and safe for sale in the state,” Vicente wrote in an email to High Times. “Mississippi needs to consider that, by severely restricting medical marijuana advertising, they are hurting their medical marijuana patients who need access to this important medication. These restrictions significantly impact patients’ accessibility to information about the program and their medication.”

https://hightimes.com/

Delaware Bill Allowing ‘Human Composting’ Goes to Governor’s Desk

The Delaware state House legislature passed a bill on Tuesday that would allow people to have their bodies composted rather than buried or cremated. According to the Associated Press, the practice known as “natural organic reduction” was passed by a vote of 37-2 and now goes to Governor John Carney’s desk for ultimate authorization or denial. This bill would not allow people to just toss their dead relatives on their backyard compost pile willy-nilly. The process would still have to be undertaken by licensed morticians and otherwise approved handlers of dead people so as not to create a very uncomfortable and smelly situation for neighbors and such. The process of human composting, according to the Associated Press report, takes about 30 days or more depending on the process and is performed in a large tank where the body is mixed with wood chips, straw and other organic materials much like traditional compost of non-human materials. The mixture is exposed to warm air, turned periodically and after full decomposition it would be returned to the family of the deceased to be used in the garden, to plant trees, vegetables or whatever they please. “At the time of laying in, our staff places the body into a composting vessel surrounded by a mixture of wood chips, alfalfa, and straw carefully calibrated for each individual,” said Recompose, a Washington-based human composting service on their website. “Much like the moment when a body is interred into the earth during a burial, the laying in represents a moment of transition. The vessel is closed and the transformation into soil begins.” Chief sponsor of the bill, Rep. Sean Lynn told the Associated Press that the practice is considered a “gentle, respectful, environmentally friendly death care option.” “Natural organic reduction is a sophisticated process that applies cutting-edge technology and engineering to accelerate the natural process of turning a body into soil,” Rep. Lynn said to the Associated Press. If the bill passes the governor’s desk, Delaware would become the eighth state to legalize human composting behind Washington, Colorado, Oregon, Vermont, California, New York and Nevada. Rep. Lynn said that soil testing in these states of compost made from human remains has shown the soil to be “high quality and regenerative.” This practice has been hailed by environmental activists as less energy-consuming than cremation and more environmentally friendly than other traditional burial methods, especially those that utilize chemicals like formaldehyde. The process also does not add to the need for more cemetery space, which a Georgia cemetery owner estimated to be over 1 million acres of land in the United States alone. “My first reaction was: Why haven’t we done this before? It’s not really a new idea. It’s just new-ish that we’re applying it to humans.” said Jennifer DeBruyn, an environmental microbiology professor at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville to CNBC in February of 2023. The language of the Delaware bill would preclude human remains from being used for composting should they contain any radioactive implants such as those used to treat cancer without the need for surgery. Remains confirmed to have certain infections such as Ebola or neurodegenerative disorders such as mad cow disease would also not be eligible under the law if passed. More specific regulations are slated to be developed over the next year if the bill is passed. “We’ve got 29-year-olds in Miami signing up. Young people are going to teach us how to die better,” said Micah Truman to CNBC, CEO of Return Home, a Seattle-based human composting facility. One might think this process would be cheaper than traditional burial services but it can actually be a bit more expensive given the cost of materials. For instance, Recompose charges about $7,000 for their human composting services whereas the average cost of cremation in the same state is about $6,028 according to Choice Mutual. Burials do tend to cost a bit more in most states, however. Seeing as how this is High Times, I would be remiss if I did not mention, in writing where my legal representatives can see it, that after I die I would like my body to be composted and used to grow cannabis plants, peyote cacti and psilocybin mushrooms.

https://hightimes.com/

Hemp Seed Meal for Hens Gains Recommendation for Federal Approval

Things are changing fast regarding how hemp is tolerated in agriculture and farming. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s veterinary arm, the FDA-Center for Veterinary Medicine’s (FDA-CVM), is responsible for assuring that animal drugs and medicated feeds are safe and effective. Officials that determine approved chicken feed ingredients recommended hemp seed meal for hens, under a tentative FDA-CVM approval, as evidence mounts showing hemp seed is not only safe but beneficial for healthy hens and eggs. Hemp Feed Coalition (HFC)—a nonprofit that aims to federal approval for hemp grain products in animal feed—announced a “landmark achievement” with the tentative approval of Hemp Seed Meal (HSM) for Laying Hens at the recent Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) 2024 Mid-Year Meeting. “Hemp’s entry into animal feed will catalyze agricultural advancement,” HFC President and COO of Bish Enterprises, Andrew Bish. “It’s an opportunity for farmers to diversify, to develop more sustainable supply chains, and to reap the benefits of a new crop.” The AAFCO guides state, federal and international feed regulators with ingredient definitions, label standards, and laboratory standards, and has done so for over 110 years. The AAFCO celebrated the recommendation for hemp seed feed during the first day of its Workshop & Board of Directors Meeting held on January 23-25 in Chattanooga, Tennessee. We already know that hemp seeds are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, healthy oils, and an impressive, high-quality protein profile. Now research confirms the nutritional value of hemp feed resembles that of soy and canola, and is believed to be safe. The data also shows the value of hemp seed is growing and could surpass typical feed sources. Specifically, researchers found that hemp-fed hens lay eggs enriched with essential fatty acids such as ALA, DHA, and GLA, and increased amounts of Lutein. They are all known to promote better human health. The safety of HSM has been validated after undergoing the FDA-CVM’s rigorous evaluation, and it will provide formulators and feed mills with the assurance they need that HSM is a safe and viable protein and fat source. “Data to support this application included the validated method and quantification of cannabinoids in both the ingredient and egg product, and it was verified that any potential cannabinoid contaminants did not transfer over to human food products,” the HFC’s announcement reads. Federal officials are typically strict about any sort of medical claims on hemp products, including those intended for animals and livestock. Keep in mind that just over a year ago in May 2022, the FDA sent out warning letters to four hemp-derived CBD companies that were selling hemp products marketed for animals. This will go before AAFCO’s Board and members for final approval, and then be adopted into the Official Publication later this year. This “historic milestone” took over three years to achieve and will allow processors to formulate with HSM in the diets of egg-laying hens as a source of protein and fat at an inclusion of no more than 20%. To see the ingredient definition in its entirety, visit the HFC’s website. Crops like hemp, that are new to the agricultural world, provide benefits to soil, disease control, and farm flexibility. Furthermore, hemp requires lower input needs, resulting in a more sustainable supply chain overall. HFC shared their support for a more nutritious ingredient, reducing risk for farmers, and opening up the door to opportunities in the hemp market. HFC members are proud to support these efforts and lay the groundwork for hemp grain products in feed across species. Visit the MemberZone page to access additional data and resources, and to learn more about the benefits of HSM for laying hens. Late last year, a bill to allow hemp seeds in animal feed in New York was stopped in its tracks. Two New York measures would allow for hemp seeds to be part of animal feed meant for pets, horses and camelids, like llamas and alpacas and got the green light from the state Assembly and Senate earlier this year. In early December, Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) received the pair of bills, though she effectively stopped them in their tracks via veto, stating that there is a lack of information about using industrial hemp in this way and pushing for the state to study the topics in an “expeditious manner.” Specifically, the measures would have allowed industrial hemp seed to be added to animal feed that includes seed hulls and seed meal. The bills would not have allowed for hemp seeds and additives to expand to other commercial livestock, most likely because of regulatory complications surrounding certain ingredients for animals used for human consumption.

https://hightimes.com/

79% of Canadians Support Psilocybin To Treat Existential Dread for End of Life Patients

A team of Canadian researchers recently published the results of their newest study in the medical journal Palliative Medicine. The study examined the social acceptability of using psilocybin as an end of life treatment, specifically to treat “existential dread.” According to study team leader Michel Dorval, who is a researcher at CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center and also a Université Laval’s Faculty of Pharmacy professor, previous studies have established the potential benefits of psilocybin for medical use. “Studies have already shown that psilocybin, combined with psychotherapy, produces rapid, robust and lasting anxiolytic and antidepressant effects in patients suffering from advanced cancer,” Dorval told Medical Xpress. “This substance can bring about a profound awareness that leads the patient to view existence from a different perspective. Treatment with psilocybin, combined with psychotherapy, can produce relief for up to six months.” The study was conducted between November 2022-December 2022 through an online survey with 2,800 Canadians, 1,000 of which lived in Québec, while 1,800 were from Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia. Questions included: “Have you heard about the Special Access Program?”, “To what extent would you agree that healthcare professionals should be allowed to administer psilocybin without going through Health Canada?”, “Do you think psilocybin is a reasonable choice for a palliative care patient suffering from existential distress?”, “In your opinion, should the public health system cover the costs of psilocybin-assisted therapy?”, “To what extent do you support the legalization of psilocybin for medical purposes?” Participants were also asked to respond to hypothetical situations. Only 18.7% of participants said that they were aware of the government’s Special Access Program. Psilocybin sale, possession, and production is illegal in Canada, but as of January 2022, the government’s Special Access Program now allows doctors to request for limited access to certain illegal substances if they believe it could help a patient if other methods of treatment have failed. The results showed that 79.3% of participants see psilocybin use as “reasonable” for those approaching end of life. “Our results seem to indicate that the social acceptability of this intervention is high in the Canadian population,” Dorval explained. “If we consider only Québec respondents, the acceptability rate is similar to the national average.” Participant’s support was even stronger when considering the social acceptability of patients already underdoing palliative care, which Doval believes could be because they’ve seen someone go through it personally. “Having been close to loved ones at the end of life, or having witnessed their distress, could explain this openness to new approaches designed to help people at this stage of their life,” Doval stated. Additionally, 44.2% said that healthcare professionals should be able to prescribe psilocybin without going through the government first, 84.4% said Canada’s public health system should cover the costs of such treatment, and 63.3% said they “would welcome” legalizing medical psilocybin. Additionally, those who have tried psilocybin at some point in their life also showed increased support. “There are still many prejudices against psychedelic substances,” Doval concluded. “Familiarity with these substances probably helps to better understand their true effects as well as their therapeutic potential.” Researchers on this particular study explained that population-based surveys from elsewhere in Canada, as well as England and Australia, were conducted by interest groups or organizations rather than published in scientific journals. “The results obtained from this survey are timely in the wake of the growing worldwide interest towards psilocybin-assisted therapy,” researchers concluded. “The implications of using this type of intervention to alleviate the existential suffering of patients nearing the end of life are manifest, as evidenced by a recommendation made in February 2023 by the Canadian Special Joint Committee on Medical Assistance in Dying, calling for an improvement of access to this therapy, as part of palliative care supports.” Acceptability of psilocybin is prominent in the U.S. as well. The legal use of psilocybin in the state of Oregon began in January 2023, and as of December 2023, 715 people have sought out psilocybin centers for treatment. Earlier this month, the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs announced that it will be funding studies on psilocybin, as well as MDMA, to examine the effects that those substances have on veterans who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder and depression. A study published in Molecular Psychiatry recently explores how Zebrafish (a small fish in the minnow family) and how psilocybin affects them. Research from 2013 shows that humans share 70% of the same genes with Zebrafish, making them useful test subjects. Using machine tracking technology to monitor changes in swimming pattern behavior before and after psilocybin, the fish began to show both stimulatory and anxiolytic movements, or spontaneously exploring and displaying irregular swim patterns associated with stress. Previously in 2022, these researchers performed a similar study with Zebrafish and LSD as well and found evidence that LSD does not create withdrawal symptoms and isn’t addictive. In even stranger news, a genomic diversity study conducted by the University of Utah and Natural History Museum of Utah found evidence that “psilocybe” originated more than 65 million years ago, which is also the same time frame that an asteroid hit Earth and contributed to planetary mass extinction of dinosaurs.

https://hightimes.com/

A Day in the Life of a Weed Journalist

I’ve been freelancing for over a decade now. While it feels like a long time, it equally feels like a blur of events, achievements, and tons of busy days. In 2011, I started covering films, then moved into electronic music. In 2017, I parlayed my years-long love of getting high into freelance weed reporting, interviews, and other news endeavors. Along the way, I added freelance copywriting to help cover the bills and stretch my creative muscles. Freelancing in weed and beyond has been a wild ride, one I’m glad to still be on despite its hardships. To keep up, my typical daily routine has evolved numerous times. No matter the circumstances, every day I do my best to learn about my subject and convey it to my audience through news outlets, brands, or self-published content. When I was younger, I embodied the more classic journo approach, leaning into the breaking news model in particular. I woke early, hitting the news cycles—weed-specific and general news outlets—to find all the information on weed laws, business, culture, or otherwise. For additional perspectives, I turned to social media, in-person meetups, and industry events to get a pulse on the local and larger markets. The pandemic necessitated a swift adaptation in my fact-finding, shifting from in-person interactions to more digital news gathering using popular news outlets, social media, online presentations, etc. I also relied on online introductions and cold outreach, via email and social media. After dealing with job insecurity in the early pandemic days, I began to do more copywriting to afford living in New York City. The move alleviated my financial worries associated with a journalism career. Around this time, I began to wake up later and steer clear of breaking news and the associated rush to drop the news first on social media. Kudos to those that do this, as it is an important role. But I find that type of work equally appealing as seeing a family member naked. Instead, I like using each day to plot, prep, and execute on days—or weeks—long brewing topics. Anyone open to splitting time in news and copy should be aware: The increased workload does make writing much more intensive and time-consuming each day. Between writing, researching, outreach, and content creation, I was easily pulling 16 hour days for several days or weeks at a time. This hustle-culture approach may be the norm for some, and if that suits you, by all means, enjoy it. But that saying about all work and no play didn’t make me a dull boy; it made me a shit writer. I took on more than I could chew at times, resulting in a few subpar first drafts and even the occasional sent-back story. If you want to keep a good reputation in writing, avoid doing this. Still, I am proud of many projects during this period, notably Most Affected, a High Times series profiling individuals and families impacted by the ongoing drug war. Long-story short, don’t take on more than you can realistically pull off, even if the money is alluring. On a lesser note, this era reminded me of the importance of the occasional morning bathroom hotbox sesh. It may sound reckless to productivity, but those tweaks reminded me of the importance of having fun during the day and how it can spark joy and creativity in even the darkest times. Today, I continue to work a more relaxed beat. I find this approach allows me to get the rest I need and attack my articles and tasks at a pace suited to me. Each day is still packed, and I can easily pull 12-hour days if I push myself. But I consciously do my best to avoid overworking and possible burnout, even if that comes at the detriment of my career or standing in the industry. This approach allows me to give my all to my work each day, no matter the assignment or task. I still have down days production-wise, but by managing my Google Calendar effectively, I’ve been able to largely stay on track, satisfy clients, and create work I’m proud of. While I still often take on a workload that is almost over max capacity, I manage it better and know when to say “no” to projects, regardless of the payday. Each day, I gather my pitches, sources, and news online. I regularly speak with sources in media, politics, business, the general public, and elsewhere for leads and information. I read the news, gathering intel from weed media and general news. I rely significantly less on social media for news and just about anything other than a rush of dread to the system. Interviewing is still my favorite thing to do. I wish I had more time each day but have to be mindful of my time, keeping aware of deadlines and other time-intensive tasks. Still, I can’t turn down a good conversation. For a recent High Times piece, I spent several weeks speaking to pot-consuming parents about weed and their kids. Once I have the details I need, I begin writing the article with a goal of wrapping up a draft in a day if possible. I’m a type-A personality if you haven’t caught on yet. I then edit the article and send it to my editors for review. All the while, I’m researching new article topics, crossing off other business related tasks, and addressing personal life needs. I still make ends meet working in branding and copywriting, which makes me split my time between news and content marketing. As such, my byline appears less frequently than it did a few years ago. I wouldn’t say I like putting out less news, but after averaging 20-plus stories a month from 2019 to 2022, I’m content with taking my foot off that gas for a while. The last few years have been 100% focused on weed. But with weed outlets shrinking and mainstream outlets hiring other writers, I’m looking beyond the plant for clients and publications. To garner some attention, I’ve recently turned to YouTube, where I’m trying out alternative creative news reporting through interviews, shorts, and long-form content. The days are often a jumbled blur, but it’s an organized chaos that allows me to stay up on the news while covering some of the more pressing topics in and around weed. Coupled with the ongoing juggling tasks that include story production, interviews, finding new gigs, industry events, chasing down late payments, panels, pitching future stories, etc., freelance journos face a challenging daily list of to-dos. But, the rewards are no doubt sweet. Every canceled assignment. Every rescheduled interview. Every boof weed sample sent my way. Every time I grind myself down to a stress migraine. Every time I get called a shill by a rando on social media. Every time a cannabis industry leader posts how “weed media is dead,” only for them to pitch themselves for a feature. I’d do it all many times more. I’ve been to incredible places, interviewed countless interesting subjects, sampled stellar products, and met many amazing people—and it continues to happen all thanks to covering weed and other interesting topics I love. But it isn’t about me. It’s about having the opportunity to inform the public about the ongoing evolution of weed law, politics, business, culture and so much more. To keep up, writers, freelance or staff, will always evolve so we can effectively and accurately tell the stories that need to be told. If the end result remains, the daily motions can continue to change as needed.

https://hightimes.com/

Liquid Cocaine Disguised as White Wine Seized in Hong Kong

A multi-million dollar cocaine smuggling attempt was thwarted last month when Chinese customs officials discovered the cocaine had been converted into liquid form and disguised as white wine. According to the South China Morning Post, two men local to Hong Kong were arrested in connection with a shipping container sent from Brazil to Hong Kong which was carrying 706 bottles of red wine, white wine and juice. The container was flagged for inspection at the Kwai Chung Customhouse Cargo Examination Compound due to Brazil’s status as a high-risk trafficking area based on the frequency of past narcotics seizures. Assistant Superintendent Jacky Tsang Kin-bon of the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department told the South China Morning Post that the monetary value of the amount of cocaine seized was in the hundreds of millions of dollars range. “A total of 444 kilograms of suspected liquid cocaine was discovered in the 37 boxes,” Tsang Kin-bon said. “The estimated street value of the haul is about HK $490 million.” Tsang Kin-bon indicated that what tipped authorities off to the suspicious contents of the container was that several of the boxes appeared to have been resealed, specifically boxes of white wine, packed in 37 boxes which were supposed to be packaged with four three-liter bags of white wine a piece. These bags tested positive for cocaine. The container had been sent by plain clothes officers with Hong Kong customs to Yuen Long where they waited for someone to come collect it. When no one did, it was sent to a yard in Kwai Chung where it was placed under 24-hour surveillance. Eventually, a 50-year-old man turned up to collect the container. He was later arrested along with his 38-year-old accomplice, neither of which was named by the South China Morning Post. Superintendent Lui Chi-tak of customs’ ports and maritime command told the South China Morning Post that “drug traffickers took every effort and deployed sophisticated methods to conceal the narcotic in an attempt to evade customs detection.” Senior Superintendent Wong added that this was the largest liquid cocaine bust by weight in the 20 years they’ve been keeping records of such things. Customs officials told the Post that the younger suspect was arrested on Saturday and the older a day later. The younger suspect was allegedly responsible for arranging the cargo’s transport from Brazil To Hong Kong and the older suspect was allegedly responsible for collecting and storing the drugs once on Chinese soil. As of Monday when the report was published, both suspects were still being held for questioning. Tsang Kin-bon told the post that the increase in product shipments around the holidays is often used as cover for the smuggling of narcotics. “We believe the drug trafficking syndicate tried to take advantage of the busy logistics services before the Christmas and New Year holidays to smuggle the narcotic into the city and evade detection,” Tsang Kin-bon said, also indicating that their investigation revealed the large shipment was intended to supply the increased demand for cocaine around the holiday season (Chinese New Year is on February 10 and for whatever reason I feel compelled to disclose that 2024 is the year of the dragon). According to the Post, the investigation into this instance of cocaine trafficking is still ongoing and customs officials have not ruled out further arrests. Trafficking of a dangerous drug in Hong Kong is punishable by a life sentence in prison and a fine of up to $5 million. “Customs will continue to use its professionalism and determination to prevent illegal drugs from being smuggled into the city, thereby safeguarding the country’s southern gateway,” Senior Superintendent Wong said. Not for nothing, but cocaine traffickers appear to be getting much more creative with their smuggling techniques. Not only has cocaine been disguised as white wine, but a cursory Google search will show that in recent months it has also been disguised as pasta noodles, charcoal, almond syrup, and bananas and that’s just since last June. Between that, and the constant barrage of headlines concerning kilograms of cocaine washing up on beaches all over the world, it would appear that internationally, narcotics agents are playing a very expensive and futile game of whack-a-mole with cocaine traffickers.

https://hightimes.com/

Study Shows Weed May Impair Performance of Older Drivers

Using weed may impair the driving performance of older cannabis users who get behind the wheel, according to the results of a recently released study. The study by Canadian researchers found that older drivers who used cannabis before driving showed an increase in lane weaving and a reduction in speed compared to a control driving session. The results of the study were published last week by the journal JAMA Open Network. “Epidemiological studies have established that cannabis increases the risk of a motor vehicle collision,” the study’s authors wrote in their report on the research. “Laboratory studies have demonstrated that this impairment results in increased weaving, slowed reaction time, and compensatory changes in speed and following distance.” Noting that cannabis use is rising among older adults, the researchers wrote that the effect weed has on driving performance could be amplified by factors associated with the driver’s age. They added, however, that long-term cannabis users might develop a tolerance that mutes the effects that weed can have on driving performance. “Older adults may be particularly affected by cannabis, given age-related changes in cognition, metabolic changes that may prolong or enhance the effects of cannabis, and the concomitant use of medications,” the researchers wrote. “Conversely, older users of cannabis may have been using cannabis for many years and cannabis may have a diminished impact in this population due to development of tolerance.” To test these hypotheses, the researchers used advertisements on public transit and social media to recruit a group of participants aged 65 to 79. After providing consent and meeting the qualifying criteria, participants completed a practice session that included a driving simulator. Participants then underwent two test sessions, each lasting about seven hours, with a minimum of 72 hours between sessions. Participants were instructed to abstain from cannabis, alcohol and other recreational drugs for at least 12 hours before each session. The study participants were tested for drug and alcohol abstinence before each session using a breathalyzer, saliva testing and a 14-panel urine screening. Participants also completed a Marijuana Withdrawal Checklist to assess cannabis withdrawal levels. Before one session, participants smoked cannabis in a negative pressure room, using weed they had legally obtained themselves. Participants were permitted to smoke as much cannabis as they desired to reach their own comfort level. The average potency of the cannabis participants smoked was 18.74% THC. Before the other session, which was conducted as a control, the participants rested in the same room without smoking cannabis. The researchers then took blood tests for THC and metabolite measurement before the participants operated the driving simulator at 30 minutes and 180 minutes after using cannabis or resting. Researchers took additional blood samples before each session with the driving simulator. After each driving test, participants underwent cognitive and subjective tests and completed visual analog scales to measure their willingness to drive and perceived impairment. The results of the driving simulator test showed that 30 minutes after smoking cannabis, participants showed a significant increase in Standard Deviation of Lateral Position (SDLP), which measures how much a driver is weaving in the traffic lane. Participants also showed a decrease in mean speed compared to the control session. The effects on driving performance were not observed 180 minutes after cannabis use, a pattern that was consistent in both single-task and dual-task scenarios. Blood THC levels increased 30 minutes after cannabis use, although the increase did not correlate with the changes in SDLP or mean speed. The increase in SDLP and decrease in mean speed were consistent with previous research on the effects cannabis can have on driving. The change in SDLP was similar to the effect in studies of alcohol-impaired driving, where a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.05% resulted in comparable increases in SDLP. The change was not as high, however, in the dual-task task condition compared with a BAC of 0.05%. The researchers noted that the decrease in mean speed might be a change made by participants in response to their awareness of their intoxication. Overall, the study found that cannabis use did adversely affect the driving performance of older adults. “The present study provides an ecologically valid demonstration that cannabis can impair driving in older adults when they smoke their usual product,” the researchers wrote in their conclusion. “Consistent with emerging data, blood THC level was not correlated with driving behavior. Older drivers should refrain from using cannabis when contemplating operation of a motor vehicle.” The researchers noted several limitations of the study, including the fact that most participants were white and more than half were male. However, the findings illustrate the importance of understanding the effects that cannabis can have on older drivers.

https://hightimes.com/

Study: German Patients Have ‘Greater Satisfaction’ With MMJ Than Previous Treatments

It’s no secret that cannabis can work as an alternative to other longstanding medicinal options as it pertains to curbing and treating pain and related symptoms. A number of studies have already confirmed the efficacy of cannabis and its compounds as it relates to pain management, though a new study suggests that patients believe it may be even more effective than conventional treatments. A recent survey of German patients published in the journal Frontiers in Medicine explored experiences with cannabis products, with more than 200 anonymous participant perspectives. As with many previous studies, patients largely reported reductions in their daily pain after starting cannabis therapy along with other benefits. Notably, they reported “greater satisfaction” with cannabis, calling it “more effective” than their previous treatments. Researchers note that part of the intent behind the research is to explore “perspectives of patients whose experiences are not well enough known to date.” Using a web-based survey of prescription cannabinoid patients, conducted between May 31, 2021 and June 2022, researchers conducted the research anonymously “to reduce treatment provider influence and stigma.” Subjects were asked to complete questionnaires regarding their cannabis therapy twice in the same session, once for the time of the survey and another for the period prior to their cannabis treatment. Participants were asked to rate their daily pain levels, along with questions around the details of the cannabinoid prescription process — namely any issues they ran into obtaining the medication — and their general attitudes around cannabis. Chronic pain was the most common diagnosis, with 72% of participants indicating that pain relief was the primary reason for their prescriptions. Germany is currently making waves in the global cannabis space for its pending legalization of recreational cannabis, though plant cannabis and cannabinoid treatments were legalized by prescription use in the country back in 2017. Cannabis medication is also typically only authorized when patients are unresponsive to traditional options. Researchers also note a study finding that the most common reason for German cannabinoid prescriptions from 2017 to 2022 was for pain. “The results of this cross-sectional study suggest that most of the surveyed outpatients treated with prescription cannabinoids in Germany subjectively experience health benefits and symptom reduction associated with these therapies,” researchers state in their discussion. Across all diagnoses and symptom groups, authors report that participants shared positive effects on physical functioning, emotional states and quality of life. Additionally, they reported fewer problems around fulfilling their social roles and their pain symptoms were perceived to have a lesser impact on their daily lives. Satisfaction was rated by perceived effectiveness, side effects and overall satisfaction. Researchers suggest that the stress-reducing effect of cannabis drugs could be a “significant mediating factor,” in that opioids may have “more ambivalent effects on stress regulation because the kappa opioid receptor signaling pathway is activated by stress stimuli that produce both aversion and dysphoria in humans and other animal species.” Prior to cannabis therapy, participants generally had a neutral to slightly positive attitude toward cannabis, which shifted to “predominantly positive” during therapy. Most of the problems during the prescription process didn’t originate with physicians but rather with reimbursement issues involving health insurance providers. Approximately 25% of participants with statutory health insurance coverage reported that they opted to pay out of pocket. “This is likely due to the current legal situation in Germany, where the prescription of cannabinoid medications is characterized by significant complexity and administrative hurdles, comparable to those encountered when prescribing off-label drugs, both for patients and practitioners,” researchers said. The study notes that comparable studies, in which German patients are directly questioned about cannabinoid therapy, are rare, with most surveys only questioning physicians. Those studies similarly found that pain was the main reason for cannabis prescriptions. Standing apart from much of the current research in the region, researchers note risk of selection bias, in that patients may have been more willing to participate in the study due to successful treatments. They also note potential “expectation bias,” in that the high access barriers for cannabinoid therapies in Germany give many eligible patients high expectations, which could lead to a more favorable evaluation of such therapies, among other potential limitations. “This observational study nevertheless provides starting points for further discussion in the context of planning clinical cannabinoid trials and formulating appropriate research questions, involving the patients’ perspectives,” researchers concluded.

https://hightimes.com/

New Jersey Cannabis Agency Approves Consumption Lounges Rules

The New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC), which manages the rules and regulations of cannabis in the state, met on Jan. 17 and unanimously approved regulations for consumption lounges. According to a CRC press release, the rules would need to be approved by the New Jersey Office of Administrative Law, but after that occurs, dispensary operators would need to seek municipal approval in order to be endorsed by the CRC to have a consumption lounge (endorsements last for one year and must be renewed every year). CRC executive director Jeff Brown said in a statement that consumption lounges would contribute to the success of New Jersey’s cannabis industry. “New Jersey’s cannabis industry is well on its way to being a billion-dollar industry, and consumption areas will likely bolster that—fostering a communal experience for those 21 and older around cannabis in a regulated and secure space,” Brown said. The primary rules state that a consumption area can’t be a standalone business, but that it must be attached to a retail store. If a dispensary owns multiple dispensaries, they are only permitted to have one consumption space. Consumption lounges would be required to have ventilation that is “robust enough to ensure proper ventilation and prevent smoke or vapors from affecting neighbors.” On-site sale of food, alcohol, tobacco, and nicotine products are not allowed, but customers can bring in their own food or non-alcoholic beverages. In addition to this, medical cannabis patients would be allowed to bring their own medical cannabis or cannabis items, “so long as the on-premises consumption of that cannabis is authorized.” A consumption lounge would cost $5,000 for the initial fees, followed by an annual fee (with microbusiness only paying $1,000). The CRC stated that potential consumption lounges would be allowed to make their own rules about operation hours, consumption area fees, medical cannabis patient priority access, or initiating paid events. However, they would also have to adhere to rules established by their local municipality as well, “including but not limited to restricting the number of consumption areas allowed in their town, business signage, and communication with municipal emergency services.” CRC chairperson Dianna Houenou also provided a statement, expressing the importance of allowing a safe place for people to consume. Having space to consume cannabis is not just about recreation. It is also about providing equitable access and offering people a safe place to consume legal cannabis products,” said Houeno. “This move holds particular significance for communities that are limited in where they can enjoy cannabis—most notably, renters who cannot consume cannabis at home, unlike homeowners who enjoy greater freedom.” Houenou added that “a couple more steps need to happen” before the CRC officially begins to accept lounge applications. The New Jersey Monitor spoke with Alyza Brevard-Rodriguez, owner of a two-story building that will open soon in Jersey City. The first floor will be her dispensary, called The Other Side Dispensary, and the second floor will be reserved for smoke-and-yoga events or comedy nights, ideally if/when she is endorsed by the CRC. “I think it’s really critical for us to create those safe spaces to consume,” said Brevard-Rodriguez. “But the other part of it is connecting with people … I think it’s really important for the culture of cannabis.” Legal cannabis sales took effect in New Jersey in April 2022. The CRC’s proposal for consumption lounge regulations was approved in December 2022, which was followed by a 60-day public comment period. Scott Rudder, New Jersey Cannabusiness Association president, also said that the topic of consumption lounges was among some of the first conversations he had with New Jersey legislators. “That’s how the conversation started, and there’s been an evolution to where we are today,” Rudder said. “Patients will have a nice place to consume their medication, but now consumers in general will have the opportunity to go and unwind, talk to friends, maybe have lunch or watch musicians. We’re going to start small and see how things go.” Rudder’s expectation is that a few consumption owners will open, but many more will choose to wait and see how things play out before investing. “I think you’re going to see some consumption lounges open here and there, and people will wait and see what they’re doing,” Rudder added. “Are they making any money? Are they free of safety issues or are other concerns being realized? People are going to look at this smartly.” Rudder, who owns a dispensary that has not yet opened in the city of Riverside, and Brevard-Rodriguez agree on one thing in particular—they want their businesses to turn a profit before embarking on consumption lounge expansions. Nevada is one of the states that is farthest along in consumption lounge progress, with numerous licenses approved. Many of these lounges are still either building their lounges or fulfilling strict rules for proper ventilation or other important requirements. Planet 13 in Las Vegas, Nevada released a press release in November 2023 touting an April 20, 2024 release date. While the state legislature legalized cannabis consumption lounges back in 2021, Clark County commissioner Tick Segerbloom told 8NewsNow that 2024 is going to be “the” year. “It really is going to be a big year. And a big part of our economy,” Segerbloom continued. Nevada Cannabis Association executive director Layke Martin added that this is new territory for business owners, and they’re learning as they go. “Remember no one has really done these before. Certainly not here,” Martin said. “It’s ventilation, it’s security, it’s safe consumption and driving, it’s training. Those are the types of regulations that we’re talking about.”

https://hightimes.com/

What to Know About Festival Merch

Festivals are more than just gatherings; they’re vibrant celebrations of art, culture and music, of course. For bands and musicians, festivals provide a unique opportunity to connect with fans and showcase their talent. But beyond the music, festival merchandise is a key component of the experience and a chance to promote yourself in a lasting way. Music merch is not just about selling products. It’s a way for fans to gain a deeper appreciation of their favorite performers and events. When done right, festival merch can: Here are five things to prioritize as you develop your music merchandise, from t-shirts and hats, to posters, stickers and limited-edition items. 1) Know Your Audience Understanding your target audience is the foundation of successful festival merch. Consider the demographics of your fanbase, their style preferences and what items are likely to resonate with them. For instance, if your fans are predominantly young adults, trendy clothing items might be a hit. 2) Unique Designs and Branding Invest in compelling and unique designs that reflect your music and brand. Your festival merch should be an extension of your artistic expression. Collaborate with talented designers who can bring your vision to life. 3) Quality Matters Never compromise on the quality of your merchandise. High-quality materials and printing ensure that your fans will enjoy wearing or using your merchandise for years to come. Quality sends a message that you care about your fans and your craft. 4) Variety and Limited Editions Offer a variety of items to cater to different tastes. Hats, t-shirts and posters are staples, but don’t be afraid to get creative. Limited-edition items like exclusive designs or artist collaborations can create a sense of urgency and excitement among fans. 5) Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Options Incorporate sustainability into your merch. Consider using hemp or organic cotton for hats, t-shirts, eco-friendly printing methods and recyclable packaging. Eco-conscious fans will appreciate your efforts to reduce your environmental impact. Don’t just haul boxes around from show to show—have a game plan for what you’re selling. It starts with your booth and extends to social media. Your merch booth is your storefront at the festival. Make it visually appealing with banners, signage and well-organized displays. Ensure that it’s easy for fans to browse and make purchases. Set reasonable prices for your festival merchandise. Research what similar items are selling for at other festivals to stay competitive. Consider offering package deals or bundles to encourage fans to buy more or get a gift for a friend. Create a sense of urgency with limited-time offers or discounts available only during your band’s set or a specific time frame. This can incentivize fans to make quick purchases. Be prepared to accept both cash and card payments. Some festival-goers may prefer cash, while others rely on cards or mobile payment methods. A card reader or mobile payment app can be invaluable for ensuring timely transactions. Beyond transactions are the interactions. Don’t just stand behind the merch booth; if possible, engage with your fans. If you cannot be present, be sure that the people working your booth strike up conversations, express gratitude for their support of your band and be approachable. Personal connections can lead to increased sales and fan loyalty. Leverage your social media presence to promote your festival merch. Share sneak peeks of your merchandise designs, run contests and encourage fans to visit the merch booth. Create custom hashtags to boost visibility. Before and after events, encourage fans to share photos of themselves wearing or using your merchandise on social media. Highlight positive testimonials and reviews from satisfied customers to build trust with potential buyers. Extend your merch sales beyond the festival grounds by setting up an online store or utilizing platforms like Bandcamp. This allows fans who couldn’t attend the festival to purchase your merchandise. There are a few other things you’ll need to do to ensure you’re keeping the merch moving, while not exhausting yourself in the process. Inventory management matters. Keep track of your merchandise inventory to avoid running out of popular items. Use a point-of-sale system to monitor sales and stock levels. Consider releasing special-edition merch exclusively for festival performances. Fans love collecting unique items that commemorate live shows. And also, involve your fans in the merch creation process. Ask for their input on designs and items they’d like to see. Get creative with the tangibles and intangibles too. Offer VIP packages that include exclusive merchandise, meet-and-greet opportunities and other unique experiences for dedicated fans. And don’t forget about post-festival sales. Share leftover festival merch on your website or at future shows to continue generating revenue. Festival merchandise is a powerful tool for musicians to connect with fans, generate income and create lasting memories. By focusing on quality, unique designs, effective sales strategies and fan engagement, you can make the most of your festival merch. So, as you prepare for your next festival, keep these tips in mind, and let your music merch be a reflection of your artistry and dedication to your fans. Alpine Hemp Company produces the highest quality hemp headwear. Creating fully custom hemp hats for your business or organization has never been easier. Our in-house design team has over 20 years of experience to ensure every stitch is in place. Don’t stress, your brand is in good hands.

https://hightimes.com/

Jon’s Stone-Cold Cop List #46: Smoking the Whole Menu

Is it just me, or does 2024 already feel better than 2023 did? Despite it being the slow season just about everywhere, things seem to be advancing at a rapid clip. The general sentiment seems to be positive for the first time I can remember in recent memory. It may be silver and gray in Los Angeles right now, but the energy is high, and I have been, too! I also quit smoking. Not weed, obviously. That hasn’t been helping with the spirits – in fact I truly believe everyone who said quitting was the best thing they’ve ever done is lying to my face – but I say that to say everyone who was all up in arms when I released this piece a few months back can shove it – this feels exactly the same as when I try not to smoke weed. But alas, those are negative feelings, and we’re in our positivity era. LOL I spend too much time online. Anyway, from the heady boiz to the budget-conscious, there’s something for everyone in this edition. Earlier this month Astor Club opened the doors to their new LA jaunt, and you’ll see a few nods to some of the brands available there, as well as some of the more hard to obtain jars y’all have been asking me about. Remember that just because you see me post something cool on Instagram doesn’t mean it was excellent, but if you see it below, that means I really believe it’s elite, for whatever reason. As always, don’t hesitate to reach out and let me know what new heat you’re excited about, or what you hate right now. That side’s always fun too! This is one I’ve been hearing about for a minute now. My boy P over at GOAT has been telling me for months that this is the best smoke on the market, and now that I’ve finally got a jar in my hands I’m pleased to report that it’s not just hype; Omakase is onto something special here. True to their name, the cultivars are branded as courses rather than just the strain name, but the back label does more to describe what you’re about to indulge in than just about any other brand I’ve seen. Grown in living soil under only four lights, Course 1, also known as the Yuzu, is a cross of Tropicanna Cookies and Orange Zkittlez, and it’s just as vibrant as you imagine when hearing who its parents are. Now I know citrus is a little polarizing, but let me just say, this shit is like sunshine in a joint. It rocks your senses, it stains your palate, and the high is one of my favorites from recent memory. I’m greatly looking forward to seeing what the rest of this meal is like, bc the appetizer smacked! This is another one of those small batch producers that are incredibly elusive, but that consistently receives rave reviews from the heads in the know. A few months ago when Harvest Moon told me he had a life-changing batch of Z in the works, I’ll admit I was a bit skeptical. That’s a bold claim to make, and for a guy who loves Z, how good would it have to be to change my life? Well friends, I’m happy to report I get where he’s coming from, because it’s almost like he’s recreated Z. Not only can you taste how clean it is, but there’s a new almost menthol-y texture in the middle of the flavor that cuts down on some of the sweetness, and it feels like the grown-up version of the original cultivar. If you can get your hands on it, this one’s Hall of Flame worthy. Known across the world as the guy who brought hash holes to the masses, Fidel’s is once again raising the bar with his upcoming 1/1 line. In a world where everyone’s trying to repeat the vibe, or feeling, Fidel’s new rolls aim to provide the exact opposite: a brand new experience every time. While these will present themselves in a series of different ways, the general idea is this: every available roll will include a different combo of flower and hashes to provide a unique flavor and high. This means they’ll have more than one flavor, sometimes of both ingredients, included in each roll. There will be several hash dollops, as opposed to a single core, and the order in which they’re reached will vary. There may be blends of flower, or hash, within the mix. And because of how the hash melts into the flower, this means that every single roll will be unique, and provide a combo of flavors you might not ever experience again. Launching next month, I’m very excited to see how the market receives these. Between the limited nature of what they’re offering and the cult-following Fidel’s has amassed, I expect these to be a hot ticket this year. If the way people line up to take a hit of his personal rolls are any measure, these ones will move quick. Long regarded as LA’s flavor king, Wonderbrett’s got another hit on his hands with his latest Kush Cola. It’s almost more Cherry Cola to me than a regular old cola, but the crazy part about this one is how the taste almost mimics that feeling of carbonation in your mouth while you’re drinking. It burns smooth and clean, so I don’t mean that to sound like it’s crackling or pop-rocking in your mouth – this ain’t no spray pack – but it does have a taste that’s almost exactly a cherry coke, and for a Coca-Cola fiend like myself, that’s a prettttty sweet selling point. For those of you out there who aren’t as aroused by soda flavors as I am, it’s worth nothing that this is a true Kush, so unlike the caffeine in a sodyboi, this one’s going to mellow you out real quick. It’s also worth noting that Brett has released seeds of some crosses of this with his new company Byrdseed Genetics, so if you’ve got a green thumb this is a cool one to dig into! Over the past few months Parlay has quickly become one of my most in-demand smokes. I didn’t even know they existed at this time last year, and now I’m burning their gear several times a week, if not every day. The last time I mentioned them it was around their Mochi Latti, which remains one of my favorites from the brand, but his take on Biscotti is one of my top 5 nighttime’s right now. However, today I’m here to talk about this fire collaboration he dropped with my dog Joey Colombo. Dubbed Street Credit, this is Parlay’s Candy Fumez, which has itself made a ton of noise over the past year, and it’s adorned by this insane piece that Joey put together for the branding. Now, I started this by telling you how much I enjoy smoking their product, but I’m going to close it by telling you that I’ve got the empty mylar on display on my shelf because it’s that dope. I was going through the archives of this column the other day trying to see when the last time I wrote about Wooksauce was and I realized that I actually have never given them their own call-out here, so allow me to start this by saying my bad, because I love these guys and they’ve long deserved it. First off, since the moment I heard their name I’ve been excited by them. I mean, WOOKSAUCE?! C’mon. Is there a better nickname for concentrates? If there is I haven’t heard it. I love the term ‘Wook’ to begin with, I think we should wear it as a badge of honor (like WEIRDOS, perhaps? ;)) so it speaks to me on many levels, but before you jump down my throat yelling that I’m just talking about the branding let me tell you, their hash is elite by every measure. The new Bop Gun, of which they are the single source that touches the product, is absolutely crazy. The terps are a mix of sweet lemon and like paint thinner – the kind that make your eyes wide from the sniff, and that you can feel behind them before you’re finished exhaling. I know you don’t need me to mention the awards they’ve won, or how excellent I think they are as actual people, but I still think the details matter. Speaking of the Astor Club opening, one of my favorite parts about going to the club is that they’ve always got some crazy heat from the Archive homies. I don’t get up to Oregon very often, and these guys are ALWAYS pumping out a ton of new gear that tends to buck the trends of the major market – or at least what’s moving the needle down here in LA – so it’s hard to keep my finger on their pulse. Now that Astor’s got an LA location I’ll be more in the loop, and that’s already started as, at the opening, I got to taste three of their new rosin phenos and while I know they’re not properly labeled so I don’t want to share any wrong information, all were stellar, unique, and unexpected expressions. I should also shout out the homie Matt Jackson for keeping me abreast of what these guys have had going on in the past. One of the last times we hung out he gave me some of the super rare Oishii x Sour D cross that blew my doors down, and while I’ll likely never see that one again, I’ll keep dreaming about it! Here’s another brand that’s been making noise in the streets for a while now that I’m glad to report lived up to the hype. People have been telling me that Dash has the choice bags just like Metro Bloomin, and now that I got hands on with his Apollo 41 it seems like they were telling the truth, as this is a very special expression of one of the most popular strains in recent history. That said, unlike a lot of what’s found on the streets these days, this one has that original almost warmth that excited so many of us back in the day. Excited to dive further into this catalog and see what else he’s got up his sleeve. Lyfesauce has been in the lab the past few months breeding tons of new varietals and after getting to check some of them out over the past few weeks I’ve got to say the boys got some serious new winners on their hands. My favorite of the new cultivars was the Orange Sherb x OZK x Gastro Pop, which has an excellent orange flavor to it (lots of citrus this month!), as well as the Deathdream x Capulator, which was also super flavorful, and had a wonderful clean and productive high to it. I’m not sure when these will hit the streets, but when you see it, these two are must cops! I first caught wind of these guys sometime last year at one of Jimi’s Transbay Challenge events, and a few months later I went down to check out their grow out here in Los Angeles and I’ve got to say, for a brand that has largely focused on bulk so far, these guys have some seriously great and consistent smoke. Now it seems like they’re producing a ton of flavors so I haven’t even begun scratching the surface of what they’ve got in their portfolio, but I really liked their Sherbaccio Sweet Tea – which seemed to surprise some of the team. That said, I even like smoking their LCG – which y’all know is saying a lot for me. Another one to keep an eye one! I’m going to start this by saying I was never some massive fan of stained glass in the past, but that all changed when I saw the new drop from Cutie Lil Glass in collaboration with Bird and Mouse Glass last week. Dropping a twist on ‘the Creation of Adam’ by Michelangelo with assorted smokeables, as well as other creations like a Bic-adorned mirror, the glass pictured is immediately my favorite cop of the year so far. These are both new names for me so I’m excited to keep an eye on their growth, and hopefully scoop up some more cool and unique culture-inspired art! I’ve kind of been on a tote bag kick lately – which is strange because I honestly don’t like them, but this is another I feel compelled to acquire despite preferring some sort of body strap to handles. Marketed as the tote bag the government doesn’t want you to experience, it feels like the type of thing you want to have on you for an experience of the psychedelic variety. Featuring artwork by CatDirty, while this is probably not the one normal people would grab for a trip to the grocery store, I on the other hand like making things uncomfortable. Added the Nepotism tag here because I’ll be hosting, but if you happen to find yourself within reachable distance of Sacramento in early February, you should pull up to the first annual National Good Pizza Day, which will be going live with hella dank from a currently undisclosed location on the 9th. Stacked with multiple pizza purveyors, heady jars, and as many Italians talking with their hands as you can handle, this one’s going to be a sesh to remember, family! Featuring tons of homies like Zackwoods, Planta, White Ashes, Surfs Up, CGO and more, tickets are available now – scoop one and let’s get lit in the capital!

https://hightimes.com/

Tens of Thousands of Drug Arrests Reported in Sri Lanka Since December

Thousands of arrests of drug users and drug dealers have been reported in Sri Lanka in less than two months. According to reporting by the Associated Press, Sri Lankan authorities have initiated a crackdown operation on the drug trade in a country known widely for its role as an international narcotics trafficking hub. This crackdown, known as “Operation Yukthiya” which means justice, has been responsible for over 40,000 arrests since December of 2023. This is according to acting police chief Deshabandu Tennakoon, who also told the Associated Press that 65% of the drug trade in the entire country of Sri Lanka has been dismantled with the goal of complete elimination by month’s end. These arrests were carried out as the result of nighttime raids using drug-sniffing dogs. These raids have targeted suspected addicts and people with previous records of drug-related arrests in addition to suspected traffickers. In the first weeks of the crackdown, the BBC reported that over 1,000 suspected drug addicts had been forcibly sent to rehabilitation centers run by the Sri Lankan military. “These arrests [have] been made very arbitrarily. There is no reasonable suspicion, the kind of people arrested have a lower marginalized economic status,” said Thiyagi Ruwanpathirana, a researcher for Amnesty International Sri Lanka to Reuters. “The way in which the operations are carried out – there [are] cavity searches, strip searches in public, some of which are televised – it is really giving a lot of concern for human rights organizations.” Operation Yukthiya has been heavily criticized by the United Nations for potential human rights violations in what they described as a “heavy-handed” operation which has resulted in about 5,000 detentions out of the tens of thousands of arrests made. The Associated Press also indicated there had been reports of torture carried out by Sri Lankan authorities. “While drug use presents a serious challenge to society, a heavy-handed law enforcement approach is not the solution. Abuse of drugs and the factors that lead to it are first and foremost public health and social issues,” the United Nations said. Sri Lankan authorities have vowed to continue Operation Yukthiya based on reports that more schoolchildren are using drugs and drug-related crimes are increasing in Sri Lanka, most of which involve heroin, cannabis, and cannabis hashish, according to the BBC. Public Security Minister Tiran Alles has said the United Nations should identify specific instances of human rights violations and that Sri Lankan police have been ordered to follow the law. “We will not stop this operation. We will go ahead and we will do it the same way because we know that we are doing something good for the children of this country, for the women of this county and that is why the general public is whole-heartedly with us in these operations,” Alles said. During the first week of Operation Yukthiya, BBC reported over 15,000 arrests were made and over 470 kilograms of various types of drugs were seized. Vehicles and other possessions of suspected criminals were also seized in the operation. The searches were, mercifully, put on hold for the Christmas holiday but continued in full-force shortly thereafter. Sri Lanka made over 97,000 drug-related arrests in 2020 according to Reuters who cited the Sri Lanka National Dangerous Drugs Control Board. 53% of these arrests were for heroin and 42% for cannabis, many of which were simple possession offenses. “Sri Lanka’s strategic geographical position and proximity to countries which produce opium and heroin on a large scale make it convenient for traffickers to smuggle drugs into Sri Lanka,” said a 1998 report on the Sri Lankan approach to drug enforcement by the U.S. Department of Justice. “ In 1984, an amendment to the Poisons, Opium, and Dangerous Drugs Act introduced the death penalty for the violation of certain sections of the act. Anyone found guilty of possessing over 2 grams of heroin is liable to be sentenced to death. Heroin traffic is aggravated by the heavy involvement of Sri Lankan Tamils (a terrorist group) in the narcotics trade to Western European countries.”

https://hightimes.com/

Green Rush Leaves ‘Ghost Town’ of Grow Facilities in Ordway, Colorado

Is a town in Colorado the first to become a cannabis ghost town? Westword’s Thomas Mitchell reported that the green rush of cannabis business licenses in Colorado left the town of Ordway a “ghost town,” filled with vacant growing operations. Hasn’t this happened before? Out of the hope of profitable veins of gold sprung boomtowns during the California Gold Rush, a mid-19th century rush of people seeking a fortune from gold. Bodie, California, for instance, soared to over 8,000 people looking for gold until its resources were exhausted. It happened in Colorado, too. Cripple Creek, Colorado soared to over 55,000 people looking for the same. Once the gold resources were drained, people more or less abandoned them, leaving ghost towns. There’s a new boomtown phenomenon happening right now: cannabis. Ordway—only a few years ago—was a cannabis boomtown. The town is about 50 miles east of Pueblo in Crowley County, with a population of around 1,000 people. Ordway had 56 active growing facilities at its peak, Westword reports, and around seventy grow operations there were registered with the state Marijuana Enforcement Division by the end of 2022. But recently, there are only about 20 left, according to local licensing officials. Most of these grow operations weren’t able to survive 2023: From December 2022 to December 2023, the number of adult-use cannabis grow operations saw a 30% drop in the state’s cannabis workforce and a major decline in dispensary sales since pandemic restrictions ended. Bubba’s Kush Cultivation is a small batch craft cultivator, based in Ordway, focused on providing a clean, consistent, quality product. The team behind Bubba’s Kush is concerned about the future of growing in Ordway. “I’ve seen equipment left out in fields by people who couldn’t figure it out, and entire crops left to dry outside. No one has to worry about it being stolen. There’s barely anyone here—and what is it really worth, anyway?” cannabis cultivation Bubba’s Kush founder Chris Kaiser asked Westword. Kaiser said he can throw a rock from his parking lot and hit one of a half-dozen failed cultivations. “That one’s closed. That one’s closed. That one’s closed,” he said. “A lot of people have just up and left. One guy is asking for $1.3 million. Ha—good luck with that.” He said cannabis operators were promised endless potential for profit in the cannabis industry, but that’s not what ended up happening. “Even if you’re still open, you’re struggling. Being a cannabis grower was never all it was cracked up to be, but this is getting out of control,” he says. “I guess this is what it takes if you want to win. It’s a tough scene, and I don’t think it’s going to get any easier.” The price of wholesale cannabis reached record-low prices in Colorado, according to the state Department of Revenue, falling over 56% on average since Bubba Kush’s first harvest in 2021. Local cannabis activist Mason Tvert admitted not everyone is cut out to survive in the cannabis industry, especially during the past few years. “It’s been a unique period of time for all businesses, especially cannabis businesses,” Tvert told Westword. “Inflation, COVID-19 and staffing have all created real issues, so I’m not terribly surprised with how it’s played out. Anyone who’s looking at this industry should be wary of the potential for dramatic changes. With something this new and varied around the country, there are a lot of people who just want to open a marijuana store because it’s exciting, fun or unique. As people were doing that, though, we sort of realized that ten years from now they would be owning a liquor store, but with more rules.” The state has undergone a tough period over the past several years. In 2022, High Times reported on the decline in sales. Sales of both medical and recreational cannabis in Colorado plummeted in June 2022 compared to the previous year, the state’s Department of Revenue reported, an alarming decline that industry officials attribute to a variety of reasons. Medical cannabis sales totaled $19,235,656 in June—down from $34,534,293 in June 2021. Recreational pot sales, meanwhile, generated $127,157,358 in June—down from $152,719,813 in June 2021. Colorado cannabis sales continued a downward trend in November 2023 as adult-use and medical cannabis retail locations generated $110.5 million in revenue, the lowest monthly total since February 2017. Adult-use sales fell to $95.8 million, down around 16% year-over-year, according to data recently released by the Colorado Department of Revenue. Medical cannabis sales in November dropped to $14.5 million, down about 11.5% year-over-year. November marked the fourth consecutive month of a decline in sales in Colorado’s cannabis market, suggesting that the state is headed for its second consecutive year of significant declines in pot sales. Colorado’s 2023 cannabis sales are on track to reach about $1.5 billion, which would be down nearly 13% from 2022. Major declines in sales like this have left so-called “ghost towns” like Ordway, full of vacant cannabis-related properties.

https://hightimes.com/

Michigan Adult-Use, Medical Cannabis Sales Reach $3.6 Billion in 2023

New data from the Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA) in Michigan revealed that the state collected more than $3.6 billion in adult-use sales last year. Compared to the $2.3 billion in sales collected in Michigan in 2022, the most recent sales data shows 30% growth. According to Crain’s Detroit, that amount equates to $305 in cannabis products per person, compared to the $150 per capita in California (with a projected $5.9 billion in cannabis products sold in 2023), and approximately $290 in per capita spending in Colorado. The CRA also showed an increase in retailers as well, with a total of 750 dispensaries as of December 2023. “As we head into 2024, the CRA continues to focus on transparency and communication, working with stakeholders as the industry continues to grow,” CRA Director Brian Hanna said. “We’re committed to supporting Michigan’s cannabis licensees who currently employ over 35,000 employees, a 23% increase from December 2022.” Hanna took the position of director after former director Andrew Brisbo departed in September 2022. With a background in law enforcement, Hanna has implemented strict rule enforcement, such as fines for cannabis businesses that didn’t pay their annual fees but also for those who were not tracking and/or handling cannabis products properly. According to MLive.com, this helped curb black market sales and other related activity. MiCannaPros founder Harry Barash told MLive.com about the methods and results of the CRA. “They’re certainly making a lot of examples, and if you’re doing things that you shouldn’t be doing it’s only a matter of time before the CRA figures it out,” said Barash. “It certainly seems like they have more bodies and more enforcement now. The CRA has sent a strong message.” The news outlet sought out comment from an industry veteran, Eric Jacovetti, who has previously worked in cultivation and for a cannabis-related staffing company, but currently runs cannabis-related equipment rental. Jacovetti added that the CRA has only reached the tip of the iceberg, so to speak, in terms of uncovering black market operations. “Just the way the current system is set up, you’d have to go to facilities and be auditing sticker by sticker, batch by batch, and I just don’t see that happening,” said Jacovetti. “I don’t even know how they could do it, en masse. A lot of this is still self-policing and thankfully there’s not a lot of folks that don’t want to break the rules.” Despite the growth in sales, some believe that Michigan is reaching a cap soon. Prices in December 2019 when sales first began included $323 for one ounce of flower, but by December 2023, prices had dipped to $95 an ounce. Just in 2023 though, per ounce prices were lowest in January 2023 with $80.15 an ounce, and highest in July 2023 with $98.65 per ounce. After July, prices remained stable. NORML board member and Meds Café operations manager, Jamie Lowell, predicts that the more drastic price decreases in 2022 pushed away investors, leading to a decrease in supply in the near future. “We could be looking at a scenario in the future where there’s not as much inventory in the pipeline,” said Lowell. “A lot of people just backed off because of market saturation.” Michigan currently uses private labs for product testing, which is funded by cannabis producers, but some allegations claim that labs can potentially be changing product results to benefit business owners and not consumers. To counter this, the CRA is working on building a state-run testing lab that will verify test results and perform audits on those labs. The new lab will be built using $2.8 million from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s 2024 budget, and is expected to open sometime this year. “I think it could definitely have an impact on the safety compliance portion of the business, which definitely needs some correction,” Barash commented about the state lab. “If that gets corrected, it could definitely impact pricing. Because if these results are artificial and we now see the true colors of these results, it will probably have a negative impact on prices, because it’s all based on THC.” Proof of corruption has been found in other parts of the industry as well. Last September, former legislator and head of the Michigan Marijuana Licensing Board and Marihuana Advisory Board, Rick Johnson, plead guilty to accepting $110,000 in cannabis-related bribes while in office between 2017-2019. “I am a corrupt politician,” he said in court, which followed with a sentence of 4.5 years in prison. U.S. Attorney Mark Totten told AP News that Johnson exploited the system. “Rick Johnson’s brazen corruption tainted an emerging industry, squandered the public’s trust and scorned a democracy that depends on the rule of law,” Totten said. However, other legislators continue to push to change the industry for the better, in some cases. In May 2023, legislators proposed a rule change to stop drug testing potential government employees for cannabis, which took place later in October. Michigan Civil Service Commissioner Nick Ciaramitaro said that it’s well past time that the rule was implemented. “Whether or not we agree with it or not is kind of beyond the point,” Ciaramitaro said. “Use of marijuana on the job is different than having used it months before you take the test … It doesn’t make sense to limit our ability to hire qualified people because they took a gummy two weeks ago.”

https://hightimes.com/

Announcing The High Times Hemp Cup: People’s Choice Edition 2024

It’s that time again. The High Times Hemp Cup: People’s Choice Edition is coming soon and coming in hot! Since 2020, we’ve hosted a slew of different High Times People’s Choice Cups in multiple states and can’t wait to see what products will dominate this year. As hemp is federally regulated, the Hemp Cup spans the entire country, showcasing the best hemp flower and products that show the true power of this plant. It’s time to step up and join the judging rounds, sampling the finest and most potent products across the country. The High Times Hemp Cup is a prestigious event that offers potential consumers the unique opportunity to judge the finest hemp products on the market. This is more than just a competition—it’s a chance to elevate your product to a global stage and compete for the esteemed High Times Hemp Cup, a true seal of approval that differentiates the great products from all the others. With limited slots available, the opportunity to participate is highly coveted and entry slots sell out quickly. Competitor product submissions should be sent Feb. 19-21 and Judge Kits go on-sale for online ordering across the nation Feb. 26. Judges will sample the finest, rating them to narrow down the competition. Unlike our state market-specific competitions, the Hemp Cup kits will be available for online ordering in every state. Judges will have two months (between Feb. 26-April 21) to explore the wide variety of products they receive. We tally the scores and celebrate another successful High Times Hemp Cup: People’s Choice Edition on April 30. Let’s take a quick look at past winners in recent years. Last year’s High Times Hemp Cup rung in 2023 with popular hemp products like “Go The F**k To Sleep,” a peppermint full-spectrum CBD tincture, and most judges agreed that it delivered what was promised. We saw popular brands like Mary’s Nutritionals and Gold Naturals, Rove Remedies, and Black Tie CBD scoop up some titles. Winners of the Hemp Cup: People’s Choice 2022 were equally impressive, with winners coming from brands such as Sweet Sensi, 3Chi, Buddy’s Chocolate Haus, Horn Creek Hemp, and even Martha Stewart. There are a few things that potential competitors should know: First, slots are limited and they go fast. With a pool of hemp-derived products coming from all 50 states, it’s best to get your stuff submitted soon if you want to be considered. Second, traditionally, there’s a cap of two entries per company, per category. Third, for each entry you must submit 80 samples of the same SKU. Also, note that flower and pre-roll submissions should be limited to 3.5 grams maximum, and we impose a 3-gram maximum for concentrates and vape pens (Anything submitted with more will not be accepted). Those are some of the important components to qualify, but we’ll send more info after you’ve been confirmed for participation. Note that each entry must be the same exact product for all samples. There is a 500 non-refundable deposit per entry, but we’ve also included a few perks: Enter 3-4 and get one more free, enter 5-7 and get two more free, enter 8-11 and get three more free. Entry categories include the following: Hemp-Derived Edibles: Gummies (NON-PSYCHOACTIVE ONLY) Hemp-Derived Edibles: Non-Gummies (NON-PSYCHOACTIVE ONLY) (No Liquids above 1 FL OZ allowed) Hemp-Derived Tinctures + Capsules (NON-PSYCHOACTIVE ONLY) (No Liquids above 1 FL OZ allowed) Hemp-Derived Topicals (NON-PSYCHOACTIVE ONLY) Hemp-Derived Flower and Pre-Rolls (NON-PSYCHOACTIVE ONLY) Hemp-Derived Concentrates and Vape Pens (NON-PSYCHOACTIVE ONLY) Hemp-Derived Pet Products (NON-PSYCHOACTIVE ONLY) Legal Psychoactive Flower and Pre-Rolls (D8, D10, HHC, THC-O, etc) Legal Psychoactive Vapes and Concentrates (D8, D10, HHC, THC-O, etc) Legal Psychoactive Edible: Gummies (D8, D9, D10, HHC, etc) Legal Psychoactive Edible: Non-Gummies (D8, D9, D10, HHC, etc) (No Liquids above 1 FL OZ allowed) Several sponsoring opportunities are available. Presenting Sponsorship, Silver Sponsorship, Bronze Sponsorship, and general sponsorships are available. 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners will be announced by High Times during a digital awards show on the High Times platforms including Facebook, and YouTube. High Times will send the awards after the winners are announced as well as shareable digital awards. Once announced, the list and product photos of winners will be posted on CannabisCup.com, HighTimes.com, and other media platforms such as the High Times Instagram to celebrate the winners of each category. Cannabis Cups are a tradition dating back to the late ‘80s, when they were conceived and then launched by then-High Times editor Steven Hager. About 30 people attended the first event in Rotterdam in the Netherlands, and since then it’s grown into a phenomenon in many jurisdictions, with medical and adult-use laws in place, or in this case, the federally-legal status of hemp. See you all there at The High Times Hemp Cup: People’s Choice Edition 2024.

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